Star Wars - Tales from the Outer Rim

"Lost In The Moment"
By: Merrick Braston
and Kaysa Zenarr

Location: All around New Plouton
Date: Saris 25, 3ABY

***

The music was flowing. Merrick Braston let himself go even further as the music continued to build on itself. He was in the middle of an experimental set, a mixture of vocals and sound that defied categorizing. The audience was caught up in it, flowing with the music. When he opened his eyes, he could see them. It was quite amazing to see their faces, smiles. Their eyes alight with the fire he was putting there with his music.

He couldn't ask for a better profession. He couldn't explain the thrill of carrying people off to a new dimension, a new plane of existence. It was like an addiction, and he couldn't turn away from it. He tried a year ago, but found soon enough he couldn't live without. Going back was the most exhilarating thing he'd ever done. To deny himself that which drove him forward, and then to go back to it. It was life-changing.

And, now he was carrying this new batch of people off for a trip to somewhere else. He couldn't promise changed lives, but he could promise an experience to talk about later.

***

Despite the walls separating her from the stage, Merrick's music still managed to weave it's way into Kaysa's ears, permeating her body and possessing her soul. She sat back in Merrick's chair and closed her eyes as she let the music flow through her while his voice intoxicated her mind.

As his voice penetrated the walls, she could feel it resonate in the room, her body sensitive to every vibration it made. Her body grew warm, and a tingling sensation began to rise from between her legs. Her nipples were reacting much in the same way, pressing against her shirt as they stood erect. She had never been so aroused by anything in all her life, not the way Merrick's music was affecting her right now.

As the song neared its end, Kaysa felt the spell beginning to break and she slowly opened her eyes with her chest heaving and her body flush. She took a deep breath and laughed quietly, amused at how a simple song could be so erotic, but it may have been the fact that it was Merrick's song, the man the voice was attached to that was causing the arousal. There was definitely sexual tension between them, tension that made her ache at times, but it was necessary if they were to remain friends and confidants. For now, the music served to fulfill her desire to connect with Merrick on an intimate level. It wouldn't be the same as physically being with Merrick, but at least she could touch him and feel him through his music.

Kaysa rose from Merrick's seat, and began pacing in his dressing room, running her hands along his clothing and his other belongings. Her eyes fell upon the vast array of instruments he had lying around, quite a collection in her mind. Her fingers trailed across each instrument, some looking more odd than others, until she came upon a familiar stringed instrument. She picked it up in her hands, holding it gently and examining it. "Just as I thought," Kaysa said quietly as she finally placed the instrument as one native to her homeworld, Bespin. She laughed quietly to herself as she began strumming the instrument clumsily with her fingers, the sounds emanating from it almost painful to listen to. She continued traversing the room while her fingers still plucked the strings of the instrument and she began humming a tune to accompany the music.

***

With the music at an end, Merrick left the stage and headed for the dressing room. He'd thought about staying out for a drink, but for some reason drinking without Kaysa didn't seem as appealing. The effect she had on him was amazing. Just thinking about her as he wailed through the hall was having an affect on him. He took a deep breath and allowed his body to relax slightly before he opened the door to his dressing room.

As he stepped into the room, Merrick's eyes found Kaysa inside. He felt his heartbeat quicken as he saw her, and gave her a smile. He definitely hadn't expected to find her waiting in here. "Hi there," he said. "I was just thinking about you on the way back here. What are you doing here? Not that it's a problem. I'm glad you're here. It's just a little, uh, surprising. How are you?"

Kaysa gasped quietly and looked up, startled at Merrick's sudden appearance and fumbling the instrument in her hand. Luckily, she caught it before it plummetted to the ground. "Merrick!" Kaysa shouted, glaring at him as she secured her grip on the instrument. "Don't surprise me like that." Kaysa exhaled sharply as she gently laid the instrument down and turned back to Merrick, her expression warm now and a smile gracing her features. "That was a good show tonight. You had me completely mesmerized," Kaysa said, taking a seat in Merrick's chair.

He smiled as he closed the door and approached Kaysa. "Really? You were listening from in here?" He shook his head and laughed. "So, how are you doing? You look good. I see you caught up on your sleep. I can't remember the last time I stayed up all night just talking. It was good though. Sometimes it's really good to talk." He watched her for a moment, and realized his body was responding again. She did it to him, and he had no idea if it could even be stopped; he didn't think he wanted it to. "So, what have you been up to since I last saw you?"

"Oh, this and that," Kaysa replied, looking up at Merrick and clasping her hands behind her head. "I see you still have that nasty habit of rambling," Kaysa said playfully as she watched Merrick step into the room. "Did you want your chair? You must be a little worn out after that set. You were amazing out there, as usual, of course."

"Thank you," Merrick said. "It means a lot to hear that from you. And," -- he looked around for another chair and found one, and quickly brought it over --"they were really nice and gave me an extra chair." He took a seat and watched her for a moment. "I saw you playing with the wintrella when I came in. Do you play?"

Kaysa laughed, blushing faintly as she remembered her earlier performance. "Well, as you could probably tell, I don't play at all, but I have seen one before. My grandfather used to play it. That's where I learned that tune I was humming." Kaysa sighed and rose from her seat, once again circling the room and running her hands over anything within reach. "Are you done for the night?"

Merrick nodded. "Yes I am," he said. "That was my last set, so I'm free for the rest of the night. You wanna get outta here and do something fun? I promise not to start any brawls this time." He gave her a grin as he watched her looking at a Rodian fire drum.

"Promises, promises, Merrick. Just in case, though, I think we'll lay off the bar scene for a while." Kaysa scanned the room and her eyes fell upon an untouched tray of food sitting on a table across from her. She strode up to the table, then picked up one of the utensils and moved the food around in the plate. "You haven't eaten? Get a little stage fright before performing, do ya?" Kaysa teased as she dropped the fork and turned back to face Merrick. "Why don't I take you to dinner? I mean, nothing fancy, but maybe we'll steer clear of anything in the Yallder district. It's cheaper, but you pay for it in the morning when you're reeling in pain on the floor," Kaysa quipped.

Merrick nodded. "Dinner sounds great," he said. "But, I'm buying as a way of saying thanks for patching me up the other night. Do you have somewhere in mind? And, do you need anything else from here before we go?" He watched her and wondered just how many cold showers he'd be taking in the future. He felt his lips turn up in a grin at the thought, and quickly moved to grab his jacket. His stay on Tae'Karada was definitely going to be an interesting one.

"Fine, you're paying," Kaysa replied as she pushed away from the table. "I'm ready to go if you are. We'll just stroll along and go wherever our stomachs take us." Kaysa smiled and moved to Merrick's side. She reached up and gently ran her finger along the cut on his forehead. "It's healing pretty quickly."

Merrick couldn't help savouring her touch against his forehead, even if it was the cut. "Whatever you put in it is a miracle drug," he said. "You wouldn't believe the third degree I got when they saw that thing. It was funny actually."

He led the way out of the club and out onto the main road. They started walking north toward where they knew a large cluster of restaurants would be found. As they walked, Merrick occasionally glanced in Kaysa's direction. It looked like she was deep in thought about something, but he wasn't sure. "I've got another gig in a couple days if you have the time. I'm thinking of performing some new material."

"Hmm?" Kaysa said, Merrick's voice propelling her back to reality. "A gig you said? Well, of course I'd love to see you perform. Just tell me when and where, and I'm there." Kaysa smiled wanly and reverted to her quiet state again. Merrick's close proximity to her served as the only comfort in the cold, dark night.

Merrick made no effort to hide that he was watching her. She was definitely lost in her own world. He smiled and allowed himself to move a little closer to her. He wanted to ask her what she was thinking about, but didn't want to pry. So, as an alternative, he decided to sing as they walked. Nothing too loud, but enough to grab her attention if she drifted up from her thoughts again. He wondered if she'd realize that he wrote it for her.

Kaysa glanced curiously at Merrick, a smile curling her lips. "What is that? Is that one of yours?" Kaysa asked. Her hand brushed against Merrick's leg as the distance between them seemed to disappear. "It's very beautiful."

"Thank you," he said. "It's something new I've been working on. I'm thinking it'll be ready for my next gig. And, I definitely want to put it on my next album." They walked for a few more steps, and without thinking about it, Merrick slid his hand into Kaysa's as the restaurants came into view up ahead. "I was so surprised to see you after the show. That was great to walk into my dressing room and find you there."

Kaysa attempted to discreetly wriggle her hand from Merrick's grasp, even though the warmth of his hand against hers sent her heart racing. She knew it was most likely a harmless action, but she still didn't trust herself to keep a simple holding of hands from leading to a night of passion.

Kaysa suddenly had no idea what to do with her hands, so she awkwardly crossed them over her chest as they continued walking. "Well, I had nothing else really to do tonight, and I know how you like spontaneity so...there I went," Kaysa said with a nervous laugh. Somehow, whenever she was in Merrick's presence, she reverted from a poised, confident women, to a naive, bashful little girl. For some reason, Kaysa didn't mind; she enjoyed being so carefree, even though it made her uneasy knowing it was because of Merrick, the man she was trying desperately not to fall in love with, that was bringing about such a welcome change in her.

Merrick laughed and jammed his hands into the pockets of his jacket. "I'm glad you did," he said. "It's nice to see you again. I like that I don't have to be Mr. Merrick Braston around you. I like being Merrick. So," he added as they neared a bunch of the restaurants. "Any of these grab you?" He knew taking her hand had been a risky move, but he couldn't help himself. He also knew he was asking for trouble, not from Kaysa, but from himself. He knew he should back away more, but something kept drawing him in. But, they needed that distance, that barrier to keep the intimacy at bay.

"Well, that one doesn't look too glitzy," Kaysa said, motioning her head towards a small restaurant with a patio in front. "We're not exactly dressed for someplace formal, but you're paying so it is your choice," Kaysa added, glancing down at the plain skirt and the casual, pink sleeveless top she was wearing. She wasn't accustomed to wearing skirts, but she had an ulterior motive when she decided to wear one tonight. She knew she was going to see Merrick and a part of her wanted to look desirable to him; by the everpresent smile on his face, it appeared to be working. "And you never have to be Merrick Braston with me. I like Merrick much better than that snooty, cocky Braston fellow," Kaysa said playfully.

Merrick looked at the restaurant and nodded. "That one looks good," he said. "And, we can sit on the patio if you don't mind." He looked at her again and smiled. She was a very attractive woman, and the clothing she'd chosen definitely accentuated her figure. There was definitely something more about her. There were a lot of attractive women on Tae'Karada, and most of them wearing more alluring clothing than Kaysa, but there was just something that drew Merrick to her. Perhaps it was their similarities, the things that when he looked at her, he could see in himself as well.

"The patio is just fine," Kaysa replied as they approached the door of the restaurant. "I mean, you certainly get a good view of all those women in skimpy lace outfits passing by. I hear men really go for that sort of thing." Kaysa nudged Merrick playfully with her elbow and laughed.

Merrick laughed. "The problem with those skimpy lace outfits is they leave nothing to the imagination," he said. "There's no mystery left. And, despite our arrangement, you're still the only one around here who's gonna grab my attention." They approached the maitre d' and Merrick requested a table on the patio. The man nodded once, grabbed a pair of menus and led the way out to a table. The table faced out onto the street, and there was a crowd out passing by. Most were Tae'Karadan natives, but there were the occasional off-worlders. Merrick shook his head and turned back to Kaysa. "Do you think you could ever wear something like that? I mean, to so completely expose yourself to everyone all the time. I heard the High Prince actually has a dozen women in native costume just lounging around his throne room." He laughed again. "That's probably where the fashion comes from, royal decree."

Kaysa smiled and nodded her head. "I feel the same way. A woman's body is her one asset, the only thing a man responds to. If she freely gives it away to any man that comes along, she loses her appeal. Then again," Kaysa said with a rueful chuckle, "I'm one to talk. I'm probably worse than all those women put together. I may not walk around in skimpy outfits for every man on Tae'Karada to see, but I've probably slept with almost all of them." Kaysa cleared her throat and looked away, glancing at the passersby. She knew she was a tramp but she also knew it was more than just being addicted to sex.

Her need was a deeper one, one that stemmed from the distant past. She could never retrieve her virginity, nor did she want to. Losing one's virginity didn't necessarily mean a loss of innocence. That only came when you gave your heart over completely to a person, only to have it torn in two. That kind of trauma changed a person, just as it had changed Kaysa, and it was that sort of thing that made her use sex as more of a tool than an act of love and passion.

"So," Kaysa said, trying to clear the air and switch to a less personal topic, "what are you having?"

Merrick nodded and quickly looked down at his menu. "I think I'm going to go with the rescheke filet," he said. "I think I remember hearing this place has regular shipments coming in from Mon Calamar. And, probably some wine. Do you have a wine preference?"

"No, no preference," Kaysa answered as she scanned through her menu, deciding upon a Mon Calamar delicacy. "Merrick," Kaysa said, closing her menu and placing it down in front of her. "I really enjoyed our talk the other night. It was a pleasant change from the usual one night stand I normally go for."

Merrick nodded and then smiled. "It was a different kind of night, and one I wouldn't mind again. You're a very easy person to talk to, you know? It was weird, I'd just start talking and everything would come out. It felt very therapeutic too. I think I needed a night like that; I think I have for some time now. It's nice to have someone to talk to." A part of him wanted to reach out to her, to place his hand over hers, to make some sort of connection. But, when he looked into her eyes, he knew there was already a connection there.

"I know I've never been one to divulge information about myself to a complete stranger, but then again, it's like I've always known you, as if I can't imagine not ever knowing you. Does that make sense?" Kaysa asked, leaning forward and letting all her insecurities drift away as she placed her hand over Merrick's. "I do wish, though, that I could tell you everything about myself, but I'm not quite ready for that yet. There are some things that cut far deeper than others, memories my heart is not ready to let surface yet."

Merrick nodded. "It makes a lot of sense," he said, "because I feel the same way. About all of that. It's strange in a way that things are like this between us. It feels so natural, and unforced. And, you're right, like it's always been. Maybe in time we'll be able to talk to each other about our darkest secrets. I think I'd like to be able to, but I'm not ready yet. But, I know if there's anyone I can tell, it's you."

Kaysa felt her cheeks growing warm and her mouth twitching as a smile tried to force its way onto her face. She had heard compliments before, false sentiments used to get her into bed, but with Merrick it felt genuine and it certainly felt good. "That...I don't quite know what to say. Look at me!" Kaysa said, smiling bashfully as she pulled her hand away from Merrick's and placed her hands over her cheeks. "You've got me blushing like an idiot. Hopefully that waiter comes with our drinks soon so I can blame my rosey cheeks on the wine."

Merrick laughed. "Or the warm night air," he said. "I'm sorry I've embarrassed you. I didn't mean to. I just felt that I needed to say what was on my mind. And, I wanted you to know that I appreciate whatever we have between us. I don't know what it is, but I'm very glad we have it." He watched her for a moment, and then turned away to watch a pair of Rodians talking on the corner. He had a feeling it could have been something illicit, but one never could tell on Tae'Karada. He hadn't figured out all the nuances of the laws of the planet yet, and didn't know if he would any time soon.

Finally the waiter approached with a bottle of wine and quickly set about pouring for them. It was a good wine, and Merrick made note of which one he'd chosen for future reference. Finding a good wine wasn't easy anymore.

Once the waiter had left to check on their food, Merrick raised his glass. He gave Kaysa a grin, and said, "To whatever it is we've got going between us."

Kaysa raised her own glass and tapped it lightly against Merrick's. "To hoping I don't ruin everything by jumping you," Kaysa said with laugh as she put her glass to her lips and drank the wine down in one pass. "You don't mind that we're not...intimate, do you?" Kaysa asked as she put her empty glass down and looked up at Merrick.

Merrick laughed softly and then drained his own glass. "There's a part of me that really wishes we were, that really wants you," he said. "I can feel a shift in my body when I'm near you. But, I'm doing my best holding myself back; you're hard to resist, you know."

"Well, as you could probably tell on the night we met, I was ready and more than willing to jump into bed with you. Now, though," Kaysa said, looking out onto the street again and conveniently watching a man and a woman locked in a tender embrace, "things are complicated. Too complicated." Kaysa turned her gaze back to Merrick, his grey eyes so startling and breathtaking that she heard herself gasp quietly. "How long do you think we can go on like this? As just friends?"

Merrick shook his head slowly. "I don't know," he said, his voice quiet. "It's not an easy situation. Fortunately New Plouton has plenty of cold water for its showers." He gave a gentle laugh and then turned his head so he was looking at her. "I don't know how long we'll be able to just be friends. I know I want you, and my body wants you. But, I've still got enough self-control to keep myself at bay." He sighed and then laughed. "It's almost funny, the situation we've put ourselves in."

"I know. It's like we're deliberately torturing ourselves. I must admit, there isn't a man I've met that I haven't gone to bed with. Well, except of course for my associate, Vrax, although he doesn't count because I'm not in the least attracted to him." And Rennor, she thought to herself, conveniently leaving him out. The last thing she needed was for Merrick to find out about her side projects. Besides, they weren't dating, so who she saw was her business.

Kaysa smiled and watched as the waiter approached and set their plates down in front of them. He gave a slight bow, then headed away again. "I do know, however," Kaysa said as she took up her fork and began picking at her food, "I've stayed up nights thinking about you. It's hard to sleep when you're that aroused."

Merrick grinned and nodded as he picked up his fork. "Believe me, I know what you mean. I've had to sleep on my back since that first night. I think the first night, I took three showers." He tasted his food and nodded approvingly. "Are we crazy?"

"I don't know what we are, but crazy seems too mild a term." Kaysa smiled and glanced over at Merrick's meal, then looked back at hers and grimaced. "Your dish looks much more appetizing than mine. Do you mind if I try some?" Kaysa asked.

Merrick glanced at his plate and up at Kaysa. "Sure," he said. "Not at all." He slid the plate forward so she could try some. "It's very good."

Kaysa dug her fork into the filet, tearing a small portion off and placing it in her mouth. She chewed it slowly and savoured every last bit. "It's much better than mine," Kaysa commented as she pushed the plate back and smiled at Merrick. Kaysa grabbed the bottle of wine and refilled her glass as well as Merrick's, right to the brim. "That song you were singing before," Kaysa began, placing the winebottle back into the bucket and taking her glass up in her hand, "what was it called?"

Merrick felt his breath catch. "I hadn't really thought of a title for it yet," he said. "I was thinking of 'Whispers after Midnight.' " Their long talk had inspired the song, and a lot of it was about what had happened between them that night. "I just started writing it the other day, after our, um, night. I really like how it's going so far." He took a drink of his newly refilled wine glass and watched her. "If you'd like more of mine, you can. I don't mind sharing. Though, I'll probably have to have to have a few bites of yours." He watched her, his eyes smouldering with barely contained desire.

"Are we talking about our meals?" Kaysa asked coyly as her hand once again found his. "And I helped inspire that song? I must be some woman," Kaysa said jokingly as her fingers caressed Merrick's hand. "Maybe tonight, I can inspire another verse, depending on how you want the song to end."

Merrick laughed softly. "I'd like that," he said. "I don't think I could have written this one before I met you, before we talked. And, I can't finish it without you." He looked down to where her hand was caressing his. He turned his hand over and brushed his fingers against the palm of Kaysa's hand. "How about if I slide my chair closer to you, and we can just eat off each other's plates?"

Kaysa nodded her head. Her eyes watched as their fingers brushed against each other in a dance of sorts. She could feel a tingle running from her fingertips and engulfing her arm; she knew the rest of her body would be next, but she only hoped she could keep it from making its way down to that very sensitive spot between her legs, the one she so desperately yearned for Merrick to ravish. "It is getting a bit cold and I would welcome a warm body next to mine," Kaysa said quietly as she shifted her eyes to meet Merrick's.

Merrick shifted his chair and place setting around until he was next to Kaysa. He glanced to the side and gave her a smile. "Feeling a little warmer yet?" He adjusted his plate so Kaysa could easily get to any of the food on it.

"Hmm...a little," Kaysa said, trying to force back a smile. "Maybe a little closer." Kaysa slid her chair as close to Merrick's as was possible. She could feel his leg pressed against hers and her ear was so near to his face, that she could hear every breath he took. Every time he exhaled, she could feel the warm air brush against her cheek, her nose smelling, her mouth tasting the sweet wine still on his breath. Being this close to him was dangerous. She couldn't trust herself to behave, couldn't trust herself to show self restraint and refrain from kissing his neck. She began to wonder what his skin tasted like and she licked her lips as a vivid image of running her tongue along his lips entered her mind.

Her hand slowly dropped off the table and planted itself on Merrick's upper thigh, squeezing it firmly as her eyes remained fixed on his lips, those lush, tender lips from which the most beautiful songs were given life. Kaysa lost control of her resolve as her hand travelled further up his leg and the words she'd been holding back spilled forth from her mouth: "I want to kiss you Merrick. I know I shouldn't, but I can't help myself any longer."

Merrick was unable to speak after Kaysa's words. It was partly the shock of hearing them, and then the slow massage he suddenly found her giving his sudden erection. He'd been doing okay until her hand hit his thigh. Then as it began trailing higher up his leg, the reaction was instant. When Kaysa's hands finally got to his crotch, she was met with his full arousal. He heard himself moan softly against her touch, and quickly nodded. One hand went around her back, the other across her front as he pulled her to him gently. "One kiss won't hurt," he said in a whisper.

"You're right. After all, we can't do anything more than a kiss out in public," Kaysa answered as she brought her other hand to the back of his neck and pulled his head towards her. Her heart raced as the distance between their lips grew shorter and shorter. Her hand in Merrick's lap began to move with less hesitation now, and began to maintain a steady rhythm.

The space between their lips seemed charged with electricity, their lips drawn together like magnets. Her lips began to burn as Merrick's breath fell upon them, causing her to lick them in an attempt to douse the flames. "I don't know why I need you so badly, but I do," she whispered, her mouth trembling in anticipation.

"I know," he whispered back. His body ached with his need, and her touch was taking him places he thought he would never go with her. He needed her, needed her more than he'd ever needed anything or anyone in his life. "I don't know what it is, but I'm feeling it too." He was having trouble breathing.

Merrick closed his eyes and closed the distance between their lips. It was like a jolt of electricity went through them both as their lips met. He quickly pulled her to him and surrendered himself to the kiss. He never thought that a kiss could be so beautiful, so amazing.

Kaysa could no longer hear the clanging of silverware on plates, or the banter of the other patrons out on the patio. Their quickened breaths and her heart pounding in her chest were the only sounds that registered in Kaysa's mind at that moment. She'd never been so enraptured by a kiss before that the world around her ceased to be of any consequence, her senses focused only on the feel of Merrick's lips against hers. It was as if they were both just sitting in a room, one bereft of any light or sounds, completely isolated from the rest of the world.

Kaysa felt suddenly detached from the rest of her body, her hands and feet and every other part of her physical form seeming to meld with Merrick's. Her hands no longer felt the beads of sweat on his neck; her tactile senses were completely numbed and the only stimuli affecting her now was the feel of her tongue sliding against Merrick's. Utterly forgetting where they were, Kaysa absently began to undo Merrick's pants, willing and ready to fulfill their sexual desire right then and there. She wanted him, needed him, and was determined to have him.

Merrick held onto reality by a tiny thread, a nagging awareness of where they were and what was going on around them. He tried to break free of it, to make it go away, but it wouldn't. It was like an annoying insect buzzing around his ear. But, he tried to ignore it, and was doing a marvelous job until he felt a sudden coolness on his prick. He felt Kaysa's warm hand on it, working at him. It felt wonderful. He wanted to be inside her, to become one with her. But the annoyance of where they were came back. "Kaysa," he whispered, "we should go. Oh wow." He kissed her neck and throat, afraid that if they moved, it would be done for good. He needed her so badly, it was an ache that filled his entire body. "Kaysa, we should go to your place. Or mine. The waiter. He'll be back. And, we should continue this. In private." He continued kissing her, completely unable to stop himself. There was a part of him that said to just ignore everything and make love to her there at the table. But, he needed to make sure that was okay with Kaysa before they did.

Kaysa faintly heard Merrick's voice in her ears, her eyes focused on his lips as they moved and formed words she couldn't make out. She didn't care what he was saying, she only wanted him inside of her. She could feel his cock throbbing in her hand, driving her to rub faster and more deliberately. His lips were still moving, but she heard herself whimper as a voice in her head reminded her that they may have been moving, but they were no longer doing so against her own lips. Kaysa leaned forward, pressing her mouth hard against Merrick's as she took his hand and pressed it against her mound, encouraging him to ease the aches growing stronger in her cunt by the second.

Merrick was having trouble pulling himself back. He couldn't pull his lips from hers, and his hand was moving without his control. A warmth radiated from between Kaysa's legs, a warmth that beckoned him. He could feel it on his hand and through his body. His need nearly crashed over the edge, but that buzzing was back. He forced his hand back away from between Kaysa's legs, but he had to struggle to get his lips away. Finally, with a staggering breath, he pulled himself back. He was breathing hard, and his erection felt like a steel pipe. He felt like he was going mad. He quickly fumbled for a credit chip, tossed it on the table for the right amount and then stood, pulling Kaysa upwards with him. "We're going," he said, out of breath. "My place is just a few minutes away."

Kaysa nodded vigourously, swallowing hard as her hands continued to explore between Merrick's legs. She held herself close to his body, the warmth emanating from it the only thing stopping her from trembling. Her voice refused to escape her throat and her mouth hung open as she tried to speak, but the only thing that came out was a quiet whimper. She pressed her face into Merrick's chest, breathing deeply and taking in his scent, a clean, natural scent that only got her more excited. "Please, let's go," Kaysa pleaded, her voice muffled as she spoke into Merrick's chest.

Merrick hurried toward the exit, one arm around Kaysa, holding her close to him, the other working his erection back into his pants. It took some effort, but he finally managed. Their pace was quick, almost running to get to his apartment. They clung to each other as they moved. Merrick was afraid to let go, that letting go might break the spell. And, by the way Kaysa was clinging to him, he thought she must be feeling the same. His apartment came into view and they quickly ascended to the third level. The lock clicked open as Merrick put in his code, and then he pulled Kaysa inside.

"Whispers After Midnight"
By: Merrick Braston
and Kaysa Zenarr

Location: Merrick's Apartment - New Plouton, Tae'Karada
Date: Saris 25, 3ABY

***

Before the door was closed, he had her in his arms again, exploring her mouth with his.

Moans were rising up from Kaysa's throat, only to be lost inside of the hollowness of Merrick's mouth. Kaysa began forcefully opening Merrick's shirt, her hands working frantically to push the buttons through the slits, but to no avail. She pulled away from Merrick's lips with a scowl on her face as she cursed the buttons and simply tore open the shirt. Much like a ravenous predator pounces on its prey, bearing its teeth down into the delicate flesh, Kaysa gave a feral grin and pressed her lips to Merrick's chest, feasting on it and kissing it desperately. "I knew we wouldn't hold out for long, Merrick," Kaysa said in between kisses as her mouth suckled and nibbled on his nipples.

Merrick closed his eyes as her lips worked over his chest. He brought his hands to her hips and slipped them up under her shirt. He trailed fingers over her skin, skin that felt so wonderful to his touch. He lifted her shirt as his hands moved up to her breasts. He felt his desperation growing, his need to touch her more, to savour her body, to make love to her and pleasure her. He quickly shrugged free of his shirt and moved back to her breasts. He leaned down to kiss her neck while she sent shivers through his body, jolts of pleasure from his nipples that radiated outward.

"I didn't think it would all be over this quickly," Kaysa said quietly, placing her hands over Merrick's as he kneaded her breasts. She clenched her eyes shut and for a moment, felt a knot growing in her throat. They were already well beyond foreplay and would have been on the floor making love if only their pesky clothing hadn't been standing in the way. Kaysa knew once they had sex, once their short moment of bliss was over, she wouldn't be there to greet him in the morning. She would be gone, never to see his face, to hear his voice or feel his touch again.

The arousal she'd been feeling was still there, but the need to satisfy her physical desires was slowly dissipating as melancholy swept through her. Her moans of pleasure were soon turning to sobs. Kaysa pushed Merrick's hands away from her breasts and flew into his arms, embracing him and trembling against him as she began to quietly weep. Her need for Merrick was much greater than a simple sexual yearning. The emotional link between them was far too strong, one she couldn't bear to see broken, and even the thought of that happening frightened Kaysa to tears.

What had, a moment before, been complete pleasure turned to utter confusion for Merrick. He put his arms around her and held her tight. "It's okay, Kaysa," he said softly, holding her. "It's okay. Let's go sit down in the other room. I'll get you something to drink."

"No, a drink won't calm me," Kaysa whispered, her voice thick with emotion as she held her arms firmly wrapped around Merrick's bare stomach. "I'm a mess, Merrick, and it's because of you. I don't want it to end like this, I don't want our relationship to end with just a few hours of passion to show for it. I...I want something more."

"We do have something more, Kaysa," he said softly. "There's a connection between us I can't explain. What do you want to do now, Kaysa? Do you want to stay here for awhile? I can hold you and we can just sit together. Or, I can take you back to your place. What will make you feel better? Or, just what do you want to do?" He held her close, and tried to put the heat of their bodies out of his mind. He could feel her breasts against his chest, the heat of her breath against his shoulder. He still wanted her and needed her, but he couldn't force it. They would get through this, and be better for it. They would make it together.

"I don't know, Merrick. I can't think. I don't know what I want to do," Kaysa stammered. Her tears subsided, but her body still quivered against Merrick. "Why am I doing this? Why can't I just get past this stupid fear of mine? My mind is reeling...I feel so lightheaded. I don't know what's wrong with me."

Merrick shifted slightly and scooped Kaysa up into his arms. He looked into her surprised eyes as he carried her into his bedroom and then set her gently on his bed. It was a large, comfortable bed, and had more pillows strewn across it than most beds ever did. He shifted himself around into a position where he could just hold her to him. "Do you want to try talking about it," he asked. "If you feel you can, of course. But, if you want someone to talk to about it, I'm here for you."

Kaysa closed her eyes and rested her ear upon his chest, the rhythmic beating of his heart steadying her own erratic heartbeat. The bed, the pillows all around, the entire scene at any other time would have been perfect for a night of lovemaking, but Kaysa's mind was on other things at the moment. "I want to tell you everything, but I know I can only bring myself to tell you part of the story." Kaysa moved her hand to her cheek, wiping away a tear and laying her hand back down on Merrick's chest as she hugged herself against him for comfort. "I don't fear commitment, Merrick. That's not what this is all about. I mean, I'm not saying I'm the marrying type, but I know that, in the past, I might have been." Kaysa took a deep breath and bit her lip, forcing back tears that seemed to be creeping up on her again.

"Men have a way of gaining your trust, making you think they love you and would never leave you. You let yourself fall for their tender words, their promises. You give yourself fully to them, expecting them to give the same in return, until one day, they leave you, taking with them everything you were and especially that part that made it capable for you to trust another with your heart. You give, they take, leaving a void within you, one that can't be filled by merely one person alone. So, you need another, and yet another, taking each time a bit of them with you, yet still, you remain unfulfilled because you can't open yourself up enough to let them in completely. You continue to walk around with a piece of yourself missing, your soul incomplete, hoping one day, you'll find that one person who has the missing portion to make you whole again. Then he comes along," Kaysa said, opening her eyes and gazing up at Merrick, "but you can't will yourself to trust him, no matter how much the voice inside your head says you can." Kaysa's mouth twisted into a wistful smile as she stared steadily at Merrick. "Men are cruel, Merrick. I wonder, what will you take from me, Merrick, before you leave me to rot?"

Merrick nodded. Pieces of the puzzle seemed to fall into place with her explanation. He looked away, and then back to her. "I don't really know how to answer the question with the answer you deserve," he said. "My first impulse is to tell you that I'd never leave. But, I'm sure you've heard that before, and when you hear the words now, they're hollow and empty. I think that's a sword that cuts both ways though. Women can be equally cruel." He looked away again, took a breath, and then looked back to her. "Breaking hearts isn't the sole province of men. I think it's a human thing, and probably a number of the aliens around the galaxy too. I guess it comes down to trusting, to being able to find someone you trust, and then go from there. There are no guarantees. And, I guess if you get your heart broken again, you hunt the bastard down and kill him." He gave her a smile and a laugh. With a sigh, he looked away and stared off into nothingness. "It's not easy, and it can hurt worse than anything. And, when you've been there, it's hard to go back. But, then when you get back into it with someone...it's hard to not feel pulled in. It comes down to a leap of faith, and sometimes that's really hard to do."

"I guess it still doesn't explain why I just can't sleep with you, huh?" Kaysa said, resting her head back down upon his chest. "I suppose I'm just afraid that if I do, I'll...I'll fall for you," she whispered, the thought so tempting as it entered her mind. "I know I might get afraid if everything starts going right, afraid that it'll all end and I'll become desolate again. It's easier to just stop falling in love and I know if I sleep with you, I might begin to believe what my heart is telling me, setting me up again for a heartbreak." Kaysa sighed and snuggled closer to Merrick, succumbing to the warmth radiating from his body. "So yes, Merrick, women too can be cruel, especially a woman who is afraid to love."

Merrick pulled her even closer. "Not wanting to be hurt again isn't cruel," he said softly. "I think that's natural. But, what happens if it happens without even sleeping together." He closed his eyes and sighed. "It would be nice if life could be less confusing."

"Then things would be a lot less interesting," Kaysa added with a gentle smile. "I'm sorry about tonight," Kaysa said quietly after a moment's pause. "I'm sorry to...tease you like that."

Merrick laughed. "It's okay," he said. "I'll just grab myself a cold shower in a bit. And, as far as teasing went, it was very nice. We almost had quite the mess in that restaurant." His arms were still around Kaysa, and he didn't know if, when it came time, he could let go. He did like having her there, it felt very comfortable and right. They felt good together, however they were together. For the first time in as long as he could remember, Merrick felt like he had an actual friend. It was a good feeling. He fought down the urge to pull her to him and kiss her again. He laughed softly to himself at the variety of feelings going through him. And most of them were definitely confusing. It would be easier to not think and just hold Kaysa to him.

"A shower sounds nice..." Kaysa mused, running her fingers through the fine hair on Merrick's chest. "Although, I think after the close call tonight, separate showers are the way to go."

Merrick took a deep breath and let it out. "I think you're right," he said, starting to bring his hand up to her cheek, but then stopping himself. "We're going to drive ourselves insane. But, I've always thought sanity's overrated. So, what now? If you're hungry, I've got some food, or a drink. Or, we can just stay here and talk."

Kaysa could see Merrick's hesitation, his reluctance to touch her now. It pained her that he no longer felt comfortable with physical expressions of tenderness, even though she yearned for his touch and needed it at that moment. She slid her hand down his chest and across his stomach until she came to his free hand. She laced her fingers through his and sighed as she found comfort in his touch. "It is still early. We can just...hold each other for a while, talk..." Kaysa smiled and looked up at Merrick, an idea springing to mind. "Or, you can finish that song of yours. Will you sing it for me?"

Merrick smiled. "That sounds like a wonderful idea," he said. Merrick pulled Kaysa close and lay back against the head of the bed with her in his arms. Once they were both comfortable, he began singing the song, their song. It was a ballad that he'd managed to put down in a little over an hour the other night. It had truly been inspired by their night together and had been the product of much soul-searching on Merrick's part. When he finished singing it, the only sound left in the room was their breathing. He tightened the embrace, trying to find a way to pull Kaysa even closer to him.

Kaysa had a gentle smile on her face throughout the entire song. Her ear rested on Merrick's chest as every word, every vibration translated itself into a euphoric feeling across her entire body. As Merrick sang the final note, Kaysa tightened her grip on his hand as she feared the soothing feeling the song created within her would drift away when the final note ended. Yet, as Merrick took in a cleansing breath, the song ending, Kaysa loosened her grip. The happiness, the serenity she felt still lingered and she knew it would as long as she remained pressed against Merrick with their bodies touching. "Merrick..." Kaysa began, her mouth hanging agape as she searched for words to express the feelings swirling inside of her. "I...I don't wanna leave tonight. I don't ever wanna leave your side."

"You can stay here," he said. "I like being with you, and if you want to be here with me... We can be like this all night long, holding and close. I want you with me too." Everything felt right with her there in his arms. It was like things clicked into place. He kissed her gently, lightly without thinking. It felt like the right thing to do, and he needed it.

Kaysa felt her breath catch in her throat and she could hear her heart pounding in her chest. Her hand tightened around Merrick's as she pushed forward, her lips pressed against his. She was no longer driven by the throbbing in her groin. She wanted Merrick for a different reason, one that transcended any physical desire. Just being with Merrick, merely having him share with her his hopes, his fears, was beginning to suffice for Kaysa. She was still attracted to the handsome, sexy Merrick, but it was how she felt when he laughed, or when he made her smile that was beginning to rule her desires.

Kaysa let her anxieties float away as she brought her hands to Merrick's face and kissed him slowly, with less desperation. She didn't need to rush, not with him. They had all the time in the world to quench their sexual thirsts, but it would take much longer for either of them to get past their fears and hesitations. They would have to start there first if they were to ever single out those emotions that were driving them, those emotions that defined exactly what they were to each other. If it truly was love, then they still had a long way to go before either of them gathered up enough courage to let themselves be loved, and in turn, to love one another freely. "Do you want me to stay tonight, Merrick?" Kaysa whispered, her lips barely parting from his.

"Yes," he whispered in reply before returning his lips to hers. "I want you to stay here. I want to be with you tonight. I want you to be there when I open my eyes in the morning. I want to have breakfast with you and then walk you to wherever you work. I want to spend my time with you because I feel so alive when you're around. And, I want to be with you to figure this out. But, I want you here with me tonight." He kissed her again, slowly. It felt like an electric shock was deliberately working its way through his body.

By the force, Kaysa thought to herself, despite the sudden dizziness she was feeling, I think I'm falling... She wrapped her arms around Merrick's neck and rolled onto her back, pulling Merrick down with her. She wanted to wake up with his spellbinding gray eyes staring across at her; she wanted to find warmth in his arms and tremble with excitement at his tender caress. She knew she wanted all those things, but wasn't certain how long it would all last.

She would kiss Merrick all night long if she could, train herself to recognize his scent and imprint the texture of his skin into her memory. Kissing him until they were both exhausted and fell asleep in each other's arms with their lips still pressed together seemed like such a wonderful thought to her, so that is precisely what she planned to do...for tonight at least.

"An Imperial Sector"
By: Admiral Tarkin - Sector General

Location: SSD Nemesis
Date: Saris 25, 3 ABY

***

Upon arriving at the SSD Nemesis, Tarkin started planning a full scale blockade to the Tae'Karada system. If they would not cooperate with him and the Galactic Empire they wouldn't have any aids either. Perhaps this would show his Majesty a lesson about diplomacy. Surely enough he wouldn't be pleased, but alas, in the end, this was merely a product of his actions in the meeting that he had had with Tarkin.

He was in his private chambers, when he was called onto the bridge. He left his room and, while on his way, he could see that down below, in one of the hangars, there already stood two squadrons of TIE Defenders, ready to be launched. They were the latest thing in space crafts and surely would give a good advantage if need be.

Arriving at the bridge, Tarkin was greeted by Captain Willcuff, a man with great passion for the Imperial cause that Tarkin had under his direct command for quite some time now. He was competent and that had earned him his position on the SSD as Second in Command. Tarkin knew he had picked the right man, as this one had a personal grudge against the Rebellion.

"Admiral," Wilcuff greeted. "Allow me to inform you that the fleet you requested is almost all in the system. We have been patrolling the area and ensuring that absolutely no ship is allowed in or out of the planet."

"Good. I want to keep things this way. Let them be without any commercial or helpful ties at all. Perhaps this will teach these Tae'Karadan not to defy me or the Empire. Keep the vigilance up. I want no mistakes!" Tarkin replied.

"Very well, sir!" The Captain nodded. "We have also received some intelligence information on the Rebel side. It seems, according to our spies, that on board the CRS Reliant there are new officers. Admiral Golan Jirin, the Rebel Sector Admiral for the Ploorad Cluster has arrived, and there is also an Ambassador of Etti IV called Rikanna Atan, who we have reasons to believe is headed for this system."

"And the CRS Reliant?" Tarkin asked.

"It has backed up further away when our activity began to rise in numbers. They are no longer in this system," the Captain informed.

"Very well then. Keep them monitored and view all new activities. It is possible that the Tae'Karadan ask for the Rebel aid to have their system set free again. This will not happen... This is an Imperial Sector!" the Admiral said.

"No, sir. We will monitor them and their progress. And as for the Ambassador?" Willcuff asked.

"Have her monitored as well. If she is headed to us I want to know which root she is taking to avoid our starships. Do not allow her to reach the planet's surface. I want her brought over to my chambers, so bring her to me once you have her."

"Very well, sir."

"That is all..." Tarkin said as he left the bridge. It was time to act but it was also time to have his master, the Emperor, kept up to date as to the progress on this system. This might mean an easier overcome to his objectives and those of his master as well...