"From the Rubble"
By: Major Adam Edwards
DB-7 [NPC+]
Minor NPCs

Location: Drogen Shipyards
Date: Selene 2, 4 ABY

***

Having left the control room, Adam was kneeling next to a medic, as the medic treated another soldier who had received a blaster shot. The soldier would be fine, but would need some time in a bacta tank.

Adam had already been by the infirmary. He had refused bacta treatment. His wound wasn't serious, and there were many other soldiers who needed the bacta more than him.

One of Adam's officer's handed him the updated casualty report. The list was getting longer and longer. Drogen had cost them dearly. Almost a third of the New Republic's troops had been lost.

From looking out a nearby viewport, Adam could see that the space battle wasn't any better. A destroyed hulk of a Dreadnaught drifted past. Beyond, the surviving ships were undergoing repair work.

Briefly, Adam wondered if the Elusive was okay. The Lusankya had suffered moderate damage. Could the Elusive been damaged or destroyed in the process?

Adam immediately purged the thought from his mind. One problem at a time. Adam's side burned slightly, which helped take his mind away. He'd have to ask the medic for another pain killer.

No one had seen Anoran or Kir since Anoran had been captured and Kir had gone to look for her. Not that Adam was complaining....

Adam's troops had also captured a number of Imperials. The prisoner's were being held in one of the larger cargo bays. Adam had put DB in charge of a group of soldiers to watch them.

Fishing his comlink from his vest, Adam thumbed it to Captain Lax's channel.

"Caption Lax, have all decks been cleared yet?" Adam asked.

"We're getting there, Major. Almost, but several teams on the lower decks are not done yet," Lax reported.

"Keep me informed," Adam ordered, before shutting the comlink off.

Around him, civilians were becoming more and more frequent. They must be getting out of the safe areas. New Republic soldiers were guarding the secure areas, but the civilians were allowed to return to their homes.

Adam looked around at the destruction and sighed. Anoran had a lot to clean up.

---

"Minor Celebrations, Part 1"
By: Shrezade Anoran
Lerrah Breijal [NPC+]
Tasia Harough [NPC+]
Dresh Kano [NPC+]
Rilanna Kir

Location: Drogen Shipyards
Date: Selene 2, 4 ABY

***

"Look at this place." Reza righted her overturned chair, then smoothed a hand over the top of its leather back. She sighed and waved a thank-you to the officer removing the last of the stormtroopers from her office via repulsor gurney. "This entire room will need to be sterilized." Reza shot Rilanna a grin.

"Twice," Rilanna answered with a grin, then hissed as the medical droid probed her injury. "Do you mind," she snapped at the droid, then sighed. "It's so good to have it all back, even if we have to scrub it down to remove their stench and filth."

Reza smiled with distaste, then called out to the droid collecting the debris created during their fight in the room. "Take the whiskey, too. And burn it." The protocol droid cocked its head to one side in a puzzled gesture, then shuffled towards the cabinet containing the bottles of Bespin Whiskey Major Weyland had substituted her beloved brandy for. Reza sighed and sank down into her chair with legs sprawled and arms dangling over the armrests. "So much to do..." she muttered.

"But we can do it together," Rilanna said as the droid finished up. As it ambled from the room, she moved to one of the chairs across from Reza and sat carefully. "We did it, Reze. We actually did it."

"You doubted me, my dear?" She smiled tiredly, then chuckled and held out a hand towards Rilanna. "I'll need you through this."

"I didn't doubt you for a moment," Rilanna said as she slipped her hand into Reza's. "I'm just glad that we were able to come back together...to... I hated being...distant. I know we can't have what you have with Dresh, but...but I don't know if I could get by without your friendship."

Reza's lips quirked into a shamed smile. "I can't either...and I was arrogant to believe I could." She sighed, and her gaze drifted to the viewport past Rilanna, into space where they'd heard nothing more other than proclamation of the New Republic's victory over Tarkin. There would have been more to celebrate about if she had word on Dresh. "I haven't known him long," she mused, "but there's just something, Ril..."

"I can tell," Ril said. "It's in your eyes when you talk about him, even when you're thinking of him. It's easy to tell. He's safe, Reze. You'll see. He'll contact you soon...it's probably just things with the fight and what's going to happen now that Tarkin's gone. I'm sure he's trying as hard as he can to get in touch with you."

"Well, not hard enough," she muttered. She managed a half-hearted smile. "He'll come back. He promised. Which means we'd better get this place cleaned up for his arrival." Reza rose smoothly, ignoring the protests of her sore muscles. They were not her first priority. "Care to help, Captain?" She smiled. "Our station needs some polishing."

"Gladly," Rilanna said as she stood, hiding a wince. "I'm actually pretty good at cleaning."

"Cleaning," said a voice from the doorway. "Cleaning? Perhaps I should come back another time when there isn't all this cleaning going on."

Reza's head snapped towards the doorway and her lips pulled into a broad grin, even though the haggard-looking, filthy man regarding her bore almost no resemblance to the man she had longed to see. She resisted the urge to fling herself into his arms, and instead quipped, "So, you do keep your promises after all, Captain Kano."

"What kind of man would I be if I didn't keep my promises to the pretty ladies?" He sauntered into the office, and approached Reza, a broad smile on his lips.

"Ril," Reza said absently, holding Dresh's gaze, "would you mind giving us a minute alone? I believe someone somewhere needs some help."

"Not at all," Rilanna said with a smile. "I'll see you soon." Already standing, she just headed for the door, flashing an enigmatic smile to Reza before disappearing out the door.

Once she was gone, Dresh turned fully to Reza and stepped forward. He opened his arms to her. "I know I'm a mess, but I was wondering if we could...you know."

Reza gestured vaguely to her wrinkled clothes and dishevelled hair. "That makes two of us." Then she chuckled and gave into the urge to throw herself at him and have his strong arms encircle her fully. She kissed him, then, greedily and with fervour. "I was worried," she whispered, their lips barely parting.

"I'm sorry I didn't contact you earlier," Dresh said. "As soon as the battle was over, Tallen ordered an emergency debriefing. Then, when the briefing was over, I figured it was easier just to come here. I'd rather hold you in my arms than talk to you over the comm."

Reza sighed and brushed her cheek against his, smiling at the tickle of his stubble and the musky, heady scent of dried perspiration still on his flesh. "This is better," she whispered. "So much better."

"I missed you," Dresh said. "Out there, in my fighter, alone, I really realized just how much I enjoy your presence in my life. I love you, Shrezade."

Her hold on him tightened, and Reza gazed at the wall in her line of sight, when she noticed it blurring; she quickly blinked away the tears washing over her eyes. "Why?" she whispered. "I don't understand it."

"Is there a reason I shouldn't love you, Shrezade? Is there a reason that...that my feelings shouldn't be that deep?"

She chuckled weakly and turned her face into the crook of his neck. "I don't know," she admitted softly. "I mean...it all depends on where we go from here." Hesitantly, she glanced up at Dresh. "Will you stay here? With me?"

"I want to stay," Dresh answered. "They're...they're planning to send me to a moon base, as an administrator and security advisor."

Reza pulled back slowly, and felt her heart clenching within her chest. "What do you mean? Where? And...and are you coming back?" She sighed and looked away, unable to hold his gaze. "You're leaving," she muttered.

"I won't be far," Dresh answered. "The New Republic wants someone to watch over the Tae'Remok sector for awhile, see what happens here and see how things change without Tarkin in control. I don't know if they'll offer membership, the Outer Rim tends to prefer its independence, but the New Republic will certainly help where they can."

Reza sighed impatiently and pushed Dresh fully away. "I don't know what you're saying!" she said. "Dresh, just tell me where you're going and when you're coming back to me. Just tell me!"

"I'll be on Tae'Karada's moon, Domega," he said.

Reza's entire demeanour changed, and instead of impatience bordering on devastation, she now appeared hopeful. "Next door?" she whispered. "You're...going to be just next door?"

Dresh grinned and pulled her back into his arms. "I'll be right next door."

She sighed and melted against him again. "How long will you be gone?" she asked quietly. "And when will you visit?"

"I'll visit as often as I can," Dresh answered. "And, a quick trip by shuttle should make it easy for us to get together. Perhaps, during slow times, I can come and stay here on the station...if you'll have me here, of course."

Reza chuckled. "You fool...of course." She held him in content silence for a time, then sighed and lay her forehead upon his shoulder. "There's so much to do.... But I want to spend time with you before you leave."

"I have a few days before I have to officially go," he said. "Maybe, if you can break away from here, we can go together, to help me get settled into my new office."

Reza smiled. "I'll try. My station's a mess, Dresh."

He glanced around then grinned. "I guess I noticed on the way in. Anything I can do to help while I'm here?"

Reza sighed and shrugged lightly. "Not really." She then smiled up at him and slipped her hand into his. "But I can show you around if you're up for it."

"I'd like that," Dresh said. "It'll be nice to get the grand tour of your station. So, would you like to do that now?"

"And why do I get the feeling you'd rather be doing...other things?" She smiled slyly as her hand caressed his cheek. "I have a shower in my quarters," she told him. "You look like you could use one."

"I have a feeling I smell like I could use one too," he said. "It gets a little stuffy in that cockpit with the flightsuit on. I would be honoured to freshen up for you, my dear."

Reza chuckled and gave his lips a feather light kiss. "And I would be honoured to freshen up with you."

"Oh really," Dresh said with a grin. "Well, since this is my first time here...after you, my dear..."

Tugging gently on his hand, Reza backed away towards the door. She continued watching him as they moved. "You really love me?"

"Really," he said, then he grinned. "I hope you don't mind. I know it's sort of sudden and unexpected, but what can a guy do when his heart just decides on something like that?"

"I don't know," Reza answered coyly. "Give into it?"

"I thought that the best course of action," Dresh said with a smile. "So, that's what I decided to do. And just my luck, I'll be bathing with the most beautiful woman on the station."

"Just the station?" She chuckled silkily, then slipped away, knowing Dresh would follow; she would do the same if positions were reversed, especially for the man she loved. Reza smiled to herself. She was certain of that now, and knew every day apart from him would be as difficult as those hours she spent wondering where he was, or if he'd even survived the battle. Though it would be a while yet before she gathered the courage to confess it to him. "Coward," she muttered fondly to herself.

"Well, most definitely the station," Dresh answered as he followed along behind her, enjoying the chase and the view. "Quite possibly the galaxy, though having not explored the whole galaxy...I can't be entirely certain." He made a show of studying her. "Well, that does it. That sparkle in your eye, that settles it. You are the most beautiful woman who has ever existed."

She grinned slowly, then relented and slid her arm through his. "That's much more to my liking. Come on" --she cocked her head towards a lift-- "we're going up."

"Up," Dresh said with a raised eyebrow, as they started toward the lift. "Actually, I've been feeling that my life's been headed in that direction since I met you. Reza, I want to spend as much time as I can here without jeopardizing my position with the New Republic. Hell, I'll probably end up straining it to the limit, but for you...I don't want to be alone like that again, not after..."

Reza gazed up at him, and smiled ruefully. "Not after," she repeated softly, knowing precisely what it felt like to be separated from a loved one as she had been from Vraner, and as Dresh had been with his lover. "We won't be," she assured him. "We'll work it out, Dresh."

He pulled her into his arms again and kissed her as the door to the lift closed. "Never again," he said softly once the kiss broke.

Reza tenderly caressed his cheek, then pushed her hand back through his hair. "Everything starts fresh from here. I used to be so certain of the future...now I don't know what to expect." She smiled. "I hate surprises."

"Well, let's do our best to keep the surprises to a minimum," Dresh said. "How does that sound?"

Reza nodded approvingly, then grinned and kissed him again, while her hand reached behind him to the control panel. After a time, the lift lurched to a stop and Reza shot him a sly smile. "Since we're here..."

"This is a nice place," Dresh said with a grin and reached out to gently brush his hands along her sides. "So, how long can we stay here before someone begins to wonder?"

"How about we find out?" She chuckled and leaned into Dresh, again catching him in a kiss that he readily returned.

"Here's to finding out." He pulled her to him and decided not to care about anyone else who might want to use the lift. Now was time for them.

***

"No, Elf, power converters first, then we look at the motivators." She shook her head and returned to the damage control monitor. They'd lost a relay during the fight, and now the repulsor drives were misfiring, the ion engines were operating beyond normal operating parameters, and the hyperdrive seemed to be operating below efficiency by a wide margin. "This bucket will never run again."

"And here I thought you could make anything fly," a sultry, female voice commented from behind.

"Tasie!" Lerrah screeched, and spun around so fast, Elf nearly topped from the little platform he was standing upon. "Oh gods, Tasia, it's you!" She rushed forward and leapt, arms and legs spread wide.

Tasia grunted as their bodies connected, Lerrah wrapping her limbs securely around her waist and neck. Struggling to keep them both upright, Tasia staggered backwards, then finally laughed as she came down onto the ground, now embracing Lerrah tightly. "Still as impulsive as ever," she said fondly.

"I wouldn't be me if I weren't," she said with a happy giggle. She pressed her lips to Tasia's. "Oh it's so good to see you. When I heard about the station being under their control, I was so worried. Oh, I'm so glad you're safe."

Tasia smiled at Lerrah and swept an errant strand of brown hair from her brow. "I figured, if I didn't stay safe, I'd never get to rut with you again so...here I am." She chuckled and kissed Lerrah in return, more fully and deeply. "Oh," she sighed. "You still have that mat on your ship? The comfy one?"

"You mean the fun mat? Of course I have it. We had too many good memories there to ever want to get rid of it, especially since it's so comfy. Are you thinking what I'm thinking?"

Tasia grinned as her hands slid over Lerrah's arms. "If I weren't, this would turn into one boring reunion." Chuckling, she kissed Lerrah again. A low purr grew in her throat as her hands found Lerrah's thighs. "Let's go, my jungle cat," she whispered. "It's been a long time."

Lerrah shivered and then laughed. "Oh wow, how is it that you make me feel like that without ever even touching me? You beautiful, beautiful woman. Come on, Elf will make sure we're not interrupted."

After picking themselves up from the ground, Tasia and Lerrah walked hand in hand up the Pride's ramp, exchanging light kisses and smiles at they went. "I missed you," Tasia finally said. "Wasn't any fun around here without someone to get into trouble with."

"I can imagine. It'd get so boring...I don't think I could live like that. Oh, Tasia, you have to meet Rilanna! She's sort of been my...well, I guess my girlfriend, sort of. You have to meet her, I know you'll love her and she's so fun and witty and...oh so sexy. You have to meet her!"

"Really?" Tasia raised an eyebrow at Lerrah. "Meet her as in 'there's room on the mat for one more'?"

Lerrah grinned. "I know I'd like that," she said. "Would you? I mean, if I do and you do, I think together we can convince her. Though, from what I know of her, especially in bed, it may not take much convincing at all."

"Well, then let's invite her," Tasia said readily. "Triple the fun. But," she added with an alluring smile, "let's just you and me catch up for now, hm?"

"Mmm, yes," Lerrah said as she slipped a hand beneath Tasia's shirt, "just us for now. Oh, this is starting to feel very familiar."

"It better, because nothing's changed, my girl." And as a demonstration, Tasia pushed Lerrah up against the wall and pinned her arms back above her head. With a crooked smile, she lowered her lips to Lerrah's neck and worked her way down until she was on her knees with her face levelled to Lerrah's hips. "Like old times," she mused.

"Oh, good times," Lerrah rasped. "I've missed this part. Just like old times."

"Then I'll reacquaint you," Tasia told her, then expertly unfastened Lerrah's pants, tugged them down over her hips and brought a moan from Lerrah as Tasia's face was buried between her legs.

Lerrah's hands clawed at the wall to help keep herself standing. Loud moans echoed in the small room as Tasia's expert tongue set to work. "Oh gods..." she cried.

"Lerrah, Lerrah are you...oh, you are." Rilanna's gentle laugh followed and then, "Oh you most definitely are."

"Oh gods, Rilanna, this isn't what it looks like!"

"Looks like you've got someone's tongue in your pussy."

"Okay, well, yes, it is what it looks like...but this is...oh gods, this is Tasia..."

Rilanna chuckled. "This must be your friend, the one you mentioned."

Lerrah's eyes rolled back in her head, she whimpered, and nodded. "Oh...yes, it's her."

"It's very nice to meet you, Tasia."

The enticing brunette paused briefly in her attentions to Lerrah and gazed up at Rilanna with an inviting smile. "And you as well." Her eyes took in Rilanna's body hungrily. "Oh, you are right, Lerr; she's very sexy. Care to join us, Rilanna?"

Rilanna smiled. "I'm not so sure I should," she said. "Though, it appears the two of you are having quite a bit of fun. I can...cheer you on..."

Lerrah giggled. "Oh, someone's horny. Come on, Tasia, let's give her a show."

Tasia's eyes lingered on Rilanna for a time, then she nodded slowly and focused all efforts on resuming with Lerrah. She had her moaning again within moments.

With her fingers buried in Tasia's hair, Lerrah watched Rilanna, a slow smile on her face. She nodded to Ril and glanced down between her legs. It was very hard to concentrate, but she thought she got her message across. When Ril's hand slipped down to her crotch, Lerrah gave a victorious grin, and blew her lover a kiss, then gave herself over to Tasia.

As one of Tasia's hands caressed Lerrah's thigh, the other blindly reached out to find Rilanna. She glanced aside and their eyes locked as Tasia's fingers brushed over Rilanna's abdomen, then over the hand working between her legs. Tasia would have smiled at her if she could have.

Rilanna reached out with her other hand and brushed it over Tasia's shoulder. She knew she shouldn't be doing this, but...but there was a part of her that wanted it. She heard herself moan, both at her own touch and at the sight before her. She felt herself take a step closer.

Tasia helped her along by hooking a finger over the waist of Rilanna's pants and tugging her forward. She did grin for a moment as Lerrah arched her back from the wall; placing her hand on Lerrah's waist kept the girl from knocking her back. "She always was a wild one," she commented to Rilanna and to herself. "You sure you still don't want to join us?"

"I don't...don't think I can yet...really," Rilanna answered. "But...but I like this. I was injured and...too wild would reaggravate. This is nice, though..."

Tasia smiled skeptically. "Injured.... Never heard that one before." She chuckled and returned her attention to Lerrah, who was whimpering pleadingly for her to continue. Tasia did just that.

"Guy that used to hold the station," Ril answered as she continued trailing her hand over Tasia, "he shot me... Maybe...once I'm okay...I think I'd like that."

"Oh gods, me too," Lerrah rasped.

The gaze Tasia shot Rilanna indicated she was in complete accord. She pushed her hand beneath the hem of Rilanna's shirt and brushed her fingers across her abdomen.

Rilanna sighed dreamily and brought her hand up to Tasia's, covering it. With a moan, she pulled her hand up to her breasts and smiled. She then leaned over and kissed Lerrah, and found Lerrah to be quite enthusiastic, bringing a smile to her own lips. She knew she should go or stop or something, but she couldn't bring herself to do so.

Tasia chuckled deep in her throat, increasing the intensity of her efforts in stimulating Lerrah. At the same time, she attempted to share some of it with Rilanna as well. Once her hand was removed from Rilanna's shirt, Tasia moved it to the waist of her pants and worked open the fastenings adeptly. With Lerrah's cries growing deafeningly louder, Tasia spoke with her eyes to Rilanna, conveying with them her desire and an invitation to join.

It took very little coaxing for Rilanna's hands to move to her hips and push the fabric of her pants down, exposing herself to Tasia's hungry gaze. She felt Lerrah's hands creeping beneath her shirt (or were those Tasia's?), and moaned happily at the beautiful feelings they were giving her. "Yes," she whispered.

That's what I like to hear, Tasia thought, then dipped her fingers between Rilanna's legs and sought the precise spot that would bring out the most moans.

It wasn't long before she was rewarded with the first of many. "I'm usually not this wild," Rilanna said as she inched her top higher, finally to the point where her breasts were exposed to both Tasia and Lerrah. She pressed herself against Tasia's hand, the feelings building within her. Even as she did, though, Lerrah's orgasm struck with the force of a star going nova. Her scream even managed to rouse a questioning tootle from Elf outside. The droid knew well enough to remain where he was though.

---

"Minor Celebrations, Part 2"
By: Shrezade Anoran
Lerrah Breijal [NPC+]
Tasia Harough [NPC+]
Dresh Kano [NPC+]
Rilanna Kir

Location: Drogen Shipyards
Date: Selene 2, 4 ABY

***

Tasia grinned at Lerrah as she slid down against the wall and crumpled onto the ground with legs folded neatly beneath her. Tasia cradled the back of Lerrah's head with a hand as she kissed her deeply, both feeding from the reward of Tasia's efforts. When she pulled back, she was chuckling. "Don't you want to help your friend out, my jungle cat? You did want her to join us, didn't you?"

Lerrah giggled and looked over at Rilanna. "Oh gods," she whispered. "Get her to lie down, and I'll help her...I just need to catch my breath. Make sure she's ready for me...and if you want, sample how...nice she is."

Tasia smiled at her girl, and kissed her forehead before returning her gaze to Rilanna. She gestured with her free hand for Rilanna to come forward, then waved to the floor beneath them. "It's quite comfy...after your mind is focused on other things."

Rilanna smiled and did so, stepping out of her pants, leaving herself wearing only her boots. "I definitely think my mind is focusing on other things," she whispered as she slid down to the floor with Tasia. As Tasia's fingers brushed against her skin, she smiled. "Definitely comfy."

"Definitely," Tasia whispered, then leaned in to brush her lips against Rilanna's. "I saw you today, you know," she said. "After the battle. You were walking in the bay... You were walking with Anoran. I hope that bitch isn't thinking of coming back..."

"She is coming back," Rilanna said softly. "And, you've got it wrong about her. She's not...not like that...not anymore, not really ever. "

"Not really ever?" Tasia chuckled wryly and passed her hands across the tops of Rilanna's breasts. "She was a bitch when I knew her. It's only been a month; I doubt she's changed much."

"She has," Rilanna answered. "I helped her change...she's not like that. And...she's not like that, she's different beneath everything..."

Tasia pulled back slightly to regard Rilanna cynically. "If she had her way, all us lower wage workers would be dead. I don't know what she's been telling you, sweetheart, but she's a damn liar." Then, as if there hadn't been a pause, she pressed her lips to Rilanna's cheek and spread kisses down to her neck.

"She would not," Ril answered, and a moan betrayed her. "She wouldn't do that...she may be cold, but she's not heartless."

"Then you haven't known her long enough," Tasia told her, before moving her lips to Rilanna's chest.

"I've known her long enough," Rilanna answered. "I know what she's like in ways that you couldn't...I know the face she wears in public, and the one in private."

Tasia pulled back again, grinning with intrigue. "In private, hm?" She chuckled as her hands massaged Rilanna's breasts. "What aren't you telling us, dear Rilanna? Is that witch Anoran leading a double life?"

"No double life," Rilanna answered. "She just has to be a different person for business than for pleasure. That's all. No double life."

Tasia grinned slyly as one hand burrowed between Rilanna's thighs and the other gingerly teased one of her hardened nipples. "So she's been telling you.... I've never trusted that woman, and neither should you...no matter how much you seem to adore her."

"You're wrong about her," Rilanna said. "If you haven't taken the time to get to know her, then you're very wrong about her. I've lived with her since we fled, and I know her."

Nodding her head absently, Tasia moved her lips down to Rilanna's stomach, and sighed. "If you know her and admire her," she murmured, her hot breath falling against Rilanna's flesh, "then you'll want to keep your eye on her. Those down below won't appreciate having one tyrant replaced by another." Her mouth brushed across Rilanna's belly button, then dipped lower. "She's got a price on her head, and that bounty will be won, rest assured."

Rilanna moaned, despite herself. "What price?" she asked. "I haven't heard of anything like that. Who put a price on her head? They'll have to get through me to get her, I'll tell you that. They'll have to get through me... Oh gods..."

Tasia chuckled, and retorted, "Yes, I'm sure they will, dear. Now lie back. And stop talking so much."

A loud moan rippled from Ril, and her eyes rolled back as she arched against Tasia's touch. "Oh gods, you're so...so good."

"And I haven't even started," Tasia whispered as her lips hovered over Rilanna's opening. She glanced aside at Lerrah and grinned. As she brushed a hand over her lover's thigh, Tasia administered to Rilanna the same services she had Lerrah. And from her cries, she was enjoying it.

Lerrah grinned and edged forward, placing gentle kisses on Tasia's shoulder. "Is there really a price on her head?" she asked. "She's so...infuriating sometimes, you know."

"If there isn't yet," Tasia replied during a short break in the act, "there will be. No one wants her around, Lerr. There'll be someone who wants to kill her."

"Maybe," Lerrah said. "But, as long as she minds her own business, we're fine, right? We can just be together, and not worry anymore...about anything...now that we have each other."

"We're not the ones who have to worry," Tasia told her gently. "Just the bitch, Anoran." She smiled her radiant smile and patted Lerrah's thigh. "Don't worry about it. Now, get down here and help your friend out. She's beginning to squirm."

"Oh," Lerrah cooed, "which part do I get? Isn't she beautiful, Tase? And...oh god, just everything...doesn't she just make you so horny?" She moved to Ril's chest and started working at her breasts with lips and tongue.

"Not as much as you do, my jungle girl," Tasia replied fondly, and with one hand idly caressing Lerrah's thigh she returned her mouth to the folds between Rilanna's legs and attempted to reward her for deciding to play along after all.

"She has a beautiful scream," Lerrah said with a grin. "You know that spot you found on me that nearly gives me an instant orgasm? Go just above that, and it does the same to her."

Tasia raised an eyebrow at Lerrah and pointed to the spot. At Lerrah's nod, Tasia grinned and lowered her lips to the directed location. Rilanna's ensuing scream shook Tasia's eardrums and reverberated throughout the room. She was certain she'd hit the mark.

"I think Shrezade found that spot one night too," Lerrah said with an impish grin. "Though, they never invited me, so I can't be sure."

Tasia ignored Lerrah, who always had had a nasty habit of speaking during intimate activities, and focused on Rilanna. She was tense, that was for certain, and in dire need of release. Someone had gotten her wound tight, that was for sure.

Rilanna slipped her legs over Tasia's shoulders and cried out again. She dug her fingers into Tasia's hair and tried to pull her closer, but couldn't manage to bring her as close as she needed. Her orgasm, however, was very very close. She felt the beginning of it, and her cries grew louder, nearly delirious. "Oh gods, yes!"

Taking it as an urging, Tasia redoubled her efforts. With her sensitive lips and tongue, she felt Rilanna trembling in preparation for release. She wound her arms around Rilanna's thighs to steady her then forced her over the edge.

Rilanna's resulting scream was filled with lust-soaked release as she threw her head back and arched her back off the mat. By the time she finished, her voice was growing hoarse, but her eyes were glazed from her pleasurable release. Her body finally stopped quivering and she let out a shuddering sigh. "Oh gods," she whispered.

Tasia grinned as she gazed up at Rilanna from between her legs. "Yeah...I've been called that before," she quipped. After pressing a kiss to Rilanna's folds, one that elicited a residual shudder from the girl, Tasia sat up and admired Rilanna for a time. "Do you really share yourself with Anoran?"

Rilanna sat up and shook her head. "No," she said. "We almost have a couple times, and we care for each other...but she has someone already. They're together now, and probably making a mess of her office all over again. She's not the witch you think she is...not all the time, and not to everyone."

"Only to those she's not screwing?" Tasia winked knowingly at Lerrah, then lightly patted Rilanna's knee. "I thought Anoran was a prude...and now she's got a fling with two people at once, and one of them a woman, of all things. You sure she's not an imposter you picked up during your travels?"

Rilanna laughed. "No, I think she's the real deal. I think she just realized that it's much better to have people close than to be lonely and alone."

"She's very jealous of me," Lerrah said as she slid herself closer to Tasia. "She doesn't like that Ril and I are so close."

"Well, she'll have nothing to worry about," Tasia told her as one arm came around her waist. "Because I'm back and we'll be spending a lot of time together now."

Lerrah purred with delight. "Do you still have that special room in your quarters? I liked that room. It was a perfect place to be very naughty."

"Of course I do," she told her. "And no one else has visited it since you left me, my naughty jungle girl."

"Do you think Rilanna would like it?" Lerrah asked. "She's not a naughty jungle girl, but she is wild...and I know how much you like wild girls."

"If she wishes to join us," she replied while again admiring Rilanna, "then I see no need to deny her the pleasures she will encounter there."

Lerrah leaned across Tasia and kissed Rilanna. "You'd like to join us, wouldn't you, Ril? It'll be very fun, and you'll forget all about that ache Shrezade teases you with. Me and Tase, we'll take care of you."

Rilanna nodded. "Yes."

"Good," Tasia announced with a broad grin. "You two get back your strength, and we'll all go there for a little victory celebration. Hm?"

Rilanna nodded and looked at Tasia. "Though, this time, you get a treat too. I'm sure Lerrah and I can get you to scream."

She leaned forward, challenging her with a smile. "We'll see about that, sweetheart."

"Don't worry, Ril," Lerrah said with a grin. "I know a few spots. I think with both of us, we can get her screaming and orgasming non-stop. Wouldn't you like that, my beautiful Tasia?"

"Oh, I would," she agreed, nuzzling her lips to Lerrah's cheek. "The screams are the best part."

"The screams are the best part," Lerrah said with a gasp as Rilanna's hand slipped between her legs. "What time should we meet you at your quarters? And, do you want us to bring anything for the fun tonight?"

"23h30," Tasia replied as she gracefully rose. "Just bring yourselves; I've already got all the toys." She winked alluringly at the two women, and departed with Lerrah's moans rising behind her.

Rilanna's attention was too focused on Lerrah to pay attention to Tasia's departure. She did find the woman intriguing, and looked forward to finding out what the future would bring them.

***

From the bottom of the turbolift floor, Dresh Kano sighed happily. He plucked up the bra, draped over his arm, and set it aside and then slid his hand along the bare thigh belonging to the content woman next to him. "That was a heck of a welcome back," he said with a smile.

"I hope no one's waiting for the lift..." Reza chuckled and pressed her lips to his exposed chest, before laying her head upon it. "That was for defending my station so valiantly," she said with a sigh.

Dresh laughed. "The kiss, or...everything else?" He trailed his lips over her shoulder. "I must say that everything else was nice...very nice. Do you think it would be too much if I required living space here on the station? For when I am here?"

"I would be offended if you didn't," she replied. Her fingers traced the pattern of muscles along his upper arm, and she smiled at the memory of those strong arms holding her. "I'll set a room aside...unless you'd just prefer to stay with me when you're aboard the station."

"If you'd like that, I know I'd like it very much. It'll give us more time together."

"It would," she agreed with a curt nod. Then, she gazed up at him and laughed lightly. "You're a bad influence on me. You and Rilanna both. If this were any other time in my life, I would never have made such an offer to a man I've known only a few days."

"A little bad influence is good every now and again," Dresh said with a grin. "You don't seem too upset about it. You liking being a little on the impulsive side?"

Reza smiled guiltily and looked away. "I refuse to answer that." With a sidelong glance back at him, she added with a purr and a light caress between his legs, "Not without a little coaxing."

"Well, well," he said with a grin, "that sounds like a request. I would be remiss in my duties as your lover to pass up such an opportunity." He slid himself along her body, enjoying the sensations of their skin sliding against each other. "Just a little warning, I've always been known to go above and beyond the call of duty."

Reza grinned as her free hand caressed his cheek. "I'm a woman with high expectations," she quipped. "I would be insulted if you gave me anything less than that."

"Well, here's to never insulting you," Dresh said with a smile. He entered her again, earning a pleasure-filled gasp and moan in the process. "You do have a big bed, right?"

"Huge," she whispered thickly, then hooked her arms beneath his and clasped his shoulders for leverage. She cried out briefly as her back arched to perfectly align their bodies and increase the tactile connection. "Oh gods," she whispered. "A very big bed...and a chef." She gasped softly, but not from the pleasure this time. "I hope he's still alive. He was extraordinarily talented."

"Good food, good company...we've got it made."

There was a thump above them, but Dresh paid it no mind. Repair crews were banging around all over the station; as long as they didn't make too much noise, they would be fine.

"Should we stop?" she asked, though her increasingly tight hold on Dresh indicated she would rather not. "Someone must be working to get this thing started."

"Or they might be clearing debris from the deck above us," Dresh said. "They won't bother us. Come on..."

Reza gazed up into Dresh's sparkling, grey eyes, and smiled. "I'm coming," she told him playfully, then kissed him deeply. She didn't mind that the floor of the lift was hard and uncomfortable; being with Dresh made up for all of it.

"Not yet," Dresh said with a grin. "But soon."

With that, he sped up their rhythm and her moans and cries started to mingle with his. So intent on each other, they nearly failed to hear the release of a pressure hatch and then a startled gasp followed by a chuckle. A head popped in from above. "Everything alright in here?"

Reza frantically hid her face against Dresh's chest and wriggled beneath him to fully conceal herself. "I told you someone would show up!" she whispered.

Dresh looked up at the person staring down at them, a stupid grin creasing his plain face. "Do you mind? Just take your face and go stick it in someone else's lift."

"Uh, none of the other lifts have quite a...show. Heh." The squawk of a comlink sounded and the man above them said something into it. The sound of laughter could be heard. "If you're not gone in six seconds, I'll drag you behind my fighter in hyperspace."

"You got a nice ass, guy, but I'm hoping for another look at the lady. Nice teets if I've ever seen 'em."

"Oh, you dolt," snapped Reza, regaining an ounce of her confidence, which was more than enough to reveal her face and sneer up at the man. "If you're not out of here in a nanosecond, I will have your job. I was responsible for approving your employment, and I can void it any time I wish as Administrator of this station. You decide which you'd prefer: to continue watching for a glimpse of my 'teets' or continue working on this station. Choose quickly; I have very little patience, as you may know."

The man peered down into the lift and frowned. "You had longer hair," he said. "Uh...I'm going...uh...they...they are nice...lucky guy...bye." With that, they could hear him scrambling above to get away.

Reza sighed and returned her focus to Dresh, who was grinning broadly. She shrugged dismissively and said, "Having authority always has its privileges..." Then, chuckling, she lightly slapped his rear to get him going again. "Where were we?"

Dresh started working back into the rhythm they'd found. "I think...right about here."

Reza sighed and relaxed into the easy pace of making love to Dresh. Being with him made all her troubles insignificant, even though there was much to do. But, he loved her and Reza still couldn't fathom that. And Rilanna loved her as well. All of that would take some getting used to, especially since she had thought herself destined to be alone for the rest of her days; now, she had two lovers. She smiled to herself as Dresh took her again to a climax that echoed off the turbolift's walls. She wasn't alone, and she was happy. Everything else would easily fall into place.

---

"Almost Ready To Go!"
By: Robin Black [NPC+]
Sardina [NPC]

Location: Yelldon Spaceport, New Plouton
Date: Selene 2, 4 ABY

***

Robin pulled the wrench hard until the bolt tightened into position. "Man this is hard work," he muttered to himself. The ship was pretty much ready to go. The fighting in the air had silenced for a while and the Imperial troops had all been routed. He flicked some switches and listened as the Hastur powered up.

"Mr. Black?" a voice called from down the gangway. Robin grabbed his gun like quicksilver and pointed it down the gangway.

"Who's asking?" Robin called down. His teeth were gritted tightly.

"My name is Sardina, I have been sent by my employer to acquire your services," she said, standing at the bottom of the gangway prim and proper.

Robin walked down slowly, his gun still in hand. At the bottom of the gangplank he caught sight of the woman. She was dressed as many a business woman: long black skirt, jacket and white blouse, she wore glasses perched on the end of her nose and her dark black hair was pulled back into a tight bun.

"What can I do you for?" Robin asked, lowering his weapon but still keeping it in hand.

"I am sent by the same man who sent the two goons yesterday." She nodded, "I have been asked for you to come and meet my employer." She bowed her head submissively. Sardina had once been in the employment of the Imperials; she had worked in the palace until five days ago when the New Republic had suddenly become a serious threat. During that time of chaos and confusion she had slipped away. She had thought she was safe, until Jack Black had approached her - not him personally; he never left the office it seemed but two of his goons, the two who were now dead by Robin's hands. She had never got Jack's name but had picked it up from his files. Also it hadn't taken a genius to work out where all the credits had come from. She had not reported her boss because she could see his potential for power, a power she would be a part of.

"Would your employer be a tall dark man very thin and very ill?" Robin asked. "Because I think I know what my brother wants."

"How do you know my employer is your brother?" she asked. "For I do not even know his name."

"There is only one person on this planet who knows of me, and that is him." Robin shrugged.

"Well it is not my place to say if you are right or not, but he has offered a sum of money for your services."

"I need no money," Robin spat, "I'm getting this ship fixed and I'm out of here."

"I'm afraid that my employer will probably not like that," she reported, her voice still without emotion. "And I would not like you to come to any harm."

"What do you care?" Robin asked.

"I-I feel that you may be the one to save your brother." Her voice broke.

"Huh?" Robin asked. He looked at this woman and began to realize she liked his evil brother, she liked the man who would kill his own twin just to get ahead, she liked a man who would destroy a planet for power, who would kill for control. Robin paused. He had to admit he still loved his brother. "I used to think my brother could be saved."

"He can," she insisted. "I know evil men, I worked with them, he is not one at heart."

Robin shook his head. "If you are in his company, I suggest you leave before he tries to kill you."

Sardina stood up straight and turned away. "I will say you're not coming then."

"No." Robin nodded and walked up the gangway into the Hastur.

Sardina looked up at the ship and shrugged. She had tried everything she knew to turn Robin but nothing had worked. Time to return to the office.

Robin watched her leave through the main view port. He breathed a sigh. She was a beautiful girl if somewhat naive. Robin sighed. Could he let another innocent die by his brother's hands? Robin looked down at his hand; he still held the pistol. He looked at the fleeing woman. He would have to end his brother's reign.

---

"The Calm After"
Jack Black
Sardina [NPC]

Location: New Plouton
Date: Selene 2, 4 ABY

***

Jack Black leaned back on the plush Bantha hide chair, and looked around his office. With the money from the raid on the banks, he had bought himself a position in the business society of New Plouton no questions asked. For Jack the destruction of the Imperial controllers had been a blessing; most of his criminal files would be lost and he would be able to disappear, for a while. Jack had been busy his last two weeks. He had escaped the jungle with barely his life; having the three droids with him had been an unexpected bonus.

Jack turned the dial on his respirator up. Ever since the journey through the jungle Jack's health had been destroyed. Actions he had found easier before the fateful day he now found extremely arduous. What he had lost in health he had made up for in wealth and power. Jack brought up a computer file and his deft fingers flickered across the control panel. An alien creature, humanoid in appearance resolved. The face of the beast was grotesque, its features were twisted into a permanent snarl; the beast's skin was a thick scaly hide, horns and spikes jutted from all angles of the creature's face. The creature's DNA pattern floated beside it. Jack had spent a lot of time and money searching for the perfect soldier and now he had found it. The Heron were the basic creatures, their hides were laser resistant, they lacked the knowledge or the cognitive capacity to actually be soldiers but genetic re-sequencing and military training could take care of that. Jack had already made preliminary contact with a race of cloners out beyond New Republic's jurisdiction; there they could construct his army in secret.

Jack looked at his funds; he would need to build up a substantially more amount before he could even hope to create a single legion. Jack closed the computer file and called in his secretary.

Jack's secretary was human looking and fairly attractive. Jack hadn't chosen her for the eye candy; her species was capable of multi tasking, an ability uncommon in the galaxy. Jack didn't look up as she entered. Her features were sharp. She wore a dark suit. Her dark features were pulled back as she looked down at her computer file and began tapping away.

"Sardina, I would like you to contact this planet and send them file 121. Also transmit a warm greeting to the 'liberators' of this city and offer them whatever services they need for their liberation of the city, then of course delay anything they ask for so we don't have to actually give them anything." Jack smiled

"Yes, sir." She looked down at her file. "You have a meeting in twenty, sir, but your underworld contacts have reported a failure in squiring the services of a Robin Black."

Jack's eyes behind the oxygen mask didn't even flicker. "I expected as much." He paused and tapped his finger against the desk for a moment or two. "I believe he will be working on a ship known as Hastur in the local shipyard. I want you to go there and talk with him."

"Sir should I have back up?" she asked. "I'm not a trained soldier, and the two you sent after him were quite strong."

Jack raised his hands. "Sardina, you will not need any muscle. Just ask him to come here and see me. He may refuse but don't push the issue; he's not that important."

"Yes, sir." She saluted and turned to walk away.

"Sardina," Jack called after her. "This is not the military, no saluting here!" Jack commanded.

He then turned back to his screen and started up the computer. The Imperial forces were defeated; they were fleeing in all directions as the New Republic ships began to land. Jack could almost feel sorry for the Imperial fools.

---

"Darkness Within"
Robin Black [NPC+]
Jack Black
Sardina [NPC]

Location: New Plouton
Date: Selene 2, 4 ABY

***

Robin Black knelt beside the hover car on the edge of town watching as the flaming sun set over New Plouton behind him. Robin brushed back his short brown hair, looking out over the desert plains. He leaned back against the rented hover car. He could feel something brewing beneath the surface. The war had come to an end earlier that day but Robin's sixth sense was buzzing. Surely something as formidable as the Empire would not go quietly into the night.

Soon the blazing ball of light dipped beneath the horizon leaving only an orange glow in the sky for Robin to navigate back to the space dock. Robin arrived and drove his car between the silhouetted ships towards the Hastur. His ship was primed and ready to launch, but to where? Robin had made his life as a smuggler against the Imperials. Robin considered the prospect of taking his old job up again. Could he in good conscience defy the New Republic? Robin considered it for a moment, but his mind wandered as he climbed out of the hover car. There was also his brother and that woman, Sardina.

Robin pulled the hatch closed behind him and checked the lock. He walked through the command deck and slumped into a control seat. He looked across at the co-pilot's chair. Jack's old respirator lay discarded on the chair. Jack hadn't used it for a long time; he had needed a more powerful respirator in recent years. Jack hadn't used it since Tatooine; that had been a lifetime ago.

"I will not leave you, my brother," Robin vowed. "Nor will I let you kill any more innocents."

***

Across the city, another figure was watching the night sky through the black lenses of a respirator mask. Inside, the pale face of Jack Black was grimaced in thought. He now had, in only a few days slipped into the business world of New Plouton. Jack leaned against his long iron staff, a staff he had been dependent on since his time in Imperial custody.

Jack heard Sardina enter the room quietly. "You've returned," he uttered. Sardina thought she had been silent. Jack turned around; his long black velvet robes swept across the ground. A loud metal thud made Sardina jump as Jack used his staff to walk across the room.

"You have failed to bring Robin Black here." Jack's voice was calm and level.

"He knows who you are, Jack," she said simply.

"And apparently so do you." She nodded, her hands clasped in front of her.

"You risk a lot in revealing your knowledge." Jack's voice lowered to a hiss.

"I can be of great use to you, Jack," she said with a slight bow of her head. She walked forward. "I know your plans for a new army, I have read all of your files, I know how you financed yourself." She stopped only a foot away from Jack; Jack was taller but slightly stooped.

"And you will help me how? By not telling the New Republic?"

"I will not tell anyone, as long as I share in the power you gain."

"If you think you know me then you will know I don't share power easily." Jack smiled, "However you are right, I do need help, for now."

She smiled. "Then we have an alliance." She reached forward with her hand to shake Jack's hand. Jack looked down at the hand but didn't raise his hands. Instead he turned away.

"Your first task as my ally, is to kill Robin," Jack ordered.

"Your brother!"

"Yes, I predict he will become a nuisance, and he will need to be dealt with." Jack stamped his staff and then exited the room.

***

Sardina entered her quarters in the less respectable side of town. Her mind was buzzing. During her time in Jack's office she had come to see him as a cruel man. It had felt like the hand of fate had been on her shoulder as she had maneuvered around Jack's clever words and had come out alive.

She looked down at the writ that Jack had given her, a bounty for Robin Black wanted dead, no money for a live capture.

She stepped into her apartment. Robin was clearly the stronger brother, physically if not mentally, but Robin had a kindness about him, sincerity. With Jack every word was a double meaning. She already felt like she was living on borrowed time. She could just flee to the space port and run away with Robin; he would probably let her tag along. She paused. Jack would put a bounty on her and she couldn't live like that.

She entered her apartment and slumped down on the bed. She breathed a sigh of relief. She had survived the day. A bleep made her turn her head. Beside her was a small maintenance droid. She looked at the droid briefly; there were many of these little critters around the city all doing work. However she had never had one come into her apartment. She then realized that it was Jack's way of getting rid of her. The droid began a whirring. Lacking another option Sardina threw herself out of the window. Just as her apartment became a fireball.

***

Jack Black looked through his monitor calmly. She would have been a pain; there was no way she would have kept quiet. Jack turned to a second thug showing the screen. "Now you see what happens to those who ask too many questions."

The thug nodded.

"Now go and deal with my brother," Jack ordered.

---

"Parting Shots"
By: Shrezade Anoran
Major Adam Edwards

Location: Drogen Shipyards
Date: Selene 2, 4 ABY

***

Adam stepped over a piece of overturned equipment as he made his way to Anoran's quarters. He had taken another pain killer, and his wound had now been properly bandaged. The burning had subsided, but there was still an ache in his side.

Adam was in no hurry to see that woman again, but he had the full report of the damage Drogen had sustained, and it was his job to give it to her.

Edwards found Reza's quarters and pressed the door chime.

The response was slow in coming, and when the door slid aside, a robe-clad Anoran appeared, with hair still slightly damp from a recent shower, though in the background it could still be heard running. She met Adam with a raised eyebrow and a disinterested glance, then folded her arms tightly over her chest. "So, you survived after all," she retorted. "Come to quell my fears that you'd been killed?"

Edwards shuddered slightly at the sight of Anoran in a robe, but put it aside. He smiled, a humorless smile, before handing her the datapad.

"Believe me, I'd rather be dead than here. That datapad has the complete damage report my engineers made of Drogen. Looks like you've got a lot of work ahead of you," Adam said.

Reza sighed airily and gave the padd a cursory perusal. "No matter. I was planning on renovating anyway." She smiled tightly at the major. "Thank you at any rate. Now, is there anything else?"

Adam sighed. As much as he disliked this woman, the station was better off. "Didn't even expect you to come out alive in this battle, Anoran. I'm glad you got your station back," he said.

Reza couldn't help a skeptical chuckle. "You're glad? I always thought you'd rather see me dead than alive. A change of heart, Major?"

"Not a chance. Just remember, if your station is taken over a second time, don't call me," Adam said, smiling.

Reza grinned shrewdly. "Don't worry, Major, you'll be last on my list. Now...if you wouldn't mind.... I have a guest."

Adam visibly shuddered at the thought of the poor soul who got himself trapped in that situation. Holding back a comment, Adam merely nodded.

"Good day, Anoran."

She watched the man depart with a curious chuckle, then shook her head and stepped back into the room, wondering what miracles more shocking than Major Edwards and she sharing a civil conversation would come next.

---

"Celebrating Or To Not Celebrating"
by Tifa Alexandros Lionheart [NPC+]
Brigadier-General Freya [NPC]
and Major Nealis [NPC]

Location: Yelvin, New Plouton
Date Selene 2, 4 ABY

***

Tifa was tired and so were her men. The battle of the day before had left them exhausted. She looked and saw that at the fights against the Imperial Garrison had a lot of collateral damage.

She was somewhat happy to celebrate the victory of the New Republic on the planet as well as on space, but part of her didn't want to celebrate at all. Since she was the one in charge on the building, she saw that it was her duty to place every single dead corpse and line them up as to identify them. The people that had survived this war worked the entire night to collect the corpses of their former friends and companions.

Tifa saw quite a difference between the troopers and people coming out to the street, dancing and singing since they were happy for Tarkin's Rule being finally over. Some people approached her, hugged and kissed her, calling her an angel to set the people free, but the troopers also had this look. They were content but they also grieved, as victory had come at the cost of many New Republic and Gallorian troopers' lives. To Tifa and to the majority of the troopers it was a victory but it was also a defeat...

Tifa looked to the sky. She stood there simply looking to the blue sky without thinking of anything, just simply admiring the blue sky...

"It is beautiful, isn't it, Captain?" someone next to her said.

Tifa looked and saw it was Scope. "What?"

"The sky?" Scope nodded.

"Yes, it is. It reminds me of the sky that existed in Alderaan. It seems to take my mind elsewhere. It's like my whole family is there watching over me," Tifa said.

"General Freya wants you to know that General Erwen has still not reported as scheduled," Scope said.

"Not yet? They were supposed to report when they took the palace," Tifa stated.

"I know! Both Generals are working on it. They will find them..." Scope replied.

"I hope so, because I'm tired. This battle has left me exhausted! I only hope that the imps are defeated same as here! Those were more than enough fights for me!" Tifa sighed. "I only want to take a hot shower and get a warm bed to rest!"

"Me too! But the General wants you to find them," Scope stated. "The day is not over yet..."

Tifa and Scope walked to the command center. Once they arrived they looked to the Generals that were still dealing with reports with numbers of dead and missing troopers. Tifa made her way over along with Scope.

"Captain. As you were!" General Freya said. "You will pick up five people and go to Arcadia and try to find the rest of our forces. Is that understood?"

"Yes, sir..." Tifa said, being interrupted as a trooper ran towards them, still catching his breath.

"General, we found a trooper injured a few miles from here. They are bringing them here. He says he is from Major Nealis' platoon of the Gallorian forces that was dispatched to the Palace," the trooper informed.

"Very well." the New Republic General paused, turning to Tifa. "Brigadier-General Freya stay here and continue with your work. Captain Tifa, you're with me. Let's talk to that Major!"

Tifa and the General walked as they saw some troopers helping him out with his injury on the left arm. Tifa saw them taking him to the medical wing, putting him just outside the hospital tent, since the tent was already full of wounded people.

"Major Nealis, I presume?" the General asked.

Major Nealis looked up and saluted his superior. "Yes, General, I am Major Nealis. Sorry for not getting up, sir, but I'm in a lot of pain..."

"Not at all! Care to explain what happened in Arcadia?" the General asked as Tifa stood next him.

"Well, we arrived to Arcadia as scheduled. We set our position and moved towards the Palace. When he arrived we saw that there had been a previous fight, since many bodies could be found in the premises. We stood there, glancing to the destruction around us, when Brigadier-General Erwen ordered us to attack the palace, since she had orders to take the place. Which, I may add, was a bad call."

"Why do you think it was a bad call?" Tifa asked, taking the words out of the General's mouth.

"Because whatever the attacker was, we had a common enemy. Anyway, we made the attack, and of course a lot of Gallorians died..." Nealis said, then pausing as a Medical trooper placed some bacta liquid on his wound to clean it. "Then, out of nowhere, a man with dark clothes passed our defensive line and was able to reach our command center. He said his name was Liam Zaneth and that he was the new Emperor Regent. He ordered us to retreat or his troopers would fire upon us. General Erwen said that it was impossible but that if he liked she could contact the New Republic to see if the orders continued and whether we should or not proceed. The Emperor was quite angry!"

"What happened then?" the general asked.

"Well, eventually a Senator of the New Republic that was monitoring the fight ordered us to help out New Republic army on New Plouton."

"That does not explain why you didn't respond to our communications," Tifa stated.

"That is not the end of it, Sir. When we were on our way here, we were almost reaching the frontier when we were pinned down by Stormtroopers. They managed to destroy our AT-ATs and the AT-ST walkers. We were surrounded by stormtroopers almost the entire night. We were taking quite a blow! We wanted to request help but they managed to silence our comms."

"What happened?" the General asked.

"We held our position but taking heavy losses..." Nealis paused. "We lost Brigadier-General Erwen in the middle of the night. Almost the entire force was slaughtered. We were rescued by the Emperor's forces when the sun raised."

"Ok. Do you know how many men survived? I have to send a report," the General asked.

"I'd say only survive about 30 troopers, the rest are dead. The survivors are being transported here by New Republic troopers."

The General nodded and walked way. Tifa followed him.

"Captain. Prepare for the arrival of those survivors. I forgot how many troopers was that force supposed to have?"

"About 500 troopers, Sir!" Tifa said.

"That is a lot of casualties! I wish to know why did it take so long for the Emperor's forces to help them." The General paused. "Anyway, I will present the report to my superiors and warn them about this new Emperor. And Captain, I will personally say this. We could use a woman like you in our ranks!"

"Thank you, Sir!" Tifa said with a smile.

The General walked away, leaving Tifa with a smile. At last she was going to serve the New Republic. Tifa gathered a few troopers to help out the survivors that were coming. She knew that her rest would take a while and the celebration was postponed by a few hours. They had to celebrate one way or the other, but at least there was comfort in seeing the people that lived on this planet celebrating. At least she could enjoy that there was one more planet free from Imperial tyranny.

---

"To Sleep, To Dream, To Forget That Pain"
By: Karma Arien

Location: Rebel base, New Plouton
Date: Selene 2, 4 ABY

***

By the time the transport reached the base, Karma had totally given into that blurred pain induced haze. She didn't notice when they moved her from the transport to the infirmary. So it came as a bit of a surprise to learn that it was now very early on the morning of the second.

Vaguely something she remembered correlating from other bits of info several hours or days ago, during their mission briefing. Not enough however to immediately register in Arien's thoughts as her mind and body struggled to adapt to their new surroundings.

Recent events were a jumbled mess. Ones that Karma didn't exactly feel like reliving. So many things had gone right and so many more had gone wrong. Not just on the recent mission but on throughout her life as well.

Victory can be bitter sweet, the though echoed in Karma's mind with resounding clarity. Pain medication and general exhaustion fought to win out over consciousness. She needed the rest but didn't exactly want the dreams that usually surfaced.

The Rebels may have won this time, but Karma Arien still felt like something was missing. It didn't end for her with this particular victory.

She still had a long way to go in rebuilding her own life. Many obstacles to overcome mixed with other victories. All Karma could do was take things one step at a time, little by little. Nothing happened quickly. After all Rome wasn't built in a day, as an old adage reminded her.

For now that meant healing from the mission. Part of that required her to get some rest. There would be time to celebrate this particular triumph a bit later.

---

"Liberty City"
by Jemul, Resident Jawa

Location: New Plouton
Date: Selene 2, 4 ABY

***Apothecary Shop***

The apprenticeship was going well. and Jemul was adapting to his new role. Jemul kept a low profile during the fighting, but three months into the battles his mentor suddenly died, leaving the Jawa with his shop and belongings to deal with. Not having the skills to run the shop, Jemul decided to sell it to an off worlder.

He now had enough 'legitimate' money to launder that obtained in the robbery. And he put it to good use. He purchased a large track of land outside the city, which had already been terraformed for future expansion. And the Jawas ventured through Commerce city searching for the right people for an immense task.

After a week, Jemul (who abandoned his alias after his teacher died) had found the right artist and commissioned a large statue. The finished item would depict citizens fighting for liberation from the dying Empire. Other artists and workers were hired to make a large fountain for the statue to rest as a centerpiece. Still more people would construct a government hall and housing complexes. By the time the liberation succeeded, the people of Tae 'Karada would have a new city to populate in celebration, inspired by the patriots themselves.

Jemul took care of planning. It was going well. Using a fraction of his money, he hired a drop ship and a pilot to secure off-world materials for the construction. He also laid in a supply of Ewok fireworks, the grandest of any in known space.

***Liberty Square***

Yes! Things were grand indeed! The statue was impressive, and spouts of water emphasized its design. The government hall was similar to the old palace, but less ostentatious in scale. It was attractive without seeming imposing. Similarly, the newly made housing units gleamed in the sun, and were clearly useful and of functional design.

Reports indicated the fighting would be done soon, and the new City of Liberty would await those who proved victorious.

---

"Party at Cantina 38, Part 2"
by Fliir Lavrai - Recovery Specialist - Scoundrel

Location: Yallder District, New Plouton
Date: Selene 2, 4 ABY

***

Fliir had some apprehensions about the place, as well as several good reasons for returning. Last time he'd been here he'd left in a hail of blaster bolts and blaster cannon shots, going out through a roof hatch while the Cantina was under Imperial Stormtrooper assault. Still, tonight was far different, and it was the only place he'd found in Yallder with Nepamarn Brandy. He got in through the door only with difficulty. Packed house tonight - not really surprising given the recent victory over the Imperials.

Fliir had not been able to stay as aloof from the conflict as he'd originally thought. After the previous incident at this same Cantina, and he could still see some hastily repaired scars from the fracas despite the crowd, he'd briefly joined a para-military outfit. They'd actually saved him from arrest by attacking a Stormtrooper patrol that had snagged him on another night as he wended his way back from yet another fruitless information gathering search. Oddly enough, the leader of the group was the same Gungan bartender who had followed Fliir out of Cantina 38 amid all the blaster fire, which was of course, why they bothered to rescue him at all.

Pushing his way to the bar, Fliir caught Drissam Torc's googly eye. With a meter wide grin, and dangerously flying ears that other servers had to duck, Drissam whirled away from the Bothan he was serving, and caught up a bottle on his way to Fliir. "Fliir, my rescuing friend," he trilled, "I been looking for you! You got to try dis stuff here!" With that he pushed a misty green bottle on the bar in front of Fliir. Fliir scanned the label, which proclaimed it, "Omian Chout Ale - traditional brewing." From whose tradition, was his first thought, but this was buried under a hug from Drissam. "Mmmff," he protested, finally freeing himself, yet still with his own big grin pasted on he was sure. "Drissam, you should have hugged those last stormtroopers like that, they might have run away!"

Drissam chortled, "Yah, but day looks lots better dead, my fren." Their impromptu outfit had assaulted a Stormtrooper outpost there at the end of things. The unusually well conceived assault had capitalized on recruiting locals whose business took them past the station all the time. This had not only permitted excellent reconnaissance, but facilitated many members approaching the station under the guise of a normal work morning. Surprise had been total, and not many stormtroopers had escaped. While their contribution had been minor in the bigger scheme of things, they still felt fully justified in celebrating the great event. He and Drissam spoke for only a short time more before Drissam moved on to serve more of the throng.

Fliir himself turned to observe the room, as he went through the motions of opening the misty green bottle. Lifting it by its slim neck, he provided the inhabitants with their own anonymous toast, they deserved this victory, they most certainly did. "Whoa," he thought, lowering the bottle and focusing for the first time on what was actually in it. "This stuff was good. Maybe Nepamarn Brandy had a competitor here." Fliir's thoughts turned to his own mission. The terrain here had now changed drastically. Yet it remained complex. First off, he'd heard more than one story of tensions between New Republic and Arraegan Forces. He was not sure how this would play for his particular situation. Of course he hoped the Jedi would now come out in the open where he could more easily contact them. That said, he also hoped the Jedi also were not split into factions, some supporting the New Republic, and the others supporting the Arraegans. Lastly, he hoped that none of the local powers would not place obstacles in the way of his project.

Well, at any rate tomorrow would see some of the proof in the pudding. He planned to establish a trading company. The company would serve as a legal repository and a mask for funds from Clan Pelk'ken. It would be interesting to see if authorities in New Plouton would welcome outside traders openly, or if they would restrict or impede him.

---

"Looking For Work In All The Wrong Places"
By: Raia Osyn

Location: Drogen Shipyards
Date: Selene 2, 4ABY

***

A shudder ran throughout the bulk freighter Maelstrom as the docking clamps engaged and locked the ship into place. Lights on a series of instrument panels on the flight deck went from red to green, and with the thumbing of a few toggle switches, the Maelstrom's sublight engines disengaged and began their shutdown sequence.

Raia Osyn began shutting down all of the non-essential systems while the station's life support and power umbilicals began attaching themselves onto the ship. With a smile, she unbuckled and retracted the seat, stepping off of the flight deck and into the ship's common area.

"See?" she said smugly to her Twi'lek captain, "No worries, Zakelo'ib. And here it was you thought Id bust the delivery."

Zakelo'ib was a corpulent and somewhat overindulgent Twi'lek with many years behind him. Though he was old, even for a Twilek, his eyes were bright and he was as shrewd a merchant as you could find in a very competitive field.

His tentacles shook and his belly rumbled with a grating chuckle. "You've got--" He stumbled to find the Human equivalent. "You've got guts, Osyn. Filing a false flight plan and abandoning it in favor of a shortcut through a quarantined sector may have had something to do with us arriving with 18 hours to spare."

Raia felt her face flush at the compliment. "Aww shucks, Zake, it was nothing."

Zakelo'ib's chuckle died immediately in his throat and he advanced on Raia with surprising speed for one so heavy, trapping her against a nearby bulkhead.

"And if you ever pull a stunt like that again on my ship," he roared, "I'll have you fed to a Krayt Dragon. What would have happened if there had been a Corporate Authority patrol ship in system? At the very least, I would have had to surrender my cargo. They'd probably have impounded my ship. Do you realize how much we stood to lose!?"

Raia winced at the sudden verbal onslaught and shrank backward, hoping to somehow disappear. She had an answer ready, but held her tongue.

Zakelo'ib wasn't going to let her get off that easily. "Well!? Answer me!"

Raia put on her best smile. "Yeah, that's true. But there wasn't one, was there? You saved 18 hours, you get a good price for the shipment, and you get an early delivery bonus besides. I'm sorry, but I'm not seeing a real down side here."

There was a palpable tension in the air; even the cargo handlers had stopped to see what the commotion was all about.

Raia's tone was contrite. "Would now be a bad time to ask for my share?"

The Twi'lek's body shook with barely contained anger, and the tentacles waved about his face in a clearly agitated state.

Raia stood her ground and stared at him firmly. Never show them you're afraid, Raia heard her father's voice echo in her head. And never be afraid to take a risk if you can get away with it. Zakelo'ib turned to one of his aides, who promptly handed him a data pad. With a series of keystrokes, he swiped a card through it and nearly threw it at her.

"There's your share," he said evenly. "1,000 Galactic Credits Standard."

Raia's expression was one of shock. "What!? But an even share is 2,500 GSC, and with the early delivery, that makes an even 3,000."

Zakelo'ib smiled a toothy smile. "2,000 Credits is what it'll cost me to convince the port official that I had a faulty navigation system. And to forget I ever saw you." He let the weight of his words sink in. "You're lucky to get that much. Push your luck and you get pushed through an airlock. Do we understand each other?"

Raia was angry, but there was little she could do. "Sure. You're as clear as a Keneb Crystal."

"You're a good pilot, Raia," he said, his tone evening out somewhat. "But this is where you get off."

***One Hour Later***

Raia stood fuming as she went through the docking bay doors, with her meager belongings stuffed into a rucksack.

All that for a measly 1,000 credits, Raia thought. Still, I'm lucky the fat guy didn't have me arrested.

Drogen Shipyards was a major hub in Tae'Karadan space, and a critical jumping off point for any ships continuing further outbound. The more remote a civilized system was from the Galactic Core, the more expensive a Coreward product became. A shrewd businessman like Zakelo'ib could easily turn a profit on just a few runs outward, and enough to retire on in a few short years. It was certainly a dangerous profession out here; there were always pirates and occasionally, one would stumble into a remnant of an Imperial Fleet and never be heard from again. But many thought the profits were worth the risk.

And so, after finding some modest quarters in the station's underbelly, she headed to Danebra's Den to partake in a bottle of Celian Gin and perhaps drown some of her self-pity away. Raia also wanted to put out a few feelers to see if anyone was in the market for a pilot.

When Raia drew closer, she heard the raucous noises from within, and unbuckled the strap on her holster. Maybe she wouldn't get drunk after all. She moved her coat to one side to expose what looked like a lightsaber hilt. It was a clever fake, of course, and the only light this weapon gave off was as a portable illuminator so that she could find her way in the dark. But, her reasoning was that nobody touched a Jedi Knight, and she was counting on the mystery to keep most of the trouble away.

Quietly, she sidled up to the bar and got herself a drink, making the lightsaber obvious while she looked the smoke and hallucinogenics for someone to engage in a bit of conversation.

---

"The Welcoming Committee"
By: Xara Q

Location: Chimaeria, Thanatos
Date: Selene 2, 4 ABY

***

The transport ground to a halt, and the two men perched on the hard seats jumped off. Both were every bit what you would expect to find in a hardened place like Thanatos: rugged, tough, and uninviting. The taller one, who currently went by the name Laenl, carried a heavy blaster and was obviously in charge, probably more due to his broader, muscular shoulders than to any leadership skills he might have possessed. His shorter companion, Arden, had a weasley, beady-eyed look to him. Both men took a moment to glance around the surrounding street before they allowed themselves to relax at all.

"Well, Xara, m'dear, welcome ta Chimaeria," Laenl grunted as their third companion stepped cautiously from the transport, which immediately sped off again.

Xara Q paused a little longer than the two men had, her intensely blue eyes taking in the street full of people carefully, sizing up the possibilities, and looking down towards the first junction a little to the left, where the loud tell-tale sounds of a cantina could be heard. Arden watched her closely, his watery eyes straying across her pale skin lecherously.

"Yanno," he intoned in a voice that somehow seemed to go with his rat-like appearance, "after we meet this contact 'a ours, I'd be willin' ta buy you a drink, little Xara." Xara Q gave Arden a haughty look and he flinched immediately, holding up his hands. "Xara Q, I mean...it's only a suggestion."

Laenl smirked, though he, too, took a moment to look Xara Q up and down, taking in her white sleeveless top and loose black pants with a dark glint in his eye. "I don't think she's interested, lad. I take it our accounts are settled, then, Xara?" His expression dared her to dispute the point.

But Xara Q merely nodded her head, her eyes still roving the street. "Our accounts are settled, Captain."

Laenl shrugged; he'd learned not to expect much more of a response out of this one. "Fine by me, then. So...guess this's where we go our separate ways, huh?"

Xara Q nodded. "Yes, it is." Without another word, she simply turned to the left and strolled down the street.

Laenl and Arden stared after her for a moment, then the captain chuckled. "That's a strange one, make no doubt, Arden."

"Yes, sir. Too bad...I could'a thought've lots've good reasons ta keep her around." He stared for a moment after Xara Q as she retreated away from them with her flat-footed, flowing step.

"Yeah, me too. C'mon...we're gonna be late." They both turned down the street to the right, heading for their rendezvous. "Yanno, kid like that doesn't last too long planet-side. Too proud. Three days."

Arden appeared to be thinking for a moment, then shook his head. "Ten."

Laenl perked a curious brow, peering at his companion as they turned their steps towards a grimy-looking building. "Ten? Ah, well, doesn't matter too much, does it. We never hear about them after too long one way or another, anyways. Dunno why we even bother ta bet anymore."

"Well, except for that time you set a bounty hunter after one," Arden chirped, glaring at his captain.

"Ya can't prove that," Laenl growled, but Arden merely shrugged.

"Tell me, was it really worth the five-thousand just ta win a bet?"

Laenl grinned crookedly, glancing down at Arden, who grinned back eagerly. "Every credit."

***

Xara Q skirted along the unfamiliar streets cautiously, keeping an eye open for a likely place to get a drink. She'd worry about her next job soon enough; right now, she just needed a little space and a very stiff drink.

She found a bar that was suitably dark (and likely to have low prices) and ducked inside, ignoring the two droids that were arguing with a bouncer outside. The interior of the bar was, as she had expected, dimly lit and barely occupied. A Gamorrean sat in the corner looking surly, and a small group of humans huddled near the bar, arguing heatedly. The few other occupants hunched over their drinks, giving the new-comer only a single glance.

Xara Q stepped towards the bar. "What can I get ya?" the tender grunted, putting down the grimy cloth he'd been using to polish an equally-grimy glass.

"Have any Corellian whiskey?"

"Never met 'er."

"What about a Filvean ale?" Xara Q asked, perking a slender, pale eyebrow.

"What's that when it's at home?"

Xara Q rolled her eyes and fixed the tender with her intense gaze. "Just whatever you have, please, and keep it cheap."

"Cheap's all we do here, sweetheart." The tender turned to pour a watery drink, although his gaze lingered apprehensively for a moment on his customer. Xara Q was used to this by now. The dim light didn't quite hide the slight greenish tinge to her nearly-white hair, and the tender had already noticed the blue quality of her skin.

Xara Q paid for the drink, then turned to find an inconspicuous table. Unfortunately, the dim lighting made every table as inconspicuous as the next, so Xara Q settled for one that allowed her to put her back against a broad, square pillar and afforded a good view of the main entrance.

She did a quick tally in her head of her remaining funds. She'd be able to find a place to stay for the next few nights without a problem; the credits from the last job would hold her for at least fifteen or sixteen days before she started having to look for another job. After the headache of piloting that last bucket, she decided she could use a break.

Of course, Xara Q's name would never appear on that ship's manifest, nor would there be any payments made to her from the ship's accounts. Xara Q knew better than to allow herself to be traced so easily; it was a matter of professionalism. At least she knew that much about the trade. Peering around the room, however, she couldn't help a small feeling of apprehension. For a moment, she entertained the notion that she had stepped out of her league, but she didn't allow the thought to bother her for long.

Wincing at the weak, bitter taste of the mystery ale, Xara Q turned to watch the humans, who were now pulling themselves menacingly out of their chairs. The bartender was watching them, shaking his head with the air of someone who had seen these particular customers go through exactly the same routine time and time again. With a small smirk, Xara Q went back to her drink.

Fifteen or sixteen days. Chimaeria probably had plenty to keep her entertained for at least that long.

---

"Mission Under Go"
by Kyra Ronso
and other minor NPCs

Location: Mos Eisley, Tatooine
Date: Selene 2, 4 ABY

***

Both Ghert'wt's ex-bodyguards who had found Kyra laying on the hot sand were able to put her in time on a Bacta Tank. The two men were now sitting at the table with the rest of Ghert'wt's employees. They sat in silence, looking at each other. It seemed that the death of Ghert'wt had affected everybody. They had lost a good leader, a great person and an excellent friend.

It was hard to believe that he was gone. They knew that he was eventually going to die of old age, but they never actually accepted that one day he would be gone. Now they were on their own, but they knew that his spirit lived on and so did he live on in their hearts and minds. The only thing they had to do was to remind him for the good things...

"What now?" asked the driver, who was sitting on the far corner of the room, trying to hide the tears that rolled down his cheek.

"Now? Ghert'wt asked me to join everybody that worked for him and that was still alive..." the man in the center of the room said as he looked up. "His final wish was for us was to divide his fortune and give a right portion to everybody that served him in his last days."

"His fortune?" the driver asked.

"His request was for us to use this blood money for a good cause, since he earned most of it when he served Garnet and the Liberation Army. My friends, now it is time for each of us to go our own separate ways. It's been a pleasure..." the man said as he looked to the droid that was standing there.

"Master, she has awakened," the droid said as he walked out of the door and into to the other room.

"The money is by now on your accounts. Farewell my friends," the man said as he got up.

One by one, they all exited the house, going separate ways. They now had to choose what fate would be waiting for them, but they knew that all of them would make Ghert'wt proud.

The man looked to the driver and saw that he had not exited. "What are you waiting for?"

"I prefer to stick around. I'm going wherever you're going!" the driver said.

"Fine! Just bring the new trench coat to Kyra," the other man replied as he walked out of the room and made his way to where Kyra was.

"Ok..." the driver replied as he walked out of the room as well.

They both entered the room and saw that Kyra's back was full of scars. She dressed a T-shirt and turned to face the man.

"Are you ok?" the man asked as she tied two strings that came out of the T-shirt around her waist.

"I'm fine, thank you," Kyra replied in a gentle way.

"I don't mean physically, I mean psychologically," the man said as Kyra picked up her coat and saw a big hole on the back.

"I'm fine! To tell you the truth, I never felt more desolated on my entire life, not even when I thought my husband was dead!" Kyra said as a tear came out of the corner of her eye.

"That was different, Kyra! You didn't suffer much because on your statement on your court martial, you said that you felt that he was still alive!" the man said as he approached her. "This is the first time you felt this way isn't it?"

"To mourn a dead person? Yes, it is. I felt like I knew him when I saw his picture and more when I met him personally," Kyra said. "Do you know who my real parents are? Or where they live?"

"No!" the man replied quickly and without letting Kyra say anything about that. "I saw a huge scar on your back! I thought that bacta cured wounds, making them disappear without leaving any scars..."

"From what the medical droid told me, the hot sand that hit my wounds cauterized them. That is why it was more difficult to cure them. He had to cut the part of the cauterized wound so that the bacta could do the job. The scar is permanent," Kyra said.

"I'm glad that you are ok," he said, then pausing for a few seconds, looking down. "There is something I need to tell you. The New Republic won the war against Tarkin, and Tarkin is dead."

"Dead? How?" Kyra asked as she approached the man.

"He was inside his ship when it was destroyed. The Gallorians have requested a meeting with the New Republic. It will be held in the Estri-Casren Tower in New Plouton's Yesdol District. The representatives of the New Republic is Donal Grath and..." He looked down.

"And?" Kyra asked.

The man give a big sigh. "---And Rolara!"

The Kyra knew that last name quite well. She was her superior officer when she was a spy inside the New Empire. It was she who had given the orders to trust Yre and it was she who had accused her of being a traitor for that thing about the Gallorian diplomat.

Kyra looked to the man and smiled. "Interesting... It is fate that everything that destroyed my life these past two years reappeared all over again!"

The man didn't speak, he simply stood there. "The meeting is going to occur in approximately in 19 hours from now."

"So I better be going then," Kyra said as she searched inside the pockets of her trench coat for the datapads. When she had all the datapads she threw her trench coat against the wall, since it was now a piece of garbage. She then grabbed the new trench coat that the drive was holding.

"Thank you," Kyra said.

"There is one more thing. But I have to show it to you on the shipyards."

"What is it?" Kyra said as she placed the datapads inside her new trench coat.

"It's something that Ghert'wt left for you," the man explained as he walked out the room, followed by Kyra.

They made their way to the Mos Eisley spaceport. When they arrived they quickly exited the speeder. They walked for a little while and then entered one of the docking bays. She walked in and saw a 32 meter long ship. It had round shapes and was quite stunning. She almost marveled at the ship.

"This was Ghert'wt's personal ship. It's a Kuat System Engineering Assault Ship T-One. Ghert'wt called it Hell Breaker. It is yours now," the man said.

"Mine?" Kyra asked, quite surprised.

"Yes. Since it was Ghert'wt's personal ship, I think he would like you to have it." The man paused. "You have to go now, if you want to have plenty of time to think of how you are going to get inside the Tower and stop the bomb. The plans for the building and the bomb are inside the Hell Breaker."

"How can I thank you and Ghert'wt for helping out?" Kyra asked as she started to walk backwards towards the ship.

"Thank us by stopping that bomb from going off!" the man answered. He smiled and saw Kyra entering the ship.

The Hell Breaker took off and made its way to outer space. The six ion engines of the ship screamed as the ship went off in its way.

Handles very smoothly, Kyra thought. The ship entered space and she inserted the coordinates for the Tae'Remok system, so she could engage hyperspace and get there as fast as possible. The stars became like stripes in a corridor as the ship blasted off.

During hyperspace she decided to see the entire ship so she could learn where exactly things were. She noticed that there was a small compartment for an astromech unit. The entire cockpit was almost entirely windows which gave a good perspective of almost the entire space around the ship. She walked out of the cockpit and saw that there were four seats for other people and a staircase that went to the top of the ship. She climbed it and saw that was a gunner stand for the blasters that were on top of the ship. There was also a cargo bay that seemed large enough to handle approximately 400 kilograms.

She went back to the cockpit and sat on the controls. She glanced around and saw a small monitor above the astromech unit compartment. Activating it, she saw the schematics for the Tower. A compartment was in red, as Kyra learned that it was where the meeting was occurring. Alas, the bomb had to pass unnoticed from the security guards passing for something else or probably it was already placed. Either way it had to pass unnoticed by the guards. So in conclusion the bomb had to be inside the room where the meeting was going to occur.

Still, Kyra was more worried about getting inside the Tower. She knew how to get to there but the first part was the hardest. Once she was able to collect a high officer security card things would surely be much easier.

She knew what to do. She only hoped to get inside with plenty of time to complete her task. She knew that the bomb wouldn't go off on the beginning of the meeting because the crime syndicate would want to make sure that every target was inside the room at the time. She only hoped that this Hell Breaker ship was fast enough to get her there on time...

---

"Aftermath"
by Alisson Blair
Kal'Aran
Quinlan Vos
and Liam Zaneth

Location: Jedi Temple
Date: Selene 2, 4 ABY

***

He sat at a chair and sighed. Things had been harder than expected and he had not foreseen such events. And they had cost them dearly, with the death of the Jedi Master Andro Ki'Ayalin. In fact, the costs had been much grander, with several deaths that he had felt in the Force. But what he feared the most was that Yelara had died and Liam Zaneth would surely feel great pain for her loss. Pain leads to suffering and suffering leads to the dark side of the Force... A path known to Liam, but would he walk it once more?

Alisson entered the room and stopped to look at her former Master. He was seated next to his new Padawan, the Twi'lek girl, Aurra Sgall who was sleeping. They had both been hurt in the battle with the Sith, but they would live. The Force was strong with them both and their wounds were not fatal at all. She approached her Master.

"You should rest," she whispered to him. "How is your shoulder?"

"It will heal," Kal'Aran nodded. "Don't worry about me. How are the others?"

"They are doing fine. Most wounds are superficial and flesh ones, but nothing fatal. I might have to go into town to get some medical supplies, if I can find them. I guess that the battle in the city would be just as bad as here, or even worse!" she replied.

"Yes, but I feel some calmness now. Just promise to be careful if you go. Even if the battle has ended, there will still be much turmoil and confusion, I'm sure" he told her.

Alisson smiled and nodded to her Master as she looked at the Twi'lek girl. "You really should rest," she told her Master just before she turned to leave.

"I will," he nodded.

Outside the Temple, Alisson found Jedi Master Quinlan Vos. He was overlooking the forest, obviously focused. But he seemed calm, nonetheless.

"Master Vos." Alisson bowed.

"Alisson. How are you doing?" he asked.

"I am fine. I didn't get much hurt. Just a few bruises but nothing too serious. I'm going into town to get some medical supplies for the others however. If I can find some, that is... Let's hope it is not all gone and I can find some."

"I would reckon that many people will be in need of medical assistance," Vos said. "But I am sure that you will be able to find some. Perhaps some bacta would suffice."

Alisson sighed. The aftermath of a battle was a thing she had lived in the past when the Empire took over, and now she was living the same process but in reverse of what it had been. It was surely better than being under Imperial order, but it was something she wished not to see again. Aftermaths were never a pretty sight.

She got on a swoop and nodded once more to Master Vos before she turned on the engines and glided throughout the forest, towards the city. On her way over she felt a presence. It was Liam and he was in Arcadia... She could tell. And she had heard about Yelara as well. He would surely be mourning her, and perhaps a friendly face would be kind. She made a turn and went for the Palace region, as she felt him there.

***

Alisson was stopped at the entrance to the Palace. She was halfway between Arcadia and the Royal building. A soldier approached her and asked her for papers. She could tell that he was not Empire, which meant that the Palace had been taken back. In fact, the ruined walls were proof of that.

"I have no papers. I am here to see Liam Zaneth. He is in there," Alisson said truthfully, pointing out to the Palace.

"Sorry, ma'am, no unauthorized entries allowed. Emperor Regent Zaneth is not available at the moment," he said.

"Excuse me, did you just say Emperor Regent?" Alisson asked, surprised by the information.

"Indeed. Our new appointed ruler!"

"I really must see him. Isn't there any way I can talk to him?" Alisson asked. She knew she could use her training to have the man do as she wanted, but it was unethical and unnecessary.

"I will see what I can do. Name?" the guard asked.

"Alisson Blair. I was the former personal guard to the High Prince and Princess before the Empire took over," she replied.

"Wait here," he told her as he communicated to his superiors. It took him about five minutes to get his answer and orders. Walking back to Alisson he nodded to her. "Deliver any weapons you're carrying and you will be escorted to the Palace," he told her.

Alisson bowed politely to the guard. "Thank you," she told him as she delivered her lightsaber. By then two guards came over and took Alisson the rest of the way.

***

Liam Zaneth was standing before large window, looking out across the balcony and into the distance. There was no joy in the sunset he was seeing, no life. It truly did feel as if the sun had already set for him, for all of them. His strength now was his son and the cloned children he now took responsibility for, and the Force. The Force would always be his strength, always be the calming, cool wind on a too-hot day.

As the door opened, he sensed Alisson Blair enter and he turned. He had found clothing to replace those he'd been wearing as Dargus Kandran's prisoner. The former high prince had a considerable selection of clothing, and Liam had selected the least flamboyant he could find. It was a pair of simple black breaches and a tunic of blue eshatrik cloth, belted at the waist. His lightsaber and Dargus' hung on his belt though he knew he'd have no use for them for this visitor.

He smiled and offered a respectful bow to Alisson. "It is good to see you safe, Alisson," he said. "The Force was with us, but it was not without its share of tragedy."

Alisson bowed respectfully to Liam in return. "It is good to find you well also, Liam," she told him. "I am... My condolences for Yelara. I know how much she meant to you..." Alisson said. There was no good way to say something about someone else's death. "At the Temple, we lost Master Andro as well. But yes, we were with the Force on our side and prevailed. In fact, I personally feel somewhat lucky to be alive."

"I am certain it has more to do with the Force and your own skills than luck," Liam answered with a smile. "I sensed Andro's loss, even though I did not know him. The trouble should be past however, but I believe we must still remain vigilant. There are those who would use this opportunity to prey upon what they perceive as weakness."

"Most certainly. A reason why I find it good that it has been you to take lead of our government. I was the High Prince's and Princess' personal guard. But they were like parents to me, really... Believe me when I tell you that no one wanted to see Tarkin lose place as ruler of Tae'Karada than me!" Alisson said.

She then took a few paces over to the window to look out to the gardens. Most of them were destroyed. How she had always loved those gardens. "Still, I find it curious that you have taken such a position. After all it is against the Jedi code... A Jedi serves others rather than ruling over them, for the good of the Galaxy... This is one of the precepts."

"At the current time, my place here is for the good of this planet and its future. I am not doing this for the power. I am doing it because a fight for the leadership of Tae'Karada could make the victory we just achieved even more empty. I am doing it because someone needs to stand in this place now, and as a temporary solution I am confident I am suited to it. My family, my son and a pair of clones who have adopted me as I've adopted them, the Jedi and all the other people hurt during the war...they are the reasons I am here. This planet has known nothing but strife and conflict for a year and longer. I don't want my son to grow up in that environment. I can affect more change for the betterment of all here than I could in the Temple. I am watching myself carefully, and I am going to keep close advisors who can help me guide Tae'Karada back to peace and prosperity. When a fit leader is ready, I will step down in favour of one more qualified. But until then, I will do what I can, within my power and within the Force, to bring peace to my home."

"Like I said, that is why I am glad to see you take the position," Alisson smiled. "Although I must warn you that most of the High Prince's advisors were at times a headache to him. I remember him cursing how they all were more interested in themselves than the good of the people," Alisson said somewhat nostalgic. She then turned to Liam. "But I came here for another reason. We're in need of bacta at the Temple. Could you get us some?" she asked.

"I'll see what I can arrange," Liam answered. "We do have a store of bacta here. I know that it's going to be in short supply, but the New Republic has agreed to bring in a shipment as well. I'll have what we can spare brought around to your speeder."

"Thank you, Liam." Alisson bowed respectfully. "I'm sure that will help a lot," she said. Alisson then got close to Liam and took his hand, looking him in the eyes. "I hope you know that you will always have a home at the Temple and you will always be welcome there. And don't hesitate to call if you need any help. I know these walls quite well..." she told him.

Liam smiled. "Thank you," he said, and covered her hand with his other. "I will return to the Temple as frequently as I can, and all the Jedi are welcome here as often as they wish. I hope to forge a very open relationship between Tae'Karada and the Jedi, and hopefully through that Tae'Remok, and then beyond to the rest of the Outer Rim."

Alisson leaned in closer to Liam and kissed his cheek in a friendly manner. "Thank you, Liam. I hope to see you and your son soon," she said as she gave him a short bow and walked off. It was nice to be back at the Palace, even though it had sustained damage. Still it seemed things were coming right once more...

Liam watched Alisson as she departed. He smiled to himself, and then, once she was out of sight, turned away to return to the speech he'd been working on. He hated making speeches, but they were necessary in the life he had made for himself. Soon, however, he would have others that could help him with that. Not soon enough, he thought with a wry smile.

---

"Future's Shadow: A New Era"
by Liam Zaneth
Oot Kovan
Va'Lesh
Yara
and Va'Lesh Zaneth

Location: Palace, Arcadia, Tae'Karada
Date: Selene 2, 4ABY

***

They stood together on the balcony overlooking the courtyard below. Where only a few hours before it had been packed with the dead and dying from the battle for the palace, the rubble and detritus of buildings, ships and structures that had fallen victim to the fighting, it was now filled with people.

Some were native to Tae'Karada, but many had come from other places, other worlds. Atop the balcony, only one had been born here. Only the infant sleeping soundly in the arms of the young woman standing to the rear.

In the front, a man with iridescent blue eyes stood gazing over the crowd. A part of him felt like a hand had reached into his chest and torn his heart free. He could have used the Force, a powerful energy field that bound the galaxy together and the source of a Jedi Knight's power, to keep the pain away, to lessen the distress he felt over the death of his wife, Yelara Zaneth. He needed to feel that pain though, that remorse. It filled him and strengthened his resolve, to carry on and live. To live for their son. He was Jedi Master Liam Zaneth, newly confirmed by Master Koran Darr and approved by the rest of the Council. And, now he held the planet Tae'Karada as its High Prince Regent, until his infant son, the heir to the throne, came of age.

At his left-hand side stood a young man with fiery red hair and eyes as blue as the first. He, too, gazed into the crowd gathered below. His brow furrowed as he watched, still trying to make sense of the emotions whirling within him. Since his liberation from the enslavement of the Sith Lord known as Dargus Kandran, he had felt and experienced things he could never have imagined. Foremost among them was the pain of his mother's death and the love that had blossomed between another of those like him, a clone. He glanced to her now and smiled. It was a smile of hope, of the future. He was Va'Lesh Zaneth, a clone of the true Va'Lesh.

At Liam Zaneth's right-hand side stood a Twi'lek woman with red skin and a beauty few could ever hope to match. She brushed her hand idly against Liam's and whispered assurances that everything would be fine. She had been his friend since their first meeting, and now together they mourned Yelara Zaneth's death at the hands of Dargus Kandran. She was his advisor now, a member of his council and his liaison to the New Republic. There had been a time when she had hoped to seduce him, to bring him into her bed. Now, she only wished to be his friend; if, at a future time, their friendship grew into something more, she would welcome it...but until then, she was content. She was elegantly dressed and confident. She gave Liam a smile of reassurance and turned back to face the crowd. She was Oot Kovan, a crimelord, of sorts, but now a representative of the New Republic.

Leshie's sworn protector, the female clone whose mind had been awakened to a world outside her devoted service to Dargus Kandran by Va'Lesh, watched the proceedings with a wonder and curiousity that was normally only evident in a child whose innocence had yet to be seized by the harsh universe. Her brown hair, long and flowing like her mother's, trailed down her straight back and was brushed aside by the swirling breeze. This was a world she was only beginning to know, yet still nowhere near understanding. Even her clothes - no longer the uniform of a trained soldier, but an effeminate white dress that accentuated the curves Va'Lesh had shown approval of - were foreign to her. She had a name now as well; Va'Lesh had called her 'Yara,' and she had accepted it. But just as One Twenty-three had no past, nor did Yara, not one she knew of.

What she did know was there was a woman who would call her 'daughter' somewhere in the galaxy, one she would care to make the acquaintance of one day. But the man standing tall in front of her with hair swaying in the wind like a raging fire was the only one she truly required for contentment; service to her new father, Liam Zaneth gave her the same. Her gaze shifted to him, and the aura resonating around him. It seemed to strengthen each day and grow brighter, but was still tinged with a sadness she had yet to experience. She realized, then, she still had many emotions and aspects of this new life to explore, and it would be done with those standing around her now.

"I still can't believe you managed to get the New Republic to give you a job," Liam said.

"Despite some shady dealings in the past, I'm still an influential person. And, this is my home... I want to do what I can to protect and help it. All of my actions as a crimelord were a benefit to the New Republic and its people."

"Well, you definitely helped us out here," Liam said with a smile.

As he sensed the crowd's readiness, he turned, giving Oot a nod.

He stepped to the edge of the balcony and gazed down at the throng gathered to hear him speak.

"People of Tae'Karada," he called, his voice carrying easily over the crowd despite his refusal to use amplification equipment. The Force would help him be heard as if he stood beside each person there. "We have been delivered from the grip of tyranny, delivered from an autocratic regime whose intents were no less than those of the tyrant recently deposed in the Core. We are, as we had been for so long, free. Though, this freedom was costly. Many among you have lost loved ones in this fight for liberation. Many who should be standing here today are not." The absence at his side had never been more profound, but the Force kept him from breaking; it kept him strong. "My wife is gone; a victim not of Tarkin's actions, but those of the man who sought to take his place, who sought to claim himself Emperor and name this his seat of power. The name Dargus Kandran is not unknown here, but he is gone, and I am left in his place. I have been confirmed as Emperor Regent until the legitimate heir comes of age.

"The title does not sit well with me. The Emperor is no more, as is the Empire. There will be no emperor of Tae'Karada. For the good of this planet, I shall be High Prince Regent of Tae'Karada until someone more suited is able to take my place. The title shall be the same, but there will be changes. Tae'Karada is free, and not just the freedom from tyrants such as Tarkin. All people of this planet are now free to choose, to live as they desire. All people shall be equal in the eyes of this government, male or female, human or alien. All citizens of Tae'Karada are free."

Cheers went up amongst the crowd. He allowed a smile for their benefit.

"We have much to do to rebuild our planet, and together we shall do so. Those who wish jobs in the reconstruction of the palace, of the many locations in New Plouton, or in the desert, shall have them. To those who supported the Empire, you shall be welcome as long as you foreswear your Imperial allegiances. You will have one second chance."

He glanced aside at Oot, who gave him a comforting nod. He couldn't help smiling.

"I shall form a new council to assist me in governing this planet and this region of space. I have been in communications with the other leaders of the Tae'Remok system, and they have offered me their support. I shall reform the High Prince's Council. The surviving members of the former High Prince's council shall remain as advisers. To the council, I name New Republic Representative Oot Kovan, who shall also act as an ambassador to the New Republic. And, I also name Jedi Master Koran Darr. Granted advisory positions will also be Captain Dresh Kano of the New Republic and Administrator Shrezade Anoran of the Drogen Shipyards. As the dust of this war settles, others shall be named. We are here to serve you and return Tae'Karada to the home you deserve. This will be a difficult time, but together we will see it through.

"We will not be alone, however. The New Republic are, and shall continue to be, our friends and allies. Despite the rumours to the contrary, we shall not be joining the New Republic. Life in the Rim is different than life in the Core, and our small voice would be lost in the crowd. After Tarkin's tyranny, the worlds of the Outer Rim are going to help each other. I and my council will be opening discussions with the other worlds of the Rim, and together we shall form the Alliance of the Outer Rim. We are not alone."

He could sense the approval from Oot beside him, and the others on the balcony, as well as the cheering crowd below. "Today is the start of a new future, and wherever this journey leads, we will make it there together. No one will have to endure this alone, and no one will ever come to try to take it away from us again." He swept his gaze across the gathered crowd. "May the Force be with us all."

The cheering from below reached a crescendo, and Liam knew that they were won over. He knew that he no longer had to fear for the home he would provide his family. He still could not shake the feeling that the family was...incomplete. Perhaps when Orinth joined them from the Temple... As he and the others started back inside, he glanced to Oot and regarded her until she finally raised a questioning eyebrow.

"Yes?" she asked with a smile.

"That name again," Liam said, though his expression was serious. "Dr. Evazan?"

Oot nodded. "Dr. Evazan."

---

"Home Again, Home Again..."
by Cara Landross

Location: Hyperspace, en route Coruscant
Date: Selene 2, 4 ABY

***

It took her too long. It took her so many months that now she was on her way back and no idea if the woman who had offered her the task was even there. She'd had to hide in an asteroid field from the Imps because they were searching for people just like her. She managed to squeak past a patrol without getting caught and without losing her cargo. I hope she's happy.

Now she had to get back and re-supply. Her R-2 unit managed to keep the ship together and keep it in repair, so she didn't need to have repairs done. She made a good investment in purchasing the R-2 unit. She was definitely glad she'd bought it.

Now she was on her way home. Hyperdrive was working great so she should be back within the hour. She glanced back and forth and found that things were going better than they ever had before. And usually that means something bad's about to happen.

She no sooner thought that then the Huntress fell out of hyperspeed. Damn, now that's what I'm talking about.

"Dit, see what's wrong will you?" The beeping and chiming sounds from the R-2 unit told her that the thing understood. Within moments the ship was almost at a standstill and she glanced about her looking to see why. It was then that she noticed a few things, mostly another asteroid belt. Talk about lousy timing.

The R-2 unit went to work, only to find that the stupid hyperdrive was out, for whatever reason. And there was a few Imp fighters. She went for the cannons and started firing...

---

"Family Affairs"
by Alicia Ashantee Gardan
and Dumah Gardan [NPC]

Location: Hyperspace, en route to Corellia
Date: Selene 2, 4 ABY

***

She sat back and grabbed a keyboard. The holograph appeared and Alicia accessed the information of the recent affairs throughout the Galaxy. Information that she received from databanks and from her friends and spies that roamed from so many different places. There were so many things that were going on at the same time that there was just too much for her to read. Still, there were a few subjects that caught her attention.

Suddenly she stopped. She learned that Tarkin's reign had ended. Could it be? Tae'Karada was free... It was all too good. She had been wanting to set business in that system, namely that planet, but the Imperial was much too present for her to conduct things the way she wanted. But now, things had changed... Perhaps now was the time.

"One less Imperial tyrant..." she smirked while she thought about it. It didn't take her long to place her mind in other places however, as she had more pressing matters to attend to.

Alicia got up and opened a safebox she had stored in her chambers. It contained the other part, the other piece of the puzzle she was after. And with this newly achieved piece, she ought to be able to get what she was after. She picked up the other piece from inside the safebox and joined it with the one she was just...purchased, in Ord Mantell.

Joining both pieces, she formed a small spherical form that seemed to click and stay together once united. It was supposedly a journal from the long lost Massassi race. It could be nothing, but if the Massassi were more technologically advanced before they disappeared, then perhaps there was information that would prove to be interesting to say the least. However, she needed one last piece to complete the puzzle.

"Don't worry... You'll have this all worked out in no time!" she told herself outloud.

It took her a few more hours to get home. It was good to get back to Corellia, especially after being in a place like Ord Mantell. Her vessel landed at the pad that she had for herself inside the family's mansion grounds. Alicia went out of her chambers and out of the ship, towards the house.

As soon as she got there she faced her half brother. Alicia smiled at him cordially. "Where is father?" she asked him.

"He went out somewhere with your mother. They shouldn't be back for a few days. Some business in the mid-rim..." he replied. "And how are you, sister?" he asked as he got near and gave her a soft kiss in the cheek.

"I am fine, thank you... I trust all is well with you too?" she asked as she walked past him and started to walk up the staircase. "Not too overworked with your shady deals?" she teased.

He turned to face her at the stairs. "Of course not! I'm just as legitimate as you are, sister!" he grinned back at her. "But I would love to see what you have in your hand. I'm sure it's...promising."

"You wish!" she laughed. "Sorry, but this is off the family deals. Personal stuff. You understand..."

"Of course," Dumah bowed. "Meet me for dinner?"

Alicia nodded and kept walking up the staircase onto the mansion's library. There she had the holographic reader she needed to read the sphere. She placed the small round shaped figure there and waited. An image appeared and she could read some things about the lost race of the Massassi. Still, there was no writings on their technology, nothing she could use. You win some and you lose some, I guess... she thought to herself.

She then made her way down to join her brother. At the time, he ought to be waiting for her to have dinner. She found him in the dining hall already. "So, what have you to tell me?" she asked him.

"Nothing new... Business is fine and we made profit. Not as large as it was, but things have been picking up quite steady and fast after the Emperor died," he said. "You?"

"I'm looking forward to establish a new sector in the outer rim. You recall the Tae'Remok system?"

"Yes, the one still under Imperial control by a former Admiral..." Dumah replied.

"Yes, that one. He was defeated just yesterday. I want to establish myself there," Alicia said. "I'm sure I'll get some profit now that there's no control over the imports and exports. Besides, their economy must be somewhat down after the battle they just had."

"And you want to compete with the Hutts? Did you know that Jadda is there?" Dumah asked his half sister with a mocking expression. "You're mad!" he laughed.

"The Hutts will do anything for profit and even they can be reasoned with. I'm sure that Jadda will accept my presence if we achieve a deal," she replied coldly while she took a sip from her drink. "Perhaps you'd like to come along. I'm sure that you'd be bound to learn something from me..."

"I doubt it, but if you get to establish yourself I promise to go visit my poor hopeless sister," he teased as he ate some appetizers.

"Your poor hopeless sister, as you put it, has made more profit than you..." Alicia shot back.

"But does she have any fun?" Dumah argued. "I know I do!"

"And that is your downfall, brother," she mocked. "You will never change!" she laughed.

"Ahhh... I take that last remark as a compliment," he said, bowing his head. "Now, you must excuse me. There are pressing matters that require my expertise," Dumah said as he got up. "When will you be leaving?"

"In a few days. I have to see to some things first..." she replied.

"Then I will be seeing you around, sis!" he said as he walked away with a smile.

Alicia took another sip of her drink and got up from the table. She was desiring for a hot bath, so she went up to her room to relax herself. In a few days she would have to travel somewhat far for an unknown deal. She was confident, but the last deal had gone all wrong. "Let's hope the next one goes right!" she mumbled.

---

"Unlikely Rescue"
By Kyra Ronso
Kitana Gellar [NPC+]
Gengis Zibel [NPC+]
Donal Grath [NPC]
Rolara [NPC]

Location: Hapes Super Nova-class Cruiser "Necron" & Yavin 4
Date: Selene 2, 4 ABY

***

Kitana glanced out the window; she saw pieces of metal floating around the New Republic ships. Big pieces of Star destroyers were being gathered so the a other ships could move freely without avoiding collision with big pieces of metal.

She sat on her desk and looked one more time at the repair report. She glanced and saw that both Hyperdrive and cloaking device were being repaired and a few decks had burst into flames but now the fire had been contained, but damage was great. Either way the ship held together and the problems were being fixed.

She got up and exited her room. The people were happy since they won a battle that was most of the time against them. She knocked on the door and a voice said 'come in.'

Gengis saw the door open and saw behind it Princess Kitana. "Princess." He bowed. "Come to say a last goodbye?"

Kitana entered and saw that Gengis was ready to leave, his baggage was ready to go. "Mr. Zibel, why do you want to retire? I don't blame you for the panic yesterday."

"Princess, I want to. It is something I must do for my self," Gengis said.

"Even if I beg you to reconsider?" Kitana said as she stood there. "I'm not an Admiral, you are!"

"I'm not an Admiral either, princess. I have been running away from my past, but my past is still too much alive. I thought if it had been something different I would forget my past, but I can't. Sorry, princess I am trying to be someone that I'm not," Gengis said as he got up.

"Very well. What are going to do with your life?" Kitana asked, since she was eager to know.

"I'm going to open a casino probably in New Plouton," Gengis said as a droid entered the room and picked up Gengis' baggage. "It's been a pleasure, Princess." Gengis paused as he walked to the door. When he reached it he turned to Kitana. "Breathe free."

"Fly high," Kitana said almost immediately. She also walked out of the room. She gave a last look and saw that the room was empty. She looked at the room like it was the last time that she was going to see it. She knew what she had to do.

She entered the bridge and looked to the people that saluted her. "As you were," Kitana said as she approached one of the many windows of the bridge.

"Princess! Eagle Shuttle requests permission to take off. To take the passenger to New Plouton," one of the trooper's said.

"Permission granted," Kitana ordered as the trooper repeated her ordered.

Kitana saw the Imperial Shuttle making its way to the planet, and gave a smile. She then turned to the people on the bridge. "Status report!"

"Princess we have our shields at maximum," one officer said.

"Hyperdrive is now operational, but the cloaking device doesn't function," another officer said.

"The repairs are being made in other systems and structure," another officer said.

"Very well," Kitana continued. "Did Star One report in?"

"No, Princess. Star One did not reported in yet," one of the officers said.

"Strange. I never thought to request a meeting here on the Necron would take this long," Kitana said as she sat down on the admiral's chair.

The officer looked to Kitana and noticed that she was looking to space. Whatever was the delay of Star One it had to be for a good reason.

***Aboard the Victorious Dawn***

"You have searched me head to toe and you checked, as well, my ship. You didn't find any bomb did you? Like I said, Mr. Grath, Princess Kitana Gellar seems to be noticing that this alliance was only for the extra ships for the battle. She invites you and Rolara to meet her on her ship, the Necron, to discuss a more permanent alliance. The compromise is that you choose the coordinates that suits you," the Gallorian pilot said.

Grath raised an eyebrow and then turned his attention to his companion. "They certainly do grow them rude out in the Outer Rim, don't they?" At Rolara's smile, he turned back to the pilot. "We will meet with Princess Gellar on Tae'Karada, a neutral location for all concerned."

"Where exactly?" the Gallorian pilot said.

"Estri-Casren Tower," Grath answered. "It's a business complex located in the Yelldon District of New Plouton."

"Very well I shall contact the Necron and present your proposal." The Gallorian diplomat walked out and made his way to his ship.

There he contacted the Necron and presented the proposition. He returned to Mr. Grath presence minutes later. "Mr. Grath, Princess Gellar gladly accepts your proposition."

"Very well," Grath answered. "Then we will meet Princess Gellar at the Estri-Casren Tower tomorrow morning for this meeting between the New Republic and Gallor."

Rolara, who had remained voluntarily silent throughout the meeting, finally raised her head and addressed the officer. "If this meeting tomorrow has anything to do with Garnet Seifer's arrest," she said, "then please tell us so now before we waste our time. She will be undergoing a full trial for her crimes, no matter what your princess says."

"Of course not. Princess Gellar told me that she wants to ensure the alliance is to be permanent," the Gallorian pilot answered.

The Gallorian pilot bowed. "I will report the meeting place to the Princess!" the pilot said as he exited the room and made his way to the ship where he was going to go back to the Necron.

***Meanwhile On the Necron***

"Any signs of life inside the ship?" Kitana asked as she approached the officer.

"No, princess. They are still looking inside," the officer said as he looked to Kitana.

Kitana looked once more to the Kuat System Engeneering Assault Ship T-One. She nodded and then with a cold look turned to the Officer. "Report if you find anything!"

"Yes, Princess," the officer responded as she walked out of the hangar, making her way to her room.

She entered it and she looked to the bed. She took off her long cape and lay down on her bed. She looked to the ceiling thinking about her life and the day before. The truth was that she was definitely tired.

The pilot that went to talk to the New Republic representatives didn't respond yet. She only hoped that this would go as she was planning. Gallor being a part of the New Republic could improve somewhat the planet situation. She knew that this had to be quick and the first transports arrived as quickly as possible to the planet. The food storages were beyond low and if this didn't change fast they would have a revolt on her hands and Garnet's hands. She knew by know the Demagogues would be doing their work to revolt the people. Starving people were easely convinced.

Ever since Garnet took over the food storages begun to be empty. A lot of strange things started to happen ever since Garnet took over, but she shook her head. It was not possible. How could storage food for about ten bilion people disappear in matter of days.

Kitana heard a knock on her door. She sat on her bed. "Come in!"

A soldier with his helmet on, entered Kitana's room. The soldier scanned the entire room and turned to Kitana.

"What is it, soldier?" Kitana asked again, looking in a suspicious way.

The soldier didn't say anything, only taking a blaster out of his belt and pointing to Kitana. "If you want to live, don't move from that place, Princess Kitana Gellar. You will have to hear me out. Your life is in danger."

"How dare you point that gun to me, princess!" Kitana screamed as she didn't move from her place.

The soldier took off her helmet, revealing her face.

Kitana gasped as she saw that it was Kyra Ronso. "Kyra Ronso? What are you doing here. Are you here to kill me?"

"No, Princess, I'm here to save your life. Your life is in danger if you go to the meeting," Kyra said. She knew that it was going to take quite a while. She only hoped that Kitana would hear what she had to say.

---

"Resignation"
by: Adam Edwards
Admiral Jason Tallen

Location: Lusankya
Date: Selene 2, 4 ABY

***

Leaving the station troops under Captain Lax's command, Adam had jumped onto a shuttle on its way back to the Lusankya. The repair work was coming along. As the shuttle approached, Adam could see engineers in space suits floating along the hull, sealing hull breaches.

The shuttle entered one of the Lusankya's bays. Adam strode down the ramp into the bay. Technicians marched back and forth, working on the fighters stored in the bay.

Adam took the lift to Admiral Tallen's office. The ride was short. He found his way to the office and pressed the chime.

Tallen's voice came from within. "Enter."

Adam walked through the door and into the office. Tallen sat at his desk, looking over a report.

"Sir, do you have a moment. I need to speak with you," Adam said.

Tallen motioned to one of the chairs opposite his desk. "What's on your mind, Major Edwards?"

Adam sat, looking across the table at Tallen.

"My career, sir. I've enjoyed working in the New Republic Military, but I think it's time I got back to the things I'm better suited for," Edwards said.

Tallen nodded. "I see," he said with a nod. "I guess it wasn't meant to be then, hm? You're good at what you do, Edwards, and I'm sorry to see you go. Just make sure to keep your nose clean out there because ships like this one may be used to stop those who are suited to your sorts of talent."

Edwards smiled and extended is hand over to Jason.

"With all due respect, sir, this ship would have to catch me first. It's been a pleasure. Do I have permission to go?"

When the Admiral nodded, Adam put his rank insignia on the table. With a grin, he turned and strode from the room.

---

"Taking Care of Business"
by Jadda The Hutt
Vorgoth
Gengis Zibel [NPC+]
and Other Minor NPCs

Location: Yelldon District & Jadda's Palace
Date: Selene 2, 4 ABY

***

An Imperial Shuttle landed on the Yelldon District Spaceport. The Ion engines shut down as the ramp of the shuttle opened. Behind it was Gengis, waiting to touch ground for the first time in New Plouton. It was in fact the first time he was on Tae'Karada. He had watched the planet many times but had never gone to the surface.

As the ramp opened, Gengis walked down, followed by a droid that was carrying his things. A New Republic soldier approached him with a blaster hanging on his chest. He knew that this was to be expected as this was the second day of Tae'Karada being free.

"State your business and present your ID card," the New Republic soldier said.

"My name is Gengis Zibel, I am to take care of some personal business that involves money. You wouldn't understand," Gengis said as he presented his ID Card.

"Such rudeness will do you no good!" the soldier said coldly. "Do you have the residence papers?"

Gengis looked to the soldier in a way, as if he was saying of course not, you idiot! but before he could talk a man behind him spoke patiently. "Here are his residence papers!"

Gengis looked back to see who it was. He saw a man dressed in white clothes, a white trench coat, and white pants. He had yellow eyes with a red iris, like some sort of demon. He had long white and blackish hair the went down, shoulder length. His black lips highlighted with his pale skin, and he had black painted fingernails.

The soldier looked to the papers presented to him and looked to the mysterious man and to Gengis. He scanned the papers and he looked at them. "The papers are ok, Mr. Zibel. You may go and welcome to Tae'Karada."

"Thank you," Gengis said coldly as he took the papers out of the soldier's hands and approached the mysterious man. "I presume that you are Aeolus?"

The man looked at Gengis and simply showed him the way as he started to walk. When Gengis walked out of the spaceport he saw a huge limousine speeder standing there. Aeolus approached the door and opened it for Gengis to enter, while the driver opened the trunk to put Gengis' things inside.

Gengis entered the limousine followed by Aeolus. As the door closed the man looked at Gengis. "My name is Aeolus. I serve only my lord. Not you nor anybody else! If you mention my lord's name or mine in public ever again I will personally kill you! Is that understood?" Aeolus asked very calmly, in a cold way.

Gengis raised his eyebrows, surprised by what the man had just said. "I understand. But you are the one that is going to show me the casino's location and take me to Jadda, are you not? I gave your lord my word and I'll keep my promise. You have to keep you lord's promise as well or she will not be pleased with you. So, we are stuck together for now, so let's do this as fast as we can because I was in a battle and I'm exhausted and want to get some rest. But before I can do that, I have to do these things. So, stop wasting my time and let's go."

"Where to?" Aeolus asked sharply.

"First we go to the casino and then we go meet Jadda," Gengis said, as he saw Aeolus talking to the driver.

The limousine speeder drove off to the casino location that was on that same district. Gengis looked to the city and saw the tall buildings. He was not impressed since once he had gone to Ord Mantell.

After a few minutes the limousine stopped in front a large building that was in construction. Gengis exited the limo, followed by Aeolus. He entered the building as one of the workers approached Gengis.

"This is H'ter. He is the supervisor," Aeolus told Gengis. He then turned to H'ter. "This is Mr. Gengis Zibel, the new owner of this building."

"Pleased to meet you, Mr. Zibel. Please, follow me. I'll show you how we are changing this place, just as you requested!"

Gengis didn't talk. He only followed the lead worker to a location where the center of everything was. There was a hologram of the place. "Like you see, this is an old building since it has only 120 floors. Over there will be the hotel entrance which has a connection to this area where the slot machines will be. This is the ground floor..." he pointed out. "On the first floors are the table sections and the betting area where the players will place their wages. There are two warehouses behind this one that have connections to the entrance hall. Just as you requested, one is for shows and the other one is for private tables for wealthier people. But you still have a lot of empty places since your money isn't enough..."

"I know. This is coming just fine. Soon the Sibyl Casino and Sibylla Hotel will open," Gengis said. He then turned to H'ter. "Please, continue your work. I have other businesses to attend to," Gengis said, as he walked out of the building, followed by Aeolus. The limo exited from that place and made its way to Jadda's Palace.

After a rather long drive, the limo arrived at Jadda's Palace. Gengis exited the limo, followed once again by Aeolus and both were admitted inside. A Twilek appeared before them.

"This is Mr. Gengis Zibel. He is here to see your master, Jadda the Hutt," Aeolus announced.

The female Twi'lek motioned for them to wait while she went inside to announce them. A few seconds later she came back and motioned them to follow her lead. They were shown into one of Jadda's chambers, where the large Hutt sat along with his female slaves and his guards. By his side was also Jadda's personal guard and the Hutt's protocol droid.

"Boopa doos nouda. Bintoo shooda ib dunga?" the large Hutt said. His protocol droid translated. "Master Jadda welcomes you and asks you to state the reason of your presence."

"I must say, it is an honor to be in your presence, exalted one. My name is Gengis Zibel and I'm a representative of Miss Garnet Seifer, whom is tied with other problems and couldn't come herself to present you with this exquisite proposal. This is my...my..." Gengis said as he pointed at Aeolus.

"I'm his tour guide, for now. It is an honor, Noble Jadda. May I make a request, sire? Please ask your bodyguard that stands in the shadow, behind you, to show himself. I don't like to be watched from behind a curtain. Sorry if it causes any trouble to you, Noble Jadda," Aeolus said, as he bowed for apologizing for his rudeness.

"Bochaa noos nouda ib chunga oob doola," Jadda said as he puffed from his long pipe. "Doucha ib dunga bantoo shooda boopa..." he added. Once more, the droid gave the translation. "Master Jadda states that he does not care what makes you uncomfortable. Please state why you are here."

Aeolus didn't like it when some wise guy talked to him in that kind of tone, even if the wise guy was a Hutt. He glanced to the two eyes behind Jadda. He definitely wasn't afraid of him, and surely Jadda was hiding his bodyguard for some reason. Aeolus didn't know what it was, but was putting that into consideration.

"Yes of course. Before the Imperial rule here in Tae'Karada, the Tae'Morad existed. In their tradition, there was a game that was only practiced by them, called Brutball. Ever since the Empire ruled here, the Tae'Morad were banished along with this game. Miss Garnet Seifer is interested to bring the tradition of Brutball back to the people of this planet. I'm sure it will be of benefit, for both you and Miss Garnet Seifer," Gengis said with a smile. "And, of course, there are millions to gain from this game."

Jadda remained calm, as if he was being told nothing of major importance and kept puffing from his long pipe, letting out some yellow smoke. "Dooshoo ob dunga nees toola ontcha dongoo Brutball tchi bungaa. Shoola ib guntoo bamonta bintoo shooda..." the Hutt said. His droid translated. "Master Jadda is aware of Brutball and what it used to be and asks what you want from his person. He asks you to state directly what you want."

"It is not what I want but what Miss Garnet Seifer has to offer... She offers you the chance to be her partner in controlling the game. Of course, it will cost some in building the ring and everything, but the money that you and Miss Garnet will gain in it will be more than that of a good profit. Garnet proposes that the game is controlled with fifty percent gains each," Gengis said, somewhat cold.

"Boola choos nooda too bungoo bouda ib tchungoo oocha daala boo. Bontcha shoo neesa tunga shoodoo..." Jadda said. "Master Jadda states that he could build this himself without need of splitting gains and requests that you give him a reason to assume a partner in this deal," the protocol droid translated.

Gengis nodded. "Noble Jadda. There are a lot of people with money that they are willing to accept this deal. If you do not accept this deal those people will gain millions, beyond millions, beyond millions and you will see that money pass by you. Are you willing to take that chance Jadda?" Gengis grinned as he smiled sarcastically.

"Noosa doo boola ib changoo Hutta. Shadoo choosa doos boonta ob dangoo. Toola foos nooda credits shantoo do," the large Hutt said as Vorgoth took a step forward to reveal himself. The droid looked to his Master and to their guests. "Master Jadda states that it is not wise to anger a Hutt and that you would not dare set gamble and gaming without him allowing you to. He also states that you haven't given him a reason to split gains."

Aeolus nodded and looked into Vorgoth's eyes. There was something dark in him and Aeolus could tell that he was extremely powerful.

"It is you that you are testing my patience, Jadda. I don't have to give you a reason to split gains. You either accept the deal or you don't and I will walk away from here and present the deal to someone else. If your bodyguard tries to kill me or my tour guide here, you're making new enemies."

"My lord will hunt you down. Not even your precious guards will stop my lord from killing you. Compared to my lord, the Emperor was a saint!" Aeolus said. "Do you think your family will try to avenge your death or will they fight each other to gain your empire? I think they will do the same they did when Jabba was killed" Aeolus said. "If I'm not mistaken you also tried to fight to gain his domain, wasn't it Jadda?"

"Shooda!" Jadda said in an angry tone as he dismissed both men. Vorgoth took but one step forward and that was all it took. With a fast swift move he took the blasters off both men's belts and using nothing more than his hands and his willpower he started to choke them both to death. It was obvious that he was taking pleasure in doing this.

Jadda watched the whole scene. "Chooda noos ooba! Oob talla beelaa deepo?" he asked. The droid translated for the men who were hanging to their very lives in a very thin line. "Master Jadda will take his chances... However, he asks you if you wish to continue your way of conducting business."

Gengis was trying to say something but wasn't able to speak due to Vorgoth choking him. Jadda motioned and the Sith let Gengis free, still holding Aeolus. "Noosa doo!" Jadda said. "Speak!" the droid repeated.

Gengis coughed while he rubbed his neck and caught his breath. "I realize that part of deal was only to be discussed after you said yes, but that wasn't possible since you didn't say yes," Gengis said as he got back up. "Garnet is willing to pay up to 80 percent in case the deal offers no profits."

Jadda thought about it for a few seconds while Vorgoth kept holding and choking Aeolus. Jadda knew that his trusted personal guard would not kill the man unless the Hutt told him to. Receiving profit and not having to worry much about losses seemed good. "Boota chooda noos ib dunga fantoo ooda talloo itchoo," he said. The droid translated. "Master Jadda is willing to accept if the bookkeeper is appointed by him."

"Very well, it's a deal! Now, if you'd be so kind to release my tour guide..." Gengis requested.

Jadda motioned once more and Vorgoth let Aeolus go. The blasters he had taken were thrown into the air and he destroyed them with his lightsaber as they came down falling, then taking place beside his master once more.

"Boosha noo fooda shantoo belaa palleedoo. Oosha doos dengoo naddo shutta," the Hutt nodded towards Gengis. The droid translated. "Master Jadda wishes you luck with your casino and expects his monthly payment for you being allowed to have a gambling resort. The usual twenty thousand credits per month."

"Twenty thousand...?" Gengis gasped and nodded. "The casino is not yours, Jadda! You have no right to interfere in my business!"

Jadda laughed loudly. "Bonta ooda shoos nousa ib dungo fallo bellapa credits dengoo naddo! Shoo daa eebo doo laapa tchingoo busha," he told Gengis. The Hutt's droid translated. "Master Jadda states that all gambling that involves bets has to pay tax to the Hutts. But you can always take your chances, ignore and suffer the consequences..."

"I won't ignore you, Jadda. I have been in this situation once. I want that tax in writing and if the tax is to be changed I will only accept it is it has your signature, agreeing with the tax raise," Gengis frowned.

Jadda simply nodded. "Master Jadda agrees. Payment is expected at the first day of each month. In return all people who bet more than they can pay will answer to Master Jadda as well as the Hutts in other systems," the droid said, already knowing what the rules were.

Gengis bowed and turned away to walk out. Aeolus looked at Vorgoth's eyes. He was extremely angry at both the Hutt and Vorgoth. Nobody humiliated him and lived to tell about it, but he decided to follow Gengis for now...

---

"Late Night Snack, Part 1"
By: Dani
Talara Sorenne
Nieme Yaresh
Zale Tregat

Location: New Plouton; Arcadia
Date: Selene 2, 4 ABY

***

From where she lay, purple hair splayed out behind her, Dani had a nice view of Tala and Merrick. She wasn't sure when she'd started thinking of him as Merrick again, perhaps it had been in one of their nightly talks. He was a beautiful man in all ways, and she found herself envious of his wife and the true source of his love. There was also a place in his heart, a considerable place where he kept Maeren. As she reached out to him now with the Force, she could sense a place in his heart for Talara. It wasn't the same as what he felt for either Kaysa or Maeren, but there was a genuine fondness there. Her smile grew when she sensed herself in there, within his heart. It was a passionate fire, similar to the feelings for Kaysa and Maeren, but diminished. She would reward him for that. She may have followed Nieme on a dark path, but a part of her still believed in love. For loving her, even a little, she knew that Merrick deserved something.

She could sense Merrick's satisfaction, and his doubt. Doubt at what he was doing, at the planned betrayal of Qual and Neron. That thought impressed her. And, perhaps that could be her reward to him, helping him achieve that goal. She could also sense the after-sensations of his coupling with Talara. The girl was talented, nearly as much as she had been when she was the girl's age. Knowing what she knew of hers and Nieme's young apprentice, she was of an age with Dani when she'd experienced her first sexual union. She liked Talara. Dani paused a moment and revised her thoughts. She loved Talara. It wasn't the deep passion she shared with Nieme, but it was love and stronger than any love she'd ever felt for anyone, save Nieme. She sensed a reciprocation in Tala and that realization sent a surge of warmth within her.

Tala looked at her then, a soft gentle look, a longing look. She sensed, she knew. She was a Jedi, how could she not. She studied Talara for a long time, their eyes holding each other still and silent. A small silver ring glinted from Talara's left eyebrow and a silver stud with embedded purple gem winked from a nostril. Hidden was the silver stud piercing her tongue, an addition that Merrick had voiced loud approval of when she'd taken him into her mouth earlier. She gave Talara a smile and earned one in response. She felt a surge of emotion in the young human and it sent a flutter rippling through her own heart. With an embarrassed smile, Tala turned back, pressing her face against Merrick's chest. She saw hers and Nieme's mark emblazoned there. A bright shining star wreathed in a bed of purple flowers. Talara was theirs.

She sensed her lover's approach and uncoiled herself from where she'd been lounging. As Nieme appeared in the doorway, Dani pushed her love toward Nieme through the Force, wrapping it around Nieme like a blanket. She felt a grin form in Nieme's emotions, most likely a response to her choice of attire. She wore a sleeveless leather tunic that left her back bare. Her pants were tight-fitting leather with criss-crossed lacings up the side that left plenty of purple flesh visible. Her boots came to mid-thigh and had scrollwork of metallic purple as well. She slipped into Nieme's embrace once they were close enough and shared a Force-empowered kiss. "I think he definitely approved of the new Tala, my love, and so do I."

Nieme grinned. "And I," she concurred. "She is a very enthusiastic pupil, is she not?" She kissed Dani's lips, then brushed her cheek against her lover's as she looked across at Talara. "She'll never want to leave us, not after this. She likes it here, I think."

"She likes us," Dani answered. "And, I know that Merrick likes us as well, or me at least. You spend more time with Zale than you do with him. Though, I think we could have him loving you as well. Do you think that Tala would be well behaved if we took her out with us today?"

Nieme studied the young girl visually, then caressed her mind with the Force. Tala moaned quietly and pressed her hips forward against Merrick's side. Nieme smiled viciously. "Oh, she'll behave. And if she doesn't, we punish her."

Dani smiled and her body arched sensually against Nieme's. "So, where should we go today? I think I sense something...delicious in Arcadia. Pain and suffering are there, and I think we could soothe his distress, my love."

"Too bad the woman is dead," Nieme sighed, while her fingers brushed along Dani's spine. "I imagine we could have had much fun with her. But...he'll just have to do, now won't he?"

Dani moaned softly. "Yes," she purred. "Though, I imagine he'll be quite satisfied with what we can do for him. He is quite a dream...and I nearly had him. But, it's time to fix that. May I have him first my love, or should we allow him to have our precious dear first?"

"Since he's grieving, why not let him choose?" She purred into Dani's ear, then chuckled as she nipped at it. "Shall we go drop by? Hm? I would love to bring my pet as well. Qual will attempt to get to him if I'm not here; he's angry that I won't even let him speak to Zale without my permission."

"Pity," Dani cooed. "Though, Qual does get very cute when he gets angry, doesn't he? I love teasing and tempting him to a near rage, and then let him stew for an hour before even thinking about relieving any of his tension. Though, you may bring your pet. I think he could use the fresh air as well."

"I'll get him ready then." Nieme kissed Dani hungrily, then grinned and pulled away. "A family outing," she mused while one finger slid down Dani's chest sensually. "Much better than life as a silly Jedi."

"Much better," Dani purred. "With the Jedi, we had to live by their rules. Here, we make our own rules whenever we want. This way is so much better, isn't it my love? You go get him ready, and I'll get Tala dressed."

Nieme pouted playfully. "I envy you...." Then, she turned slowly on her heel and sauntered off. In the hallway, she could feel Zale, not only through the Force but by the pure sexual energy emanating from his room. Nieme moaned happily and found her steps hurrying to reach him sooner. When she came to his door, she shuddered with anticipation and pushed it open with a thrust of the Force. There he lay upon the bed, as naked as she had left him, with the moonlight illuminating his torso and throwing shadows across his face as he slept. Nieme smiled slowly as she shifted closer, and gently sat upon the bed. Her fingers lightly brushed over his bare thigh, and she chuckled once his eyes opened. "Surprise," she whispered.

Zale stirred with a moan and found her with his eyes. "Miss me?" he asked softly. "I've been having the most amazing dream."

Nieme gave him a sultry smile. "About me, I hope."

"Definitely about you," Zale answered as he reached up to run a hand along Nieme's thigh. "You're in all my dreams now, you know."

"Oh?" She smoothed her hand over his and gingerly pushed it higher. "I'm very glad, Zale," she whispered. "It's more fun when I have your undivided attention. You don't need any other woman but me."

"Of course not," Zale answered. "Not even Dani. Just you. I can show you again just how good we are together, if you're up for that. How does that sound, Nieme? Would you like to scream some more?"

"I would," she drawled, while moving her hand across his abdomen. "But Dani and I want to go for a walk. And you will be joining us."

"Of course," Zale said with a smile. "I haven't had the chance to stretch my legs in awhile...about the only part of me that hasn't." He grinned slyly at her. "What shall I wear for this excursion, my Mistress?"

Nieme grinned brightly and rose smoothly. "Leather. But keep the chest exposed. It pleases me to look at it."

"As you command," Zale said, and then slid off the bed himself. His selection of clothing was quite meagre, but there was enough that he had to decide which of a few choices to wear. He selected a pair of tight-fitting leather pants and a pair of boots that came to just above the knee. Then, with a smile for how much it would please Nieme, he selected a leather harness that crossed over his chest and ended in a collar, but actually covered very little. Once he was ready, he turned to where she was watching and presented himself.

"I believe," she mused as she swayed towards him, "you're getting better at this." Nieme leaned herself against him and dragged her fingers lightly over the muscles of his chest, tracing them with immense delight. "You're the perfect slave," she whispered. "Oh, I'm so glad we found you."

"Perhaps later I can let you know how happy I am I found you," Zale said with a suggestive look. "We can keep it exclusive between us, and I will devote every attention to you. Or, if you would like, I will serve you and Dani and Talara. Desire it, and it shall be yours."

"And I know you can make it happen," she cooed, then pressed a kiss to his chest. "Now...move along. We have someone to visit."

Zale gave her a bow and then turned to the exit. He strode ahead of her proudly, making certain she enjoyed the view from where she was as well. He didn't know where all of this would eventually end up, but pleasure was certainly going to be a large part of it.

***

There were no longer any Imps in sight, and even at the late hour, there were still celebrations in the city comprised of revellers dancing on the sidewalk, and spilling onto the streets. With Zale by her side and Dani and Tala behind her, Nieme marched proudly through the crowds, using the Force to clear a path for them. Nieme grinned. She and Dani had the power combined to rule the planet if they chose; she was finding that a pleasing possibility.

As they walked side-by-side, Zale flashed a grin to Nieme. "Looking at them around us, I'd say they approve. Everyone wants to be part of the beautiful people, the people who are above it all. They worship you, or at least they should."

Nieme raised a sultry eyebrow at Zale and caressed his arm delicately. "As you worship me, my pet?"

"I don't believe they could ever worship you the way I worship you," Zale said as his eyes bore into hers. "May I ask where we are going, my Mistress? And, is there anything I may do for you? I know you don't need my protection, but I want to help you however I can."

"So giving," she drawled, and chuckled throatily as she slipped her arm through his. "We're going to be paying a visit to an old friend. All you have to do is look as sexy as you do now."

"Ah," Zale said with a grin. "At least it is something I'm good at. It's good we left Merrick behind, since he has such difficulty with that. Though, I'm certain he'll miss Talara's absence while we are gone. It'll be good for him though, and it'll give him some quality time with Neron."

"So, he likes Neron then?" Nieme asked. "I had sensed a conflict of emotions in him. He's fighting what he feels, though he's not certain which he wishes to remain: his hatred, or his growing fondness."

"I imagine it's hard to really hate the guy whose cock you're sucking on too much. I do know that if you were to make him available to others for a modest payment, he'd bring in a lot of credits. Despite his inner-conflict, he's quite talented and you'd have very satisfied customers who'd want to come back for more."

Nieme raised an eyebrow at him, her interest piqued. "He would do that willingly? But what of you? You're a master in the sexual arts. Would you not be better suited to such a task?"

"I imagine I would, but most of my mastery is in pleasing women," Zale answered. "I lack the skill that comes naturally to Merrick. If you wished me to be available for women, I will do so. However, I am happy to be only yours. Your wish, however, is my command. I will do as you bid me, my Mistress."

"Oh, you will," she told him with a feral grin. "And I will think on that. Now, we're almost there. Look handsome, my pet."

There wasn't much he could do other than just being himself, so he did just that. He only hoped that he could appear as handsome as she wished him to be. From the look on her face, he thought his efforts to be a success.

The celebrations had reached even towards the palace, though it centered on the square, where the statue of Tarkin once stood. Her mind picked up the lingering memories resonating in the Force of a crowd of Tae'Karadans, ecstatic over their freedom, clawing at the statue with their bare hands, assailing it with blaster fire, even pelting it with rotten fruit until it came toppling down. Nieme chuckled at the memory.

"The front gates appear to be up ahead," she announced to them. "Do you think they'll let us in?" she mused.

"Oh, they'll let us in," came Dani's musical voice from behind. A glance behind revealed Dani and Talara walking together, hand-in-hand, and dressed nearly identically.

"He'll wish to see us," Nieme agreed. "I imagine he already feels us." She chuckled coldly. "And already become seduced by the darkness he yearns to touch again."

"Though," Dani purred, "it might be fun to encourage him to walk down this path again. I love encouraging men to do that."

Nieme grinned and glanced languidly at Talara. "And little girls?"

Dani's smile grew even wider. "Oh, she didn't need much encouragement at all."

"And to think," she reminisced, "she wanted that cur, Mullerin." Nieme's nose wrinkled in disgust. "I'm so glad we liberated her when we did."

Dani looked down at their young friend. "Yes," she said with a smile. "I am too. She's much better off with us, and her talents are better served in our care than theirs."

"Talented she certainly is," Nieme purred as her eyes took in the length of Talara's leather-clad form. A rush of pleasure rippled through her and she sighed. "To the palace," she announced to herself with a sinister smile.

The four of them strode forward through the streets of Arcadia, their speeder well behind them. With all the ruin of the city, going by foot was easiest. And, it was Qual's speeder anyway, so neither Nieme nor Dani were all that concerned.

---

"Late Night Snack, Part 2"
By: Dani
Talara Sorenne
Nieme Yaresh
Zale Tregat
Liam Zaneth

Location: Arcadia
Date: Selene 2, 4 ABY

***

It was only a few moments later when the palace gates loomed large above them. Two guards, identical in their uniforms and identical to a sense that pulsed within Dani. She sensed Dargus Kandran's touch here, but it had been made different. She closed her eyes for a moment and stretched outward with the Force. Their loyalties were now to Liam Zaneth. She would require other influences for them. Liam commanded respect and admiration from those who served him, a difficult bond to sunder. The fear Dargus Kandran bred was easily broken because that was the natural state of the person bound.

"They have a stronger will," Dani cautioned when they were only twenty meters from the gate. "I believe I can get us through without a fuss."

"This'll be fun," Nieme grinned.

"State your name and purpose," one of the two guards called to them through the force field. "The master is not expecting you."

Dani stepped before the others and reached out with the Force. She felt the young man's mind and smiled. "The master is waiting for us," she said, adding weight to her words with a compulsive push through the Force. She doubted that any other Jedi alive could have done as she was doing. Many Jedi had a special talent within the Force, an aspect to which they excelled over and above all other aspects, even to the point of being able to achieve quite remarkable results. Dani's heritage and empathic nature had seemingly bonded with that aspect of the Force, and allowed her considerable talent in empathic understanding and influence. Twisted to darkness, it made her quite excellent with mind control. "You will let us inside to see him now."

The Va'Lesh clone was silent as, behind his helmet, his face contorted in a physical expression of the mental war within. His mouth moved and his voice spoke, yet his will attempted to resist. "I will let you inside to see him now...." His head turned mechanically towards his comrade, then he nodded for him to drop the field.

Dani didn't let her frown show, but she glanced to Nieme. She leaned close as they started forward. "They are very resistant," she whispered. "They could be useful to us, once we deal with Liam."

"I believe they are handsome too," Nieme mentioned while her eyes devoured their armoured forms. She glanced up at Zale, and assured him, "But not as sexy as you, my pet."

Zale chuckled and looked over the guards as they prepared to pass through the shielded entry. "I don't blame you," he said. "Just imagine Merrick with one of them. Maybe we can convince this Liam Zaneth to allow you to bring back a souvenir for one of your favourite slaves. Imagine their bodies, slick with oil, as they perform for you. I'd give anything to see Merrick's cock sliding into him, or vice versa."

Nieme appraised the soldiers again, finding Zale's plan delightfully appealing. "I shall definitely propose it to Liam Zaneth..." And as a smile curled her lips, an opening in the field formed. "After you, my slave."

Zale smiled and then started forward, adding an extra flourish for his Mistress.

"Their competition amuses me," Dani said.

"His suggestion is very nice though," Talara said. "I would like to see that too. Merrick is a beautiful man and the thought of him like that...it makes me feel warm and tingly."

Dani grinned at the small Jedi and brushed a hand over her bared back. "I knew there was a reason I was falling in love with you. We will take one of these beautiful specimens with us, regardless of what Liam Zaneth says."

"Summon your master," Nieme told the guards. "Tell him it's his favourite two Padawans." Still under the thrall of Dani's influence, they obeyed and briskly marched towards the comm terminal. "Oh, he's going to be so glad to see us."

Dani's hips rolled sensually as she smiled in a way that would have melted the resolve of a Rachtori monk. "Oh, I'm going to be glad to see him."

Come out, come out, Liam Zaneth, Nieme called to him, carrying the suggestion on a wave of the Force. We just want to play.

It was only a couple minutes later when he strode into the courtyard. His face showed joy when he saw them, but it faded quickly as he got a sense of them through the Force. It seemed to take considerable effort for him to not go for his lightsaber. He continued moving forward however, though much more cautiously.

Dani took a languid step forward. "Hello, Liam Zaneth," she purred. "I hope you like our new look but it seems to go with us now, don't you think? I want another tattoo though, like the one on your back. That's a beautiful piece of art." He opened his mouth to speak, but before he could, she said, "Kiss me." With the amount of compulsion she packed into the words, a compensation from the guard at the front, she was still surprised when she found herself in Liam's arms, being passionately kissed.

Nieme giggled and applauded exuberantly at the sight. "Oh, I knew he'd want us!" she cried. "Though, without your beautiful wife, I imagine you're yearning for a woman's touch."

As Dani's hand snaked down to his crotch, Liam moaned into her kiss. Then he suddenly managed to recover, and quickly pushed himself away. He pushed his shields into place to prevent another similar attack. He watched them warily. "You've gone to the dark side," he said. "What are you doing here? Whatever you want, you won't find it here."

"Oh but we already have," Nieme replied silkily. She sauntered closer to Liam, brushing her fingers across the tops of her breasts seductively. "We felt your pain, Liam, and we came to help. Let us help you," she whispered, her gaze sultry and fiery. "Please?"

"And, what is the price of your comfort?" Liam asked. "Another trip to the dark side? I won't do that. I am a Jedi Knight, and you won't seduce me away. If you are here merely to comfort a friend...but otherwise, leave."

"We'll comfort you," Nieme assured him. Her hand smoothed over his chest as she circled around behind him. She chuckled and pushed against his back, then moved her lips to his ear. "We know many forms of comfort, Liam Zaneth," she whispered. "All very pleasurable..."

Liam watched them both for a moment, then shook his head. "No," he said. "No, I don't need comfort like that."

Nieme chuckled against his ear. "And you think you can stop us?"

"Actually," Liam said, "I do."

She grinned as she dragged her tongue along his neck, then stepped away with a sigh. "Liam Zaneth, when did you become a bore? We just want some fun!"

"Why must I be your source of fun?" Liam asked. "I can't...not so soon after Yelara's... And, it would be more than just pleasure. You'd want more from me, wouldn't you? It wouldn't end with this time if I allowed you to ease my pain, to offer me the comfort you wish to give me. What would the true price be?"

Nieme sighed and reached out to push her fingers through the back of Liam's hair. "No price," she told him, her voice almost a moan. "Just pleasure... We can help you grieve if that's what you wish. And in return...you can teach us. Would you do that, Liam?"

"Teach you what?" Liam asked. "If you're asking what I think you are, I can't. I won't go that path again."

"What path?" Nieme asked coyly. She laughed softly and leaned forward to push her nose into Liam's hair. She inhaled deeply, then moaned as she exhaled. "So wonderful," she sighed. "All we need is for you to teach us. What's the harm in that?"

Liam reached out and slipped his arms around her, then pulled her close. "Teach you what, Nieme?"

She closed her eyes and grinned at the sensation of his firm body pressing against hers. She wished their clothing wasn't in the way. "Teach us how to be Jedi," she whispered. Her lips brushed against his while her hand slid across his chest. "Teach us to be powerful, like you. Teach us to fight." Nieme moaned quietly as her hips rocked forward against Liam's. "Oh gods," she rasped, "make it so we'll be unstoppable."

"If you turn away from the darkness," Liam said, "then I will." His hands went to her breasts, caressing through the fabric of her top. Without realizing he was doing it, he unfastened the top and opened it. He looked down at her bared breasts and laughed softly, chastising his betraying hands. "Will you turn from the darkness, Nieme?"

She gave a shuddering sigh and thrust her chest forward into his hands. His touch was fire and passion, and she wanted more. "The darkness is power," she told him. "How can we give that up when without it, we're nothing?"

"Am I nothing?" Liam asked. "Am I powerless?" He felt Dani pressing herself to him from behind, her hands reaching around to caress himself and Nieme. "Power is what you make of it, and you don't need darkness for that. Darkness is only quicker and easier." He felt a pair of smaller hands working at his shirt, and then he felt the fresh garden air against his skin. Warm kisses trailed across his chest as Nieme's traced fire on his lips. "You don't need darkness."

"Oh?" she murmured. She pulled his bottom lip through her teeth gently, then chuckled at Liam. "If that's so, then why are you so drawn to us, Liam? It's the darkness." She kissed him briefly, yet with longing. "You crave it," she whispered. "So why not give in and help us?"

"I will not walk that path again," Liam said, more forcefully this time. "I will not turn to darkness, not again, not ever. I have chosen, and I am standing on the light side of the Force."

Nieme chuckled throatily. "Then you're on the wrong side," she told him. "You couldn't protect Yelara, but you might have been able to if you had allowed the darkness to embrace you. Did you ever think of that?"

"If I had embraced the darkness," Liam answered, "I would have ended up destroying her myself." He reached out using the Force and lifted Nieme, Dani, and their friend into the air, and moved each of them back five meters, then returned them to the ground. "I will not do this. I will not teach you what you wish to be taught."

Nieme planted her hands onto her hips and regarded Liam with pity and resentment. "Shall we then take it, Liam Zaneth?" she challenged. "Because we can. You don't want to test us."

Liam smirked. "You don't want to do this," he said. "I recommend you leave now. I killed one Sith warrior yesterday, don't make me add the two of you to the list today."

Nieme's eyes narrowed, while her smile widened mischievously. "That's no way to treat your friends, Liam. If you won't give it to us, we'll just take it from the others." She nodded her head towards Talara. "Just as we took it from her."

Liam's eyes narrowed. "You should leave now," he said. "My patience is stretched thin, and I'm afraid I am in no mood to play with you. Just because I expressed hesitation to cut you down if it comes to it, don't take that as an unwillingness to do so should you force my hand."

"And will you cut Talara down too," she sneered. Nieme snapped her fingers sharply at the girl, then held a hand out to her. "In your fear, will you kill us innocent girls, Liam Zaneth!"

"Do not include yourself in this ring of innocence," Liam said as the young girl moved to Nieme's side. "You are by no means innocent, especially if you plan to use Talara as a shield. She will most likely live because, despite the darkness growing in her, she is not too far gone yet. You and Dani, on the other hand, have walked far into darkness, and I sense no remorse." He glanced at Dani and smiled. "Except..."

Nieme frowned and shifted her gaze towards Dani. "Except what?" she asked between her teeth, but the question was aimed at Dani.

Dani's eyes narrowed at Liam. "I don't know what he's talking about," she answered.

Liam only smiled and nodded with approval. "Of course you don't," he said.

"Shut up!" Nieme hissed. "You can't turn us against one another. We're in love, and we know where our loyalties lie. Dani," she snapped, then smiled at her lover. "Come over here now."

"You don't have to snap at me," Dani said as she strode to Nieme's side. "You know where I stand. He's trying to come between us, my love. We can't let him do that."

Nieme stroked Dani's cheek compulsively, while her eyes bored into Liam's. "I know, my love." She grinned viciously at him. "We will be back, Liam Zaneth. And when we do return, we'll be borrowing a couple of your soldiers. Handsome devils, they are."

Liam chuckled. "Oh, you're more than welcome to try," he said. "Though, you may have an easier time taking me than them. If you can break them...you're darker than Kandran could ever be."

"Oh, but we are," she said fiercely. "He taught us many things, but we surpassed him, and we will surpass you, Liam Zaneth." Nieme sighed airily as she wrapped an arm around Talara and Dani's waists. "Do you think Kael would like a visit from us?" She smiled wickedly. "I guess we'll just have to see. I do so miss the Temple..."

Talara looked up at Nieme and smiled. "Oh, I would so like to see Ferrig again." For emphasis, she rolled her hips seductively and slid a hand down her front and between her thighs.

Dani couldn't help squirming at the sight. "Have fun alone here, Liam Zaneth. We're going to go and leave you to your empty loneliness while we go offer our bodies to those who are more willing and less...judgmental." She looked down at his crotch and shook her head. "What a waste." She looked at Nieme and grinned. "I bet we could take him and loosen him up some."

"And we will, one day," she promised. She winked at Liam, then turned with Dani and Talara towards the gates. "Enjoy your loneliness, Liam Zaneth," she called back to him. "Though, if you ever need a place to put your erection, your wife's dead carcass seems a perfect receptacle." Chuckling cruelly, Nieme escorted the two away.

As they moved toward the gates, Dani looked back to where Liam watched them impassively, and felt something within her stir. She quickly clamped down on the emotions and opened herself to Nieme's darkness and anger. When they were nearing the gates, she sighed. "I bet the three of us could have taken him, then we could have brought him home. Could you imagine Liam Zaneth as our dutiful slave? I think he'd be beautiful in Zale Tregat's outfit, don't you?"

"Absolutely," Nieme concurred. "But, we'll give him some time. He won't be able to resist us for long."

Dani grinned. "We should visit him often," she said. "I think he'd appreciate that, don't you? And, did you see him watching Tala? I think she even made him hard."

"Our little girl," Nieme mused fondly. "You would never have been able to do that if you'd remained with Ferrig, Tala. I hope you're grateful to us."

"I'm very grateful," Tala answered with a happy grin. "I want to be just like you, Nieme and Dani. I hope I've made a good start."

"A very good start," Dani purred.

A single, firm look at Zale and he fell into step beside them. Even though they had not succeeded in seducing Liam Zaneth, Nieme consoled herself with the fact that at least Zale was ample compensation. "Now, I'm bored," Nieme pouted. "We shall return home now and have some fun. Dani, shall we pick up someone for Merrick?"

Dani grinned. "Oh, I definitely think we should...as long as we get to share too. And, we'll want to get some body oils for them too."

"My love," Nieme said with a grin, "I like how you think. And Liam believes you've got doubts..." She snorted derisively. "We'll show him."

Dani matched Nieme's smile. "Oh, we'll definitely show him. Now, which one do we take home with us?"

Nieme grinned lewdly at her lover and leaned in close to whisper, "All of them."

Dani giggled. "Well, we'll have to limit our selection today," she said. "All of them won't fit in our speeder. How about the two by the gate to begin with. I'm certain we can convince them to come with us."

"Of course we can," Nieme replied with a confident air. "We're powerful, dark creatures, my love. No one would dare refuse us." She sighed and gazed up at the glittering sky, feeling that the universe was far too small for them now. "We could even have Tae'Karada if we wanted it," she mused.

Dani grinned wickedly. "And what if I say I want it?"

Nieme looked aside at her love, smiling conspiratorially. "If that's what you want, then that's what you shall have, my love. So...Arcadia first?"

"Arcadia first," Dani answered. "Starting with those two at the gate."

Nieme moaned happily at the two and idly brushed her fingers over her breast. "And Liam Zaneth soon to follow." She sighed dreamily and leaned her head against her lover's. "Having power is glorious..."

"Oh, our slave will be so happy, won't he? I imagine Neron will go quite crazy over them too. We may have to schedule time for our new slaves so they don't get worn out. Then again, we can always get more."

"We'll be ruling this planet soon," Nieme told her. "Of course we can! And in celebration," she whispered into Dani's ear, "I'm going to make love to you on our new throne."

Dani shuddered happily. "Oh, I like the sound of that very much," she said. "Oh very much indeed. You know, I think we should let Talara drive the speeder on the way home, and we can make love while Zale keeps our new guests occupied."

"And I think," Nieme added, "that you have the most wonderful ideas." She kissed her lover deeply, then both broke into laughter as they twirled and writhed to the celebratory music filtering from jizz bands mingling with the dancing crowd, and being accompanied by joyful laughter. Nieme and Dani certainly had something to celebrate, and it was their forthcoming coronation as Empresses of Tae'Karada. When that day came, not even Liam Zaneth and his pathetic Jedi could stop them.

---

"The Underworld"
By: Adam Edwards
Raia Osyn

Location: Drogen Shipyards
Date: Selene 2, 4 ABY

***

Adam made his way through one of Drogen Shipyards' lower decks, looking for a good bar. Most of the places on the upper decks were too clean, too well lit.

Still, most of the lower taverns weren't the safest places to be, so Adam had made sure he had his blaster.

He headed into Danebra's Den. As usual, it was occupied by less than law-abiding members of society. Adam ordered a Corellian Ale, and looked around the room.

Of all the patrons in the tavern, one Adam noticed right out. She was sitting by herself at a table. She was attractive, but might have been a couple years older than Adam. Patrons were giving her a respectable distance, and as he approached her, he noticed that she was carrying what looked like a lightsaber. Interesting. He made his way over.

"Anyone sitting here?" Adam asked her.

Raia took a moment to appraise the newcomer. Military styled boots and black pants. A plain white shirt, topped off with a black utility vest that was fairly common in and around spaceports. Briefly, her eyes flicked over the blaster resting in a holster on his hip before letting her gaze drift upward to get a better look at the man's face.

The newcomer had brown hair and hazel eyes. The man (if Raia could apply the term) looked to be barely out of his teens. His youthful features were probably the envy of many a prepubescent girl assuming the man wasn't still in school.

But as striking as his appearance was, what had caught her eye was the relaxed stride and casual posture the man assumed while making his approach. It was the gait and stance of a man long since accustomed to the rigors of space travel. It was a stride she was very familiar with; hell, she walked more or less the same way.

Raia moved slightly to clear a space and motioned for the young man to take a seat. "Just me," she replied, in answer to his question a moment ago. "Go ahead and park your jets."

A server droid, severed at the waist (no doubt due to a bad accident) puttered up to the table on an antiquated repulsorlift platform. The surface of the droid's exterior was rusted in spots, dented in a few others, and sported what looked like some blaster scoring along his chestplate.

"Orders please?" it asked mechanically.

"A Gruvian Tovash," Raia answered. "And make it snappy."

The droid beeped excitedly, disturbing some of the nearby patrons with its agitated rattling. "I am required to notify you," the droid warned, "that the mixture of Gruvian Tovash with Ryll Spice is highly volatile. Should you wish to continue with the order requested, you are required to sign a waiver against any accident or injury resulting from its consumption."

Raia rolled her eyes in an exasperated fashion and sighed. "I don't have any Ryll Spice, but no need to start a panic. Make mine an Elshandruu Pica Thundercloud, then." She raised an eyebrow and looked at the droid skeptically. "Unless the bar doesn't have an ion exciter handy?"

The droid's distressed beeping died down to a tolerable level. "Yes, ma'am. Coming up real quick!" It then sped off to comply, the repulsorlifts clearly straining to keep the droid's center of gravity in check so that it wouldn't topple over.

Raia shook her head in pity. "The Ar-Eye-Cee series was always just a bit too excitable even when they were new off the showroom floor. And that one," she said, jerking a thumb in its direction, "has seen better days."

She turned to the newcomer again. "Sorry. My name is Raia," she said, suddenly embarrassed. "Pilot and jack of all trades. Presently, I'm between ships at the moment." She grinned.

"And you are...someone looking for a position to fill?"

Adam grinned and took a sip of his ale. It was important to never let someone else know what you were thinking.

"Well I usually work alone," Adam told her. "Though I could use some help on my next flight out. Got a job out to the Hoth system. You interested?"

Raia was about to say something when the dutiful droid brought their drinks over. The Elshandruu Pica Thundercloud was a bluish green drink with a fizzy head formed from ionized gas. Because it had been mixed with an ion exciter, little microshocks danced around the rim. It was a highly potent drink, and Raia took a couple of grateful swallows before answering.

She was sure to keep her voice low. "Hoth? There's nothing on Hoth, except for Tauntauns and the occasional Wampa. I'd heard stories that the Empire pretty much decimated it a few years back."

She was more than interested, but she decided to play her cards close to the vest. "My answer depends on how much we're talking about."

"The job is 10,000 on delivery," Adam answered. "I'd be willing to cut you in for...20 percent."

Ordinarily, Raia would have laughed in the man's face at such an offer; her skills were worth more than that. But after she'd gotten short-changed by the fat Twi'Lek skipper on her last run, she was really in need of something to pad her bankroll.

Raia feigned a moment or two of deep thought. "Twenty percent of 10,000 credits would be 2,000 credits...hmmm...less expenses...

"All right," she said, spitting on her palm and extending her hand. "You've got yourself a deal. I'm not even going to ask what you're carrying - as it's none of my business anyways. Ignorance can be a healthy thing."

Adam took the hand and shook it. This woman was turning out to be more than he expected.

"Just answer this for me - where do you want me, when do you want me there, and what kind of ship are we talking about?"

"Well I'm the pilot. Let's get that straight. I have a droid for a co-pilot, and he's pretty good, but nothing beats the real thing. That's where you come in," Adam said. "The ship is a YT-2400, though it's undergone a lot of....modifications."

Raia simply nodded her head at his revelation. It was rare for any freighter pilot not to have tweaked their ships somewhat, either to coax more speed out of it, or give it sharper teeth to defend itself.

"Since I don't want to have to say 'Hey, you' all the time, what would you prefer I call you?"

"My name's Adam. I should tell you that my contact has some...friends that might not wish for this shipment to get through. Can you shoot?" Adam asked.

Raia simply couldn't fathom the audacity of the man's question. "I know my way around a gunnery platform. I'll be good enough for what you need.

"But if you're asking me to serve as copilot and a gunner," Raia reasoned, "that's two slots to fill. I can fly it, I can shoot it, and I can fix it if it breaks. Can we say - 2500 credits, then?" she asked, favoring him with a winning smile.

"2500 credits isn't unreasonable. Deal," Adam agreed.

Raia blinked in surprise; she hadn't expected him to roll over quite so easily. "Really? 2500? Great! Name the time and place, Adam. I'll be there."

"Be at Docking Berth 37 in 4 Hours," Adam told her, "I'll introduce you to my ship."

She rose from the table, her business complete. Now, if she could just make it out of the bar without getting harassed.

"I'll be there..." Raia affirmed. "I just need to gather up some things. Nice meeting you."

And on that note, she put the celebration at Danebra's behind her.

---

"Run For It"
By: Robin Black [NPC+]

Location: Hastur
Date: Selene 2, 4 ABY

***

Dust whipped around the ship as it powered up, a maelstrom of energy charged in the ship's old engine. Robin pulled back on the controller and Hastur slowly rose from the launching pad. Behind him several ex-imperial officers sat nervous. Robin had managed to find a small group of wealthy individuals willing to play for a shuttle further out into the rim and Robin had accepted. He had been short of cash and had needed something to do. His brother would make his life a living hell on planet so Robin would disappear; he was good at that, he had been doing it for years.

"To all passengers this is your captain speaking, make sure your tray tables are in the upright and locked position because it's time for blast off," Robin reported over the intercom. With that the huge Gallofree transport leapt into the air. Robin turned a couple of dials to assure his position. Robin looked at the sector scanner. "Boy there is a lot of crap up here," he swore, from the battle debris was clogging up his sensors.

The transport weaved in and out of sections of ships that had been blown away. A sensor tower from a Star-destroyer rolled passed the port bow. Robin looked around at all of the debris; it would be hard to plot a course in hyperspace until he had cleared the battle ground. Robin pulled the transport hard right to avoid a large burned out wreck.

Robin was suddenly startled by his sensor bleeping. He looked down. Three objects were moving towards him. They were X-wing fighters. "Damn," cursed Robin. He hated being chased when he had hot cargo.

"We have you on our screens now please identify, civilian craft," came the squadron leader's voice over the intercom.

Robin winced, then lied, "Civilian shuttle, making usual shipping run to Tatooine, carrying technical parts and trained personal." Robin was slightly impressed with himself.

"Slow down and prepare for escort back to space port for standard inspection of cargo," the squadron leader ordered.

"Negative I've already cleared myself," Robin muttered. "I've got to get these techs to its destination with no delay."

"I repeat turn around or we will be forced to cripple your craft," the leader ordered.

Robin switched off the console. "So much for diplomacy." Robin shrugged and plunged the ship into a deep dive, putting the burned out ship between him and the oncoming starfighters.

"You won't get clear in time!" one of the officers behind him shouted. "Surrender. We can bargain for our freedom, they will be too weak to kill us!" he shouted but was silenced by the back of Robin's fist.

"Don't talk to the driver," Robin commanded as the imperial officer fell backwards, landing on the deck with a thud.

Three fighters swooped into attack position. The leader looked at the old craft with a slight degree of amusement in his eye. These smugglers would have to be stopped one day; showing them the strength of the New Republic would probably stop problems later on.

As the three X-wings closed on, the leader began to appreciate the skill of the pilot. He managed to move the lumbering hulk like it was a star fighter. He lacked the speed of the smaller crafts and a transport had no firepower, but he could still appreciate a good pilot when he saw one.

The transport suddenly went into a violent roll. As it skimmed through four bits of debris one of the X-wings was struck by a bit of debris speeded up in the transport's back wash. "Smart pilot," cursed the X-wing commander. "Stick with him yellow two, and try to knock out his engines. We've been ordered to bring all smugglers back not destroy them," he ordered and targeted his lasers at the rear section of the ship.

The transport rocked with the laser blasts as they struck the ship's shields. He looked at the energy meter as the shields began to fall. Robin flicked open a panel at the side of his seat and a single turbo laser rose out of the top of the ship. As the turbo laser turned around, Robin's turned it onto auto fire. The Laser locked on to the closest trailing X-wing and began to fire.

Yellow two was struck by two hits of the turbo laser; the power levels were low and the ship survived the hit but was damaged. "Pull away, Yellow two, I'll take him," the leader ordered and then targeted the newly sprung up turret. He had never seen such a modification on a transport before. His laser blasts struck around the turret but they were mostly deflected, then the turret locked in on the X-wing and the commander was also crippled by its deadly blasts.

"Damn you!" he yelle,d thumping his controls, sending a few final blasts of laser after the retreating transport.

Robin smiled to himself as he cleared the debris field. "Now that the ship had cleared the field we should be able to go to hyperspace in a moment." Robin smiled. He felt quite proud of himself until he saw the oncoming Cruiser.

"Hold on, guys, we've got one more obstacle before we are out of here." Robin cursed and turned the ship back into the debris field. The gray hunks of metal floated past as Robin dodged around them. Behind them from the inky darkness of space the cruiser closed in.

A panel blinked. "Aha!" Robin smiled. The navigation computer had made its calculations and given a point for the jump. He smiled and brought the ship around. "So long, suckers!" Robin called and pulled the control panel. The ship's engines started to hum then there was a loud clunk as they failed to ignite. "Oh crap," Robin cussed as the cruiser closed in. Robin slumped back in his chair. "Er. Hi, guys, I'm afraid we've kind of been caught." Robin shrugged. "If you want to fight for your freedom against a cruiser then they'll probably be breaking in Airlock one, but I'm going to surrender." Robin flicked the switch back, then after a moment's thought he flicked it back again. "You all will of coarse be refunded your money." Finally he switched off the channel and slumped back in his chair.

The fire fight was brief. Most of the Imperials surrendered; only a few of the more heinous ones chose to fight. Robin heard the troops enter the cockpit he still didn't move. "Get up," a young soldier ordered.

Slowly Robin got up and pulled himself to his full height. "You got all the Impies?" Robin asked. The solider nodded. "I'm coming, don't worry."

Robin was quickly disarmed and shoved through the door. The second solider carried the renumbering form of the unconscious officer and dragged him over to the shuttle.

Robin sighed as he was clapped in chains and dragged through to a holding cell. No sense in trying to escape. At least in prison he was safe from his brother.

---