"Hunted Down"
By Garnet Seifer
And Tifa Alexandros Lionheart [NPC+]

Location: Tae'Remok system & Tae'Sollar Desert
Date: Eos 24, 4 ABY

***

Garnet put her black gloves on and glanced at the planet of Tae'Karada. The amount of Star Destroyers that made part of the blockade was quite visible. She picked up her swords and walked out of her chamber, making her way over to the hangar where the Imperial shuttle that was going to take her to Tae'Karada was.

She approached the Imperial shuttle and saw Tifa coming out from it. Tifa glanced at Garnet. "So you're going to Tae'Karada after all?"

Garnet took a few more steps and placed her bag on the floor. "Of course. You have been informed about that. You and Admiral Zibel are the only ones that know."

"What is so important in this Aeris Strife anyway?" Tifa asked as Garnet entered the ship and she followed.

"You know very well that this is personal matter..." Garnet grinned, pausing for a moment as she sat in front of the controls.

"Here," Tifa said as she delivered a small comm. "You can contact me through that if you are having any problem."

"I really have no use for that, my young girl," Garnet said as she looked at the comm. "In a day or two I will be back."

"Can I at least ask you to put this small signal always with you? It was a request from Admiral Zibel," Tifa stated as she delivered a small device.

"Ok. If I'm in trouble and need help I will contact you," Garnet said.

Tifa walked out of the Imperial shuttle. The ship calmly lifted off from the ground of the hangar, its wings starting to unfold as it blasted out of the hangar. Garnet was the only one inside the shuttle, and she was piloting it towards the Tae'Remok system. She was approaching the blockade of Star Destroyers when she looked at the planet in sight. It remind her a lot of things from her past, but she shook her head because it was not the time to think of them.

"This is Imperial shuttle Weray," Garnet announced.

As she approached the blockade she was hailed by the Super Star Destroyer, Nemesis. "This is SSD Nemesis. State you business, Weray."

"I'm transporting merchandise to Grand Admiral's forces in Arcadia," Garnet answered.

"Merchandise from where, Weray?" was the question that came over the comm.

"From Kamdon system," Garnet stated simply.

"Hold your position..." was the order as they checked her codes as well as the log book for cargo freighters coming in.

Garnet waited for quite a long time. Much more than a regular clearance call. Time passed by and no response came from the Nemesis. She glanced to the scanner and saw a few TIE Fighters exiting from one of the Nemesis' hangar bays. Garnet punched the communication button once more. "I have need for clearance as my cargo was due to deliver five minutes ago," she said.

"This is the SSD Nemesis. You have clearance to land in our hangar. We want to see if the merchandise is what are we expecting. Follow the TIE Fighters that will escort you," the reply came over the comm.

Something was definitively wrong. Garnet frowned and tried once more. "Look, I said I'm supposed deliver this in Arcadia..."

"You will land on the SSD Nemesis or we will open fire upon you. We appreciate your full cooperation!" came the order, now in a more direct tone.

Garnet saw the TIE Fighters approaching. The Imperial shuttle blasted off from the place where it stood. It glided away from the shots fired from the SSD Nemesis, taking some with its shields. Alas, four TIE Fighters were in pursuit.

Garnet picked up the comm that Tifa had given her, now content that she had taken it. "Tifa, this is Garnet. I'm being pursued by TIE Fighters in hostile action!"

"This is Tifa, try to avoid them until I get there," Tifa said through the comm, almost promptly.

"Ok, Garnet out!" she answered, as she tried to avoid the shots from her pursuers. From the view of the SSD Nemesis she could see another squadron coming out of its hangars, probably for support.

Her shields were pretty low by then, and she knew she had little time left if she was to live this through. The TIE fighters were giving her a hard time. Garnet punched the comm over to Tifa once more. "This is Garnet. I can't wait that long... I'm almost out of shields! I'll try to enter Tae'Karada's surface and lose them there. Cancel any help sent! Garnet out!"

With that said, the Imperial Shuttle turned towards Tae'Karada, being hit in two of the three wings by the TIE Fighters. As she entered Tae'Karada's surface the Imperial Shuttle ignited like a fire ball, as it had very little to support the entrance in the atmosphere. Two of the three wings of the Imperial Shuttle were ripped off from the hull. The good news was that the TIE Fighters had ceased their pursuit when the shuttle ignited itself.

She tried to control the Imperial shuttle but the engines were torn apart. It was no good that the Imperial shuttle entered too fast, and it was almost impossible to avoid her fate, which seemed to be death... She had hope that the cockpit would endure the high pressure and temperature and not disintegrate itself. She knew she was going to crash on Tae'Karada surface. The question was if she was going to survive the crash...

---

"Allied Forces, Part 1"
By: Shrezade Anoran
Lerrah Breijal [NPC+]
Rilanna Kir
Hajne Toray [NPC+]

Location: Riga
Date: Eos 24, 4ABY

***

From atop her ship, Agarra's Pride, Lerrah Breijal watched out over the horizon as the sun slowly began its climb into the Riga sky. Already, vibrant reds were being thrown across the sky, giving everything a sanguine tint. Over her comlink, Elf toodled a message. "Yes, Elf, I'll be right down," she said.

She quickly moved to the edge of the ship and glanced down to where Rilanna and Reza were talking to Hajne. Cham was across the way double-checking the systems on the other ship before they broke for space. Lerrah flipped off the edge of the ship, triple-flipping in the air before coming to rest gracefully on her feet.

She caught a grin from Rilanna and felt her cheeks flushing slightly. "For some reason, I can never just climb down. You should try it."

Rilanna laughed and glanced up at the top of the Corellian ship. "I may have to do that," she said. "Though, I don't think we have time just yet. Our gear's been stowed aboard your ship. We haven't heard back from the contact for the New Republic yet, but hopefully we'll get an update once we revert closer to Tae'Karada." She glanced to Hajne, who was still jutting out her lower lip in a pout. "I'm sorry, Hajne. We can't risk putting you in danger like this. And, if we don't make it, we'll need you and Cham to deliver that data chip to the New Republic representative on Coruscant."

"But...we never get to do anything exciting!" she whined. "My Chammie-poo was all ready to rip off some Imperial limbs!"

Rilanna laughed softly to herself and shook her head. "You're going to Tae'Karada," she said. "There are lots of Imps there. Maybe you can start a bar fight, and Cham can defend your honour."

Hajne gasped as she clasped her hands together and pressed them to her chest in an utterly ridiculous and dramatic pose. "My Chammie..." She frowned inquisitively and asked, "Does he make mad, passionate love to me afterwards? It won't work unless he does!"

Reza rolled her eyes and sighed wearily. "Oh, you're still a complete idiot, Hajne. At least you'll have Cham to keep you from doing something foolish."

The woman emitted a bleating, snorting laugh and bounced happily where she stood. "I know. Isn't it wonderful!"

Lerrah laughed and had to turn away to keep from laughing even more at the swooning look in Hajne's face. Rilanna on the other hand smiled fondly at Reza's secretary. "I'm certain there will be a lot of lovemaking after he protects your honour, Haj. Chammie-poo wouldn't have it any other way."

Hajne sighed, then, and her pout returned as she looked between Ril and Reza. "But...will you guys be okay? Oh, we'd be so sad if anything happened to you."

"Don't worry," Rilanna said. "We've got everything under control. I've been doing this for awhile, and we'll stay safe."

Reza cast a skeptical glance in Rilanna's direction, then scoffed soundlessly. They both knew the odds of survival, but if she wished to give Hajne false assurances, Reza couldn't be bothered to shatter the illusion.

"Well...do I at least get a hug?" Hajne batted her eyes demurely at Rilanna while her red lips split into a silly smile.

Rilanna's eyes slid to the side to regard Reza. Knowing what would come next, Rilanna smiled. "Of course," she said, and then quickly embraced Hajne. "Don't worry, Hajne; we'll all make it out of this."

"Oh, I know you will," she said fervently. Hajne giggled as she kissed Rilanna's cheek, leaving a heart-shaped, red impression on it as she pulled away.

"Well, goodbye to you too, Lerrah," Hajne said, turning to her next. "Sorry Chammie scared you that first day, but..." She snickered. "It was fun!"

Lerrah chuckled softly and shook her head. "I'm sure it was," she said. "Good luck, Hajne, and I'll see you soon. And, give Cham a big hug for me."

She smiled broadly and replied, "Oh I will...and perhaps a bit more."

Her smile remained fixed in place as she pivoted to face Reza next, still thinking lustful thoughts about Cham. The woman's already rose-powdered cheeks flushed a deeper shade of red and she smiled bashfully at Reza as she looked up at her from long lashes. "Uh...see you soon, Mrs. Anoran."

Reza grimaced, and unable to bear the eager expression on Hajne's face, she sighed and held her arms open for the woman. Hajne squealed with delight and flew into Reza's embrace, knocking them a few steps backwards before Reza regained her balance.

"Oh, good luck, Mrs. Anoran!" she exclaimed.

Reza glared at Rilanna, who was doing her best to suppress laughter, and awkwardly patted Hajne's back. "Yes...thank you, Hajne." She winced as the woman squeezed her waist and reached back to unlock her arms from their constricting hold. "You should go see Cham now," she said in a strained whisper. With a grunt, she finally pulled Hajne's arms away and, wearing a tight smile, Reza lowered them to the woman's sides. "Now...run along. You'll need a head start."

Hajne nodded sadly and dolefully trudged off. With a shriek of delight, Hajne unexpectedly whirled around and planted a firm kiss upon Reza's cheek, then dashed off to join Cham. Reza frowned miserably. "Don't you dare laugh, Rilanna Kir," she warned.

Rilanna clamped a hand over her mouth to keep the laughter from spilling out to where it could be heard. "Sorry," she murmured. She pointed at the lipstick on her cheek and nodded at Reza's own cheek. "At least we match."

Reza's scowl reverted to a grin as she replied suggestively, "Perfectly, my dear girl."

Rilanna grinned again. "Absolutely perfectly," she said. "Now, we should get moving if we're going to get back to Tae'Karada today."

"Agreed."

Reza retrieved her single duffel bag from the ground and shouldered it. She gazed briefly around the small spaceport and laughed softly as she ran her fingers through the short tufts of hair upon her head. The time here had certainly transformed her, though she wasn't certain if it was for better or worse.

The fingers of her other hand ran lightly over the blaster strapped to her thigh, something she never believed in her life she would experience, but it had become a necessity. As for the confused, warring emotions she felt towards Rilanna, she couldn't see how they were at all a matter of survival. She needed to return to her element, to the station where she could be Shrezade Anoran again and not the reckless, immoral fugitive she had become. Maybe then, the distracting feelings would go away, the jealousy in witnessing Ril and Lerrah clasping hands, the rage in knowing she was too cowardly to do more than flirt with and tease Rilanna, the annoyance in realizing Major Weyland was most likely sitting in her favourite leather chair.

Tossing her head back haughtily, Reza marched towards the vessel, prepared to obliterate the Imps, and to rediscover the real Shrezade Anoran.

***

Agarra's Pride reverted, dropping the Corellian ship back into real space just outside of the Tae'Remok system. Lerrah was sitting in the pilot's chair while Rilanna and Reza sat behind her.

"Okay, I'm activating our communications systems," she said. "We should be able to send a message to the Republic. We'll have to be careful though. With so much Imperial activity about, it could be tricky."

"And you're sure they'll meet us?" Reza asked with a raised eyebrow. "I would imagine they're not too fond of me. I did sell out many of their kind to Tarkin not so long ago."

"Only one way to find out," Lerrah answered, and shot Reza a grin. "System's live and set to a scrambled Republic frequency. There's a special protocol running on there that will do a decrypt and identify, and then put us on the right frequency with the right codes. Time to see if they'll help out General Anoran."

Reza's lips involuntarily grinned at the illustrious title attached to her name. "A little pretentious, isn't it?"

Lerrah laughed. "The title is far more fitting for you than Grand Admiral is for Tarkin. Ready?"

She glanced sidelong at Rilanna, who nodded her head, then gave the same gesture to Lerrah. "Let's hope they're not complete idiots," she muttered.

The comm beeped to signal that the channel was open. Reza cleared her throat gently, then said in a commanding, crisp voice, "Shrezade Anoran to anyone bothering to listen. We come to you as allies and request a parley. Do you comply?"

There was silence for a large expanse of time, and Reza looked to Rilanna with a distasteful frown. "Seems your lover here didn't get it right."

Rilanna shrugged. "Well, I guess that's it then, eh? We tried and failed; let's go home."

Reza smiled languidly at her and drawled, "When did you get so sarcastic, my dear girl?"

Before Rilanna could snap back a retort, a muffled, crackling voice sputtered through the comm and Reza rose quickly out of her seat to lean over Lerrah's shoulder. "Can you filter out the interference?"

"Elf," Lerrah said as she started adjusting the modulation on the incoming message. The droid worked to clear up the incoming signal, and soon articulated words were clear.

"This is the New Republic cruiser Valiant Destiny to Agarra's Pride. Shrezade Anoran, do you copy? Once again, this is Valiant Destiny."

"We copy, Valiant," Reza replied. "I don't feel comfortable speaking for too long on this channel, so let's make this short and pleasant. I wish to join your fleet commander in a short meeting. Think you can arrange that for me?"

"We copy," the Valiant comm officer responded. "Sending encoded coordinates for meeting. As you can understand, we're being cautious. Make sure you come in your ship with no escorts. If we find any deviation from the current profile, you will be fired upon."

"I would expect nothing less," Reza replied with a grim smile. She waited for Lerrah to confirm that the transmission had been received, and at her nod, Reza addressed the officer again. "We've got it, Valiant. If there isn't anything more, I think that does it. It's truly been a pleasure," Reza said dryly. "Pride out."

Lerrah brought up the data they'd received on a monitor all could see. Rilanna and Reza both leaned in for a better look. "Looks like we're going to Ai'Kri. A little bit of a detour, and from my runs there we should have good cover getting in. Looks like the meeting is whenever we arrive, so we can divert and jump right now."

"I don't know how much of an edge we can give ourselves," Rilanna said as she trailed her fingers along Lerrah's shoulder, "but we should do what we can. Get there as quickly as possible, observe for a couple hours, and then make our presence known."

Reza shifted her gaze away from the display of affection and inwardly frowned. She sincerely hoped Rilanna could shut her emotions off long enough to complete the mission. "And while we wait, you and Lerrah should get some sparring in...just in case we need to fight our way off that ship. We might be walking on to a New Republic vessel, but that doesn't ensure it isn't being piloted by Imps."

Rilanna nodded. "Good idea," she said. "I don't know how well we'll be able to hold off against a capital ship if it comes to that, but I'm sure we can come up with a few tricks. Come on, Lerrah. Let's go see how well you fight."

"In a moment," Lerrah said and gave Ril a smile. "I'll be right there."

Catching the hint, Ril nodded and started from the cockpit. Once she was gone, Lerrah turned to Reza and studied her for a moment. "You don't like us together, do you?"

"Hm?" Reza smiled tightly at the girl and patted her shoulder. "Don't be foolish. You'd do well to keep focused on piloting the ship instead of allowing your imagination to run wild."

Lerrah nodded slowly. "Elf, take over," she said, then slipped out of her chair and started back. She stopped at the hatch and turned. "My imagination is fine. If you'd prefer to have Rilanna to yourself, please say so...rather than making it more difficult for us. She cares for you very much, you know."

Reza leaned casually against the pilot's chair and regarded Lerrah with an unwavering hard stare, yet still she smiled. "She would be wise to keep her emotions at bay until this mission is over with. And you..." She chuckled coolly. "If you had any sense at all, you'd refrain from getting on my bad side. You're a nice girl, Lerrah and I don't want to have to say or do something to you that will hurt Rilanna. Are you understanding me?"

"I understand," Lerrah answered. "But, I'm only requesting that you either allow Rilanna and I to pursue whatever it is we're pursuing, or you make your own move. I know how to keep to business, and you won't have to worry about that. I just don't want you to have harsh feelings toward me or Rilanna because of what we share."

Reza waved her hand dismissively. "Illusions of your own making, Ms. Breijal. Rilanna and I are associates, nothing more. I haven't forbidden you from pursuing a relationship, have I now." With her lips twisting into a cruel smile, Reza added, "But perhaps this entire conversation is your subconscious speaking out, displaying your doubts and fears. Are you perhaps afraid that Rilanna feels nothing for you, dear girl? Is that it?"

"I have no doubts about what she feels for me," Lerrah answered. "But I also have no doubts about what she feels for you. I should get back there now before she gets worried we're killing each other up here. I'll talk to you later, Mrs. Anoran."

Reza inclined her head and watched Lerrah through the blonde hair falling over her brow, giving her the look of a predator prepared to strike. "You certainly will, Ms. Breijal. Do have fun now."

Lerrah glanced back at Reza and gave her a lustful look. "Oh, I plan to," she said, and then started off with her hips swaying.

Watching the girl and her blatant display of disregard, Reza muttered, "Don't worry, my dear. I've got some plans of my own." With a derisive chuckle, she turned towards the canopy and distantly stared at the streaking stars, wondering how long it would be before she simply shoved Lerrah out of an airlock. At the moment, it sounded like a very satisfying prospect.

***

"Coming up on Ai'Kri," Lerrah announced as she prepared to revert the ship back to normal space. "I'm picking up some signs of larger ships out there. They appear to be Republic ships."

" 'Appear?' " Reza repeated. "Can't you be more certain than that?"

"From hyperspace? No. I'm going to revert behind that gas giant. It should put us into normal space hidden. Unless they've got top of the line sensors, they won't know we're there. If they do, there's a chance they'll notice, but it's slim. That'll give us a chance to observe without being detected."

Reza nodded, unwillingly to commend Lerrah for a well-thought out plan. She noted Rilanna's smile of admiration for the girl and did her best not to become too vexed by it. At Lerrah's prompting, Reza strapped herself into the seat while regarding Rilanna. "Are you ready for this, Ms. Kir?"

Rilanna smiled. "I'm definitely ready," she said. "I've been cooped up for too long. It's time for some action."

"Hey," Lerrah playfully protested.

"Not that kind of action," Rilanna said with a laugh. "I don't think I need my armour for this, but I will have blasters. They'll probably take them, but...well, we'll see."

"If your clothing were not so tight, you could conceal a weapon beneath them," Reza quipped. She looked away and muttered, "Though, I imagine Lerrah has no complaints..."

"No complaints at all," Lerrah answered, not taking offense at Reza's intentions. "Though, no clothes at all would be my preference. But, perhaps that would be too distracting."

"I believe so," Reza snapped. "You're already incapable of concentrating on the matter at hand. The curse of a simple, immature mind, I suppose."

Rilanna turned to face Shrezade, a hard look in her eyes.

Elf toodled something and Lerrah laughed softly. "No, no, Elf, Mrs. Anoran couldn't possibly be jealous."

"Oh, certainly not jealousy, our little tin canister," Reza replied to the droid. "It's simply that we have a mission, and your Lerrah is preoccupied with lusting after Rilanna."

"And of course, Elf, Mrs. Anoran is more interested in making snide, snarky comments about mine and Rilanna's relationship than focusing on the mission herself. Reverting in three, Elf. Now, I can concentrate on what I'm doing. Two. But, it seems that. One. Reverting. She just doesn't like me, and even though I'm not certain why, I have a few ideas."

Rilanna let out a growl of frustration. "Will the two of you please stop. Reza, if I hear one more snide comment from you about my relationship with Lerrah, we are going to have a very big issue on our hands. If you have something you want to say, say it. Otherwise, just stow it."

Reza regarded Rilanna with a falsely innocent smile and asked, "Whatever do you mean, Rilanna, dear? I was simply pointing out that our Lerrah here has herself a crush." She passed her eyes over the length of Rilanna's seated form and added dryly, "Though, I cannot see why."

"I hereby tender my resignation as your chief of security if that's how you feel, Mrs. Anoran. If you wish to toss around insults like that, then you can toss them to the New Republic. We'll drop you off with them, and let you be rid of our baleful company."

"The same old tricks, Rilanna. I did not realize I was required to drool over you to retain your services."

"Drooling isn't necessary," Rilanna said. "Though, I had thought you'd started to thaw a little bit. After what we've been through, I'd started to expect civility; I guess it was too much to hope for. Anyway, I see that the real Shrezade Anoran is back. So, if this is what I have to look forward to for the future, I'll make my way somewhere else. I have no intention of partnering with someone whose only form of expression is to lash out at and insult those close to her. We can drop you off at the Republic ship, or we can fire you off in one of the escape pods. Your choice."

Reza shifted her eyes towards Lerrah, who was watching the scene intently and smiling encouragement at Rilanna. If they'd been alone, Reza would have quietly apologized to Rilanna, but with the source of competition and tension sitting before them, Reza wasn't about to do so and give Lerrah the opportunity to gloat over Rilanna's triumph.

"So be it," Reza said, returning her gaze to Rilanna's. "I will deal with the New Republic. You and Lerrah can return to Riga and perhaps catch up with Cham and Hajne. I'm certain they would enjoy seeing you again."

With the ship slowing to a stop behind the star, Reza unclipped her safety straps and vacated her seat. "It has been a pleasure, ladies." She bowed her head to Rilanna and added quietly, "I'm certain I don't have to tell you to enjoy yourselves." Reza held Rilanna's gaze without a smile or a sarcastic expression, not when there was something more she wished to express there. She sighed, then, and started out of the cockpit.

---

"Allied Forces, Part 2"
By: Shrezade Anoran
Lerrah Breijal [NPC+]
Rilanna Kir
Commander Deak Weddel [NPC+]

Location: Near Ai'Kri; On board battle cruiser Revenant
Date: Eos 24, 4ABY

***

"I'll be right back," Rilanna said quickly to Lerrah. Lerrah met Ril's gaze and nodded. With that, Rilanna hurried after Reza. Once they were out of earshot of the cockpit, she allowed herself to catch up. "Reza," she called. "What the hell is going on?"

"I'm preparing to depart, dear girl. What does it look like?" She smiled over her shoulder at Rilanna, then turned the corner towards the equipment bay.

"Before," Ril answered. "In there. With Lerrah. Is this the way you want it to end, Reza? Do you want it over between us? After all we've been through, and you're just walking away? I thought we'd gotten to know each other. I thought we'd come to at least care what happens to each other. Is this what you want?"

"It's what needs to happen," Reza replied. She veered into the equipment bay and promptly halted to wait for Rilanna. When she entered, Reza slapped the door console and watched the blast door bang shut. Once they were securely alone, Reza continued, "You do know that one or more of us may not survive this. I can handle this one alone, Ril. You take Lerrah, and you find a nice, neutral planet until this blows over."

"Reza, have you ever seen me in a real fight? Do you really think I want to sit this thing out? I'm a trained combat specialist. Fighting things is what I want to do. Driving those bastards out of the place that I've made my home is what I need to do. Lerrah feels the exact same way. But, if you don't want us around anymore...well, we'll try to hook up with the New Republic to do our bit. You don't want us, we'll find someone who does. I just hope when you get your station back, you find a new security head who can tolerate your attitude and won't either blast you into oblivion or shove you out an airlock."

Reza growled in frustration and gripped Rilanna roughly by the arms. "I never took you for an idiot, Rilanna Kir, but you're beginning to give me doubts. Don't you understand? I don't want you on the station when it's attacked. I want you as far away from it as you can be." She sighed and loosened her hold on Rilanna, only to run her hands tenderly down her arms. "It's not that I don't want you, Ril," she said softly. "It's that I don't want you hurt."

"And, you think it'd be easy for me to sit safe on some neutral planet somewhere while you're attacking the station? I want to be where we can both watch out for each other, Reza. I want us both to be where we can make sure the other's safe. I don't want you hurt, and I'd go crazy with worry if I'm not there with you."

Reza chuckled wryly as her fingers brushed over Rilanna's hands, then closed around them. "I'm certain Lerrah can comfort you. You do love the girl, after all, don't you?"

"It's too early to tell," Rilanna responded. "But, I do care for her. But--" She brought a hand up and brushed it against Reza's cheek, making sure that her eyes held her friend's. "--she's not the only one I care for."

"I know that, Rilanna," Reza whispered. "But do you really wish to take that step without knowing for certain whether it's more than that?"

"There are times when you just have to believe, and take the risk," Rilanna whispered. "Life isn't easy. Life doesn't let you have what you want. You have to step in and take it, or...or it just passes you by. If we're not willing to take risks for those we care about, then what's the point? I'm willing to take risks, Shrezade Anoran, especially when it comes to my closest friend, and someone I care more about than nearly anything else."

Reza sighed and turned her face away from Rilanna's touch. "Friend, Rilanna. That's what you said. If we go forward, Rilanna, and it doesn't work, we may not be able to go back to that. Are you prepared for that?"

"I know us, Reze. I know if it can work, we'll make it. I know what I feel, Reza. And...and, if you want to be with me, then we should."

"Why?" she asked, bringing Rilanna's other hand up to her chest and pressing it to the pendant she had gifted to her. "Will Lerrah join us in bed, Rilanna? Will I have to fight her for possession of you? You know I will not do that."

"Lerrah knows where my heart is," Rilanna answered. "She's very perceptive and amazing, and I do care for her very much. However, both she and I know that what we're sharing won't last, not as long as my heart is still longing for you. Lerrah would join us in a heartbeat if we asked her--and you'd be surprised at how talented she is--but she knows..."

"Rilanna..." Reza sighed and raised Rilanna's hand to her lips now, placing a warm, lingering kiss to her palm. "You're so very young," she said wistfully. "The young are...prone to making hasty decisions, to following their emotions and leaving common sense behind. As much as you may long for me, Rilanna, it will pass. And if not..." She shrugged lightly. "Then there will be time to deal with that later. For now, I have a mission to complete, a station to liberate. You and Lerrah find a nice, warm planet, and I will contact you when it's safe." Seeing Rilanna's lips part to raise a protest, Reza quickly laid a finger over them and smiled. "Don't. I'm old, I've lived life. You haven't. Don't throw it away on something that has little to do with you."

"You're part of it," Rilanna snapped. "It has everything to do with me. That station is my home. That planet is Lerrah's home. We're part of this whether you want us to be or not. And, if you think you're old, then I'm going to have to drag you down to that planet to have a good, long look at Tarkin's wrinkly old ass until you realize you're not even close to old. Reza, please...I know you don't like me with Lerrah, but please, if you're not going to accept what I feel for you, at least let us find our comfort together. We're both focused on the job, and we're not going to let our affections compromise anything. If you're not going to find out where our feelings will take us, let me seek out what I can find with Lerrah." She took Reza's hands into hers and kissed them both. "But know that my heart will be yours for always, even if you deny it."

"Then you're a fool," Reza sighed, pulling away from Rilanna. She remembered the same vow Vraner had made her, and she'd seen where he ended up. Rilanna was undeserving of the same fate. Shaking her head slowly, Reza turned to the crate of assorted weaponry they'd acquired and worked the lid open. "If you and Lerrah wish to risk your lives and aid the New Republic," she said aloud, "then do so. And if you truly need my permission to be together, then you have it."

"We don't need your permission to stay together," Rilanna said. "But we do need your approval if the three of us are to work together. You've been driving at us, Reze. Deny it if you want, but we both see it. Your comments about our inability to concentrate, my outfit, or any of the other little things you've been saying. You're trying to drive us apart, and if you can't stop yourself from doing it, then you will have to do your part in this alone. Lerrah and I can find our own way if you can't keep yourself from sniping at what we have."

Reza tossed a disruptor back into the crate and chuckled softly. "I was pretty vicious, wasn't I?"

Rilanna laughed and shook her head. "You were. Fortunately both Lerrah and I are tough-skinned. And, Lerrah should have us in position to spy on our New Republic friends if you want to come back up and have a peek."

"I should stay here," she muttered while crouching before the weapon's chest. "Just tell me when it's safe to contact them. I rather think Lerrah will enjoy the absence of my company."

"So, is this how it'll be from now on? You hiding away from Lerrah's presence? What don't you like about her, Reze? Why won't you tell her you were just upset and apologize? She's with us now, and there shouldn't be trouble between any of us. If we've got problems, we need to work them out before they get us killed."

"Everything is under control, Ms. Kir," she replied firmly. "Don't force this issue. I have nothing wrong with the girl, but that doesn't mean I will apologize. You should know well enough to understand that."

"I know that you'd throw away a friendship for the sake of your pride," Rilanna answered. "And, I no longer have any delusions; I know that our friendship is as fragile as it's ever been, possibly more so. I'm going back up to the cockpit with Lerrah. You can keep hiding back here if you'd like."

Reza glanced slightly aside and inclined her head to Rilanna. "Very well. I will continue searching for appropriate, concealable weaponry. And my dear Rilanna... Know that things are better off this way. Trust me."

"Of course they are," Rilanna said, though her voice betrayed the statement. "I love nothing more than having my lover rejected, myself insulted, all while you feign your complete innocence in the matter. One of these days you will realize that the best means to deal with a problem is not to turn and look in a different direction."

"There isn't a problem here, Rilanna," Reza pointed out. She turned fully around to face Rilanna as she rose and added, "Except for you, it would seem. Now please, let's end this conversation. It gets us nowhere, and there are more important matters to focus on."

"We'll see what kind of problem we have the next time you snap off one of your caustic retorts," Rilanna answered. With that, she headed toward the fore of the Pride.

Reza watched after Rilanna for a moment, then laughed softly to herself as she returned her attention to the weapons. "What a sweet girl," she muttered sardonically.

***

"We've got clearance," Lerrah announced. "And, stop nibbling on my ear before I run into something that's not supposed to be run into."

Rilanna chuckled. "That wasn't nibbling," she said. "I was just kissing your earlobe, that's all. Where they putting us?"

"Umbilical three. There. Elf, prepare the top hatch for egress."

The droid tootled a response and slid back to one of the panels that gave him access to the dorsal controls.

The sounds of booted feet approaching could be heard, and Lerrah glanced back. She flicked worried eyes to Rilanna, who put a calming hand on her shoulder. Lerrah gave her lover a smile, and then returned her attention to getting their approach lined up. Having done this hundreds of times, she brought the Pride right in under the hatchway, and added a little thrust to bring them up. Clamps latched into place, securing the ship. "Done," she said. "Now we just head updeck, and hopefully the welcoming committee will be there." She swivelled her chair around to give Reza a grin. "Ready, General?"

Reza shook away the wisps of blonde hair falling over her eyes while she tugged her leather jacket closed. The waist-length garment covered her blouse and much of her chest, but left exposed the pendent Rilanna had given her. She wouldn't let her know it, but Reza cherished it more than any gift given to her. Hidden in her boots were two sharp, compact daggers, ready to be used in case the situation required it. A blaster was strapped to her back, beneath her clothing, but she hoped she had no use for it today.

"I am ready," she replied. "Who's going to be accompanying me?"

"We're both going," Lerrah said before Rilanna could respond. "What would a general be without her captains, right?"

Reza's eyebrow quirked. "Captains?" She snorted dryly and waved them over. "Come on then. You walk behind me." Shooting Rilanna an imperceptible wink, Reza turned on her heel and made for the exit hatch.

As they fell in step behind Reza, Rilanna slipped her hand into Lerrah's. She gave her a quick smile, and then released the hand. She dropped into her normal hunting persona and felt a calmness envelope her. Lerrah wasn't as well trained, but her body language indicated a hyper-professional attitude that would get them all places with the New Republic. Guess that's what it takes when you want to work in a male-dominated industry. Just be better at it all than them, and you've got a foot in. "You know, I think, just looking at us, we make a very nice looking team."

"Nice in what sense?" Reza asked. "Should we have worn dresses do you think?"

"Of course, Reza," Rilanna snapped. "That's exactly what I mean. Let's go put on our dresses and then we can go serve the New Republic people tea and giggle at all their jokes."

Always appreciative of Rilanna's humour, Reza chuckled and replied, "Who knows? It might just sway them in our favour. Besides," she added, glancing languidly back at Rilanna, "I've always thought you looked wonderful in a dress."

In a fit of childishness that surprised her, Rilanna responded by sticking her tongue out at Reza.

She, in return, shook with gentle laughter and returned her gaze frontwards, wondering if they would be taking things so lightly once the fighting started.

At the exit hatch, Reza paused in order for Rilanna and Lerrah to take their flanking places on each side of her. "Now would be a good time to look menacing, ladies," she muttered as she tapped the side console and took a step back while the door raised.

"Already working on it," Lerrah said. "Though, I should have worn a bra."

Rilanna snickered. "You don't need a bra, my dear. Now, look tough. Act like a dyke."

"Oh," Lerrah cooed, "I'm all over that."

Reza shifted uncomfortably in response to the lewd conversation going on around her, but made no comment. She was too preoccupied with thinking how her decision to put distance between she and Rilanna was the correct one, especially considering how well both girls got along. Her Rilanna would be happier being with Lerrah, and her happiness was the only thing of consequence.

She shushed them both with a sharp hiss, and squinted through the haze of swirling vapour across their field of view. Once the extending ramp touched down, the fog cleared to reveal two ranks of soldiers on either side of a uniformed officer and his entourage. From the description of the New Republic representative they were to meet, Reza determined this wasn't him, but some escort sent to greet them. "I guess we're not yet important enough to be met by the man himself," Reza muttered.

"At least they did send someone," Lerrah offered. "It would have been worse to open the doors to find no one there. So, do we go out to them?"

Subtly, Rilanna brushed her fingers against the back of Lerrah's hand as they closed the distance with Reza. "I guess we go see if they're interested."

"Of course they're interested," Reza said confidently. "They need us. Who else in this galaxy knows that station's defenses inside and out?" She smirked at her two companions, then started down the ramp as the officer and his men strode forward to meet them, even though they all had blaster rifles aimed at her.

"There will be no need for those," Reza told them, gesturing to her thighs, unadorned by the blasters that normally hung there.

The uniformed man stepped forward, looking Reza and her companions over. "It is not uncommon," he began, "for the Empire to try to infiltrate our ranks with spies. Therefore, we take every precaution we can before we extend any form of trust. My name is Commander Deak Weddel. Come with me for decontamination screening, and then I'll take you in for your meeting." He gave a nod, and one rank of the guards peeled away to take up positions elsewhere in the room. "This way, please."

With that, he led the way toward a small room on the other side of the landing bay.

"Paranoid bunch here," Lerrah muttered.

"Or lonely," Reza retorted. "I imagine there aren't many women serving on a vessel like this. We could be giving them quite the treat."

After filing into the small, sterile room, with two officers barricading the door from within and another standing guard in front of them, Reza casually slipped off her jacket and tossed it aside. Her fingers proceeded to deftly unbutton her blouse, and at Lerrah's hesitance to do the same for her own clothing, Reza glared and motioned her eyes sternly at her shirt.

Lerrah glanced down at her shirt and at the men standing all around them. A nervous flutter in her stomach told her she didn't like this situation at all. She took hold of the zip holding the front of her top closed, and paused.

"Come on, baby," Rilanna whispered so only the three of them could hear, "let's see 'em."

Lerrah blushed, and then tugged the zipper down, exposing herself for the decontamination search. She dropped her top over with Reza's, and slipped her arms up to cover her nakedness. "Ril, love, could you..." She indicated her pants with her eyes.

"I really don't think I should," Rilanna answered. "Maybe when we get back on your ship."

Lerrah grinned. "Oh alright, but I'm taking that as a promise." With that, she quickly divested herself of her boots and pants, then presented herself to the droid waiting to process them.

Reza was a little slower in her efforts, though only because of the weapons she had concealed that would no doubt have to be surrendered to the guard now. Her apprehension stemmed more from what his reaction would be to witnessing her disposing of her various weaponry. The moment her blouse came off to expose not simply her brassiere, but the two straps running around her abdomen from behind, the guard held his rifle level at her and took a threatening step forward. Reza simply grinned.

"Don't worry... It was only for protection. How were we to know you weren't all Imperials and we were walking into an ambush?"

The man made no reply, obviously amused and completely unaffected by the three women standing almost naked before him. Reza sighed and carefully loosened the straps, then held up the harnessed holster up for the guard. The droid hobbled over and retrieved it from her, but before it turned to dispose of the weapon, Reza held up a hand to halt him, then bent low to pull the two daggers from her boots. She wondered, then, if Ril was appreciating the view. The droid took those weapons as well and finally departed. The other droid in the room stepped before her, and after quickly screening her for other weapons hidden from view.

"That's all there is," she told the guard as the droid marched stiffly off, but he motioned his gun towards the rest of her clothing nonetheless. Reza sighed and promptly kicked off her boots and peeled off the close-fitting leather pants she wore. Standing only in undergarments, Reza looked no less confident than always, and certainly did nothing to conceal her figure. "Is the inspection complete?"

Rilanna leaned close to Reza, her lips nearly pressed to her friend's ear. "Actually," she whispered, "this isn't the New Republic. This is Golba the Hutt's ship, and we're set to be his new exotic dancers."

Reza suppressed a chuckle and turned head towards Rilanna's, their cheeks brushing and the back of her hand voluntarily drawing up Rilanna's bare thigh. "Would that be such a bad thing?" she purred.

"I don't know," Rilanna whispered as she brushed her lips against Reza's cheek, "I'm really starting to warm up to the idea."

Reza smiled, but noticing that Lerrah was watching them intently, Reza cleared her throat gently and turned her face away from Rilanna's, severing all contact between the two. Ignoring Rilanna entirely, she asked the guard, "Is all satisfactory? Or you do require a more...invasive inspection?"

The guard glanced to the droid who made a nodding gesture. "You're clear. Leave the weapons here, they'll be returned to you upon your departure. Get dressed and Commander Weddel will take you through."

Bowing her head in compliance, Reza then moved off to sort through her clothing. She didn't look forward to being unarmed, but that they hadn't shot her where she stood for bearing weapons seemed like a sign of goodwill...for the time being.

---

"Allied Forces, Part 3"
By: Shrezade Anoran
Lerrah Breijal [NPC+]
Rilanna Kir
Commander Deak Weddel/Captain Dresh Kano [NPC+]

Location: On board battle cruiser Revenant
Date: Eos 24, 4ABY

***

Commander Weddel was waiting for them through an exit on the far side of the room. He looked up from conferring with a young officer, and then quickly finished up before approaching Reza again. "Welcome to the Republic cruiser Revenant. Captain Bail Rellstar is in command, but Admiral Tallen is here for the meeting. I'm the Exec. I'm glad everything worked out in there," he said. "I hope it wasn't too much of an ordeal."

"It wasn't," Rilanna answered. "Lerrah actually prefers being naked, so it was-- Ow. It wasn't an ordeal at all."

Reza shot a brief scowl at the two, then regarded Weddel with a pleasant smile. "It was a precautionary measure, one that instils confidence in me for your organization. We will need to practice much care in the upcoming days if we are to obliterate the Imperials, and one cannot take any chances."

Weddel smiled and nodded, his eyes shining with contained enthusiasm. "And, it's good to hear you say that," he said. "Come this way, and we can get the meeting started. On your way in, did you encounter any Imperial patrols?"

"None," Lerrah answered. "Though, we tried to stay as far out of the way as possible. My astromech assured me that not even a space slug noticed us go by."

Weddel nodded at the news. "Good, good," he said. "I wouldn't have expected to see you approaching the New Republic, Mrs. Anoran, but I am glad that you have."

One eyebrow raised slowly. "Oh? And why is that?"

"You are the former administrator of the Drogen Shipyards, are you not? That will be one of our primary objectives in the upcoming attack. To cut off both ship supply junctions as well as disrupting production on Tarkin's latest starfighter."

"Yes, but I did once pledge allegiance to the Empire," she pointed out, though she was confident he was already well aware of that. "Do you believe Admiral Tallen will trust me despite that?"

"The Empire drove you from your station, and you're here now. I happen to know that Major Dane Weyland has been spending a considerable amount of time looking for the two of you. It could have all been a ruse to get you here, inside the New Republic operations center. However, my gut tells me otherwise. So, despite my gut, what we're going to need, I believe, is a show of support."

"That all depends on what Admiral Tallen has to offer me," Reza replied frankly. "At the moment, my allegiances are only to myself and my friends. Yes, I would enjoy murdering Major Weyland with my bare hands and regaining my station, but only if Admiral Tallen can assure me that will be happening, and that he will demand nothing in return, in the end."

Lerrah's eyebrow raised and she cast a look at Rilanna, who glanced back with an enigmatic smile. She tried her best to suppress her smile, but failed.

"We need to get that station back," Weddel said. "What we need is information that will help us do that. We need to get in, liberate those inside, and then turn the tide on the Imperial forces that will no doubt be breathing down our collective necks. Can you help with that?"

Reza chuckled throatily. "Who the hells do you think practically built that station, Commander? If it's getting in and destroying the Imps you want, you'll find no one better qualified than I am."

"I'll take that as a yes," he answered. "Come, let's go to one of the briefing rooms closer to the bridge. We'll do some talking and figure out how we can help one another. What sort of combat experience do you have, Mrs. Anoran?"

She glanced furtively at Rilanna. "I've been trained by a most accomplished fighter. I believe I can hold my own in a battle."

"Good," Weddel said with another smile. "Let's get up to that briefing room. We can talk about qualifications and where we can use you in the upcoming fight. This way." He led the way out the door and off through the ship. "We've been massing a fleet here for some time, though we have to be careful. So close to Tae'Karada, it would be easy for Tarkin's fleet to jump in here. We actually only stay in one place for no more than two days at a time."

"Wise, considering we are most likely being tracked," Reza commented. "Major Weyland has taken to hiring bounty hunters to retrieve us. I believe he wishes to kill me, and as for my associate" --she nudged her head in Rilanna's direction-- "I imagine he wishes to do the same, but only after he's had his way with her. These Imperials...they're all brutes."

"I won't deny that," Weddel answered. "Though, considering how long it's been since the station fell, I have my doubts that you have Imperial agents skulking behind you right now. Our advance lookouts haven't detected anything following after you, so it looks like we're safe for now. Though, we are scheduled to jump again at around 23h00 tonight."

"Do you wish us to remain aboard, then?" she asked. "I believe that would be best. We can stay on our vessel while it's docked here."

"If that is most comfortable for you, that will work for us as well. We can spare the hangar space, but bunk space is limited. Unless you wish to sleep barracks-style with a bunch of New Republic soldiers, that is."

Reza snorted. "Oh, I don't think I'd trust these two to behave. It just wouldn't do to get the soldiers in a frenzy." She smiled at Weddel as the four stepped into the lift, which jerked gently as it began its ascent. "You said the station will be the main target, but what of the forces occupying the planet itself? Has the New Republic plans to liberate it as well?"

"Definitely, and we're currently planning a simultaneous assault. The shipyards, however, will provide us a significant advantage in the space battle, and given everything, we can use every advantage we can get. We will have two main objectives on the planet: Arcadia and Thanatos, those appear to be the strongest sources of Imperial power planetside."

"And what of Tarkin?" she inquired. "Are the orders to capture him or..." She grinned viciously at the second option that sparked in her mind.

Weddel met Reza's grin with one of his own. "Preferably capture," he said. "Though, if it can't be avoided his death will be acceptable. If we get him though, we'll have more options in how to pay for his crimes against the Republic."

"As far as I could tell, the man is senile. I don't even think any of your methods will penetrate the lunacy fogging his mind." Her smile held in place as she added, "Though, that should not dissuade you from trying."

"Oh, I assure you there will be people lining up to assist in helping to teach Tarkin the error of his ways. If you'd like, I can see what strings I can pull to make sure you're up at the front of the line."

Reza bowed her head in gratitude and followed Weddel off the lift as it halted a level above the command deck. She imagined during battle, it would be abuzz with activity, but now, as she looked down at it from above, it appeared quiet and orderly. Gesturing for them to follow, Weddel led them down the heavily guarded walkway.

"Is this Admiral Tallen a reasonable man?" she asked. "Or will I have to do some clever negotiating. Not that I'm not up for that."

Weddel laughed. "I don't anticipate much difficulty with convincing him," he said. "Though, I can ask him to play it tough, just to give you a workout, if you'd like."

Reza grinned slyly. "What makes you think I like stubborn men, Commander?"

Weddel smiled. "Call it a hunch," he said as he opened a door and motioned them inside. "Make yourselves comfortable. We've had food and something to drink brought in."

Reza thanked him with a gracious nod, and stared pointedly at Rilanna and Lerrah to do that same. Regarding him again: "Will you be attending the meeting, Commander?"

"I will," Weddel answered. "I'm acting as a liaison between this fleet and Admiral Ackbar's fleet back in the Core. We're hoping the ships we have here will be enough without having to pull in ships that aren't ready yet for this kind of fight. We'll see though." He glanced at Rilanna and Lerrah and motioned toward the large table at the other end of the room. It was piled high with a variety of foods and drinks. "Hospitality of Ai'Kri."

The two women exchanged a look, and then, with matching grins, moved to partake in the culinary splendour.

"The situation is more desperate than we believe," Weddel said. "We believe that Tarkin has some other plan in the works. You're familiar with the firepower of the death star space stations? Give it a hyperdrive and a fleet to back it up, and I think you get close to what we believe he's planning."

Reza watched the two girls engorging the banquet laid out for them, and took it as her opportunity to converse in private with Weddel. Moving in closer, Reza lowered her voice and said, "You believe Tarkin is constructing these ships on my station? Is there any evidence he is even capable of such a feat?"

"Perhaps parts here and there," Weddel answered. "The Drogen Shipyards aren't arrayed for the construction of capital ships, especially of the type that he's trying to build. Agents of ours indicate that he may be using the shipbuilding facilities at either Kuat or Fondor. They aren't yet constructed according to our intelligence data, which means the time to strike is very soon, before he can bring those ships online."

"Well, I'm ready to go whenever you men are." She grinned at Weddel and teased, "I'm certain me and the girls can inspire some enthusiasm in you, with the right motivation, of course."

He glanced back at Lerrah and Rilanna and chuckled. "I'm certain something can be arranged. We're still waiting for the last elements to align. We're outnumbered on all fronts, and we're doing what we can to round up support from all corners. Unfortunately, the only people we have left to seek support from are the crime lords."

Reza nodded thoughtfully, contemplating whether mentioning her ties with Dargus Kandran would be appropriate. "And is that such an unpleasant avenue to explore?" she asked. "Many of the crime lords have much to gain by disposing of the Imperials."

"The sticking point right now is what a crime lord would demand in return for their help. And, so far, the crime lords have been unavailable to us. Tarabassic has withdrawn to the edge of the system where we have no idea what she's doing. Jadda the Hutt appears to have thrown in with Tarkin. Zale Tregat's got personal matters he's taking care of, though he does seem interested in helping. Weibran the Hutt contacted us, but I'm not sure if we want his support. And, despite the ship in the system, Dargus Kandran's people don't seem to be answering, and I suspect that Dargus Kandran's unavailable, if he's even still alive."

Reza chuckled. "Oh, he's quite alive, I assure you. If you require assistance, I believe I can get into contact with him. But...only if you wish it, Commander. I know you are in desperate need of my help, but trust that I will not exploit that and overstep my authority, if I have any at all in this situation. I believe Dargus Kandran will be a useful ally, but only if you wish him to be."

"If you can get him to join in with us and promise to keep his hands off our female officers and crew, then...then it's better to have him on our side than with the enemy or just in the middle interfering."

"I can't exactly promise that he'll keep his hands to himself," Reza warned, wearing a smile to lessen the severity of her expression, "but I can assure you he won't go anywhere near you, Commander."

Weddel laughed. "So, is that a statement of interested possessiveness, or just an observation that Kandran's about as homophobic as they come?"

Reza shrugged noncommittally while a slow, enigmatic grin spread her lips. "Take it as you wish, Commander. But whatever the case, you will have his aid. That, I can give you an unequivocal answer to."

Weddel laughed and then nodded his thanks. "That's all I can ask for," he said. "And, I thank you. If you can bring Kandran in to help us, then I'm fairly certain your status around here will rise like you wouldn't believe."

"Oh, I don't care about that," she said with a dismissive gesture. "I never have cared what others think of me. You'll learn that soon enough, Commander. As will Admiral Tallen if he doesn't get this meeting started and I'm forced to berate him in front of his crew."

"I wasn't referring to that," he said. "I was speaking of your involvement on this operation. If you prove yourself to be a reliable enough asset to us, I'm certain we can find a role for you deserving of that."

"What? Shrezade Anoran a soldier of the New Republic?" She laughed softly. "I'm not a soldier, Commander. I just want my station back."

"Do you only see yourself as a soldier, Shrezade Anoran? I would have thought that you would have had aspirations to lead one of the strike teams."

She narrowed her eyes at Weddel, then laughed in pure amusement. "You want me to lead my own team into the station? I don't know the first thing about military tactics and strategies.... I ran a station, Commander, not an army."

"As you said earlier, who knows that station better than you?" he asked. "Besides, if you require tactical advice, I am certain that either Miss Kir or one of my own people would be able to fill that role."

Reza shook her head slowly as she chuckled, then sighed and leaned back against the wall, still regarding Weddel with a searching gaze. "You really think I can do this, don't you?"

"I know that we need you on the team that will be going into the station," he said. "You know how to activate the remaining defenses. And, we have an agent aboard the station, who has a few wild theories he can't try out with Imperial troops all over the place."

"Ah, so using me for my knowledge," Reza jested. "If that's the case," she added, spreading her arms wide, "then feel free to exploit me, Commander."

"So, is that an open offer, or just confined to the matter at hand?"

Reza smiled guardedly and casually folded her arms over her chest as she held Weddel's gaze, trying to determine just how suggestive his statement truly was. "You're very witty and shrewd, Commander. The New Republic is lucky to have you. And for now...I would prefer it if we stuck to the matter at hand." She added, with a subtle wink, and scarcely believing her words, "For now."

"For now," Weddel echoed. "For now, our plan is to hit Tarkin's forces in the area with everything we've got. That attack, however, is also acting as a diversion that will allow you and your team to get aboard the station using an assault shuttle. Once inside, you'll eliminate all resistance as you head toward the internal defensive systems. Once those are active, the Imperial force inside should be easy enough to take care of."

"You make it sound easy. It won't be, but with my help, it'll certainly increase your chances." Her eyes strayed to Rilanna and Lerrah, clinging to one another as they sat at the table and slowly chewed the morsels of food they were popping into one another's mouths. Their eyes, however, were on her, and their smiles were far too mischievous for her liking. Clearing her throat uncomfortably, Reza stood up tall and took one step away from Weddel to place distance between them, and hopefully keep the girls' minds from running wild. "So...the meeting? Is the Admiral ready for us?"

"He'll be with us soon," Weddel answered. "Though, I should clear a few things up. My name isn't really Commander Deak Weddel. It's actually Captain Dresh Kano. I'm working in conjunction with the New Republic advisory council, senate and Military Intelligence. Everyone here, except Admiral Tallen, knows me as Weddel, so outside of this room, make sure to keep up appearances. I'm here now, with you, to see what your feelings are on the situation and how much cooperation and help we can expect from you. And, it appears that we'll be getting more than we anticipated." He gave her a smile. "Which is a good thing."

Reza stiffened and her expression sobered fully. "And if more is what you wish from me, you will never deceive me again, Captain, or Commander, or whatever you truly are. If you're convinced that you can trust me now, then please inform Admiral Tallen that we're ready to see him." She bowed her head rigidly. "Good day..." Then she stepped past him towards the banquet table.

"Look," Dresh Kano/Deak Weddel said, following after her, "what part of undercover operation are you not understanding here? I wasn't lying to you, Mrs. Anoran. I was doing the job the government of the New Republic asked me to do. If you have a problem with that, take it up with Mon Mothma. The only reason I told you is because I wanted you to know who I am, and I felt I could trust you with the information. Apparently, you aren't ready to step into this part of the war."

Reza whirled around to face Dresh fully, her gaze unwavering and her stance firm. "You know nothing about me, Captain. I'm more than ready for this war, but if you don't believe I am, I'd be more than happy to take my information with me and go at it alone. Would that please you and your superiors, Captain?"

"So be it," Dresh answered and gestured toward the door. "If you can't handle a covert operative then you certainly can't be expected to handle the rest of this. By the time you reach your ship, it'll be ready for departure."

Reza chuckled derisively and took a challenging step towards Dresh. "Oh, I can handle it, Captain. If you knew anything at all about me, you'd realize I am capable of much, and I certainly do not follow the orders of deceptive, presumptuous, and not even all that handsome fools. I am not leaving, as much as you would wish me to. So...deal with it."

"How many times have you been hit in the head by passing comets, woman? Exactly which part of covert are you not understanding? I work for military intelligence. I am undercover on this ship, in this battle. I know you're not a stupid woman, but you've got to be as dense as neutronium! I'll have you thrown off this ship if I have to."

"Oh, will the two of you just have sex already," one of the two young woman countered. "I don't think I've ever seen two people so shazzed up over each other in my life. Just do it before you explode!"

Reza's jaw dropped momentarily, just as her eyes bulged from her head. She recovered quickly, but her faculty of speech still eluded her. While she was flustered, Dresh appeared wholly amused. She glared past him at the two snickering fools taunting them now with smooching sounds, then turned on her heel and stormed from the room in a huff.

"Be right back," Rilanna murmured as she rushed after Reza. "Talk or...eat...or something. We'll be right...oh Reza."

---

"Allied Forces, Part 4"
By: Shrezade Anoran
Lerrah Breijal [NPC+]
Adam Edwards
Captain Dresh Kano [NPC+]
Rilanna Kir

Location: On board battle cruiser Revenant
Date: Eos 24, 4ABY

***

Outside of the room, she found Reza's retreating back and nearly sprinted for her. "Reza!"

She waved Rilanna away angrily and spat vulgar curses at no one in particular. They were preparing for war and instead of fighting the enemy, they were fighting each other. The prospects didn't look promising to Reza and it was giving her doubts. Allowing everyone in that room to see her flustered only made her want to retreat from the entire situation that much faster.

A hand grasped Shrezade Anoran's arm and spun her around, halting her forward momentum and bringing her face to face with Rilanna Kir. "Stop running away," she hissed. "What the hell is your problem, Reza? The real problem, not your defiance, pride, or indifference. Why have you suddenly stopped trying to live again? On Riga, you were full of life and enjoyed living. But now? It's like going back to that station is sapping what life and humour you've found on Riga from you again. Is that what you want to be? Some bitter, angry woman who snaps and curses at anyone around her?"

Reza growled as she fought to wrench herself from Rilanna's grip, but one rough jerk from her and Reza was held securely in place. "Let go," she warned. "You know that's just what I am, Rilanna Kir. That's why you're with Lerrah, that's why Captain Kano couldn't care less if I join their resistance or not. It's how I am and have always been. Riga was no different!"

"Captain Kano cares more than you realize," Rilanna said. "I'm with Lerrah because she's a beautiful, fun, sensual woman who I happen to find attractive. And, I feel the exact same way about you!" With that, she spun Reza around, pressed her against the wall and kissed her.

It was difficult to keep a hold on Reza as she struggled against Rilanna, but the more her body writhed and jerked forward to push Rilanna off, the more intense became the sensations being aroused in her. The firm curves of Rilanna's breasts and hips rubbing against hers brought up a moan, and Reza's attempts to displace Rilanna became now a desire to wrap her entire body around Rilanna's.

Her lips fed greedily from her friend's - if that what she still was - and her hands slid over the smooth leather conforming to Rilanna's shapely rear, cupping it. In that moment, the Shrezade Anoran she had been forced to be on the station, the woman she was prepared to regress to again, faded into oblivion against the passion she never believed she could feel towards anyone again, especially not a woman. She'd vowed there would be no one after Vraner, but her body and her heart was telling her otherwise now.

Rilanna had only intended for the kiss to push Reza off-guard, and diffuse the anger that was building up toward nova. What the kiss had turned into was far more intense than she'd expected, and everything she'd ever hoped it could be...and more. They were completely alone in the corridor, which was good considering the amount of heat they were generating, clinging to each other and not wanting the moment to pass.

Rilanna Kir had had few lovers in her life. Major Wayland and Nec, the last two men she'd been with, hadn't come close to igniting the kind of overwhelming need and passion that Lerrah had stirred just a few short mornings ago. And, then here, with Reza, it was happening all over again.

Her body tingled and throbbed with her desire. She felt her hands exploring Reza's body just as Reza's were exploring her own. Inside, her mind chuckled at the realization that this was a much better way to express her feelings to Reza rather than talking about them.

Reza was aware of nothing else other than the sound of their breaths coming and going heavily, along with the gentle moans and occasional gasp as Rilanna touched a sensitive area, with Reza returning the favour. Her lips were numb to the point of pain, but they fed from Rilanna's with just as much need as when the kiss had first begun.

She chuckled deep in her throat as she felt the air hitting her exposed abdomen, then Rilanna's hands sliding over the bare flesh, forcing her shirt open wider. She was surprised that her own fingers were working at Rilanna's clothing, attempting to force open her pants, but it was difficult to get her hands between them with Rilanna pressed so tightly to her. With a growl of frustration, Reza gripped Rilanna by the waist and surged forward and around, driving Rilanna's back against the wall roughly. Their lips never parted for a moment and with Reza now in the lead, she worried open Rilanna's pants and slipped a hand inside.

Rilanna's moans grew louder once Reza's hand found its target. The cool air against the heated flesh, bared by Reza, felt wonderful. She'd managed to work open Reza's shirt and her hands were now massaging her friend's breasts. Despite the fact that Shrezade Anoran had never been with a woman before, Rilanna had to admit that she definitely knew where to touch, and what she wanted. Her pants were slowly being worked down over her hips, but not once did Reza's hand stay its activity, such beautiful activity, between her thighs.

Having much familiarity with her own body, it wasn't difficult for Reza to instinctually know precisely where to touch, and how, and with how much pressure. The viscous coating on her fingers, and the clipped gasps escaping Rilanna's lips was enough to assure Reza she was doing everything right.

Her delirious mind was too engrossed with passion to remind her that, only a month ago, she would have thought fondling another woman in a corridor was as disgusting an act as she could imagine. Now, she viewed it as simply an expression of a deeply suppressed desire she'd felt for Rilanna, the woman who had broken her out of her shell of despair, the one person she trusted above all others... The only person she had allowed herself to love after Vraner's death.

Kissing her as she was now, Reza realized that aside from the passion and sexual yearning they felt towards one another, the love she felt for her Rilanna was nothing like that she had experienced with Vraner. Their love had been simple, uncomplicated. Now, with Rilanna, there was something deeper, something that surpassed the physical and the commonplace definition of love. Rilanna knew the intimate workings of her mind, her vices and insecurities. She knew everything about her, more than she'd ever allowed anyone to learn.

They might be lovers, but they would still always be friends, and Rilanna still the only person Reza truly trusted. That she had Reza figured out was even more of a reason to keep her close. But what she was doing now with her tongue was an even better reason.

Somehow, Rilanna had managed to get Reza's pants open. She didn't care how, but she had. And, now, with Reza's hands sending delicious tingles all through her body, she began returning the favour. It wasn't as easy with Reza pressing her against the wall. She knew what they were doing was going to severely complicate things, but she just hoped Lerrah understood. Then again, she knew that Lerrah did. The young smuggler that Ril had suddenly found herself so fond of had practically been encouraging her to make a move. The move had been made, that was certain. Tonight aboard the Pride would definitely be interesting.

Reza groaned and arched against Rilanna as the girl's nimble fingers slipped easily inside of her. Reza's free hand gripped Rilanna's shoulder firmly to keep them both steady, while her other worked smoothly and rhythmically at Rilanna's mound. Their gentle cries carried through the corridor, its acoustics amplifying their carnal vocalizations.

Reza felt Rilanna sliding down against the wall, and she following to join her on the ground, when a violent jolt rocked the ship. The internal lighting flickered briefly, and the two women almost toppled together to the deckplating, where they had intended to go at any rate. Supporting each other fully and regaining their balance, Reza and Rilanna stared breathlessly at one another with silent wonder in their eyes. The ship lurched again, throwing Reza fully into Rilanna's embrace. Despite the confusion and urgency of the situation, it had done little to abate Reza's desires and she found her lips searching for Rilanna's again.

As much as she knew they should try to do something helpful for the ship, Rilanna knew it was much more important to do something helpful for themselves first. She clung to Reza as they kissed and fondled, groped and pleasured. One hand had managed to strip Reza's pants down to her knees. She was about to separate from the kiss to use her mouth and tongue for other purposes when booted feet running down the corridor jarred her attention.

"We've got Imperial ships coming in," Dresh announced as he sped by. "Sorry to break things up!" And, then he was gone down the hall.

Lerrah, who'd been running right behind him stopped next to Rilanna and Reza, then dropped to her knees beside them both. She first kissed Rilanna and then Reza. "Thank you," she said with a wide grin. "The tension the two of you were creating was enough to drive a person insane. Though, I don't think it's a good idea to continue during battlestations, but tonight, I'll let you guys share the main cabin on the Pride if you'd like to finish what you've started."

"Yes," Rilanna answered quickly, still breathless.

Reza swallowed back an unsteady breath and nodded. "Now, though, I think we'd better see what's going on." Giving Rilanna a final, lingering kiss, she climbed to her feet and hastily pulled up her pants. "Lerrah, go prep the Pride in case they need more firepower against whoever the hells is blasting at us." Reza felt almost ridiculous giving orders with her bare breasts hanging out of her open blouse, but the ship tossed abruptly to one side, throwing her into the wall, and at that point all embarrassment became quickly insignificant compared to her annoyance. "If that's Weyland," she growled, "I'll tear his ship apart with my teeth."

"On my way," Lerrah sang, giving each another quick kiss before racing off down the corridor, already calling out orders to the droid back on the Pride.

As she composed herself, Rilanna didn't take her eyes off Reza. Finally, after she'd gotten her pants straightened and her shirt pushed back down to where it normally was, she laughed softly. "She took it much better than I expected," she said. "And, you do want to finish later, right, Reze? Before we jump into whatever's happening out there, you do want to finish what we started, right?"

Reza cradled Rilanna's flushed cheek delicately in her hand and smiled tenderly. "If the moment's right again, dear Ril. There's no need to rush, especially now that we know." She kissed her girl softly to reassure her despite her equivocal reply. "Trust me, Ril," she whispered. "Just...trust me in this."

"With my life," Rilanna whispered softly.

Reza sighed and closed her eyes as she pressed cheek to Rilanna's. "It's about time," she replied. They remained that way for a moment longer, then Reza pulled back and closed up her blouse. "For now, I think we should concentrate on surviving this so we can get our station back." She centered the pendant on her chest, gazing down at it with a thoughtful smile, then she held out her other hand to Rilanna. "Care to join me?"

Rilanna slipped her hand into Reza's. "Of course," she said. "Let's go see how we can help."

Hopping onto a lift as the ship was hit again, Reza and Ril made it down to the hangar in time to witness the bustle and activity induced by the impending battle. Pilots dashed across the bay towards their fighters, responding to the blaring klaxons and dispassionate voices calling out orders from the intercom system.

Reza and Rilanna sprinted towards the Pride, which had its engines already fired up, but Reza stopped short upon sighting Captain Dresh donning a pilot's outfit and marching towards a vessel of his own.

"I'll be right back," she told Ril. "I want to see what's going on."

At Rilanna's nod, Reza hurried off, weaving her way around the pilots seeking out their ships dutifully and with tangible anticipation. She wondered if Vraner had felt the same excitement before hopping onto his vessel and flying out into battle.

Catching up to Dresh, she shouted out his name and came up beside him. "What's going on? It's the Imperials, isn't it?"

He nodded. "A patrol of theirs jumped into the system and spotted us here. They got close before we could get ready, but we have two wings out keeping their fighters at bay. I'm about to take my squadron out to help things out."

"Lerrah's got her ship ready to launch if you need her." Reza scrambled to keep up with Dresh's longer gait, then sighed impatiently and pulled him back to face her before he could reach his vessel. "Look...I'm sorry for what I said back there. I know what's at stake here and I know any information you give away is privileged. You were right not to trust a stranger, but you can trust me. I know you won't believe that until I prove myself to you, but I will, Captain, when the opportunity presents itself."

"If I didn't have some trust in you," he said with a smile, "you'd still be thinking I was Commander Weddel. If Lerrah's ship's got what it takes to make it in a firefight, then we'll take the help."

Reza nodded and released her grip on the sleeve of his jacket with an apologetic smile. "Good luck out there, Captain."

"You too," he said, glancing back at her. "And, if when this is over, if you'd like to get to know Dresh Kano...if you're interested, that is...then maybe we could... Something to look forward to after the battle, that is...with Rilanna..."

Reza bit back a laugh and looked at her feet to compose herself. "If we get through this," she told him, gazing up at him sidelong, "then yes, we could try that. I can then attempt to explain the complexities of my relationship with Ms. Kir...if you're at all interested."

Dresh smiled and then nodded his acceptance. "That sounds good," he said. "So, watch yourselves out there because I want to hear your story. Have Lerrah key in on the tactical band. Control can give it to her."

"I'll let her know." Reza smiled as she held Dresh's gaze long enough to find herself appreciating his handsome grey eyes, then bowed her head and marched briskly back towards the Pride.

"Contact control, Ms. Breijal," she told her once she arrived in the cockpit. "You can listen in on the tactical reports during the firefight." Her gaze shifted to Ril's then. "So...what can we do?"

"Lerrah was going over her weaponry and defense systems while you were talking to Dresh," Rilanna answered, "while teasing me about lying naked on a battle cruiser with you. I explained to her that we were doing much more than laying together, but that a demonstration would cost her. Anyway, she says that the weapons are actually military-grade as well as the shield generator. If we go out there, we should be able to hold our own. Have you ever fired a quad-laser, Reze?"

She quirked an eyebrow at Rilanna and smiled. "Am I about to learn?"

Rilanna laughed and then motioned for Reza to follow her. "Take us out, and we'll start with ships on the periphery," she called back to Lerrah.

As she and Reza made their way back to the gunnery wells, the Pride's powerful engines thrummed to life. The ship lifted from where it sat and angled out of the ship's bay. "Down there," she told Reza once they were at the ladders heading up and down. The nice thing about most Corellian YT model ships was that most systems were in the same places. "Strap in and you'll get a crash course."

Reza saluted Rilanna playfully then ducked into the well and slid herself into the seat. "Ready down here!" she called up to Rilanna in the upper well after securing herself into place.

As the ship roared out after the fighters buzzing around the Republic ships like angry stingers, Rilanna quickly went over the finer points of firing the weaponry. "We've got a TIE fighter coming up on us now. He's too far away for me, but when he passes us, he'll be in your zone. Target him as he comes through, and fire."

Reza frowned at the handgrips protruding from the shell of durasteel encasing the well. As her chair swivelled to the side, the weapon extending through to the exterior of the ship followed. She soon realized that the small screen mounted to the turret displayed everything the barrel of the laser was seeing, and the cross-hairs were meant to guide her aim. Her thumbs hovered steadily over the triggers and she waited for her target. It was almost like holding a blaster, but the laser cannon proved more difficult to manoeuvre.

The slowly rising whine of a TIE approaching placed Reza on her guard. Her eyes flickered back and forth between the viewport and the tiny monitor, not certain which to focus on. A red blip on the screen indicated that her target was approaching; Reza pulled her bottom lip between her teeth and concentrated. Her body felt as stiff as a durasteel pipe and beads of sweat were already forming on her brow from her state of hyper-readiness. The shriek of the TIE became deafening as it swept past her field of vision in a blur.

Reza swung the laser cannon around to follow it and was surprised at how rapidly it was already flying out of range. The crosshairs on the monitor followed the fighter, which seemed to be always out of reach. Cursing under her breath, Reza flicked her eyes up towards the viewport and used plain sight to aim. Seizing the moment, before she lost the fighter, she held the weapon steady and depressed the triggers.

The laser cannon recoiled as it launched a volley of orange energy pulses at the fleeing vessel. Reza managed to clip one wing of the fighter, throwing it into a dizzying barrel roll. Before the pilot could manage to recover control of the fighter, Reza growled a vulgar expletive at the Imp vessel and fired one last, decisive shot that speared the ship and ripped its hull apart. Reza emitted a whooping cry as she squinted at the blazing wreckage and watched its shards of debris hurtle off into oblivion.

"How's that, my dear!" she hollered to Rilanna.

From above, the quad-laser Rilanna's was controlling continued to belch paired blasts at the TIE fighters that happened to pass through her zone. She glanced down the well and gave Reza a thumbs up. "Beautiful shot, my dear," she called back. "If you want extra incentive for killshots: for every one you hit, you get a special surprise from me!"

"You mean, there's more than what you showed me in the corridor?" Reza grinned mischievously at Rilanna. "I believe you have yourself a deal."

"Much more," Ril called back. With a grin, she turned her attention back to the fighters rushing at them from behind. She really didn't think she needed the added incentive to get time with Reza, but it was a way to keep their spirits high in the midst of the chaos they'd found themselves in.

***

Major Adam Edwards strode quickly onto the bridge of the Lusankya. Tallen was nowhere to be seen. A young Lieutenant Commander sat in the Command Chair.

"What's happening?" Adam asked as he arrived.

"One of our battle cruisers, Captain Bail Rellstar's Revenant, in the nebular region is under attack by an Imperial patrol, Major," the officer told Adam.

"Where is Admiral Tallen?" Adam asked.

"He's on the cruiser," the Commander said.

"Is my ship still in the docking bay?" Adam asked him.

"Yes," was the reply.

"Tell Admiral Tallen I'm going out there. I doubt he'll object," Adam said.

"Yes, sir."

Down in the landing bay Adam ascended the Elusive's ramp. DB waited at the top.

"DB get to the cockpit. We're heading to the nebula. We've run into an Imp patrol. Get us moving," Adam ordered.

"Yes, sir," came DB's reply.

DB piloted the ship toward the battle. In no time, the sight of dogfighting ships filled the viewport. Adam gripped the handles of the top laser turret. The first TIE fighters came roaring in. Expertly, Adam targeted the middle of the formation and fired. Two TIE fighters were instantly destroyed.

DB took the Elusive into a sharp turn. Adam blew away a TIE attempting to fire. The New Republic fighters were gradually gaining ground against the Imperials.

---

"Allied Forces, Part 5"
By: Shrezade Anoran
Lerrah Breijal [NPC+]
Adam Edwards
Captain Dresh Kano [NPC+]
Rilanna Kir
Rear Admiral Jason Tallen

Location: On board New Republic Super Star Destroyer the Lusankya
Date: Eos 24, 4ABY

***

"Spectres, form up on me," Captain Dresh Kano -- back in his Commander Weddel persona -- called over the comm. Behind him Three and Six pulled in close. The Star Destroyer was still at a distance, but its fighters were everywhere. He juked away from an incoming barrage of energy lances from the TIE fighters, responding in kind with the cannons mounted on the S-Foils of his X-Wing. "Go man-to-man, stay with your wingmates."

The channel was alive with confirmations as he swung his ship up on its side and came in behind a pair of TIEs. "I've got this one, Two; stay on my back."

"Copy, Leader," came Spectre Two's response.

The aiming reticle flashed once it centered on the ion drive propelling the smaller fighter. He fired off a couple of paired bursts, reducing the Imperial ship to slag. Two gave a victory cheer, but Dresh kept silent as he angled in for the second fighter. The fighter, aware that he was being targeted was making it difficult. Two shots went wide, but the next clipped one of the wing-panels. The stabilizers failed and the TIE lurched erratically. As it spun away, another paired blast turned it into a ball of flame and shrapnel.

"Gamma's going for the Destroyer," Six announced. "Ten and Twelve are dogging a trio out toward the bow. Looks like Five needs help, Leader."

"Go ahead, Six," Dresh said. "And, watch yourself, Wedge."

Six chuckled over the comm. It was an embarrassed sort of laugh and it brought a brief smile to Dresh's face. Spectre Six, also known as Tipo Adena, had earned the nickname Wedge, an honourific that compared her flying with Wedge Antilles. She was far too modest and humble to accept that her piloting skills were as superior as everyone claimed them to be.

As Three and Six pulled away, Dresh and Spectre Two worked their way back in defense of the cruiser. With the Lusankya in place, he had no doubts that they would win this fight, especially against a single Star Destroyer and its fighters. He'd seen too many fights go from easy victory to bitter defeat, and wasn't about to start mopping up yet.

Two slagged another TIE, receiving a cheer of approval from Twelve. Two and Twelve had some sort of competition going, and Twelve was still in the lead. Two was making a good show however.

The image of Shrezade Anoran threatened to intrude on his thoughts as he and Two came in for another pass at a group of fighters that was now looking for a way out. They won't find one here, Dresh thought to himself as they angled in. He smiled as he found himself looking forward to seeing Shrezade again on the cruiser.

Keep it here and now, flyboy, he told himself. No use getting ahead of yourself...either out here or in there. So, with that, he concentrated all his attention on eliminating the Empire's forces. The rest could wait for later.

***

The TIEs swarmed around the Elusive. Adam swerved in the chair, his hands on the triggers. More TIE fighters erupted in flame. Adam was glad that he installed military weapons and shields on the Elusive.

"DB put me on to Gamma Squad's frequency," he told the droid over the comm.

DB pressed a button.

"You are on, sir," he told Adam.

"Gamma Squad, this is Major Adam Edwards. Concentrate your fire on the dreadnaught. Her shields are failing," Adam ordered.

The fighters moved to attack. DB piloted the ship toward the dreadnaught. A barrage of proton torpedoes impaled the ship.

DB pressed a button and several concussion missiles shot out from the Elusive. The missiles struck the hull. Adam watched as a B-Wing squadron flew in for the kill. Streaks of light hit the dreadnaught's hull and the ship exploded into colourful confetti.

Adam took down another TIE fighter and a cheer went up over the comm.

***

Jason literally jumped into his command chair on the bridge once he arrived. "What are we looking at?" he asked. The forward viewscreen, which hung from the ceiling on a giant mechanical arm, could show them anything around them, even things directly behind them. It was a nice addition, since the forward viewports only offered a very limited forward view. The view screen was alive with small explosions and lasers flying in all directions.

"It's a good sized Imperial patrol, sir. One Imperator Star Destroyer, a pair of dreadnaughts, and a Nebulon-B frigate. We've called on the fleet to send ships to help..."

"Order them back," Jason ordered.

"What?" the officer said, confused.

"Order them back!" Jason barked. "Tell the Lusankya to get her fat ass out here."

"Aye, sir," the communications officer said, smiling evilly.

***

"It's looking good, sir," the Imperial officer reported to his captain. "They only have a few squadrons launched, and we outnumber them..."

"Sir," an officer called. By the tone of his voice, the captain knew it was bad news. "Detecting a large sensor shadow. It's jumping in."

"Give me visuals," the captain said, getting out of his chair. He strode over and looked over the officer's shoulder at the computer display. "Not that thing again..."

***

The cruiser quickly docked with one of the emergency docking ports near the bridge of the Lusankya and Jason arrived there quickly.

As he walked onto the bridge, an officer spoke up. "Admiral, the Cruiser is away."

"Good," Jason said. "Order it to the other side of the patrol and hammer on their engines. We don't want them escaping."

"It looks like Weddel's squadron has already done most of that for us, sir," the officer replied, sitting back down at his station.

"Good," Jason said sitting down. "Take us in. All weapons, fire at will. Raise shields. Prepare a volley of concussion missiles."

"Aye, sir."

The Super-class Star Destroyer moved quickly for its size. Tallen ordered a course set to split the Star Destroyer apart from the dreadnaught and Nebulon-B frigate. As the Lusankya moved on almost a collision course, the Imperials split apart, the Star Destroyer on the Lusankya's port side and the other two vessels on the starboard side.

The Lusankya's vastly superior number of guns tore into the enemy vessels, and the dreadnaught's shields fell first. Turbolasers burned into its hull. The armor on its starboard side became so hot, a good portion of it melted off. Armored plates were ripped apart, some pieces spiraling into space. Soon it was nothing but several hollowed out pieces, tumbling through space.

The Nebulon-B fell shortly after the dreadnaught. It tried to turn and get away, but several proton torpedoes from a few of the Spectres' impacted into its drive section, blowing out all of its engines and hyperdrive. It began to tumble and the fighters had their way with it, no help needed from the Lusankya's guns.

The star destroyer took several more minutes to damage. Its shields held fast, and it pounded right back at the Lusankya. But Tallen wanted it taken out before a chance shot made it through the Lusankya's shields, or more of the Spectres were lost than needed be. The Lusankya's forward thrusters fired, and it slowly backed away from the ImpStar. Then it turned, pointing its nose at the enemy ship, so that the forward guns, and forward port and forward starboard guns could all fire on it.

The Star Destroyer's shields turned from blue to green, then to yellow, and then to orange.

"What's the shield status?" Tallen requested.

"Somewhere around four percent strength, sir," an officer reported.

"Target the Star Destroyer with concussion missiles. Fire a volley on my mark."

"Aye sir," came the reply.

"Mark."

And with one word, all one hundred of the Lusankya's forward missile launchers unleashed their payload on the Star Destroyer.

***

As the last fighter spiralled into the imploding star destroyer, pulverized by the impact, Reza and Rilanna joined in a rousing cheer. Each flew from their gunnery wells, Reza waiting at the bottom of the ladder for Rilanna. She made no use of the rungs and simply slid down, and once she'd touched the ground, Reza pinned her against the ladder and kissed her lips roughly. "We won," she told her breathlessly.

"We did," Rilanna whispered once she could speak. "We did really well out here. I think you, me, and Lerrah make for a great team in this ship. So, how many did you get down there?"

Reza laughed. "Lost count." Her smile took on a sultry quality as she trailed a finger along the valley of Rilanna's breasts and added, "But, I think I got enough to make for a quite pleasurable evening."

A shiver ran through Ril's body as she smiled seductively at Reza. "That sounds very nice. It's a good thing that Lerrah's ship is sound proofed. Though, I imagine I'll have to find time to make it up to her. Maybe tomorrow..."

"So, from my bed to hers, is it?" Reza nodded slowly and refrained from saying what was truly on her mind. She wasn't yet certain how to deal with a possible lover sharing herself with another, so she thought it better to broach the subject when she was more confident of her feelings. "Come," she said, taking a step away from Rilanna. "Let's go and see if we can get some news on how well our New Republic allies fared."

Rilanna reached out and pulled Reza back to her. "Before that," she said. "I love you, Shrezade Anoran. I don't know when it happened, but somewhere along the way it did. And, if you want me in your life, I will be there. I care for Lerrah very much, and she's an amazing girl. But, I love you. If you don't want me to be with her, I won't be. But, please tell me. I don't want to hurt you, and if that will do it...then I won't."

Normally in firm control of her composure, Reza felt now utterly confused by Rilanna's confession. She wasn't certain whether she wished to laugh, cry, or face the proclamation with the same indifference she displayed in every other situation that required her to confront her own emotions. "Dear Ril," she muttered, pressing her forehead to her friend's. "It was almost so simple before. Now..." She sighed and kissed Rilanna lightly before again pulling away. "Be with whomever you so choose, Ril. I won't stop you. Remember...your happiness is paramount. Lerrah makes you happy, so you shall be with her. Understood?"

"And, can I choose to be with both of you?" Rilanna asked. "She's accepted that I love you and want to be with you too. Can I do that without hurting you?"

"You couldn't possibly hurt me, Rilanna," Reza replied. "That simply doesn't happen to me."

"Yes it does," Rilanna answered softly. "You just hide it all inside. Please don't do that to me, Reze. Please don't hide your feelings from me. At least not what you're feeling about us."

"Rilanna," she warned gently. "It's too soon. Don't force me to sort through my feelings right now. There's too much to concentrate on right now: the war, getting my station back, staying alive..." She sighed and lowered her eyes, unable to bear the dejection clear in Rilanna's expression. "You want to hear that I love you too, but I can't give you that yet. You must understand that."

"I don't need that," Rilanna answered. "But what I do need is that you're not upset about me and Lerrah, that what I share with her won't affect you and I."

Reza regarded Rilanna with a direct, unwavering gaze and replied, "It changes nothing. You're free, as you've always been, to share yourself with Lerrah. Does that suffice?"

"It will," Rilanna answered. "Let's go see how we fared in that fight. I'm certain that Dresh would like to update you personally."

Reza shrugged. "Perhaps. Either way, it makes no difference to me." With that said, rather convincingly, Reza started down the corridor, headed for the cockpit.

With a sigh, Rilanna followed after her.

They reached the cockpit where Lerrah was doing a flyby of one of the Rebel cruisers. "Just checking out the damage," she said. "We managed to push them back really well. They say we're going to have to move the fleet because they're not sure if the Imps got a message off before they were destroyed. I'm cleared for docking on Lusankya. Looks like they're packed in, but we'll fit."

"I thought we were making a jump soon anyway?" Reza asked, standing behind Lerrah and watching the fighters doing a final sweep. "Why not just leave now?"

"Gathering the fleet and finalizing coordinates. They also want to make sure the Imperial fleet can't follow us if they still have ships in the area. We'll most likely do a double jump. Jump to one place, and then jump to the final destination."

"Sounds reasonable," Reza said, though she was unfamiliar with military strategies. "I think an even better deterrent, however, would be to avoid making ourselves known to the Imps. Do we know how they found us yet?"

"They're still looking into that," Lerrah said. "One of Dresh's pilots was suggesting a possible spy within this group, feeding information back to the Empire."

"Great," Reza muttered. "And it just had to happen the moment we arrive on board. We'll be the prime suspects, of course."

"Someone suggested that, but Dresh quieted them down real quick. It was actually very impressive. I'd really hate to be that guy."

Reza shot Rilanna a silencing glare, interpreting immediately the thoughts that were forming in her mind, which she judged correctly from the knowing smile on her lips. "I think it's safe to dock now, Ms. Breijal," Reza said to the girl. "There's nothing more to see here."

"We've got our clearance," Lerrah answered, and glanced back at Ril and Reza. "Taking us in. When we land, I'll get my things out of the cabin for you two, if you want."

Reza gave Rilanna a questioning gaze. She was the one being shared, which meant the decision would be left to her each time the topic came up. Reza didn't envy Rilanna the task.

"You don't mind, do you?" Rilanna asked somewhat hesitantly.

Lerrah laughed. "For the two of you? Of course not. Unless the two of you wanted to invite me in, then I'll just sleep out in the main cabin. I'll be fine. If it's still alright, we can spend some time later, Rila."

Rilanna smiled. "Thank you," she said softly.

From my bed to hers, Reza repeated to herself, finding something inherently bothersome in the thought. She'd been certain in the corridor that she wished to pursue this aspect of her relationship with Rilanna, but now the idea wasn't looking so tempting.

Rilanna glanced again from Reza to Lerrah, an unsettled feeling coming over her. "We'll talk about it. For now, go ahead and put us down in their hangar bay. I'm sure there will be meetings and discussions now after what just happened."

Reza snorted. "Finally. We come here for a meeting, and end up thrown into battle. Though, it was good practice..."

Rilanna put her hand up on Reza's shoulder and nodded. "If you didn't have a station to run, I'd say you could have a career as a gunner."

"I'd prefer to be poring through reports and inventories," Reza replied with an almost wistful smile. "But I'll take a compliment from you any day, Rilanna. Thank you."

"Maybe we can find someone that you can trust to help with daily operation of the shipyards. Then the three of us can take off from time to time to just let loose and unwind. If that sounds like something you'd be interested in of course."

"I only trust you, Rilanna," Reza said. "Besides, whatever would we do?"

"Well, I don't know yet, but I'm sure we could always find something," she said. "Well, that's a ways off yet, so we don't have to start planning right now. One step at a time."

Reza smiled significantly at Rilanna, considering all they had gone through that day, and how much more was to come, and replied, "Precisely."

Rilanna smiled warmly at Reza, and she felt a flood of emotion wash through her. Her smile brightened and her face seemed to light up. She reached out and slipped her hand into Reza's. "Take us home, Lere," she said. "C'mon, Reze, let's go get ready to get out of here for that meeting. I'm sure the admiral will want to speak to us now."

"Like he'll have a choice," Reza retorted with an air of complete arrogance.

Rilanna laughed, and pulled Reza to her. She gave her friend and (hopefully) soon-to-be lover a kiss that promised more. "I love it when you get all tough and defiant."

"When am I not?" Reza asked with a sly grin. She winked at Rilanna and slipped out of her hold to continue on towards the exit hatch.

She hoped Admiral Tallen was as stubborn as Dresh had warned her he'd be; she knew she would have to prove herself to him, and calling upon her tenacity and determination to convince him would allow her to do so. She would make them certain of her ability to lead the raid into her station, and assure them that she would come out victorious.

---

"Critical Care"
By: Syan Daywalker - Bounty Hunter
Also starring Karia [NPC+]
& Dr. Phutak

Location: Starport, Yelldon District, New Plouton
Date: Eos 24, 4ABY

***

Day began in pain as morning was barely taking hold.

A slow but insistent awareness of that pain dragged Karia back to consciousness. Weak and tired, she wasn't able to make out much. All the world looked featureless and gray. Her mouth tasted like chalk and she felt cold all over - cold enough to shiver had her body had the energy. Her skin felt lukewarm and clammy. Everything felt like her nerves were conducting at half speed. Everything but her right shoulder blade. The nerves there were conducting just fine.

The pain of her wound felt like it was still moving, digging itself deeper into the flesh and bone, burning new pathways and gripping the rent flesh in a tight, crushing vice.

An experimental shift to find comfort caused her shoulder to protest. "Ngghhh," Karia groaned through gritted teeth.

"Lie still please, Mistress."

Tiredly, Karia opened her eyes and realized she could see better now. She could make out the pelvis and waist of the silver protocol droid, AC-18. The silver seemed too bright and was surrounded by a halo of light, but at least it was progress. Next on her agenda was information.

"Eig...ck." Karia's mouth was so dry she could barely form the consonants. "Water."

"Of course," Eighteen replied in her prim robotic voice, one softened with the emotive subroutines leftover from her original programming. She poured water into a glass from a chilled pitcher. "I will hold it for you."

The droid bent at the waist and lowered the glass to Karia's lips. The Ferrerrio drank hungrily, lapping and slurping at the water as it passed by her lips. Inevitably some spilled on to the white satin bed sheets, darkening them. She hadn't realized quite how thirsty she was until she'd started to drink. She didn't stop until the glass was nearly done.

"Enough," Karia coughed, and groaned as the spasm of her chest ignited a fresh spark of pain.

The droid took away the glass and placed it next to the pitcher, then unfolded a towel and started to dab at the water spot in the sheets. "Oh dear, oh dear."

Karia watched with light-headed disinterest as the droid tried to dry up as much water as possible. She found it hard to concentrate on anything, but she knew she had to. "How long have I been out," she croaked, "Eighteen?"

"You have been in varying degrees of consciousness for nearly sixteen standard hours, Mistress Karia."

Sixteen hours? Where did all the time go?

"Where is he?" Karia asked.

The droid tilted her head slightly. "To whom are you referring, Mistress?"

Karia sighed softly in impatient frustration. "Who do you think? Syan. Where is he?" Though everything still had a fuzzy halo around it, her experiments at looking around hadn't turned up the bounty hunter.

"Master Syan is out gathering medical supplies, Mistress. He tried to treat your wounds with the supplies aboard Aesir but they proved insufficient. Almost nothing worked with your physiology." The droid folded the towel and put it away, picking up a cooling pad. She wiped the moist surface across Karia's brow gingerly. "He has left you in my care, but I fear that my own medical data is not equal to the task. Much of it was lost when I was reprogrammed. I apologize for failing you, Mistress." The droid's voice ended with what sounded like genuine remorse for not being able to help.

"S'okay, 'teen. s'okay," Karia whispered to reassure her. She wished she had the same reassurance. But with every ticking second, it seemed less likely that she would see the next.

Seemingly sensing her foreboding, Eighteen dabbed the cooling pad at Karia's cheek to fight the fever. "I do hope that you do not cease to function, Mistress Karia."

"Me too."

A silence settled in between the female Ferrerrio and the female droid. One trying to survive. One trying to help.

Beeping insistently, one of the ship's compliment of droids wheeled into the room. R5-E6, or Reese as he was often called, was turning his flowerpot head and focusing his various lenses on the two others in the room.

Eighteen listened. "Oh we are saved, Mistress. Master Syan is on his way aboard as we speak."

Fighting to gather what strength she could, Karia twisted her body and gritted against the pain as she fixed her gaze on the doorway.

After a minute, the door slid open and Syan's dark form filled it, striding in. One arm was stretched out behind him, dragging something. Something that was complaining.

***

"This is kidnapping!" the small creature protested as it was dragged bodily across the floor of the J-Type Nubian and into Syan Daywalker's bedroom. "I'll have you sent to Kessel for this! You cannot kidnap a doctor!"

Syan ignored the Ruurian's protests. He'd been ignoring them for over an hour since he'd absconded with the xenophysician from a hospital in Yesdol. It didn't stop him from continuing to do so, or from berating the medical assist droid that had followed dutifully behind him the whole time.

Phutak, the Ruurian physician, was small, barely passing Syan's waist when standing on his lowermost appendages. The insectile creature had a pair of legs, or arms, or whatever was needed at the time on each furry segment of its body. His head was topped with feather-like antennae that probably told him a lot more about the world than any other sensory organs. His eyes were dark and multifaceted, making staring him in the eye an unnerving proposition.

Syan stopped a short distance into the room, still holding on to the thin wrist line that was tied to Phutak. Karia was up. He took off his visors to look at her. She seemed relieved.

"Master Syan, Master Syan, how glad I am that you are back. I was beginning to fear that you would not return in time."

In an attempt to assure Karia as much as Eighteen, Syan said, "I'm here now."

He tugged on Phutak's leash until the little alien was beside him, probably trying to glare, but he really couldn't tell.

"Where have you brought me? I demand to be released immediately!"

The bounty hunter complied, hitting the cable release and triggered the motor to recoil the monofilament cable.

As soon as he was set free, the Ruurian fell on to all eight legs and skittered toward the door, flowing like a silent wave over the ground.

Syan took a large step back, his heavy boot landing inches ahead of Phutak with a deadly stomp. Phutak cheebled and reared back on to his lower four appendages. He looked up at Syan warily, antennae waving.

The hunter pointed a finger straight between Phutak's eyes. "I've squashed bigger bugs than you. Don't try that again."

Sniffing, Phutak reared up to full height (which wasn't much). "I will not be bullied. And you have not answered my question. Why have I been kidnapped? I don't owe anyone money, do I?"

Syan gripped the creature's head and lifted his light body, turning him around. "You have a patient."

The Ruurian noticed Karia for the first time. "Why didn't you tell me there was an injured lady here? What's happened to her?"

Satisfied Phutak wouldn't run away from his duty, Syan moved closer to the woman on the bed. "She's been shot by an Imperial Class-3 Pulse Cannon. Severe damage to the soft tissue, including first, second and third degree burns surrounding the impact point. Tearing and burning of the trapezius, but I didn't see any damage to the right scapula."

Phutak's mandibled mouth opened once, hung open for a second before closing again. "I'll do the diagnosing here, Doctor Bounty Hunter."

His movements smooth and smooth like a caterpillar, Phutak flowed across the floor and climbed up onto the bed, the four opposable fingers on each of eight feet having no trouble gripping the satin sheets. He carried on his waist small tool belts, half hidden under his fur. Without breaking stride, one leg reached under to retrieve something before he stopped next to Karia.

"Most unusual physiology. And your vital signs do not look encouraging, Miss," Phutak said. He twisted at one of seven waists and signaled with an appendage. "Come robot. I need your diagnostic screen."

The FX-7 medical droid hovered forward and opened a plastron to reveal a small but information-filled display screen. Phutak read something in a language Syan couldn't understand.

He cheeped in surprise and lifted the edge of the sheet as he looked down at Karia. "Did you know you're a Ferrerrio? What am I saying, of course you know. Very unusual. I never thought I would ever meet one of your species, let alone treat one. My colleagues will be so jealous."

Karia, who seemed to be in and out of it, caught that and tensed. "No!"

"You do not wish to be treated?" Phutak asked.

Syan drew back his coat and rested his hands on his belt. "You can't tell anyone that you've treated her. She's a Ferrerrio. She'll be hunted down and sold into slavery again, or killed."

Humming something in his own language, Phutak made up his mind. "I do see your point. No sense in me patching her up just to have her get killed. I will keep your confidence. Please lie still now while I examine this wound for myself."

The Ruurian xenophysician did a much more thorough job of examination than the bounty hunter had, but came to much the same conclusion. But added that the painkillers Syan had given her weren't working and would only impede further care. "I'll have to give you a chemical flush, Miss. It will make you feel light headed and perhaps nauseous. That is quite normal. Robot, three cc's of pixithiline per milliliter push until I tell you otherwise."

The medical droid was holding the I.V. of nutrient solution and exposed yet another arm, this one with a fresh syringe of a pale blue chemical that it injected carefully into the IV.

Syan watched as the chemical mixed with the nutrients and flowed into the tube that was plugged into Karia's arm.

While her system was being flushed, Phutak crawled over to the side of Karia to get a better angle on the wound. The bandage was gone now, revealing just how bad the injury was. The speederbike's bolt had eaten away at her flesh as it burned into her. Parts were cauterized; others bled her silver blood freely. In an odd way, with the gold skin and silver blood, the wound was almost beautiful if one didn't take into account that it was killing the woman underneath.

Under the bounty hunter's scrutiny and Eighteen's ceaseless pacing, Phutak continued to work on Karia. With eight hands, he was amazingly dexterous. One hand held the portable scanner, another an examination tool, another a small squeeze bottle of sterile water to flush particles out of the wound, and another dug a new device from somewhere in the Ruurian's fuzzy coat.

The device clicked on and started to hum, bathing the wound in amber light. Syan recognized it as a static field sweeper. He had one in his medical kit too, but it was much larger and didn't work nearly as well. The device lifted foreign particles from the wound, separating them from the blood and flesh with a few sweeps of Phutak's appendage.

Looked down as he felt something brush his gloved hand. Karia was awake, but in pain. She looked up at him with silver-gray eyes. He saw bravery in them. Her jaw was clenched and she was grinding her teeth against the pain, but she didn't call out.

The hunter removed his leather glove and took her hand, remembering what it was like when he did the same to comfort his little sister years ago. Karia squeezed back, sometimes feebly, sometimes fiercely against the pain.

Phutak worked for over an hour on that wound alone, often stopping to consult the FX-7's medical database for information on Ferrerrio. Once he'd gotten her system flushed of human medication, he'd given her more nutrients as well as painkillers and immunoboosters. Karia's clenching hand had been at its strongest while the micro-sutures were sewing muscles back together so she wouldn't lose the use of her right arm.

The last thing the Ruurian did was fill the wound with bacta slush gel and plaster the wound with an auto-seal bacta patch to finish it off. He inspected his work, before crawling back from her on four legs; his upper four arms tapped his carapace twice in success. "I pronounce you, healed. Or at least out of danger."

Karia, looking much better now, was able to turn on to her left side. She offered her hand to Phutak in a human gesture. "Thank you, Doctor."

The Ruurian gripped her hand in four of his small appendages and shook it. "The pleasure was all mine, Ferrerrio."

In further display of dexterity as well as a multitasking mind, the Ruurian put away his medical equipment while focusing on Karia. "That wound is still going to take some time to heal. Don't remove the patch for at least three days. The database doesn't have much information on how fast your species heals so I can't give a more exact schedule. But that much at least. And the area will be sore for some time after that. I am leaving prescriptions for pain medication as well. You will need those." He tapped commands into a portable readerpad he'd produced and took out a small data chip, which he handed to Eighteen. With nothing to do but fret and pace before, the droid was quite happy to keep a handle on the data chip.

"Oh, and you can lie back now more comfortably. I know you humanoids require comfort in that fashion. The analgesics I've given you will last four at least twelve hours. You won't feel the wound."

"Are you done?" Syan asked, having retrieved his hand after helping Karia to turn over and lie on her back against the pillows.

Phutak nodded and put away the reader pad. "Yes. She does not require any further help from me. Do you?"

"I wasn't injured."

Syan let his hands dangle near his weapons. "I'm going to take you back now. You better not tell anyone about this. You won't be able to hide from me."

Fully composed, the Ruurian walked over to Syan on the bed so he almost reached the bounty hunter's chin. "You do not have to threaten me. I gave you my word as a physician to keep your confidence. That should be sufficient."

Syan sneered, revealing the tips of his fangs. "It isn't. Don't forget what I said."

Muttering something in his own language, Phutak crawled off the bed and over to his waiting medical droid.

Syan turned back to Karia. "Are you okay?"

Karia nodded, obviously exhausted. "Just sleepy."

"A soporific side effect of the medication, my dear," Phutak informed them, unnecessarily.

Syan glanced at the Ruurian to shut him up, and then looked back at Karia. "I'm going to take him back. Eighteen will look after you till I return."

The woman nodded again before closing her eyes.

Eighteen, her ears even more sensitive than Syan's, turned to her master. "I believe she is sleeping now."

"Keep a receptor on her," Syan said, and turned away, nudging Phutak with the side of his boot toward the door. "Let's go."

From his bedroom in the bow of the ship, they had to head aft through the ship, passing through each space until they reached the gantry that was still lowered. The ship's R2 droid was standing guard and rolled out of the way as they approached.

Syan walked the doctor and medical droid down the ramp and toward the speeder he'd stolen to bring them.

"Get in the back," Syan told the droid, waving it into the speeder's small but ample cargo bed. He stooped and picked up Phutak, dumping him in the passenger seat before walking around the front of the vehicle and getting in.

Phutak gripped the edges of the seat with four hands in preparation for a trip back as hectic as the trip to the ship had been.

Syan was in, but didn't drive off immediately. His hand stopped at the ignition switch and he looked at Phutak.

"Is she going to be all right?"

Phutak nodded, which in his body was more serpentine. "Do not be concerned. She will be just fine."

The bounty hunter stared at the doctor for a long time. "You'd better hope you're right."

---

"Mixed Blessings, Part 1"
By: Ferrig Mullerin
Kael Selrid
Raeila Selrid
Talara Sorenne

Location: Jedi Temple
Date: Eos 24, 4ABY

***

They had left the spaceport and Zion behind. Upon exiting the ship, both Kael and Raeila had been very surprised to see the damage to one section of the spaceport. As they moved away and found a speederbike to rent, Kael found himself concerned for what might have happened while he was away. He sent out feelers through the Force, quickly checking on those closest. He found them, though he was uncertain how to interpret his findings. Nieme and Dani were in New Plouton and happier than he'd ever felt them. Laedra Vorrel was fighting against despondency. A slightly deeper probe through the Force told him that the source of her emotional state was Liam Zaneth. He stretched out even farther, searching for the unique signature that was Liam's. He felt a stab of fear that was quickly quelled when he found absolutely nothing.

He hadn't been too close to Liam, but he should have been able to sense something.

He'd paid the speeder merchant for the rental, and he and Rae had climbed on. With her holding around his waist and clinging tightly to him, he felt a great comfort as they sped through the city, off toward the exit that would lead them into the forest and eventually to the Jedi Temple.

Kael pressed the speeder even faster, much to Raeila's delight, stretching out with the Force to keep them from crashing. The trip from city to Temple was faster than he'd ever made it. Perhaps he had a career as a swoop racer if his life as a Jedi failed.

Instantly after that thought, he felt a calmness that told him that he was where he needed to be. He was a Jedi, and that was the life that he and Raeila would make together. He throttled back as they neared the opening that housed the Temple. With one hand, he covered Rae's and gave a gentle squeeze.

The speederbike came to a stop beside the speeder that Koran Darr usually piloted. He shut down the repulsor drive, and deactivated the power plant. He turned back to Rae and smiled. "We're home, my love," he said softly. "Come on, let's get inside and--" A sensation from within the Temple pulsed at him. Familiar on one hand, and yet altogether alien. His eyes widened in surprise as recognition dawned. "We need to get inside quickly," he said, excitement filling his voice. "Come on, Rae!"

"Why?" she asked uncertainly, though she couldn't help feeling as eager as Kael obviously was. As Kael helped her from the bike, she searched his eyes and asked again, "What is it? What's going on?"

"Nothing bad, I assure you," Kael answered. "Come. I don't want to ruin the surprise." He slipped his hand into hers and started toward the Temple.

Raeila laughed softly as they approached, bouncing gaily in Kael's path to slow him down. "I hate surprises. Can't you just say?"

"You'll love this one," Kael said. "We can run if you'd like, but I can't give this surprise away. It's just inside and down the hall to the left."

Raeila pouted at Kael briefly, then gripped his hand tightly and started into a sprint towards the Temple. Kael stumbled at first, receiving a peal of laughter from Raeila, but his Jedi-enhanced reflexes kicked in quickly enough, and soon the two of them were bursting through the large double doors of the entrance. "We're back, everyone!" she hollered into the hallway, hearing only her voice echoing back at her. "Hello! Where is everyone?"

"They'll find us," Kael said. "Down here. C'mon!" With that, he pulled her along toward the infirmary. As they neared, he saw that the door was wide open. He grinned and hurried past Rae, stopping just past the door to force her to stop in the doorway. He quickly glanced into the room, indicating that she should do so.

Raeila frowned quizzically at Kael. "But...why?" Her eyes gazed into the room, then back to Kael again, but that one glance was enough for her eyes to catch a glimpse of something familiar, yet completely out of place at the Temple. She shifted her focus into the room again, afraid to see again what she thought she'd seen, yet know it was wholly impossible. But, as she stared at the blue-speckled gray eyes, almost like her own, whether it was an illusion or not, she didn't care; why he was sitting on the infirmary bed, grinning at her with that same boyish smile that always made her laugh...it didn't matter.

"Oh gods," she whispered, feeling the tears already cascading down her cheeks. "This isn't-- Oh gods..." Emitting a sound partway between a sob and a shriek of pure joy, Raeila flew into the room with arms opened wide. "Ferrig!"

Slower than he would have been normally, Ferrig managed to get his arms up in time to accept Raeila's hug. He emitted a groan of protest that quickly vanished once he was back in his sister's arms. He felt hot tears streaming down his cheeks, making him realize just how much he'd missed her. "Oh Thana," he whispered. "Oh of all the gods, oh my baby sister!"

Raeila wept against his bare shoulder, and tightened her hold on his waist. In her joy, she was too preoccupied to be startled by how thin and frail he felt; all she wanted to do was hold her brother. "What are you doing here, Ferrig?" she sobbed. "Oh gods...I was so afraid. The desert and the siege... I thought I'd never see you again!"

"After you...after you left, we...the desert was invaded. We were fighting back, and me and Yannick were leading the gangs. They sent a bounty hunter after me, and the bitch managed to catch me. So, I was locked up in that big castle in Arcadia. Jedi Vorrel and Jedi Master Darr found me and got me out. And, they've been...helping me heal."

Raeila sighed with relief after hearing of Ferrig's plight and kissed her brother's tear stained cheek desperately. "I'm so glad you're here. But..." She pulled back slightly, wearing a nervous smile. "You missed it," she said softly.

Ferrig searched her face, hoping to find the answer there. All he saw was her joy, a happiness he hadn't seen in so very long. She looked so different, so healthy and sure of herself. "What?"

Raeila's face brightened considerably and her eyes strayed briefly to Kael, standing in silence at the doorway. "He finally did it," she said with contained glee. "He finally made me Raeila Selrid!"

A grin broke over Ferrig's face and he laughed. "He--? You--? That's great! Congratulations!" He laughed again, louder this time. "I can't think of two people who deserve to be together th