Star Wars - Tales from the Outer Rim

"A Fleeting Moment"
by: Rylaa Lyssander
Lani Vissip

Date: Lythe 28, 5ABY
Location: Thanatos

***

Rylaa Lyssander, clad in a non-descript spacer's jumpsuit and puffing furiously on a cigar, trundled through the streets of Thanatos. Being the faceless leader of not only the galaxy's most up-and-coming crime organization but also one of the most notorious resistance cells on the planet up its ups and its downs. Currently he was in one of the downs, having to walk instead of ride in a nice air-conditioned repulsorcar. Of course he knew he needed the exercise. The past months he had been extremely lax in his regular workouts.

When people saw him they saw a fat man. Not someone who was grossly obese and could barely walk but one who had let themselves go. His carefully cultivated paunch and double chin were all part of the elaborate farce that had turned into his entire life. Regular workouts with a personal trainer had built a thick slab of muscle underneath all the fat but since the Jau landed Rylaa had been devoting almost all of his time to both of his groups of puppets.

That's what they were, after all... puppets. They danced on stage for Rylaa's entertainment, going through the motions without a thought in their wooden heads. Occasionally one of the puppets would show a glimmer of actual intelligence so the puppetmaster must test them. Sometimes they pass that test, and they have a chance to become a master themselves. Often they simply died.

The resistance had grown steadily over the past months, bolstered by the atrocities the Jau had committed. An ancient philosopher had once said that it was better to be feared than loved, but Rylaa disagreed. Fear was good, yes, but when you ruled in fear you often only owned the bodies and sometimes minds of those who labored under you. Rylaa would rather be loved, because then he owned his people body, mind, and soul. The Jau were signing their own death warrant, driving people in Rylaa's open and waiting arms.

Cells were being organized, funded, and equipped. But so far they had done nothing. Many of the more radical members were chomping at the bit, wanting to do something more than deface public property with slogans and symbols. They wanted to hurt the Jau like the aliens had hurt them, or their family, or somebody they remotely cared about. Every day that passed Rylaa's hold on them thinned. He would have to plan an operation, a big one, soon. Otherwise they might do something themselves.

But that's why Rylaa was here on the streets of Thanatos, sweating through his beige jumpsuit. There was a junk dealer on the edge of the remote community that was said to have dug up something very interesting from the desert. It was part of Tae'Karada's ancient past. Being a good member of the Church of the New Dawn that he was, the junk dealer had told his confessor what he had found.

The fat criminal smiled and almost reached over his shoulder to pat himself on the back. He honestly believed that one his greatest ideas when setting up his false church was the idea of confessors. People who listened to church doctrine and basically did what they wish, simply told their confessors about it and felt better and less guilty. Of course the church said that any information given to them was strictly confidential, and for the most part it was. So confidential that it was turned over to the Dawn Seekers to file away in their databases in case it needed to be used later. Yes, and with the new High Deacon here on Tae'Karada set up, many confessions were starting to pile in.

As he neared the junk dealer's place, something caught his eye. For just a moment, the crowd parted and Rylaa saw somebody he hadn't seen for months. Lani. She was wearing a heavy cowled robe but a stray lock of hair and those vibrant green eyes betrayed her. Time stood still, everything around Rylaa slowed to a halt. He felt as though he could reach over and stroke her face one more time.

But time struck back with a vengeance and when it resumed it went double speed in order to catch up. The part closed and the wave of people swept her away from him. For that fleeting moment, Rylaa felt everything come back. He had tried to put her aside, had tried to forget her now that she had joined the Jedi. Of course he had supported her, it was what she wanted and he probably would have given her Tae'Karada itself on a silver platter had she asked. But no matter hard much he steeled his heart, no matter how much he had tried to block what he really felt, she had always stayed there.

Rylaa blinked and shook his head, trying to clear it. He had to focus, he had business to do and business came first. But as he continued to the junk dealer's shack, he mind continued to drift back to that moment in time. That glance of a woman he had once held as the dearest thing to him had weakened him. But he had to try harder to push those thoughts away, to barricade his will. She was a Jedi now, beyond his reach. Swelling on her only produced pain, and pain only dulled the senses.

Grimacing, Rylaa opened the shack door and stepped inside.

"Search Futile"
By: Zari Zathmir
Keeve Zenarr
Kimara
Maeren Shivral
Talara Sorenne

Location: Yallder, New Plouton
Date: Lythe 28, 5 ABY

***

Zari Zathmir stepped through the doors of Zenarr Inc. She was wearing a short dress over a pair of tights with her feet bare as usual. At the desk at the far end of the office, Keeve and Kimara looked up from the map they were studying. She shook her head. She'd had no luck.

Maeren had just returned from searching the city with Lerrah Breijal. Due to the help they'd provided in rescuing her and her close friendship with Maeren, Lerrah felt obligated to help their search.

"Still nothing," Zari said. "When I stopped by home to feed Kellin, the penthouse where Dev lived was still empty. I talked to the manager of the building, and he still says he doesn't know what happened to them. They just were...gone."

"I still can't believe she ran off with Dev," Kim said. "What happened to his father? And his mother? They were living there too."

Zari shrugged and approached the desk which showed the all-too-familiar search patterns they'd used when searching for a missing Kaysa and Maeren. "Maybe they moved, and she went with them," she said. "I can't sense her anywhere, and Master Brael still doesn't know where Master Novix is. She says he can sense Jedi, and he'd surely be able to sense Talara." She looked at Keeve, who looked like he hadn't slept for days. "I'm sorry," she added as a whisper.

"She didn't just run off," Keeve informed her shortly, still on edge. "Something's happened and all we can do is sit here and talk." He shook his head in disgust, but at his own inability to make progress. "She left home that day not mad at me. Talara wouldn't do this to us."

"She came home that night after she talked to Dev," Zari said. "She seemed sad, but happy. If that makes sense, I mean. I was feeding Kellin his breakfast the next morning, and she went down to see Dev. She was talking about the beach. That's the last time I saw her."

"Then she has to be on the planet still," Keeve insisted. "There wouldn't have been time to get offworld before the Jau came and locked Tae'Karada down. She's still here somewhere...I know it."

"True," Kim said. "They are keeping very tight control of the ports and not letting anyone out."

"Maybe the other continents," Zari said. "I mean, if she went with Dev, maybe they went to Vendra. I mean, all the beaches, and it's warmer than here."

Keeve was silent, thoughtful, and although he knew in his heart they would come up with nothing, he nodded. "Let's try. Maybe she decided to take a vacation and not tell us. Maeren...maybe you should go with Kim. I'll stay here and organize things."

"Sure," Maeren said. "Lerrah can come with us. We'll be able to cover more ground."

"I'll go search around in Arcadia," Zari said. "I doubt she'd go there, but you never know. We should check there too."

"If they'd caught her, I'm sure the Jau would have made a lot of noise about it," Lerrah said. "They like making examples. Why don't I go with Zari, Maer? That way we're in teams."

Zari nodded. "Before going, I should stop by to check on Kellin again. Master Brael's watching him, but...but he might need me."

Lerrah smiled and nodded. "Good plan," she said. "We can do another look around New Plouton. We can check with the hospitals again."

"You sure you'll be alright here," Zari asked Keeve.

"Why wouldn't I be?" He smiled briefly then shooed the girls away. "I'll be doing my own search from here. Someone's gotta be here if she gets back."

"We should have brought Hope to keep you company," Kim said as she moved to Keeve's side. "I'll keep in contact, and I'll see you in a few hours."

"Don't do anything wild," he warned with an affectionate smile. She leaned forward for a kiss and Keeve received it less than heartily. "Comm me when you get there, okay?"

"I will," Kim said. "Are you sure you're okay? I can stay here for a little longer if you want to talk."

"I'm fine," he admitted. "I just don't understand any of this...and there's a part of me that believes it's my fault, even though I know it's not."

"Once we find her, I'm sure she'll explain everything," Kim said. "She loves you, and I think she always will. I can't imagine she'd deliberately hurt you like this. Don't blame yourself, Keeve. Everything will work out. We should check with Zale and Merrick later too, just in case they know something."

"I'll do that." Sighing, Keeve embraced Kim, then released her so she could join Zari and Maeren. "If there's any trouble, don't risk yourself. You come straight back, okay?"

"We'll keep in touch, Keeve," Maeren said.

"If you get bored or anything here, contact me, Keeve," Zari said with a grin. "I can talk."

"You'll talk his ear off," Kim added, earning a smile from Zari.

"I mean it though," the youngest member of the search team said. "Me and Lerrah will be close, so it'll be easy to talk."

He laughed softly. "Sure. I've gotta let you know how Kellin's doing, don't I?"

Zari grinned. "You do," she said. "See you later, Keeve." With that, she motioned Lerrah after her and disappeared out the door.

Lerrah gave Keeve a wave, then followed after.

"I'll contact you as soon as we get to Vendra, and then every hour," Kim said. "Bye, Keeve."

"Bye, Keeve," Maeren said with a slightly wistful smile.

"Take care," he replied sincerely. As the twins filed out, Keeve sagged in his chair in utter hopelessness. There was nothing more to be done - if Talara wished not to be found, she wouldn't be. No other conclusion could be drawn, for she had not been put to death publicly, meaning she hadn't been caught by the Jau.... The only explanation was she had eloped with Dev. Keeve shook his head and made no attempt to devise a strategy for locating her. Instead, he resolved to accept her decision to leave...even if he agreed with it not a bit.

***

Talara wiped away the single tear that had escaped to begin a trail down her cheek. She turned her attention back to the lyrics of the songs Reinrich had given to her. She had to be ready for the show tonight, though she had a feeling that singing would not be the main draw of those there. Even so, she'd put on a performance and sing her guts out. And, hope that someone found her and rescued her so she could warn the others away before Reinrich got them all hurt.

"Bastard," she whispered. "I hope Keeve finds you...and hurts you bad."

She sent out a silent prayer to whatever gods happened to still be listening to her, in hope that the nightmare might end.

"Coverup"
By: Rylaa Lyssander
Lorgal
Rashid al-Hyu al-Hamad

Date: Lythe 28, 5ABY
Location: Various

***

Rylaa ducked out of the junk dealer's shack and glanced up and down the street. The moon hung low in the cloudless sky, illuminating the empty road at the edge of Thanatos. The criminal breathed a sigh of relief and lit a match. While a little flamboyant for his tastes, fire was sometimes the best way to cover one's tracks.

As the assorted fuels caught, Rylaa walked away calmly and did not look bad. The junk dealer had been lying, of course, had been trying to entice people to come to his worthless shop in that scrap of nowhere. It had worked, in a way. He had attracted the wrong sort of people. The sort that do not enjoy being lied to. Not that the junk dealer had to worry about that any more, of course, since bound and gagged as he was to the chair in the middle of the that firestorm he probably was screaming much too loud.

Waiting for Rylaa further down the street was a speeder with a tall form leaning against it. The long robes the Saharawii wore just brushed the ground. A headwrap of dark cloth was perched securely, the tail end tucked around the man's face as a veil. Rashid rarely showed his face, and only to those he trusted.

"That was an interesting piece of work," he commented in his deep musical accent as he opened the door of the speeder for Rylaa.

"How so?" the crimelord replied, climbing into the cab.

"You went through a lot of trouble for something that others would consider small time."

"That's because I take pride in my work, Rashid," Rylaa said as the assassin put the speeder into gear and sent it flying along the desert. "A little personal touch in everything that I do."

"It explains a lot about how you work," Rashid commented. He grinned, showing off the unnaturally long incisors that were a major characteristic of his race. "Putting a piece of yourself in all that you do makes you emotionally involved. It gives you the chance to use your passion and your drive in more than a cold-hearted manner."

"I'm as cold-hearted as they come, assassin."

"No," Rashid shook his head, "You are not. As much as you try to hide it you have the same passions and emotions churning deep inside that all of have. You hide it well, and it took me a good deal of time to discover it. Until today, I had you pegged as an emotionless being who merely saw others as pieces for a much larger game."

Rylaa stayed silent, allowing the older man to speak. Rashid often saw things where others saw nothing, and he often understood much more than he let on.

"So what is her name?" the Saharawii asked unexpectedly.

The question startled Rylaa and his voice wavered as he asked, "Who?"

Grinning again, Rashid said, "The woman you love."

"You dig deep, assassin."

"There was no digging involved, I simply watched you earlier."

The crimelord glanced up at the dark man. "So?"

"I saw you stop, saw the look in your eyes. Your heart sped up, no? Sweat formed on your palms, you felt lightheaded, maybe even a little dizzy."

Rylaa glowered. Rashid, in his irritating way, was right. Much like Rylaa, he was the kind of man who knew instinctively when someone was lying to them. "Her name is Lani," he said finally. He trusted Rashid, the assassin had a sort honor that one rarely found among men in the criminal fields. But assassins of his caliber were almost all like that, as well as many other quirks.

"Lani," Rashid savored the name. It was a nugget of information from a man who said little about himself, a rare show of trust. "You had to leave her, correct?"

"Now you dig too deep, Rashid."

"Apologies, but I like to know the man I work for. Especially in so unusual an arrangement as we have."

The rest of the trip to the hideout in the desert was conducted in silence as the two deadly and powerful men traveled to what could be the start of massive upheaval.

"The Debutante"
By: Merrick Braston
Analesse D'vrishay
Reinrich Tas
Felicita Hes'ta
Talara Sorenne

Location: Minister Fassad's Mansion, New Plouton
Date: Lythe 28, 5 ABY

***

Merrick Braston felt the music in his bones as he moved back through the crowd with two fluted glasses filled with a sparkling clear liquid. The band, raised up on a stage in the center of the room, was good. He'd actually had a chance to sit in with them a few months ago, and even sang with them. It was a promotion they'd done for the White Noise, and it had gone very well. He couldn't express how glad he was that they'd brought them in for the party. He couldn't express how glad he was that one of these parties finally had good music.

It was a banquet in honour of one of New Plouton's biggest art supporters. It was a nice escape from the constant reminders of the aliens now in charge of the planet. Even so, despite the occupation, life was pretty much normal. There was definitely something to be said about normalcy.

With an engaging smile, he passed one of the glasses to Analesse D'Vrishay, his partner and date for the evening. She gave him a charming smile of her own and took a sip of the drink. "Looks like Fassad has outdone himself this time," Merrick said after a sip from his own glass. "It's not often you see someone throw themselves such an elaborate birthday party. Someday, we will have to throw him a party, just to thank him for all of his support."

"And for the sake of informing Mr. Fassad that birthday parties are usually thrown for a person, not by them." She smiled over the brim of her glass, then drank.

As Merrick raised his own glass to his lips, the crowd parted. Though the hole formed, and he spotted Reinrich Tas with a young woman on his arm. As Merrick's gaze was drawn to the woman, his mind rebelled. Body going suddenly numb, including the hand holding the glass, he felt as if someone had punched him in the gut. With a crash, the glass fell to the floor, shattering into shards.

The woman looked up at the sound, her dark hair had been bound beneath a net of fine, golden mesh. It gave her appearance a regal air. Around her throat a collar of gold with ornate black scrollwork was clasped. From the collar, two thin straps of black velvet worked out at angles toward her breasts where they delicately covered her nipples for the sake of modesty. Almost as if by magic, the fabric remained in place even as she turned slightly to better regard the sudden scene across the way. Other than the collar and pieces of cloth, her torso was bare. Her skin was tanned by obviously frequent trips to the coastal beaches, and even in the winter months gave her a warm glow of life. The skirt she wore had no sides, and hung to the middle of her thighs. Upon her bared hips rested the thin golden chain that held her skirt in place. Beneath the skirt, to those curious enough to peek, a thong comprised of as little fabric as possible obscured her private areas. Due to the way the skirt hung, her long, athletic legs were visible for all to see. Upon her feet, she wore a pair of golden high-heeled sandals that laced halfway up her calves.

In the sudden commotion, more attention was drawn to the woman. Sounds of approval went through the crowd, both for the woman and for the man upon whose arm she clung. In the political games played within circles such as this, Reinrich Tas had just scored big. From the nods he received, and other gestures of approval, it was no secret to any present that the businessman's star was once again on the rise.

Merrick Braston, however, did not care for the political games, and he rushed to the young woman's rescue. As he neared, he was pulling off his jacket.

"Talara," he called, and despite the way she held Reinrich's arm, he draped the jacket about her body. The crowd's reaction was subtle, but unhappy. "Talara, what are you doing here dressed like that? You should be at home, not out at a party like this."

"Please, Merrick," Talara said with a roll of her eyes. She looked up at Reinrich with obvious affection. "I'm here with Mr. Tas now. He's even suggested that he may ask for my hand." A gasp went through the crowd, and the murmurings started up once again. She gave Merrick a look that was both chastising and inviting. "You had your chance with me, and I'm with Reinrich now." She sent another adoring smile up to her date. "And, I couldn't be happier."

"Good catch," Reinrich told Merrick, "isn't she?" His smile was lecherous and his hand lingered inappropriately over Talara's rear. Blue eyes flicked briefly towards the approaching figure behind Merrick, and his smile broadened.

"Merrick." Analesse's summons was an urgent, breathless whisper. "What are you doing?" She scowled mildly at Reinrich, but more so at Talara, whose shoulders now supported Merrick's jacket. "Who is this girl? You-- You know her?"

"Yes," Merrick said. "Her name is Talara and she's a-- It's a long story, and you'll hear all of it after the party. She's been living with Keeve and the others, and I don't know why she's here with him, but something's not right."

Talara gave a shrug, and Merrick's jacket slid from her shoulders and down onto the floor where it landed at her feet. "Merrick and I had a brief fling while we were guests of Zale Tregat's brothers place. He's a good lover, and I'm sure you'll be very happy with him. But, Reinrich is a much more attentive to my needs in bed. Really, I'm just surprised someone hadn't already snatched him up." The look she gave Merrick was slightly disdainful. "I could go on all day about all the ways he's superior to every man I've ever known, but I don't want to be too boastful."

"Oh, please do," Reinrich encouraged, his voice rumbling in his chest salaciously. His lips found the curve of her slender throat. The kiss produced a visible shudder of delight in Talara. Analesse looked away in disgust as Reinrich's eyes locked with her own.

"Merrick, let's go." Analesse grasped his arm. "Whoever this girl is, I don't want us to be seen in proximity with her. We need to leave."

"Of course," Merrick said, taking her arm. "I thought I saw Fassad on the other side of the room. I'm sure he'd like to talk to us."

"Why go?" This from Reinrich, whose hand had migrated from Talara's rear to her abdomen, upon which his fingers now danced. "I'm sure dear Lessa would love to know more about Talara...such as what you, Merrick Braston, were doing fornicating with a young girl." He winked lazily at Analesse. "Do you know how old she is really?"

"No matter her age," Analesse told him with barely controlled ire, "she's still far too young to be wearing such an obscene outfit. I'm sure it was your choice, Mr. Tas. You've always had poor taste."

The look Merrick gave Talara was sad, but he knew there was nothing he could do.

"I'm old enough to be his wife," Talara said softly. "Shouldn't I also be allowed to dress in a manner that is pleasing to the one I love?" She glanced down at her bare skin and the curves of her body. "While I may be young, he is pleased with how I look. I have everything that should be covered hidden from view. I wear this to show him how much I care for him, and I wear it only for him."

Analesse smirked. "Then you're a fool." She looked expectantly at Merrick. "Are we done here?"

"We're done," he said with a scowl more for Reinrich than for Talara. He bent down and picked up his jacket, then draped it over one arm while giving the other to Analesse. With that, he started away with her at his side.

"Analesse," Reinrich called out, "don't forget to peruse the generous gift I've left at your office." She ignored his remark, and the ensuing chuckle.

"I think," Analesse whispered tautly to Merrick, "I deserve an explanation."

"For a period of time, Zale and I were held prisoner by his brothers," Merrick said quietly, for only her ears. "I was forced to do things I'm not proud of. I was forced to have sex with Talara, Dani the former empress, Zale, and Zale's brothers. I'm sorry I didn't mention these to you before, but I wanted them to be a part of my past that stayed in the past. The time was painful and humiliating."

Analesse was silent, but her face had gone pale and her expression was one of shock and disbelief. Processing his admission was difficult, yet Analesse waited until they were outside the main hall to tear her arm free of Merrick's and stagger back. "How could you not tell me this?" she asked, though her voice was quivering and tone piteous. Tears were, with some success, suppressed. "Reinrich Tas knew all this before me! How could you not trust me enough to tell me!"

"It isn't a question of trust," Merrick said. "It's a part of my past I wanted to forget. I'll give you every detail if you'd like. I don't know how Reinrich found out or found Talara. I thought she was a good girl, trapped in it just like I was. I never suspected she'd be with someone like him. Still, he seems very highly capable of coming up with information about people, since he's dug up quite a bit of detail about both of our lives and thrown it in our faces before either of us could reveal it to the other."

"Then we'd better start talking to one another," she suggested a touch stiffly. "If he leaks this to the media, do you know how it will make me look, Merrick? I don't need more scandal in my life."

"How do we stop him," Merrick asked. "You know he's only doing this to break us because he thinks you'll go running into his arms."

Analesse chuckled dryly. "That's not going to happen. If anything, I'll swear off men entirely." She sighed, and walked with Merrick towards the coat-check. "Merrick...you really need to tell me any other dark secrets you may be hiding from me. You're giving Reinrich too much hold over us."

"I am not aware of any other dark secrets lingering from the time from before I knew you," Merrick answered. "Your father doesn't have any additional ammunition to feed to Reinrich, does he? But, I'll try to remember if there's anything else in my past that might give Reinrich too much of a hold over us."

"No," she informed him, "there are no sordid indiscretions in my past." Analesse spoke briefly to the woman manning the coat check counter and received her coat moments later. Merrick's followed, and while handing it to him, Analesse whispered, "Please...no more surprises, Merrick. I don't want to ever turn my back on you."

"I'll do my best," Merrick said. "I can't remember anything else in my past that could pose us a problem. I hope you do accept that what happened wasn't something I chose and had no choice other than letting them kill me for not going along with it."

"I don't know," she told him, exasperated. "How can I know anything when you don't tell me?" Exhaling deeply, Analesse proceeded for the doors, throwing on her coat as she strode.

"This is exactly what he wants," Merrick spat. "And he's playing you. He's using Talara to turn you against me, and it appears to be working. You're more angry with me than you are with him. Do you want to just end it? Cut me loose so you don't have to bear the embarrassments of my past? I didn't do this to you, Analesse. It happened to me, and it is a part of my past I'm not proud of. It's something I'd prefer to just forget. But, it's not about me. It's not about how what happened to me affects me. This is all about you. You don't care how dredging this back up affects me. All you care about is yourself."

Standing upon the snow-covered walkway now, Analesse rounded on Merrick. She blinked away flakes while explaining, "That is not true. I do care...but I'm just so stunned right now, I don't know how to react! We've been together for months...and you're still keeping secrets. Why can't you just confide in me?"

"Just because I haven't told you about something doesn't mean I'm keeping it a secret," Merrick said. "I don't know if you can conceptualize what it was like, but thinking about that time...it's painful. I've had low points in my career, Analesse, but nothing goes lower than that. Zale and his brothers took turns sodomizing me. They made me do things that...that I can't talk about. I can't put into words. I tried to put it into music, but all that came of it was Broken. I wasn't trying to keep secrets from you, Lessa. I was trying to avoid having to face that again, from having to remember what it was like to...to go through that. After the Tregats, Dani and Talara were...a respite. I wasn't myself. I was...I was someone I hated, someone I never wanted to meet again. I wanted to shut the door on that part of my life, and move on. That's the only thing I haven't told you about...the only thing only a few other people in the galaxy know about. It was a shame I couldn't face, and one I couldn't bring myself to even consider letting anyone else know about. Have you ever done anything you wished could just erase? Make it so it never happened? I hope you can forgive me. Perhaps this is something I should have faced and told you about. But...but I couldn't bring myself to do it. I'm sorry."

"I know," she said, almost soundlessly. Her eyes lowered in dejection, in shame; it was nearly impossible to regard Merrick. "I don't want you to relive any pain," Analesse whispered in explanation. "I just...want to feel like there's no distance between us. Does...does Kaysa know about all this?" Analesse smiled weakly. "I'm sure she laughs at my ignorance. She's glad I don't know you as well as she does."

"And, I don't care what she does or doesn't do," Merrick said. "She knows some of what happened, but not much. She didn't know about Talara or Dani. She only knew about Zale because of issues we had after we'd been rescued. It was affecting the family. It was hard to be around Zale after that, but over time we managed to get through it, and now never talk about it. While it was happening, she was off on Agarra in hiding." He took her hands into his. "I don't want there to be any difference between us, my love. And, I will gladly answer any question you have, and tell you anything else I can think of about anything else. Until I saw Talara today, it's been months since I've even let my mind settle on what happened back then. While I won't say I'd forgotten about it, because I don't think I ever will, I do believe my conscious mind avoided ever lingering on my captivity."

"I...understand," she whispered and stepped into his embrace. "I'm sorry for my reaction. This sort of thing doesn't happen every day."

Merrick held her close and kissed her hair. "Hopefully it'll never happen again," he said. "And, I understand your reaction. I'm just glad we're able to get through this together. That's why I love you so much, Lessa. Even when we have rough spots, when we work together and talk, we make it through. I'll try to think over everything that's happened to me in my life, and make sure you know about it, good and bad. I don't want any more surprises like this, and I don't want to harm the trust we have with each other. You mean too much to me."

"Then let's go home," she suggested, turning her lips to his throat, "and you can show me just how much that is. The party was dying down anyway."

"It was," Merrick said. "Besides, private parties between just you and I are more interesting." He leaned in and gave her a kiss, and they started down the walk toward their speeder. Besides, Fassad would have plenty of other birthdays. Hopefully, he'd avoid inviting Reinrich Tas to them.

***

"Portraying a cruel bitch certainly came easy to you," Reinrich Tas commented by way of compliment to Talara. He handed her a goblet of wine. "Are you sure you've never done this before?"

Talara took a sip of the wine, then shook her head. "I haven't," she said. "I hope I was convincing. She certainly didn't like me. Perhaps she is jealous because I'm with you, and she's stuck with Merrick. She was very unhappy with him. I think he's going to get yelled at."

He chuckled. "I'm sure...though we can't let up just yet." His hand slid over the smooth curve of one shoulder and he leaned in to kiss his way along her jawline, towards her lips. "I have a plan...and you're going to help me."

"I can't wait," she said, and then quietly added for only him: "Master. I will do whatever you ask of me."

"Then go on," he told her, grinning smugly. "There are plenty of men here tonight. Wouldn't you like to introduce yourself? Entertain potential clients?"

Talara looked around and smiled demurely at the men around the room still glancing approvingly at Reinrich and his young date. The dates and wives they had brought with them, were also looking on. Talara sauntered away from Reinrich to mingle. At first, many of the women who had come with men suddenly drawn to Talara were upset, but the girl managed to woo them just as easily as their husbands or dates. There was a definite magnetism to the girl, and none present were unaffected.

"I see you've found a new plaything." The squat, yet substantial Felicita Hes'ta casually nibbled on a tart while observing with interest Talara entertaining a circle of men squeezing in for a closer look. She grinned at Reinrich. "A perfect repellent for Merrick and Lessa."

Reinrich smirked. "She was only meant to work on Braston. But...Sathis did well in finding her. She's just what I needed."

Felicita frowned admonishingly at Reinrich. "Come now, Mr. Tas...give credit where it's due." The pleasant smile that was Felicita's mask dropped away to reveal a diabolical glint in her eyes, one that far surpassed Reinrich's. "Dear Rich...who do you believe supplied Sathis that footage to begin with?"

Chuckling deeply, Reinrich clasped Felicita's hand and suavely raised it to his lips. "Do you think I ever doubted?" he purred. As his lips pressed against the corpulent spotted flesh of Felicita's hand, she tsked him and extracted it quickly.

"You mustn't let on, fool," she berated. "If I'm to continue aiding you, Ms. D'vrishay must have not even an inkling. Now" --she shifted her bulk to place a respectful distance between them-- "go and retrieve your pet before she gives her goods away for free. We will be in touch."

"As you wish...." Still flashing his most charming smile, Reinrich bowed his head and swaggered away to rein in Talara. The men were openly impressed by her assets, convincing Reinrich he could secure the most affluent clientele for Talara. Though, no doubt, Felicita would demand a cut of his profits. She deserved as much, however, for bringing him closer than ever to Analesse's bed.

"Forging New Alliances"
by Magnus Kresk
Reinrich Tas
Talara Sorenne

Date: Lythe 28, 5 ABY
Location: Minister Fassad's Mansion, New Plouton

***

Magnus Kresk had entered the party not too long ago. The Hapan was dressed in his best jacket and tunic. His boots were polished and came to about his knees. His jacket, tunic, and pants almost seemed militaristic in nature. Several rings glittered on his slender fingers. His raven hair was pulled back into its typical pony tail that ran down to about his shoulders.

This was Kresk's first real appearance since he was injured at the hands of that Jedi bastard and his whore of a friend. Now he came to this party in order to form new alliances and get back to his business of torturing people for information.

He noticed a group of people crowded around a girl and a man. As he got closer he noticed the girl's state of dress and he nodded appreciatively. Kresk calmly walked over to the man.

"She appears to be a catch," he replied. "I must admit I am impressed. Back on my world such concubines were in high demand yet we never seemed to run out. But she is by far one of the most beautiful women I have seen." He held out a slender hand. "Where are my manners? I am Magnus Kresk."

The ever smarmy Reinrich Tas glanced in mild distaste at the appendage extended his way. He reluctantly clasped hands with Kresk. "Reinrich Tas. You had an invitation to this gathering, Mr. Kresk?"

He nodded and produced his invitation and held it out to Reinrich. "I must admit this is the first party I've been to since I arrived," he said. "And with my work I find it difficult to meet new people. And we all want friends in high places so a party at a Minister's mansion seemed a good place to start."

Reinrich briefly glossed over the invitation without taking it, somewhat surprised that it was authentic. Though, he always knew Minister Fassad's taste was lacking. Frowning slightly Reinrich told Magnus, "You see, the first step in acquiring new contacts and allies is to offer them something they want. If you have nothing to offer...then you're just wasting their time."

Kresk nodded. "I am an interrogator. I used to work for the Empire and helped them obtain information from the Rebel Alliance. I'm afraid you must take my word on that since after I was discharged from their service they destroyed all records that I was ever a part of their military."

Reinrich glanced aside briefly at Talara, who was adeptly entertaining her admirers, then looked skeptically at the man before him. "And what is it you want to offer me? Information gathering?"

"Yes," the Hapan replied. "Though I prefer obtaining the intel through highly painful torture."

Grinning wolfishly, Reinrich asked, "And how do you know there's information I want?"

Kresk shrugged. "Everyone in the galaxy wants information. The only difference is how badly do we want it and the means we use to obtain that information," he said simply.

"And you'd be amenable to seeking information for me?"

"That is correct." Kresk nodded, sipping at the wine he had taken from one of the servers.

"Really," Reinrich drawled. "And may I ask who sent you?"

"No one. I came of my own free will," the Hapan answered. "Although I am willing to work for someone if they make it worth my while to serve them." His gaze drifted over to the girl.

Reinrich's eyes followed the man's to their destination. Chuckling lowly, he regarded Magnus again. "I gather you've just named your price? This is her debut - if you want the first sampling of her delights, then be prepared for plenty of information acquisition, sir."

Kresk merely nodded. "I do not mind obtaining a great deal of information," he said simply. "In fact I'd enjoy it greatly."

Reinrich smiled snakily. "Talara! Come forward."

Talara did as she was bid, moving over to Reinrich's side and slipping her arm through his. For as little as she wore, she could very well be naked. But, her hidden delights remained safely concealed by the scant outfit, making them that much more scandalously desirable. She let her languid gaze drift sensuously over Kresk, a hint of a smile curling her lips.

"So, Mr. Kresk...I dare say this will suffice as payment."

"It will," Kresk said, with a grin. He held out a hand for Talara to take.

Reinrich stepped between them, clucking his tongue chidingly. "I expect something as a show of good faith. A...sampling of your talents."

Kresk closed his hand and let it drop back to his side. "Tell me who you want me to question and I shall do so," he said.

"You expect me to broadcast the individual's name in this room full of people?" He chuckled dryly. "I hope you practice more delicacy in matters of business than you are showing now. Are you certain you've done this before?"

"I do...but my curiosity has been perked by the fact that you may have someone in mind. And I have done this before...I worked with the Empire as well I might add."

"I am not easily impressed, Mr. Kresk," Reinrich informed him, "but I am interested. So meet me at my office tomorrow morning and if you can give me the information I seek...." He smiled shrewdly as he nodded towards Talara. "Tomorrow evening, she will be yours, following her performance, of course. Is that agreeable?"

Kresk nodded. "It is. Any preference on what time I should arrive?"

"Whenever you're available." Brushing his fingers over Talara's bare shoulder, Reinrich added, "She's always ready." His hand then disappeared within his jacket and reappeared holding a flimsicard. This, he handed to Kresk. "Show that to my secretary. She'll let you right in."

Kresk took the card and bowed. "I look forward to doing business with you," he said, holding out a hand for Reinrich to shake.

Reinrich accepted with a less than amiable smile. "Don't fail me or her legs stay closed."

"I will not fail," Kresk answered. "It was a pleasure meeting you." He gave a brief nod and bowed before starting to walk away slowly.

"Well now," Reinrich commented, "we may have found your first customer, my pet."

"Yes," Talara whispered. She wasn't sure she wanted to be with him. He was different. She could sense a cruelty in him. Though, she would have no choice, she knew. She no longer had any choices, at least as long as her family was in danger.

The group of men she had been entertaining earlier were converging again, looking expectant. She turned her attention back to Reinrich, knowing her admirers would be looking for her attention. At his smile, she nodded and returned to the group.

"Moving Out"
by Chun Li, Escort Pilot
and R2X1 (Axon) - Droid (NPC)

Location: Drogen shipyards and space
Date: Lythe 28, 5 ABY

***

"And Axon, is it better," Li asked while calling up the next part of the take-off checklist. Behind her the droid was sitting in his brand new socket, plugged in to the computer. He beeped an affirmative. "Can you check the installation of the new engine," Li asked. While she had done the same thing on the outside, the droid was better suited to check if all the wiring was connected as it should while she continued her checklist.

As she finished her checklist, she spotted a patrol of Jau looking at her fighter as if she was going to shoot at them at any moment. As if they could do anything against her ship with their handweapons she thought as she called up Drogen control.

"Fighter Fa'rong to Drogen control," she said, "requesting permission for take-off."

"Drogen here," came the reply, "hold on."

While she was waiting she looked at the report from Axon. It seemed that everything worked as it should.

"Fa'rong," control said over the comm, "take-off permission granted. At exit, take course 2-6-6/1-1. Don't deviate or you will be considered hostile."

Clearly some people didn't know or probably didn't care about taking the best course to go into hyperspace towards your destination. Well, she needed a test of her new engine anyway and she'd rather not test it with a long jump.

"Copy, control," Li said as she applied power to her repulsors to move out of the bay. Once outside she engaged the sublight drives and headed on the indicated course.

"Okay Axon, time to start our test," she said to her droid as she engaged her third engine. The craft accelerated quickly with three engines instead of two. Luckily she had also managed to get her hands on two fuel pods which were now under her lower wings. "Switching to only upper engine," Li said as she shut down the two normal engines. She waited until she was on the speed normal for only one engine before she had Axon start the calculations to enter hyperspace. This would be a test for the extra engine, but it would only be a small jump. As soon as he was done she pulled the lever to enter hyperspace. The stars elongated to lines and she disappeared from Drogen's scanners.

Not much further she popped out of hyperspace and oriented herself towards her destination. She engaged the two other engines and shut down the third. There was no use in stressing her back-up engine if it wasn't necessary. She had the computer make the calculations for hyperspace. Axon beeped something.

"You made good calculations, Axon," Li said when she read his message, "but when we're in combat the computer will have to do the calculations anyway. You will not be connected in a battle, just the same way the extra engine wouldn't be connected."

The droid beeped something else.

"But you are important," Li said, "in case everything gets shorted, you can then plug in and do the calculations for the extra engine. That way we can get away where otherwise we would have been killed or captured."

Satisfied the droid gave one last beep and then fell silent. When the computer had done the calculations, Li pulled the lever and entered hyperspace.

"Almost Finished (Hopefully)"
by Vincenzo Lapenta, Neurosurgeon
and Yelara Neerou, Patient

Location: ENPIC, New Plouton
Date: Lythe 28, 5ABY

***

Vincenzo walked into Yelara's room. She had had her last surgery two days ago and now it was time to assess the efficacy of the surgery. "How are you feeling today," he asked his patient, "feeling any pain?"

Yelara gave him a tired smile, but her eyes were bright and alert. "Not so much today," she answered. "I don't mind, though...it just means I'm healing, right?"

"We're going to do a whole series of tests to see how effective the treatment has been," he explained, "and to see if we need to make some small corrections to the medication."

"Alright," she agreed and as the doctor set up his equipment, Yelara watched him, asking, "When can I see my husband and child?"

"After the tests," Vincenzo said, "you'll have to move for some of them though, as we can't fit the equipment in here." He took some pliers and touched the soles of her feet one after the other to see if there was nerve response.

Yelara wriggled her toes carefully, peering down the length of her body to watch them move.

"It looks good," Vincenzo said, "but I'm not going to take any chances. After the tests we're going to see for the future."

"Future?" she asked hesitantly. "What do you mean? How much longer am I going to be here, Doctor?"

"It's about what happens after you leave this institution," Vincenzo explained, "you will have to take medication for the rest of your life, just to name one thing. We'll have to discuss all these things."

"What things?" Yelara pressed. "I want to know now before we go any further. If my life is going to be encumbered in any way, I have to decide if all this is worth the effort."

"During the last surgery we've implanted a small device," Vincenzo said, "it will distribute some medication directly in your bloodstream to keep your regenerated nerves working. These things are growth factors called NGF, NT-3 and BDNF. The reason of your illness was that your body didn't make these things anymore, causing your nerve system to deteriorate. Your big nerves are replaced with artificial ones, like in cybernetic replacement limbs, but your brain and small end nerves couldn't be replaced in that way, so we had to regenerate them. But they will die again if you don't get regular doses of those growth factors. To prevent this you have to take regular growth factors, but as you can't take them orally we've opted for an implant to distribute them as needed. This implant will last about 6 months, but it's an easy procedure to refill it."

"Will I require more surgeries, afterwards? I don't know if I can be away from my family for so long again."

"Normally not," Vincenzo said, "if you make sure that the implant is always filled with the medication. Otherwise you might get the degeneration again on your outer nerves. The refill itself is very simple and can be performed by any doctor, but you have to let him know up front as they will have to order the medication."

"Perhaps," she suggested, "you should handle my care, Doctor. If you'd like, of course."

"That's no problem," Vincenzo said, "but you might be off planet for long periods of time, for instance. In that case it's critical that you know what kind of medication you need. And I know that not all journeys are always fully planned, so it's best to prepare a couple of things up front."

Yelara smiled wryly. "I doubt anyone will be going anywhere in the near future. This Jau situation...it's not going to end anytime soon. And I fear I'll have to go into hiding once I recover."

"Maybe not right away, but you'll have to take these the rest of your life," Vincenzo explained, "so it might happen later on."

"I understand," she said with conviction. "If it means I get to watch my son grow up, then I'll do whatever you say."

"That's what it means," Vincenzo said when a nurse came in to tell him that the MRI scan was ready. "Let's go then, shall we," he said to Yelara. Together with the nurse he moved her to the room with the scanners. "Lay still, okay," he said as the technicians did their job to prepare his patient for the scan, "it will be over soon."

Yelara would have nodded, but in keeping with the doctor's orders, she remained immobile. She closed her eyes and waited for the test to proceed. As the device started, Yelara concentrated on detaching from her body, from all the discomfort, and focused on Va'Lesh's boisterous laugh, Liam's loving, serene eyes. When the doctor called her name, she looked up. "Are we done?"

"You are," Vincenzo said, "I'll first have to take a look at the results and then we can see what's next. If these are okay, you can start your revalidation therapy."

Yelara wrinkled her nose. "My what? Is that a technical way of saying I'll start walking again?"

"That's the basis," Vincenzo said, "but after laying in bed so long, it won't go that easy. You will have to exercise your muscles again. It will mean some pain unfortunately."

"Pain." She shrugged negligently. "It's not as if I haven't felt that time and again." Yelara smiled. "When do we begin?"

"Not before tomorrow," Vincenzo said, "first I'll have to look at these results and discuss things with the physiotherapist. But normally my work here is done, except for some follow-up."

"You'll still visit everday, won't you?"

"I'll try," Vincenzo said, "for as long as you are here. But as soon as you are back home that would be difficult."

"I understand," she answered solemnly. "If I have the means, one day, I will repay you for this."

"It's okay," Vincenzo said, "I know enough about politics to know that I have to try to stay as far away from it as possible."

Yelara smiled ruefully. "I wish I had as well. I listened to the wrong people...but I've learned my lesson, the hard way."

"You always make mistakes," Vincenzo said, "I did too. Everybody does. But it's what you do after them that counts."

"Healing my body and my mind," she commented warmly. "You're a doctor like no other. Has anyone told you that before?"

"I'm just trying to do my job," Vincenzo said.

"And you do it well." Yelara smiled curiously at the doctor as he busied himself with reviewing the scan readings. "Doctor...do you have anyone? I mean...are you married or...."

"It's difficult," Vincenzo said, "I'm seeing someone, and let's keep it at that."

Yelara grinned, curiousity piqued by the doctor's reticence. "Come on... We've been together for months and you don't think you can confide in me?"

"You're part of the government that made the laws that brought me and ... my friend in the situation we are in right now," Vincenzo said.

"But I was manipulated," Yelara insisted. "Any decision I made while in power was upon the advice of someone else. I had no idea what I was doing. And I feel guilty about everything."

"At least you realise that," Vincenzo said. He knew that it wasn't the whole truth, as he had done some research and had found out that some of those laws had been in place long before Yelara came to power.

She watched the doctor's back for some time as he collected his materials, and finally asked, "Do you resent me for what's happened? Do you despise me?"

"Compared to what they did to the planet I come from this is nothing," Vincenzo said, "even though it can be annoying at times."

"So you don't blame me?" she surmised. "Because if you do, how can I possibly trust you with my treatment?"

"My personal feelings have nothing to do with my professional behaviour," Vincenzo said, "Back on Russ VII I've had to operate one of the ministers. He was one of those arrogant politicians that made our world so polluted that you can't walk outside without breathing mask. At that moment I was already part of a movement that wanted to clean the planet up, but still I treated him the best I could. My oath as a doctor goes above all others. He was still alive when I left the planet."

Yelara smiled uncertainly. "As in...you didn't leave him for dead on an operating table?"

"The operation was six months before I left," Vincenzo said, "he left my care back in full health. I did however, told him that his condition was due to some of the polutants in our atmosphere. I had hoped that his personal tragedy would persuade him to clean things up, but that unfortunately didn't happen."

"And that's why you left for Tae'Karada?"

"That was my brother's doing," Vincenzo said, "he was part of the same movement but took more drastic action. The police came crashing down on us and I decided that some clean air, in more than one sense of the word, was a good option."

"And instead, you wound up here, in the middle of another war." Yelara smiled thinly. " 'Irony' sure has a sense of humour, hasn't it?"

"Actually this is both better and worse," Vincenzo said, "better because as long as you do your job and don't show up on the Jau radar, they leave you alone. But worse because this is a for real war."

"So as long as you absorb yourself in your work," Yelara reasoned, "you don't have to worry about anything that goes on outside these doors. It's almost...apathetic, isn't it? Don't you feel concerned about what's going to happen to us?"

"I do," Vincenzo said, "and currently that obliges me to get you back to full health. While I'm doing so, I can't draw attention to myself in any way. Besides, it's difficult doing something in prison, so you have to be carefull no matter what you do."

"So, no one yet knows who I really am," she surmised. "I imagine if they were looking for me, they would've found me by now. Though, if they do find me...all your work will have been in vain."

"As far as most people are conserned, you're dead," Vincenzo said, "and to be honest, if whoever dropped you of had done so one hour later, you probably would have been."

Yelara smiled fondly at the memory of Meer'esh, or at least when she had loved him. "He wouldn't have let that happen to me. If he ever wants to visit me, you'll let him in, won't you? He has pale skin and the saddest lilac eyes you'll ever witness. You can't miss him."

"If that is what you want," Vincenzo said, "I would however be careful about this and not just let everybody in. It can be dangerous."

"I know. But...I don't believe he'll turn me in." There was some uncertainty in her voice. "He may still love me...and if he risked betraying his masters to save me, then he wouldn't want to harm me, now."

"I hope he never shows up," Vincenzo said, "it would give a whole lot of complications we really don't need. Not to mention the fact that I haven't even told my superiors, so they don't know about all this."

"So who have you told them I am?" Yelara smiled. "And why are you doing this for me? Or are you doing this more for yourself?"

"I haven't told anybody," Vincenzo said, "there's one nurse who knows because she figured it out herself. I know about the need to keep things secret, and for the rest of the staff you are Vaela Jor. Patient-doctor confidentiality still applies. And I'd rather not have done all this work to have you shot by the Jau."

"In that case" --Yelara smiled graciously-- "thank you." She looked up as a nurse entered the room to take Yelara back to her quarters. "You'll let me know the results soon?" she asked Dr. Lapenta.

"First thing tomorrow," Vincenzo said, before she was brought back to her room.

"The Return"
By Connor Moonsgrave

Location: Somewhere in Malastare and Drogen Shipyards
Date: Lythe 28, 5 ABY

***

The ship roared as it hovered above the Malastare, rocky canyons. The crew was looking for their prey. Two men were on the loading area with doors open, with guns in their hands pointing anywhere he was looking.

The two pilots looked to the area, but the area was not visible.

"Captain, where is he?"

"How the hells do should I know? Carl said he entered here."

"And he did!"

The captain of this group of Bounty Hunters looked over to the window. "Ack do you see anything!"

There was silence, no one responded.

"Ack!" The captain repeated and he looked to the outside and couldn't see anything.

"Carl what is happening back there?" the Captain said.

This time Carl did not respond. "Find what has happen to them!"

"Yes Captain." He exited and walked out; there was sound of firing and then a scream that seemed to fade.

The captain was anger to hire such band of imbeciles to capture him and decided to take matter on to his hands, but has he turn to the entrance of the cockpit he saw him. There he was his prey. "Connor Moonsgrave!"

Connor looked to the pilot that was standing. "You did three mistakes." Connor looked to interior of the ship. "First you took the job! Second, you left all your guns in cargo area and third... Coming with only a four man crew, that is fucking insulting."

Connor raised the blaster on his hand and did not waited any reply from the pilot. "Now, before I throw you overboard, you are going to tell me, who set my head for bounty!"

"You told me, what your are going to do with me, so I will not tell you..."

Connor fired the blaster and the energy bolt hit the chair of the captain. He looked surprised.

"Dear captain. I did not specify your condition when throw you overboard. If it was dead or alive. Of course that will depend on your cooperation."

"Okay!" The captain's attitude changed quickly, because he knew Connor meant business. "I only know that the bounty came from Drogen Shipyards."

"Thanks you for your cooperation." Connor took the captain to the cargo area and threw him overboard.

Connors sat at the captain chair and placed the next destination coordinates. The destination was Tae'Karada, more specifically the Drogen Shipyards.

***

The Lodge had become everything that Eeron though was becoming. The new and hottest club of Drogen Shipyards. He could see many people in it dancing at the sound of loud music and a huge line of people waiting to get in on the club The Lodge.

Eeron walked up the stairs into the administrative offices of the Lodge. He walked through the corridor and finally reached his personal office. He open and saw that the lights had been turn off. "Strange. I did not turn off the lights!"

"But I did!"

Eeron was startled by the voice, he turned on the lights and saw man standing near the window looking down to the animation downstairs.

"I told only one person where I was probably going and a month later Bounty Hunters began to come after me on Malastare. I wonder, How much the Jau have paid my pal Eeron to get me for them?" Connor turned to look at Eeron. "Hum... How much?"

Eeron was surprised to see Connor in there, he was happy, but he noticed that he was more darker in the way he looked with his eyes. "I'm sorry placing your head on bounty, but we needed your help."

"Then you send one of the minions of Logan to find me and not place my head on bounty. Thanks to you the Corporate Sector discovered I was alive and they send Troubleshooters after me. Of course I had to kill them in the process and flee to ice cold mountains of Malastare. Now you are going to take the bounty off my head and then I will leave."

"Its Liira!" Eeron said quickly.

"What about Liira?"

"Liira always believed that you were killed by the Jau. She did something foolish against the Jau and she was sent to one of the mines. I was able to use one of my favors to make us had nothing to do with that. I was able to leave the Drogen Front kept in secret."

Connor glanced to the floor thinking of Liira. "Where was she taken?"

"To the desert," Eeron said, but he noticed Connor had never heard of it. "The life expectancy in there is a month. By now she can be dead."

Connor walked near the door passing Eeron. "I will find her and you will take the bounty of my head and you will find a way to get the Corporate Sector off my back."

Connor left the office before Eeron could say anything and walked through the way he came.

He roamed the walkways of Drogen Shipyards, clearly knowing where he was going. He approached one of the former security center of the lower decks that was now under control of the Jau.

He entered it and approached the main desk, where Jau was standing. "What do you want Hu'man?"

"I have question. If I knew someone that angered the Jau, where would that person be sent?"

"If it was days after the invasion he would be killed, by now he would be sent to the mines."

"Good, then I want to give myself up."

"What?"

Connor smiled. "I'm the person responsible for trying to kill Commander Tor'turus."