"Usurping Power"
By: Dani
Nieme Yaresh
Talara Sorenne [NPC+]
Oot Kovan [NPC+]
Kambra Gant [NPC+]
Koran Darr

Location: New Plouton; The Royal Palace, Arcadia
Date: Lythe 4, 4 ABY

***

Dani smiled lazily and turned away from the screen. She fixed her eyes on Nieme, lounging across from her, and let out an airy sigh. She'd just finished watching the little show she'd discovered on the Holonet, rebroadcast around the rim, and drawing rave reviews from what she'd heard. It starred Merrick and Zale, as well as herself and Nieme and Talara. It was very nicely put together, but it only made Dani miss her slaves even more. "I don't like that Qual and Neron are doing this without us," she said. "They're all ours, and we should be making these decisions, not them."

"We'll find them," Nieme assured her love. She slid off her seat and sauntered over to her lover. She leaned over Dani's shoulder from behind the chair back and kissed her neck tenderly. "We're close," she whispered. "I can feel them."

Dani nodded slowly as she stretched out her feelings through the Force. "So can I," she whispered. "Do we go after them now, or wait? There is still so much for us to do here, especially with Liam Zaneth still on the throne."

"Why wait, my love?" She chuckled. "We can have both things. We're powerful enough, after all."

Dani smiled. "So true, my love, we are that. So, perhaps we should pay another visit to Liam Zaneth? I think he would like to see us."

Nieme sighed happily as her hands slid forward over Dani's chest. "He wants us. He just can't admit it. But...I'm certain we can get him to see the light."

Dani grinned mischievously. "Or the dark, as the case may be."

"So delectable," she purred into Dani's ear. "This is why I've left you with the task of instilling in our Tala an appreciation for the darkness. You're quite talented, my lovely flower."

"And, as her teacher in that, I must say that she is quite talented," she said. "You should have seen her earlier with our newest acquisition. He didn't know whether to laugh, cry, or beg for mercy." "Then her training is complete," Nieme announced. "Shall we take her along for the party, you think?"

"Oh, I think she's definitely ready for that," Dani said. "Though, I do wish to keep training her, my love. She is very willing and eager, and...and she is a remarkable student." Dani rolled her hips to show just how remarkable she thought Tala was.

Nieme chuckled and slid both hands down Dani's abdomen, then sensually pushed them between her lover's thighs. "After she's done this with us. You can wait that long, can't you, my precious?"

Dani moaned and then met Nieme's powerful gaze. "I can wait," she purred. "Sometimes, the waiting can be the best part, because it makes the end so much more powerful."

"Oh, and what a brilliant end it shall be," she whispered against Dani's ear. As she kissed her cheek tenderly, Nieme pulled her hands free, then backed away. "Come. Liam awaits."

Dani rose easily to her feet, the grace and power of a Jedi as well as the overwhelming sensuality of a Zeltron making the movement into something much more than it was. She ran a hand along Nieme's arm, and purred. "Let's go wake him up."

Nieme grinned at the lascivious suggestion underlying her lover's words, and knew Liam would appreciate it as well when he encountered it. As they sauntered from their room, sharing kisses and embraces, Nieme sent a mental message to Talara. She advised the girl to wear something especially enticing for the occasion.

Dani grinned as she picked up on Nieme's Sending. "Oh, do you know how dangerous that can be, giving her such an open-ended suggestion like that. Oh, we best watch ourselves now."

"Why?" Nieme asked with a haughty air. "I thought you liked them unruly, my love."

"Oh, I do," Dani purred. "It's just that it may be difficult to deal with Liam with her distracting us. Though, I do like being distracted by her. It's definitely a challenge."

Nieme cooed as her gaze was drawn down the hallway, where their little seductress now stood. "Ah...there she is! Our precious girl..."

Talara stopped and gazed for a moment at both Dani and Nieme, allowing them to do the same to her. Her clothing didn't appear to be much of clothing. It seemed to be comprised of a series of straps with attached buckles that crossed and recrossed over her body, but still managed to leave a considerable amount of flesh visible. Her hair was down, cascading over her shoulders in loose ringlets. After giving them each the chance to study the attire she'd chosen, she moved forward, walking in the manner they had shown her.

"Oh, so obedient," Nieme mused. "So docile...though not when it counts." She grinned knowingly.

"I live to serve," Talara answered. She then smiled and let her eyes drift over Nieme's body. "And to please."

"But, of course," she replied in all seriousness. "You don't want to displease us, do you?"

"I would never wish to displease you," Talara said reverently, and then went to her knees before Nieme.

Nieme chuckled lowly and affectionately stroked Tala's cheek. "Not now. There are some things we need to do...."

"Yes, my Mistress," the girl replied, and then returned to her feet.

Dani grinned, and brushed her hand along Nieme's arm. "Oh, she is good. I think we should go now before other ideas overwhelm me."

"As they always do," Nieme drawled. She languidly made a shooing gesture at the young girl, then nodded at Dani. Once Talara was leading the way, Nieme and Dani followed, their eyes fixed upon the young girl's backside. "It's no wonder Mullerin wanted her so badly," she said.

"Perhaps there is some shred of hope for him," Dani said with a wicked grin. "But, just a shred. I can't wait to see what she does with him. That should be quite amusing."

"And she'll enjoy herself." Nieme smiled wickedly. "Won't you, Talara?"

"There is no doubt," Tala answered. "How can I not with my mistresses watching me, encouraging me. Even now, just thinking about it, I am...eager."

Nieme, satisfied with Talara's progress, sighed. Their small army was coming along nicely.

***

"Ooh," Dani purred as they approached the gates of the palace, "guards. I like Liam Zaneth's guards. They are...very good."

"Though, their ability to grasp novel concepts is weak," Nieme sighed. "A pity."

"A definite pity. They can learn by doing, but they have no imagination. No imagination is so...boring. That's why I loved Merrick so much, he had a beautiful imagination."

Nieme smiled reassuringly at her love, then kissed her cheek. "We'll get him. I promise."

"Though, if it's a choice between him and Liam Zaneth, I choose Liam. He is certainly masking himself from us, isn't he? I can't sense him inside, though I can sense his presence."

"How close?" Nieme asked. "I sense nothing."

"Not very," Dani said. "It's...it's as if the whole area feels like him."

Nieme frowned and stretched out through the Force to the Palace and its surroundings. All she felt were the clones and themselves. Liam's prominent Force essence was nowhere. "Well...he must be hiding himself well."

"Well, I think it is time for us to go find him so we can ask him why he's hiding from us," Dani said. "It's not nice, not at all. And, I intend to let him know just how naughty he is."

"And have him screaming for more?" Nieme grinned slyly. "Oh, a sound plan indeed."

With Tala in the lead, drawing the guards' attention towards her, Nieme and Dani strode behind, already tugging at the clones' consciousness to bring them under their sway. For the time being, they seemed more interested in Talara.

"Names?" the clone asked tersely.

"We're just friends of the master," Nieme replied silkily.

The clone's expression remained unchanged and his tone neutral. "Names?" he asked again.

"You don't need our names," Dani said as she slid closer. "Besides, we want to surprise him. It's much more fun that way, you know."

"Surprise him..." the Va'Lesh clone murmured. The tightness around his eyes conveyed the inner struggle he faced in resisting her, then both closed briefly, severing the connection, and reopened. "Him, ma'am?"

Dani purred with delight at his resistance. "Yes, him," she said. "As in his royal royalness. Jedi Master Liam Zaneth, the sexiest man in the core and rim. Him."

"Master Zaneth is not here presently," the other, identical clone chimed in. "You'll have to return at some other time."

"Not here?" Dani asked, suddenly annoyed. "If he's not here, then where is he?" She raised her chin haughtily. "Where is he?"

Not requiring Dani's influence to reply truthfully, the guard answered, "We were not made apprised of that knowledge."

"Well, who was?" Nieme asked fiercely. "You will tell us."

The guards were silent, their wills battling Nieme's desires. One of them finally replied, "No one knows, Ma'am."

"Who's in charge here while he's gone?" Dani asked, stepping closer. "Who makes the decisions in his absence?"

"Ms. Kovan," the other answered promptly.

"Never heard of her," Nieme snapped irritably. "Take us to her."

The guards hesitated, then one was heard speaking into his helmet comm. The shield dropped. "Follow us," he said laconically, then abandoned his post and started towards the palace.

"So very cooperative," Dani said. "I like them cooperative, though a little fire is always appreciated."

Nieme nodded tersely. "I'd rather have fiery Liam Zaneth. How dare he leave without telling us!"

"He will need to be taught a lesson, I think," Dani said as they crossed the courtyard where they'd had their previous confrontation with Liam. A warm rush surged through Dani at the memory. "Next time, we're not going gentle on him."

Nieme grinned desirously. "Not at all..."

They ascended the grand staircase leading to the main entrance of the structure, but barely made it through before a small contingent of soldiers appeared before them with blasters aimed. "Oh, what is all this?" Nieme asked wearily.

"Oh, it looks like they want to play," Dani said with a smile. "Should we play with them, my love?"

"We like to play," Nieme purred while her hand stroked the hilt of her lightsaber. "Talara, dear...don't get in the way."

"I'll be good," Talara said, her voice a sensual purr as she watched Dani moving into a defensive stance.

Dani stroked on hand over her lightsaber and glanced over at the guards. "Oh, we haven't done this in a while. I'm looking forward to it."

"We might be a little rusty," she warned Dani, but without a hint of worry. She liked the challenge. The moment a mental cue was sent to her lover, Nieme unclipped her weapon and ignited its blade simultaneously with Dani's. Each grinned fiercely, welcoming the fight to come.

"I don't believe you really want to do this," a voice called out. A Twi'lek woman appeared, with several guards flanking her. She set her gaze on Nieme and Dani. "There is no need for violence. My name is Oot Kovan, and I am a member of Tae'Karada's High Council."

"You're not Liam Zaneth," Nieme pointed out sourly. "We will only speak with him, so I suggest you move, woman, or we will cut you down, too."

"Mesa think not," said a one-eyed being at Oot Kovan's side.

"Liam Zaneth is currently not on the planet," Oot said as she placed a calming hand on her lieutenant's arm. "Unfortunately, I cannot summon him here to meet with you. He did not indicate when he would return."

"Well, then," she replied haughtily, "we'll just wait here for him." Nieme smirked. "Care to show us to our throne room?"

"Actually," Oot Kovan said with a smile that showed no humour, "it is not alright if you stay here. If you leave me a comm code, I will have Regent Zaneth contact you as soon as he returns planetside."

"Actually," Nieme countered condescendingly, "we aren't interested in leaving. If you haven't noticed by now, we got this far without harming a single person; imagine how far we can get if we slice through every single one of these men."

"Perhaps not," Oot said blandly. "However, Liam warned me that you might stop by, and...we've made precautions." She smiled.

Nieme raised an eyebrow and chuckled, quite amused. "Precautions?" She pointed her lightsaber in Oot's direction, and lazily made imaginary circles with it around where the Twi'lek's heart rested in her chest cavity. She smiled at the thought of thrusting her weapon through it. "You're a fool, creature. No precautions could ever prepare you for what we have in store."

"Don't be so certain of that," another voice said. A man in Jedi robes stepped forward, hands hidden within his robe and cowl pulled down to shadow his face. The voice, however, was very familiar.

Nieme hissed with irritation at the man, and turned her weapon's aim towards him. "You don't belong here, Koran Darr.... This is our palace!"

"Don't be so certain of that either." He pulled the cowl down from his head. "This palace is the seat of power for Tae'Karada, and you are not the confirmed leaders of Tae'Karada. Therefore, the palace still belongs to Liam Zaneth. You may wish to occupy this place, but I'm afraid you are destined to be disappointed."

Nieme laughed derisively. "Oh? And you're going to stop us, Darr? You can feel the power coursing through us, pulsating in the Force.... You wouldn't even dare to try!"

Koran Darr opened his robes to reveal the lightsaber at his hip. He seemed to exude calmness and peace, standing firm and steady as he faced the dark miasma that surrounded Nieme and Dani. "I am prepared to do what it takes to stop you," Koran said.

"And Talara?" Nieme glanced back at their apprentice and gestured her forward. "Will you kill her too, Koran? Will you?"

"Who said anything about killing?" Koran asked. "And, if she chooses to confront me, I will be forced to stop her as well. Though, it doesn't surprise me that you would hide behind her like a coward."

Nieme sneered at Koran and bumped Talara out of the way as she stepped forward. "I'm here, facing you now, aren't I? Is that the action of a coward?" She chuckled dryly. "Dani...the clones are yours." In a burst of energy, Nieme leapt towards Koran with lightsaber raised and cloak flaring out behind her. Her vicious smile remained in place as she slashed down at her former master.

In an easy motion, Koran spun, flinging his cloak away, snapping out his lightsaber as he did. The verdant blade snapped to life as he came around in a high guard position. His blade met Nieme's as she crashed down before him. He pushed away, sending her back a few steps. He settled back into a defensive stance, and prepared for her attack. He was counting on her anger and aggression making her predictable, but the dark side was with her, and that would skew everything.

Cackling laughter grated the air as she charged forward again, unfazed. She felt the darkness rushing into her, lending her power and drive, and lunged with her blade to skewer Koran. His weapon parried, and Nieme sidestepped him to attempt another jab at his exposed flank. Koran leapt forward in a twisting somersault and averted her strike.

Koran's actions derived from a calm and serenity deep inside of him. Through the Force, he sensed Nieme's actions, shaded and shadowed by her darkness. His calm allowed him to peer through it, to see something more. His lightsaber angled toward his feet as he stepped into Nieme's attack, and pushed her blade away. She renewed her attack and came back at him, her anger deepening, her joy rising as she sank deeper into darkness. The dichotomy of emotions assaulted Koran, but he pushed them away. He shifted his stance to a more offensive one, pushing Nieme toward defense, where her anger and hate would make her weaker.

"Is that sweat I see on your brow?" Nieme grinned as she cut and slashed at Koran, seeking flesh to sink into. His lightsaber, however, was always present to deflect her blows. Nieme was becoming weary of his adeptness. She growled as, again, she was pushed back. Once her footing steadied, she flung herself forward with her lightsaber levelled at his chest. Nieme sensed his mind picking out her intentions from among the swirling darkness clouding her thoughts. A moment before his blade swept up to knock her weapon away, Nieme spun away from Koran and veered towards his back. She kicked out a leg and struck his lower back with a sharp blow. His knees bent, and she was filled with glee, but his legs didn't buckle and pull him down as she'd expected, and instead her remained standing.

Koran spun around, dropping his center of gravity lower in case she tried to unbalance him again. He slashed hard, pushing her weapon away from her body, opening her to an attack. He shot a fist outward, and landed it into her chest. He put some Force energy behind it, and knocked her back several meters. "I hope you can see that I'm stronger than you've judged me to be. I hope you can see that this fight is hopeless for you."

The fire in Nieme's eyes flared. She gathered her feet beneath her, and summoned her weapon into her hand again as she rose. "I'm not dead, am I?" she rasped. "This isn't over...for me, anyway." Her burning gaze flashed towards Talara, whose body bent to her will and stumbled into Koran's path. The distraction made, Nieme flew at Koran, with her weapon swinging. She would go through Talara if she had to.

Koran caught Talara through the Force, and easily moved her aside. "No," Koran said calmly, as he prepared for Nieme's attack. He met her attack, blocking and riposting. They spun around each other, looking for an opening. There were no openings yet, but Koran was content to wait for his. "Not dead, just a coward who will throw an innocent life in her path to give pause to those with a conscience, of which you have none. But your darkness will be your undoing. You will not see the betrayal before it's too late because your mind is too clouded with your own hate."

"Betrayal?" Nieme laughed, though furtively her gaze shifted towards Talara. "She's an obedient whore," she told him, both still circling. "And I'd kill her before she got that chance."

Koran nodded, then chuckled. As he did, his eyes noticeably flipped behind Nieme, into the distance where Dani was teasing the clones in an intricate dance with her lightsaber. None of them could seem to touch her, but they all still lived, trying to catch her. "Interesting." He chuckled again, then resumed the fight.

Nieme's mind was consumed suddenly by Koran's implication, and seemed to find corroboration through minute details she'd overlooked about her lover before, suspicions she'd ignored, and intuition. She screamed with rage and lashed at Koran with her weapon in a wild fury. "You're a bastard liar!" she shrieked.

The ferocity of Nieme's attack pushed Koran back a few steps and forced him back to the defensive. Her wild swings, and lunges were difficult to predict, but he managed to keep his lightsaber between them. Barely. He managed, however, to keep his voice calm. "Am I?"

"Yes," she growled, then grunted as she dealt a barrage of rapid slashes that all met Koran's weapon. "She would never! You don't understand our love...how strong it is. You know nothing about love! Not even Laedra could love you as you wanted!"

"Laedra can only love me as Laedra is able," Koran answered, lightsaber a blur of motion. "However, that does not impede my understanding of emotion or love through the Force. I know what I feel, Nieme. Though, your darkness clouds your feelings and you cannot see."

"I see everything!" she cried, and with lightsabers connected, she pushed back and away from Koran. "I see more than you ever have, than you ever will," she whispered hoarsely. Her chest rose and fell quickly while her piercing gaze held Koran's, but her attention was drawn towards Dani. "We're leaving," she said between clenched teeth. "Dani! Talara! Say your goodbyes." Nieme's blade retracted into her hilt, which she pointed at Koran for emphasis. "Stay away from us and we won't have to kill you." Her cloak made a sweeping arc as she spun and stormed away.

Dani and Talara quickly hurried to Nieme's side, with Dani blowing kisses to the clones behind them.

"Be careful where you try to stake your claim," Koran cautioned. "We won't just allow you to take over, you know. If you attempt to take the palace again, know that we will stand in your way."

"And I will cut you down if you do," Nieme muttered, though with less passion than usual. Her mind was too plagued with doubts to expend any energy dealing out threats. Then, the three of them were gone, descending down the steep staircase.

Once Nieme and Dani had gone, Koran approached Oot Kovan. "Thank you for contacting me," he said.

Oot nodded. "I don't see why you just let them get away though."

"I want to recover them from the darkness, not destroy them." He was silent for a moment. "You'll contact us again if they return?"

Oot nodded once more. "Of course," she said. "I've also instructed all my people to be on the lookout for them."

"Thank you," Koran said. "It is a great loss to lose a Jedi, especially three of them so young, to the darkness."

"I can understand," she said. "Again, thank you for getting here so quickly. I don't believe I would have liked to see what would happen if you had not been here."

"Hopefully that will be a question we never need concern ourselves with."

"Thank you again, Master Koran Darr."

Koran bowed to Oot, and then turned away. The future was uncertain where Nieme and Dani were concerned, and he could only hope the end would not bring tragedy.

***

Dani growled to herself as they strode out of the courtyard and out through the gate, not even bothering to pay special attention to the guards at the door. "Where did he come from?" she asked angrily. "And, how did she know to have him there so quickly? It was him. He did it. Liam Zaneth. He warned her and talked to Koran."

Nieme made no reply, and stared with hard eyes at the path ahead. Now that she had Koran's warning, she was noticing the slight changes in Dani. She just didn't seem...dark enough. Perhaps he and Liam had seen something Nieme, blinded by her confidence and pride, couldn't: that Dani's heart simply wasn't in it anymore. That was not good. Not at all.

"We'll get him next time, my love," Dani said with a slow smile. "We'll make him pay for upsetting our plans. I think we should go kill someone tonight, someone...important. I wonder who's going to be at The Palace, tonight? We could kill someone there."

"Yes," Nieme replied ominously, and with her thoughts still entirely on Dani's betrayal, "we could." And she knew she might have to if Dani showed any signs of reluctance or doubts, no matter how much she loved her.

"Nieme, what's wrong. You're brooding. Don't you want to have some fun tonight?"

Nieme smiled shrewdly and looked aside at her lover. She then slipped an arm around her waist and pulled her in for a kiss that was hungry and full of raw passion. Dani may have her doubts, but Nieme was confident she could endear Dani completely to the darkness, as she was. Killing her would prove a waste of such beauty. When the kiss ended, Nieme grinned at her love. "Fun it is, then."

And with that, they turned their attention toward the Palace. A night of debauchery would overcome their failure at the royal palace. They would forget what had happened, and lose themselves in bliss, while introducing Talara to this new form of pleasure-seeking.

If only it were that easy...

---

"War Ship"
By: Robin Black [NPC+]
Jack Black
Anne [NPC]

Location: Adrift in the Bantu Sector
Date: Lythe 4, 4ABY

***

In the inky blackness of space a ship floated dead. Fuel vented from a side port, creating a rainbow of colors surrounding the ship. A small shower of dust peppered against the armored ship's hull. Inside black smoke filled the pitch-black control room. Robin looked up over the makeshift barricade he and the soldiers had built. The pirates hadn't given up on their attacks; it had been two days since he had boarded the ship. Robin was hungry, thirsty and tired. He and the soldiers had been under almost constant attack for those whole two days. Robin had discarded his two pistols a day ago favoring one of the pirate's blasters. His soldiers still held onto their standard plasma blasters, their regenerating power source sustaining them.

Two of the soldiers had died, and a third was injured but Robin and the remaining soldiers were still holding the line. Robin peered through the infrared goggles into the pitch black. "Can you see anything?" Robin asked.

"Negative, sir," reported one of the soldiers. "They have not attempted an attack on our position for thirty minutes."

Robin raised an eyebrow and looked at the soldier through the goggles. "Has it really been that long?" A warning bleep made Robin look down. His personal shield was occasionally giving off its warning, telling Robin it was almost out of power. The unit was down to three percent. "How are your shields?"

"Mine was hit in the last attack," reported one of the soldiers.

"I've still got twenty-five percent power," reported the second soldier. "I'll take the front position."

Robin was about to stand up and walk away from the barricade but he caught sight of movement through his goggles. "Hold up, we've got company." Robin leveled his gun down the corridor. Twelve pirate soldiers charged towards Robin's position. Robin began firing.

As the twelve pirates were slaughtered a second wave attacked. Their guns blazed as they ran down the corridor towards the small barricaded command room. The first solder was peppered by a few shots but his armor protected him. A laser shot lanced Robin's arm. The young mercenary cried out in pain and shot back. Through the smoke Robin began to make out what was going on behind the attacking pirates.

"Their setting up a cannon!" he warned, shooting a pirate just as he got to the barricade. The pirate, not much older than eighteen, fell dead at Robin's feet. Robin knelt down and snatched up the dying youth's gun and began to fire with both of the weapons. Robin could see the weapon was almost fully built. "Oh crap," Robin cursed as the weapon fired.

A large beam of deadly energy struck one of the soldiers, blasting him apart. Robin was showered in gore. However, not blinking, Robin fired down the corridor, aiming for the gun's power source. As Robin emptied the two laser rifles into the power box it began to spark. The gunner looked down then tried to jump for safety. The explosion ripped the corridor apart, sending showers of shrapnel everywhere.

***

"Report," Jack's calm voice echoed over the command carrier's deck.

"We've located the Sulaco, she's dead in space, fuel is vented and main and auxiliary power is off line."

"Life support?" Jack asked.

"It operates on a separate power system and has been untouched as yet," Anne reported efficiently. "There are three dozen life forms on the ship, several of them are very weak."

"There was three hundred on that ship when we originally lost it," Jack stated.

"Yes, sir, your brother and the kill team have done a good job."

"Assuming they are still alive," Jack pessimistically pointed out. "Prepare the Marauders for launch. Have them kill the rest of the crew then send some techs over to bring the ship up and running," Jack commanded.

"Yes, sir." Anne nodded and began tapping the orders into her computer.

***

A kill squad walked through the hallways of the burned out ship. There were few people left alive. The fighting had been located on deck one, but some fire damage had spread this far down. Three soldiers walked on each side of the ship.

"I'm getting no life readings on this level, sir," reported the second in command, flicking his light down the hall way. "They are all further up."

"Let's head up and clear the decks," the commander ordered. "Squad two?" he called into his communicator.

"We've just finished our sweep. All of the survivors are on decks one and two. We are heading up there now."

"Agreed."

Through the gloom the two squads joined together. "We located a small group of civilians," reported one of the soldiers. "We ended them."

"We need to locate Robin Black," one of the soldiers stated.

"Er...you looking for me?" Robin asked, sliding a roof panel away and sliding down. "Give me a hand," Robin said, helping the injured soldier down.

"What happened?" one of the soldiers asked. "Well when a power unit exploded it ignited the fuel I had vented and basically set the ship ablaze," Robin explained with a shrug, wincing as he brushed a burned section of his skin.

---

"Discoveries, Part 1"
by: Adam Edwards
DB-7 [NPC+]

Location: Hoth
Date: Lythe 4, 4 ABY

***

Adam was busy counting the credits he and DB had earned from their last job. The credits were laid out on the table in the Elusive's lounge. All Ten Thousand were there.

However, that left Adam with a lot of money and nothing to do. And for some reason, what the old man had said to him about Hoth wouldn't get out of his mind.

It finally got the better of him. Adam got up, and found DB in the cargo hold.

"Hey, DB, you feel like taking a trip?" Adam asked.

"Where are we going?" the droid asked.

"We're gonna see if there is really a gold mine beneath Hoth," Adam said.

"You said that old man's story was a crazy legend. What interests you about it now?" DB asked.

"We don't have anything better to do. And we might get rich," Adam said, smiling. "Let's prep the ship."

An hour later, the Elusive descended into Hoth's atmosphere. Adam was thankful that this part of Hoth was having relatively good weather. It made piloting a lot easier.

Up ahead, the old blast doors of the abandoned rebel base loomed through the snow.

"We'll put down in front of the doors, DB," Adam told him. "Got go get the snow gear."

Adam set the Elusive down, then met DB in the crew area. DB handed him a jacket, and Adam put it on. They proceeded down the ramp.

The base's blast door were slightly open, enough for a man to slip through.

"Maybe we can find some information about this place in there," Adam told his droid.

They slowly moved into the old structure.

---

"Hunting Pirates"
By: Robin Black [NPC+]
Jack Black
Anne [NPC]

Location: Adrift in the Bantu Sector
Date: Lythe 4, 4ABY

***

Robin stepped out of the shower toweling himself off. Finally he had managed to get most of the soot off. In many places his body was burned and pink; raw skin showed through. Robin winced as he pulled the towel away and looked at his body. It was battered and bruised but he had been in worse shapes. Suddenly without warning the door slid open and Anne admitted herself. Robin scrambled for a towel. Anne didn't even seem to notice his naked body.

"Here is the report from the raid. According to the computer you managed a seventy seven percent efficiency. Jack would like to see you improve it to a rounded eighty five."

Robin looked stunned for a moment. "What could I have done differently?" he asked, shocked. "I was on a ship with a small army trying to kill me and you are upset that I took a few casualties!"

"Your forces were superiorly armored, armed and trained. They should each have been able to kill sixty of the pirates, whereas one of the soldiers only managed to take thirty five out of action. Also there were the damages."

"Well it was a bit hard not to cause damages during a fire fight," Robin huffed back. "The damages to the ship were extensive but not unpredicted. We were referring to the damages to your troops' equipment, four shield generators damaged beyond repair, two plasma rifles destroyed, three sets of armor..." Anne looked up from her check list. "And I'm not including the two soldiers killed."

Robin shrugged. "I survived, that's all I think is important."

"Well," Anne said, walking closer till she was looking almost straight into his chest. "That's all that is important." She smiled slyly, looking up into Robin's eyes. The big man turned bright red. "You've missed a spot." She pointed to the side of his neck and slowly ran her finger down his chest, then walked away out of the room.

As the door closed Robin breathed again. "Damn. now I'm going to need to take a cold shower." He walked away uncomfortably.

***

On the command deck Jack sat in his command chair looking down over everyone. "How are repairs going, Alpha 12?" Jack asked, looking down at the command staff.

"The ship is currently twenty percent of operating efficiency," the young man reported. "We've finished repairing the fuel cells and we are beginning to refill. Hull damage isn't as extensive as it looks mostly just superficial burns, and soon the hull will be sealed."

"Weapons?"

"Negative, sir they are completely destroyed."

"Brilliant," spat Jack sarcastically. He looked at his side control panel. "If we used the weapons and systems from the two corvettes could we bring the ship up to full operation capacity."

"Negative, sir. Also the two corvettes would be stronger than any ship we could derive from stripping the two."

"At least we have two suicide ships." Jack smiled. "Are they now locked into our ships control systems?"

"Affirmative, sir."

Well that's one thing, Jack thought and leaned back as the blonde young Anne walked into the command deck and took her position in front of him.

Her fingers slid over the controls like lightning. "Sir, the homing beacon has stopped moving. We can assume the ship has docked."

"Location," Jack demanded.

"Twelve light-years rimwards of our position."

"Set course."

---

"Meeting in the Dark"
By: Laedra Vorrel
Kael Selrid

Location: Arcadia; New Plouton
Date: Lythe 4, 4 ABY

***

His essence still thrummed within her, despite the cover of Darkness consuming the Light. Her heart was inextricably connected to his, and even amid the abyss she was wading in, the path to him seemed clear. Still, she could not go to him, though there was now certainty in the love she felt for him. He had a new path, however, with a Temple full of Padawans still coming to terms with their incipient abilities. There was no time for distractions. So, just as the three dark figures fled from the palace, Laedra Vorrel turned her back on the beacon of light driving back the gloom and pulled away from the rooftop's edge, again leaving behind Koran Darr. There was a duty to fulfill, one appointed to her by Master Ki'Ayalin, and no matter how ill qualified she felt herself for the task, she was determined to keep her vow.

From above she watched them, and through the Force she attempted to track the three girls bent on seeking out mischief, but their trail was cleverly masked by the darkside. They would prove difficult opponents in the end. With their boisterous, fiendish laughter echoing in the streets, Laedra Vorrel leapt soundlessly from rooftop to rooftop, following as far as she could. They heckled beggars as they passed, and taunted streetside thugs with brief flashes of thigh; all the while, so preoccupied were they with their own unwholesome pleasure, they were made oblivious to Laedra's presence.

She finally dogged them to the grandiose Palace of Stars. Dani and Nieme squealed with delight at its presence, and dashed towards the strobing lights and brilliantly coruscating sign with cloaks flaring behind them. Laedra suspected they were intent on finding a night of debauchery and mischief - innocent for the most, but she was determined to keep them in her sights. Leaping down from the roof of Doya's Textiles and summoning the Force to dampen the impact, Laedra sought to follow.

"Not a wise idea to be following them around without any sort of backup," a voice in the darkness said.

Laedra Vorrel smiled wryly at her own ineptness and turned to face the figure she should have detected long before he spoke. "And what are you doing out this late, Kael Selrid?"

"I sensed a disturbance in the Force," he said. "I've been quietly watching, keeping my profile low. They are dangerous, and one Jedi should not face them. Talara does not get involved in the fight, but that could change. And, even so, Nieme and Dani are a very dangerous duo. They nearly think for each other, and that sort of concerted action, even against a trained Jedi Knight, is difficult to overcome."

"I had not intended to confront them tonight," Laedra informed him. "I was merely...observing as well, though that I did not notice your presence is a sign that I am hardly prepared to face those two alone."

"I wouldn't feel too upset about not detecting me," Kael said. "I've been masking. Master Koran Darr walked into one of the training rooms yesterday, and was surprised to see me standing in the center of the room. It appears that I have something of a talent for that."

A wistful smile touched her lips. "He's well, then? I sensed him at the palace this evening, but I did not see him."

"He had a difficult turn, but he made it through," Kael said. "From what I heard, they went there, and Oot Kovan called him. He fought them off, but it was a close enough thing. It sounds like he believes the key is to set them against each other."

She sighed and leaned her back heavily against the ferrocrete wall. "I should've gone to him. I suspected something was amiss...."

"This time, things worked out well," Kael said. "He's a strong Jedi, though I'm certain he'd accept the help." He reached out and put a hand on her shoulder. "I'm certain he'll be fine next time. Though, perhaps if you were to assist him, you could truly turn the tide against them. Stopping them will prove difficult because they have no qualms about hurting anyone else, and Nieme seems to delight in causing pain and suffering. They'll use our compassion against us."

"I am not ready to return, Kael." Her own hand covered his, and she squeezed it gently. "I will be near, though, if he needs me." She grinned at Kael. "Though, he does have you. That's all the help he requires."

Kael smiled. "I think he prefers the way you look when you help him," he said. "Besides, Rae doesn't like it when he flirts with me."

Laedra laughed softly and fondly pressed a hand to Kael's cheek. "I am glad I have you to speak with, Kael. It gets lonely at times."

"I don't know if I could do what you're doing, Laedra," he said. "I'm far too used to having people close. In the desert and here. I envy the strength you have within you to do that, though I'll always be around for you. You can count on me as your friend, and partner when you require me."

"Thank you," she answered solemnly. "But I am used to the solitude. Don't despair for me." She smiled, then, and turned her gaze towards the Palace of Stars. "I believe I will stay here and ensure that no harm comes to anyone."

Kael nodded. "I'm going to continue on in the direction they went," he said. "I'll let you know what I find, though I doubt I will be out here for much longer tonight. And, I have no doubts there is much I can do beyond observe. I'll talk to you again soon, Laedra. May the Force be with you."

"And with you," she answered. "Kael," she added quickly before he could depart. "Tell Koran--" A rueful smile touched her lips and she shook her head. "Don't let any harm come to him."

"I'll make sure he stays safe," Kael said with a smile. "Though, you have to promise me that you'll stay safe as well."

She shrugged and answered with a mischievous smile, "Can't make any promises.... But I will try."

Kael laughed. "See that you do, or I will become your partner through this."

"A threat worthy of instilling fear in me," she teased, then chuckled as she embraced him. "Go on," she said after pulling back. "I'll watch your back."

"I'll see you soon," he said, then turned and disappeared into the darkness.

---

"Important Events In Gallor"
By Kitana Gellar [NPC+]
Former Emperor of Gallor Yu [NPC]

Location: Spira System
Date: Lythe 4, 4 ABY

***

Kitana looked to her planet through a window of her chamber aboard the Necron. She simply looked towards her beautiful planet, Gallor, as she reminded how lonely Gallor was now more than ever and how they were abandoned these last few months.

After the unsuccessful meeting with those representatives of the New Republic. Stupid bastards, Kitana thought. She had lost time talking to the New Republic and also the request of a meeting with Emperor Regent of Tae'Karada were always responded by that he was busy.

She lost precious time and what the most she feared became reality. A Civil War was installed in Gallor and nobody seemed to care. The people on the palace were caught and murdered by the rebels, but most of the staff and knights were able to flee. They plundered everything inside the palace and also they destroyed every single possession of the Empress Garnet and screaming, "DEATH TO THE EMPRESS! DEATH TO THE EMPRESS!".

She knew the loyal troopers of the Empress quickly turned to the sides of the rebels, but fights were too severe and strong between the rebels and the loyal forces of the Empress, but after a month of intense fights the rebels were able to take control of all the large cities. Midgar was one of the most difficult ones since it took the rebels all month.

The rebels installed themselves as new rulers of the planet Gallor the second month the large cities went back to normal, but the civil war continued inside the Green Forest. During the second month the fights were severe and beyond bloody. The new rulers were able to push the Empress' loyal forces inside the forest near the Tree Falls. Nevertheless to say that Kitana changed to the sides of the new rulers as well as everybody inside the Necron, since the new rulers were able to fix the problems that Garnet was not able to fix in the same period of time.

Last month things become more unbearable to the troopers of the new rulers. The casualties of the new rulers were beyond thinkable. The fights were intense and most troopers of the new rulers never returned or returned in body bags. At this point the New Republic seemed to support the new rulers of Gallor. Nobody knew who commanded the rebels that were now in control of Gallor not even Kitana, but he called himself the Regent Duke.

The new ruler forces found some villages burned to the ground and pile of bodies of men, women and children. Also the rumors that Garnet's forces were using mercenaries started to be in the mouth of the new ruler's forces.

Only last month were they able to eliminate any remaining forces of the Empress. The new rulers never were able to proove that Garnet used mercenaries, but stability reigned in Gallor during the third month. The problems of the lack of food and supplies were long restored and now the new rulers were able to make Gallor self sufficient.

Kitana knew the Gallorians had gone through enough and now in peace the Gallorians could discuss the future of Gallor. Also it would prove Gallor a more reliable planet.

Now she was going to meet finally the Regent Duke of the Gallorians. A knock on the door stopped her thoughts. She turned towards the door as her dark brown hair danced through the wind. "Enter!"

The door opened and a trooper with a black and blue symbol of the Regent Duke on the top left of his uniform entered and with a little bow he spoke. "My Lady. The Regent Duke has arrived."

"Very well. The room is prepared for the meeting?" Kitana asked as she walked towards the trooper.

"Yes it is, My lady!" The trooper paused. "The Regent Duke is already on his way."

"Thank you," Kitana said as the trooper bowed again as Kitana walked out the room and made her way to the room of the meeting.

She entered the room and saw a group of people talking, but everybody stopped what they were doing and turned to face Kitana. "Gentleman it is an honor to meet you," Kitana said as she offered a warm welcome.

"My Lady," one of the men spoke. "May I present the Regent Duke of Gallor."

Kitana saw one man standing in front of the other men. She gasped in surprise to see that the Regent Duke of Gallor was in fact her father.

"Hello, daughter, surprised to see me as the Regent Duke?" the former Emperor of Gallor spoke.

Kitana wanted to speak, but nothing came out of her mouth. She never suspected that her father would be the leader. Then she finally spoke. "You, Father? You are the Regent Duke? Why?"

"Those are very good questions," Yu spoke as he got near to her daughter. "I was kicked out of my throne by the election committee. They were the ones that chose Garnet as the Empress. I never liked her, since she is a criminal. Did you know that it was quite her fault and her Liberation Army this planet was not self sufficient. A lot of people sold their souls to Garnet. So to find those corrupted souls I had to make this Civil War. It was a risky plan but at least now Gallor is not ruled by corrupted people."

"Father, a lot of people died in this war, how could you?" Kitana asked.

"The people made their own choices, daughter. I made mine for the good of Gallor. Garnet's rule was not quite well seen by many planets and our alliances become thinner. Besides, the majority of the Gallorians joined our causes. After the fights ended on the cities the Gallorians seemed to enjoy the work of their new governor and Duke. Now I will lead Gallor to the glory that they never had, making new alliances with neighbor planets." Yu put one of his hands on Kitana's right shoulder. "Even you that served directly, Garnet you joined our cause."

"I suppose so. Garnet didn't seem to care when I spoke to her two months ago about Gallor." Kitana smiled that she was happy at least that her father was a good ruler. "So what is this meeting with me all about, Father?"

"To improve our planet both in military, society and reputation we should ally to our neighbors." Yu paused as he gave a look to his advisors. "Emperor Regent of Tae'Karada is making an Alliance of the worlds of the Outer Rim. The New Republic had helped out our cause, and that made a very good impression throughout the worlds."

"So basically you want me to talk to the Emperor Regent and offer Gallor to join them?" Kitana spoke.

"Yes, rumors about the Emperor Regent Liam Zaneth is a Jedi, would prove reliable," Yu said.

"Reliable?" Kitana didn't understand.

"It is said the Jedi can sense when we are speaking the truth or not. If you present the case to our interest in the Alliance and if Emperor Regent Liam Zaneth accepts our joining. You will be our representative, alas representative of Gallor in Tae'Karada."

"It would be an honor to serve again, my father," Kitana said as she vowed. She looked to her father face and saw smile.

"It is good to be in control again, daughter. It killed me the poor way that Garnet was leading our planet. For what I learned during my stay with the rebels that we must put Honor and Loyalty above politics. It is the correct way. Maybe I set this phrase as a law so everybody in Gallor reflects about it. Put your Honor and Loyalty above politics," Yu said as she smiled.

"Do you think Emperor Regent Liam Zaneth will accept to see me? I tried to contact before the Civil War but he always responded that he was busy, Father!" Kitana said as she looked to her father's bluish eyes. It was only then that first saw her father without his beard.

"I will personally send the request, daughter. Prepare your things you are going to Tae'Karada... Kitana, you sometimes seemed distant! What is it?"

"For four months I don't have any news about Strider. Last news I had was that he was going to see a Pod Racer in Tae'Karada. No news ever since." Kitana looked to her father, looking for any kind of comfort and hope.

"You know about my position about that child of yours, but if you continued in mind not take your rightful position as my successor, I will have to reconsider Strider as Crown Prince." Yu paused, for a while. "But Tae'Karada is beyond my jurisdiction you have to seek Emperor Regent Liam Zaneth's help in that matter."

"Yes, Father I understand." Kitana looked as she kissed him goodbye and walked out of the room. She had to be successful speaking to Emperor Regent Liam Zaneth. Maybe if she spoke the truth to him he would grant the proposal of Gallor joining his Alliance.

---

"Re-Encounters"
by Auron Ronso
Kyra Ronso
Ellemiek Vermolen
and Aeris Strife

Location: Tae'Remok System aboard SSD Lusankya
Date: Lythe 4, 4 ABY

***

Kyra ran through the dense vegetation followed by a young New Republic trooper. Through everybody's comm, different voices were screaming, "RETREAT! TAKING HEAVY FIRE! HELP! THEY ARE EVERYWHERE!" Kyra heard, as the voices were starting to get confusing since everyone talked at the same time.

Kyra continued to run, followed by the young trooper, and a few meters after they were joined by troopers who came along. The energy rays from enemy blasters were everywhere, passing extremely near them, and a few troopers were hit fatally. In the distance, they could hear screams of pain.

She entered a zone clear of the vegetation where the transports were landing. "Don, keep up with me. They are right behind us!" she screamed as she continued to run. Out of the vegetation appeared about a thousand troopers. Troopers of the new rulers of Gallor and New Republic Troopers, fleeing from the enemy. They ran towards the transports as they were followed by the enemy.

A few troopers were hit by enemy fire, and some of the companies tried to help out their wounded companions. Heavy repeating blasters from the transports fired against the enemy that was now exiting their hiding places from the vegetation and out into the open.

The first soldiers that reached the transports made cover fire for the rest of their comrades. Kyra was able to reach one of the transports and when she looked behind her she saw that the young trooper she was with still had a long way to go.

Kyra saw that some of the troopers that were wounded on the ground were caught by the enemy and killed at that same instant. The field was in tones of red from the blood of the fallen ones. She saw as one trooper looked back to respond fire and was shot by enemy fire, blood sprouting as the laser hit him. She saw many troopers had been shoot on their backs. The laser from the blasters, in some cases, trespassed the troopers. Kyra saw blood coming out from their fatal wounds. She responded fire to make cover.

The lasers of the enemy blasters were everywhere. Kyra fired her weapon, killing some of their foes, but there were too many... One of the three transports flew out of the place, while the other two were still waiting for troopers. Alas, one of the transports that was still on the ground took off before it was full. The pilot was nervous and chose to get out. But before he could reach safe airspace, the ship was struck by a missile and blown to pieces. Some parts fell to the ground and exploded on impact.

Kyra saw the death of the troopers on that field. Time seemed to slow down as if everybody was moving in slow motion. She saw some troopers running forward, some looking back and being shot more than one time as they cried in agony. She saw a young trooper running in panic without his blaster. He fell to the floor, as he tripped on something, but got up at once. He was shot on his left leg and again on the chest more than five times. He dropped lifeless on the ground, his blood staining the vegetation around him.

"Hurry up, Don. We're leaving..." Kyra said as she suddenly saw a laser from a blaster trespassing Don. Kyra wanted to help him out, but before she could do anything she was shot on her shoulder, which made her twist as she fell to the ship's ramp floor. She quickly looked at Don, but he was struck by another shot and she knew he was dead.

Another soldier grabbed Kyra and pushed her onboard the transport. The transport started to lift up and some soldiers climbed to the transport as it was leaving. Kyra didn't listen to what the trooper that was grabbing her was saying. She only wanted to get Don.

"Don! No! Don!" Kyra screamed frenetically as the transport flew away. Kyra saw his lifeless corpse on the ground below as well as some of the troopers who were left behind surrendering themselves. But the enemy didn't care for prisoners and killed everyone.

Kyra woke up, covered in sweat about the dream she had and realizing that she was on a different transport en route to the SSD Lusankya. She looked down to the floor and saw some of her tears falling. This was the reward for helping out the Gallorians on their Civil War. Another tear fell on the floor. It was extremely painful but these were now her new memories.

"People, wake up! We're reaching the SSD Lusankya in two minutes," one of the pilots said.

Kyra quickly cleaned up her tears and got up to see the SSD Lusankya.

***In one of the Hangars of the SSD Lusankya***

Auron was fixing one of the engines of his X-Wing. Ellemiek was helping him out to make sure that the engine got good again. "Great! Just great..."

"Stand clear! Transport landing! Stand clear!" said a voice through the ship's comm.

Auron looked to the transport has it landed. A ramp opened, as the troopers started to get out of the transport.

"Look at those poor people," Auron said.

"Yeah..." Ellemiek sighed. "War is never nice to see. And I was hoping for some peace time after Tarkin fell on that last battle. But I hear that the war is over on Gallor as well, so let's hope we keep war free..."

"Let's hope so..." Auron sighed as the people walked down the transport's ramp. "From what I heard, these are the first troopers that arrived from Gallor, from one of their bloodiest wars..." Auron said as a woman exited from the transport. He knew who she was very well, but he noticed something different in her. Auron saw that Kyra stopped at the transport's entrance and looked everywhere. She seemed lost in this hangar, as if she was searching for somebody or something. And Auron could tell that it was neither himself nor Ellemiek. "Do you see who's near the transport?" he asked Ellemiek.

Ellemiek turned to look and saw Kyra. She was as many of the others. With a beat look, obviously tired. She had never seen Kyra like so, not even when Auron was presumed dead. But then again, war could change almost anyone... "Yeah, it's Kyra. Maybe you should go to her?"

Auron sighed and thought for a moment, looking at Ellemiek and then at Kyra. It's time to make these two friends, Auron thought to himself. On the other hand, they could engage some fight or something. What do I know about women? They're still a mystery for most males in the galaxy! Auron turned again to Ellemiek and gave her a smile. "No Ellemiek, we should both go. She was once your best friend and mine also. There can at least be hope to regain that friendship after all..."

Ellemiek gave away a small smile. "Maybe the part when she tried to kill me made that a little bit harder to work on, but I believe in second chances. Besides, she looks like she could use friends right now. Come on," she told Auron, making a small gesture as if to tell him to lead the way.

Kyra set down a duffel bag she was carrying. She was looking for some comfort but she wasn't finding any. She felt somewhat alone. I wish that you could all be here, my friends, Kyra said silently to her fallen comrades of war. She then saw that Auron and Ellemiek were coming to meet her. She was a little bit ashamed of herself in front of them. "Hi, Auron. Ellemiek. How are you?" Kyra asked, while trying to avoid direct eye contact with either of them.

"We're fine," Ellemiek said as she took a good long look at Kyra. Maybe Auron was right and it was time to put their differences aside. Alas, she wasn't sure of what to say to Kyra. "You look tired. Have you been told where your quarters will be?"

"I tried to get some rest on the transport, but I couldn't even close my eyes. I kept having flashbacks from when I was back on the field. I don't want to rest at all. I just need a place to put my bag," Kyra answered. She could tell that she was going to cry again if she didn't clean up her eyes. She didn't want to show Ellemiek that she was crying. At least not now.

Ellemiek looked at Auron and back at Kyra. She tried to give the woman a warm smile. "Well, I know what you probably would like. A nice warm shower. I'm not sure you can get one at your quarters, but if not, you can use mine."

Kyra smiled back at Ellemiek. "Thank you for your kind offer, Elle." She smiled back at Auron. "What I need now is friends because I lost most of them. You can call it irony of destiny but...but I'm the only one who survived from my entire platoon. All of them died in battle..." Kyra said with a heavy heart. By now she couldn't help it and a tear rolled down her cheek.

"Well, I'm sure you gave your very best. War is never easy for anyone. But at least it's over now. Now there is peace and no more innocent people have to die for all the wrong reasons," Ellemiek told Kyra. "Come on, you can leave your things in my room until we find out where you're staying," she said. Ellemiek then turned to Auron. "Can you go over protocol for us on that? You know, deal with any paperwork and orders that she has to sign? You can bring them up later maybe..."

Auron sighed and with a big warm smile he nodded. "Of course I will. It will be my pleasure. So, I'll see you soon?" Auron said as he walked away.

"So, what have you been doing these past three months?" Kyra asked.

"Well, not much. Paperwork and reports. Doing regular training with my squadron. I helped Auron set up his new squadron..." Ellemiek answered. "You see, we are stationed here to maintain peace in this sector and to set mutual aid between nearby systems."

Kyra looked towards Ellemiek. "That's good... Elle, I feel like I must apologize for what I did. After the fall of the Wild Cats squadron I was court marshaled, but all that was bogus since it was a cover plan for me to infiltrate the Empire. Then, everything twisted fast and I was left all alone inside the Empire ranks. I felt betrayed."

"It's not like I was responsible or anything... But I guess I was also guilty of not trusting you. But that is the past and there's nothing we can do to change it now. What do you say we start over. A fresh start," Ellemiek offered.

"To a fresh start..." Kyra smiled. She only hoped that this time this friendship could last forever.

---

"Crashed"
By: Oyani Tala
Peelor Taft [NPC]

Location: The desert, outside Thanatos
Date: Lythe 4, 4ABY

***

The old man pulled himself from the twisted remains of what was once a small space craft. It was impossible to tell now, but it could easily have been an Imperial bomber that had been severely modified. There was some area, obviously added on, that could have been used to carry cargo, or passengers. And, even when it was intact and spaceworthy, the ship must have looked like a mess.

Big, and burly, the man pulled his bearded form out, squeezing his way out of a broken transparisteel cockpit window, and landing in the sand with a grunt. He had crashed just outside Thanatos. And that did not suit his situation, at all. Several curses in at least three languages were escaping from the small gab between beard and mustache that served him as a mouth. Then, he suddenly went silent. A sound, near the aft section of the ship and to his right had caught his attention.

Someone was banging on the aft escape hatch, and hitting it hard.

"Just a moment, just a moment..." The man leaned over as best he could and began tugging the hand actuator that would open the hatch when all other systems failed. There was a sound, as of pressurized air escaping, and then the hatch popped open. A red-skinned Twi'lek popped out, and landed, face first, in the sand, lekku trailing out around her head.

"Well, had a bit of a tumble, didn't we!" the man announced cheerily. Whether he was referring to the Twi'lek falling from the escape hatch, or their vessel falling into the sand was unclear. He may well have meant both.

The Twi'lek looked up, and spat sand from her mouth. "I thought you said you could fly this mynock-trap!?" she barked in an uncharacteristic display of temper, for a member of her species.

"I am an accomplished pilot," the man replied. "I'll have you know, Miss Tala, that I was flying transports since before your parents had any idea they were ever going to become parents. Why, I flew commercial transports in the days of the Separatist Conflict."

"Yeah...well...starship controls have changed since then," Oyani Tala, the Twi'lek, commented as she pulled herself from the sand, and onto her feet. "And...I have an older brother. So, my parents knew they were going to be parents long before they knew they were going to have me! The point is, you crashed your ship; a little bit beyond my skills to repair."

"I thought you said you could fix any starship ?"

"I said I could fix most starship engines," Tala replied. "And that included your antiquated, slapped-together TIE bomber-turned-spacebus ! But, I can't put it back together. By the Force, we're lucky to be alive."

"Yes...we are," the man said. "Do you believe in the Force, Miss Tala."

"Yes, I do," Oyani said. "But, I doubt it is going to get us out of this. I can't rebuild a ship's hull with sand."

"Then we will just have to make do with the opportunities laid before us," the old man said. He had a name, by the way, but Oyani never got to know him very well as to call him by it very often. It was Peelor Taft. And he wasn't very famous. But, if anyone knew half of the things he had spent the past 40 decades doing, he would have been.

Oyani crossed her arms over an ample chest. "Opportunities ? We're in the middle of the desert! Outside Thanatos, which is exactly where I was trying to get away from! I need to get back to Drogen. You owe me passage. That was our deal. I get your ship flying again, and you get me back to Drogen."

Taft began digging in a deep pocket. "Here...here are a few coins, should be able to pay for your passage..."

"No, we had a deal," Oyani said. "Passage, for repairs. I'm not taking money out of your pocket. That would not be honorable. Besides..." And here her face softened. "You might need it."

She closed Taft's hand over the coins, and he smiled. "Well, money won't get us anywhere in this desert. Let me get a few things out of the wreck, and we'll be off."

"Off...where ?" Oyani asked.

"Back to Thanatos," Taft announced, even as he disappeared back into his ship, ducking into the escape hatchway. "It won't be too long a walk. I'm surprised I didn't crash into the city itself as it is! A couple of nights, and we'll be safe and sound back in Thanatos !"

"Safe and sound...back in Thanatos," Oyani repeated under her breath. It simply wasn't possible for her to equate the concept of personal safety with the city of Thanatos. But, right now, she had little choice. She followed Taft back into his wrecked Starship. They would need several provisions if they were to make their way to Thanatos on foot.

---

"Lizard"
By: Oyani Tala
Peelor Taft [NPC]

Location: The desert, outside Thanatos
Date: Lythe 4, 4 ABY

***

Oyani had made a small pile of what few rocks she had been able to find. And atop those she had further piled sticks culled from a few dry-branched desert plants that had managed to grow up in the wastes of a small, narrow canyon that stretched across part of the duneswept desert near the city of Thanatos.

Her lekku hung limp down her back, and she bit her lower lip as she stood and stepped back, drawing a long-barreled blaster from her belt. After adjusting the firing settings, she launched a reddish bolt into the center of the stick-pile. A spark, some smoke, and then a small fire sprang up. Oyani's uncertain expression was replaced by a smile. She reholstered her weapon, and crouched by the fire.

All the day, she and Peelor Taft had traversed the desert, on foot, with heavy packs full of provisions on their backs. It had been hot, and miserable. Oyani's lekku had dripped with sweat for hours on end. Now, with the sun gone behind the horizon; it was getting cooler, and if the Twi'lek knew anything about deserts, she knew that it would get cold, soon. And the fire might well be the deciding point in the survival of Tala, and her portly companion.

Her mind turned to thoughts of food, as her green eyes stared into the flames.

***

There was a Krayt Dragon With pale green eyes He lived in a desert Under twin-sunned skies

Peelor Taft was singing, loudly, as he wandered the canyon. He had a good, strong baritone voice and loved to let it loose in song. But, there was never anyone who wanted to listen. So, he often sang when he was alone.

And this tune was an old folksong from Tatooine he had learned as a young man. He sung it out loud, to bolster his spirits. He was searching for food. And, after what seemed like several hours, he found what he was looking for. A desert lizard, as big as a Howlrunner. Taft smiled, and leveled his blast rifle.

***

Oyani's hand fell, instinctively, for her blaster as a large form approached. Then, she relaxed as she recognized Taft, after the firelight hit his face. He was grunting, and straining, carrying something heavy across his shoulders. At first she thought it was a small humanoid. Then Taft let it fall to the sandy ground in front of the Twi'lek.

"A lizard?" she asked.

"I've had 'em before," Taft said. "They're good. You got a fire going, I see."

"Wasn't too easy finding wood around here," Oyani commented. "But, yeah, looks like we both did our part."

"We're not quite finished yet," Taft said. "Someone has to clean this beast, and prepare him for eating."

The Twi'lek pulled a knife from her belt. It was one of two she carried there. Coynite daggers, and usually wielded in pairs, in deadly close combat. "We can work on that together." As she spoke a wind swept into the little hollow where they had decided to pitch their camp. It had a chill in it, and Oyani was glad of the fire.

It took some doing, but between her and Taft, they managed to skin the animal, and cut it up into sections that could be impaled on some long metal skewers that Taft had in his pack. Oyani got the impression that this heavy-built old man had done his share of this sort of thing - travelling across country, and living off the land.

Taft produced a bottle from his pack, as Oyani pulled the first bit of meat cooked in their small fire out of the flames, ready for eating.

"A little sauce," he said. "It's strong and a bit hot. But...it'll make the sharp taste of lizard meat a bit more palatable."

Oyani took a bite of the piece of reptilian meat she had on her spit, and chewed it thoroughly; "I've had worse." she commented. "It's actually rather good."

When she was on her third piece of lizard, Oyani leaned herself against a rock, her lekku trailing over her shoulders to hang over her bosom and brush her belt. She eyed the old man curiously, a smile turning the corners of her mouth upward, as she chewed her food.

Taft caught her staring at him, and returned the smile. "A credit for your thoughts, little Twi'lek ?"

"I doubt they're worth that much," Oyani replied. "But...here goes... Who are you ?"

"You mean you've forgotten my name, already?" Taft replied. "I'm Peelor Taft. And until this morning I was the proud owner of what I believe you referred to as a Spacebus. Ahhh...I'll miss her. She gave me a good living. But...it was an old ship. Time to try and parlay another, I suppose."

"That's not what I meant," Oyani said. "You're a strange one. I mean, on the surface, you look like any other spacedog. An old starhopper, trying to make a few credits. But..." She pointed a long, red finger at him. "There's more to you than meets the eye."

"Well, I should hope so!" Taft said, loudly. "I'm of a belief that if you don't have a few skeletons in your closet you can be a pretty damned dull individual. So, I'll admit to a whole boneyard full. And I doubt anyone can ever spend enough time in my presence to hear all their bones rattle."

"Why is that?" the Twi'lek asked, with her mouth full.

"Well, first of all, because I doubt anyone could stand me long enough to stay by my side that long," Taft said. "And, then, because now, in my time of life it is highly unlikely I'll live long enough to tell anyone my story, from start to finish."

"You're human, aren't you ?"

"Yes...born on Coruscant...years ago!" Taft said. "I spent part of my childhood on Corellia, and my youth in the Outer Rim...mostly on Tatooine." He gave her a look that told her there was a story there, if she wanted to hear it. He squinted at her in the firelight, and pointed a chubby finger. "I saw the Boonta Eve classic, when the Skywalker kid won it, and upset every gambler from Tatooine to the Corporate Sector."

"Skywalker?" Oyani's curiosity was piqued. Everyone knew the name, but it was not due to anyone winning a pod race. Skywalker was the last name of a man, who's first name was Luke. And anyone who had served with the Rebellion knew the name of Luke Skywalker. He had destroyed the Empire's Death Star four years ago, at the Battle of Yavin.

Everyone who had been with the rebellion had heard of Skywalker.

Oyani had actually met him.

"No...not the boy that beat the Emperor," Taft said. "More'n'likely, his daddy. But he turned out to be a bad one, they say. Darth Vader...that's the name most people knew him to have..." Taft gave a deep chuckle at the irony; the innocent little human boy, who later became one of the most vicious killers in the Galaxy.

"I knew him..." Oyani said, softly; almost to herself.

"Vader? Well, you're lucky to be sitting here munching lizard with this old Spacedog!" Taft laughed.

"No, not Vader," Oyani said. "Luke Skywalker."

"You were with the rebellion?" Taft sat up a bit straighter. "Well, now that's a bit of news. I was with the Rebels, for some years. Until...until the Empire got my wife. That dried up old Peelor Taft's spirit for a long, long time."

Oyani leaned forward, dropping a lizard bone in the sand. "I think I hear the bones in that closet rattling."

Taft stared into the fire. "Ah, she was beautiful, Tala. Even in her later years. A few years older'n me, she was. And we had everything a man and woman could want. Even a child. And, of course as a family, we saw everything that was going wrong in the Empire from the very first day. So, when the opportunity came, we joined the Rebellion. My son...oh he was a fine fellow. Helluva good pilot, too. But, he died over Yavin, fighting that damned Death Star." Here the old man gave a gruff chuckle. "Of course, he had already lost a large part of his life, when his mother died."

"When did your wife die?" Oyani asked.

"About a year after we joined the Rebellion," Taft said. "A Bounty Hunter working for Vader got her...and several others. We were helping the Wookiees of Kashyyk....and things didn't go too well." He stopped himself, and looked over at the Twi'lek woman who seemed to be concentrating on his every word, intently.

"You don't want to hear all this," he said to her. "C'mon...tell me your story."

Oyani shrugged him off. "There's nothing to tell, not really," she said.

"Now, now. There must be some yarn to spin, considering you knew Skywalker," Taft said. "Or is that tale as tall as these mesa?" He gestured at the rocky towers that jutted up around them to form the walls of the canyon in which they had taken refuge.

"No...I knew Skywalker," Oyani said. "And I really did work for the Rebellion." She lay herself down in the sand, up against a rock that offered some shielding from the wind that was blowing in. "But...I'm an engineer, not a storyteller. And besides...I'm tired."

Taft smiled at her. "Some stories are hard to tell," he said. "You get some sleep. I'll take first watch. We've a long walk ahead of us tomorrow."

"You should rest too," Oyani said. "I mean, what do we need to watch out for here?"

"A desert, I know," Taft said. "But...you never know, who might come venturing out from the safety of the city...especially when the city doesn't offer that much safety. Go on...take your rest. I'll wake you in three hours."

"Alright..." Oyani said. "Just be sure you do." And she let her head come to rest on her hands, folded under one cheek. Her lekku wrapped closely about her upper body, to help conserve her bodyheat. Oyani's eyes closed slowly, their last sight, that of Taft's wide back bent over the fire.

He was humming, and singing; a strange song in a language Oyani did not understand.

But, the song sounded sad.

---

"Seeking Answers"
By: A'Kin
Kael Selrid
Raeila Selrid
Koran Darr
Kal'Aran
Alisson Blair

Location: Jedi Temple
Date: Lythe 4, 4 ABY

***

He was relaxing in the back of his speeder. It had been one of his good ideas building another of these speeders. The sleek black look held all the power and counter-measures within like a wraith waiting to be released. Leaving the council chamber he'd made his way to his speeder, music from the latest applicant to his club was playing in the background.

"Where to, sir?" asked the droid in the front piloting the speeder.

"The Jedi Temple..." A'Kin replied. He had put it off long enough. He needed answers and the Jedi were his best option. Perhaps being part of the newly formed council governing over most, if not all, of New Plouton would give him an edge, though he doubted it. Jedi were often unpredictable.

He reached forward to the computer terminal. Turning it on, he accessed the systems with his implant instantly bringing the 3D holographic screen up. Campbell appeared in a holographic screen, turning to look at A'Kin.

"Boss? What can I do for you?" Campbell asked, looking slightly shocked at seeing A'Kin on the vid-link.

"I'm taking a slight detour so I'll be slightly late; tell Anna she's got the job. She can start at the beginning of next week. Inform the driver to pick her up with the rest of the singers, give her everything she needs. You know the drill."

"Sure, boss, anything else?"

"Nothing comes to mind...just keep the club running smoothly. I expect to still see it standing when I return," A'Kin joked at the end, bringing a smile and a nod from Campbell. The Kel'Ishan closed the channel and the holographic screen shimmered out of view.

"Sir, we're approaching the Jedi Temple." A'Kin looked out of the window seeing nothing but trees for hundreds of miles in every direction, as far as they eye could see, but his eyes quickly moved to the large building which drew his attention growing in size the nearer they got.

The vertical thrusters fired, slowing the speeder's descent. The landing struts folded out the underside of the speeder while the two rear wings folded away. Sand and dust was kicked out to the sides as the speeder touched down on the small clearing to the side of the temple.

This was the first time he'd visited the temple, hopefully not his last. He opened the side door not waiting for the droid. His right hand grabbed his walking staff bringing it along with him. The Tae'Karadan sun struck him instantly and he squinted up at the clear sky. Grabbing the hood over his head he pulled it forward so the excess material draped in front of his face giving some protection from the sun. His coat was custom made, giving warmth in the cold but did the reverse, also cooling A'Kin down in hot climates.

Kael and Raeila Selrid were outside the Temple when the speeder set down. As they watched the craft dip below the far wall of the temple, they glanced at each other with raised eyebrows. It wasn't entirely common yet for the Jedi to get visitors out of the blue, but here was one. It would be an interesting occasion, that was certain. He grinned at Rae. "Well, I guess we're the welcoming committee."

"But for who?" She sighed and slipped her hand into Kael's as they turned to face the approaching vehicle. "And I thought this was supposed to be a quiet walk," she muttered.

Kael chuckled softly as he slipped his hand back into Raeila's. "Come on, let's go see who's decided to pay the Jedi a visit. And, after that, we'll go take that walk."

He spotted them immediately, the white glow around the one signifying a Jedi. That was the reason he was here - to find out why he could see this energy flow. It wasn't only specific to one race or just the Jedi; if he concentrated he could see it in the plant life, the animals that surrounded him. The energy flowed in both directions with Jedi, where normally it only flowed outwards.

He stepped forward, his staff hitting the dry ground as he made his way towards the temple and the welcoming committee. "Greetings..." A'Kin said, bowing respectfully at the Jedi. "I am aware my visit is unexpected and for that I apologise. I wish to see the person in charge, if that is possible. Liam Zaneth I believe or someone with equal authority?"

"Liam Zaneth is currently not available," Kael answered, reaching out with his senses. He sensed nothing of danger to himself or Raeila, and continued. "If you tell me your business, I can direct you to the person most likely able to assist you."

"My business here is personal, so you'll forgive me if I don't tell everyone I meet. If Jedi should fear a lonely old man then times have certainly changed. I give you my word I will cause no trouble or harm to anyone here. If there are no Jedi with authority present I will come back later." A'Kin bowed slowly and turned to leave, making his way towards the speeder.

"Kael has authority," Raeila called out to the man. "He's a Jedi Knight. If you want to speak to a Jedi, speak to him."

"He's a little young..." A'Kin replied, looking from Raeila to her companion but shrugged it off. "How much do you know about the Force...?" he asked, leaning against his staff, his eyes resting on Kael.

Kael cocked his head to the side and regarded the stranger. "I am a Jedi Knight," Kael answered. "And, how do you quantify knowledge? Knowledge and understanding can't be measured in any conventional methods. I know what I know of the Force. And, you will have to forgive me if I am not completely trusting in you. You claim to be an old man, but are anything but. Think of it this way: you're not telling everyone you meet, you're telling me. And, after you tell me, I can determine who you should see here in the Temple. It is really quite simple."

"Must have struck a nerve...." A'Kin whispered, regarding the Jedi. "First of all I'm considerably older than I look...over 400 if you must know! I came here to find out why I see the things I do, but I can see Jedi hospitality is lacking of late... I should have known better than to take Yoda's advice...damn fool." A'Kin turned, heading back to the speeder. "Fire her up we're leaving!"

"If you wish to leave so soon, then I bid you good day, sir," Kael answered. He shook his head and sighed. "And, there is no need to make up stories about Master Yoda."

He stopped, his hand on the door handle. "I don't make up stories, kid..." A'Kin said, turning, looking over at Kael. "He saved my life...and if you call him a liar a second time I'll show you how much you being a Jedi means to me." A'Kin sighed, trying to cool the anger building; his temper always got the better of him. "I apologise..." A'Kin said, bowing his head. "My temper sometimes gets the best of me. It's just frustrating seeing what I can and not knowing the reason..."

"See what?" Rae asked, puzzled.

A'Kin looked at her after glancing to her companion for a brief second. "Ever since I was born I've been able to see it. In some people it's more, in others it's not...for Jedi... that's a very different story." A'Kin could see by the glows they were still confused so he took a deep breath, continuing, trying to explain as best he could. "All life has an energy, from the grass you walk on to the people you talk to every day, but the level of that energy is different for everything. The energy of a Jedi is different..." A'Kin moved away from the speeder, indicating for the others to follow as he walked off.

"The energy of a Jedi is more compact, more defined...but the most important thing is that it flows in two ways." A'Kin paused, glancing at Rae and Kael, making sure they weren't lost. "Normally everyone's energy flows from the inside out, but Jedi... I suspect because of your abilities with the Force... your energy flows both out and inwards at the same time. I on the other had..." A'Kin hesitated for a moment before continuing. "My energy only flows one way...from the out, in. That is only one of the questions I need the answers to, that is the reason I'm here."

Kael raised a skeptical eyebrow. "If what you say is true, and your energy only flowed from outside in, then I wouldn't be able to sense you through the Force."

"That is the reason I'm here!" A'Kin said, feeling like he was going around in circles. "If you don't intend to help me, fine... I'll go elsewhere or wait until you've died and come back again." A'Kin saw the shift in Kael, the white energy flow shifting to a slight hint of blue. So he doesn't believe me...typical, A'Kin thought, turning fed up of these people already.

"You haven't told me what you hope the Jedi can do for you," Kael answered. "Actually, you've said very little beyond that you seek the person in charge and telling me that I don't intend to help you. What do you want from us, in plain basic, please."

"In plain basic..." A'Kin thought, turning back to the Jedi. "I've already said...answers.. you know more about the Force than anyone alive and over the last few years my research has been pointing more and more in that direction. You say if the energy flows inwards only you shouldn't be able to sense me with the Force... Well obviously you can, that is one of a number of questions I'd like answered."

"The first answer I can give," Kael answered, "is that your assumption on the nature of the Force, the flowing in and out, is inaccurate, and possibly the source of your distress. Hanging yourself onto semantics can, at times, be quite paralyzing. And, I still do not understand what it is you expect us to help you with. Could you please explain it again in as plain wording as you can, with as little vague and oblique references as possible? I will stop you if I wish clarification or need further detail, but if you are willing to work with me, and provide the information I ask, then I may be able to be of assistance."

A'Kin nodded. "Very well..." He Took several seconds to compose himself, trying to find the right words. How could he put it any plainer? "I wish to know why I see what I see, the different colours for emotions and feelings, why people affect the flow while others do not...and why everytime I look in the mirror my energy flows in reverse and the colour is different. Like a shadow."

"You see auras," Kael said, then was silent for a moment. "Are you the only of your kind with this ability, or were their others?"

"There are others...but only a limited number can see 'auras.' I've been able to see them since I was born," A'Kin replied.

Kael nodded. "If you'd like, we can step inside," he said. "I'd like to have one of the Masters speak with you. I believe they'll want to test you, to be certain. But, I cannot say for certain." He glanced at Raeila. "Are you up for looking for one of the Masters present?"

She smiled at Kael, then nodded at the strange man. "I'll be right back," she told them both, then hurried towards the Temple. Poor Kael, was all she could think.

He glanced at Raeila and then at Kael. "If you'd prefer to be elsewhere...'alone together' I can wait for a few minutes..." A'Kin said with a smirk almost hiding his laughter. He watched as Raeila vanished into the Temple.

Kael raised an eyebrow at A'Kin. "While my wife and I may enjoy our time 'alone together,' " he said, "that is none of your concern, and I would ask you to leave such suggestions unspoken in the future."

A'Kin raised his hands in defence. "Just making an observation, my apologies."

"And, an erogenous one at that," Kael answered flatly. "If you require 'time alone' with someone, I am certain you will be able to find an establishment that caters to your particular needs within the city."

"Here he is," a decidedly female voice announced from behind. It was Raeila, and beside her, walking in a dignified manner, was a tall, middle-aged man in Jedi robes.

The Jedi's eyes came to rest on the stranger. He offered the man a bow. "Good afternoon," he said. "I am Jedi Master Koran Darr. How may I be of service?"

I need a vid-recorder, A'Kin thought, eying the new Jedi. "A'Kin..." he began, nodding at the Jedi introducing himself. "I've been discussing my problem with Kael and Raeila. I need information...anything you can tell me would be most grateful. Has Raeila told you why I'm here?" he asked, hoping she had since he didn't much want to go through it again.

"She tried to," Koran Darr answered, "but it appears that your explanation was somewhat confusing. If you'd like we can go inside and you can explain to me, while I check a few things."

"By all means..." replied A'Kin, nodding at the Jedi.

Koran motioned toward the temple and led the way inside. They found a small room near the front entrance, comfortably furnished thanks to Raeila, and took seats. "Now," Koran said as he pulled a box from beside the chair he'd chosen, "why don't you begin at the beginning..."

A'Kin looked around the room, sitting down opposite the table that stood in between Koran and A'Kin. "I was born with the 'sight,' seeing the auras around everyone and everything," he began, leaning back on the chair. "Over the years I grew to recognise the different shades and colours for moods and feelings, the strength of the energy flowing from different people. It wasn't later when I left my people to see the galaxy that I saw my first Jedi. It was then I noticed the different energy flows.

"Through normal people the auras only flow one way, from the inside out. Jedi have two energy flows, because of their knowledge and manipulation of the Force, or so I believe. But myself...my energy also flows only in one way...but unlike everyone else it flows from the outside in... I wish to know the reason I see this and why I see the auras around everyone."

Koran nodded and then held up a paddle. "Can you perceive the shape of the object on this display? Concentrate, and let the answer come to you."

A'Kin sighed, knowing he wasn't a Jedi and didn't have any Jedi senses. He was just an ordinary guy, or as ordinary as you could get with seeing strange auras around everything. He relaxed, looking at the display. An image popped in his head of a pod racer...with three engines. "A pod racer..." be began before describing the racer. "Has three engines, the two side engines are attached to the pod via cables with the middle engine as a support."

Koran looked at the display once more, and back to A'Kin. "Close," he said, then turned it around. "A YT-1300 transport, actually. I sense the Force in you as I sense it in all beings, but I believe there is...something more. Tell me about your people, and any others that might also possess this sort of ability."

"My people are the only ones I know who have this ability, we have Nelrasis who have the same abilities with the Force as you do...senses, reflexes, strength and speed. We're called Kar-nel, it loses something in the translation. There are only a handful of us...kept with the family bloodline..." A'Kin didn't give exact numbers; his people weren't known for their trust of outsiders and A'Kin had to obey the oath he swore before leaving. "I've spent a good two hundreds years travelling the galaxy and have not met anyone with my sight..."

"Perhaps that is because it is an ability unique to your people," Koran answered.

A'Kin nodded before replying, "That's my thoughts as well..."

Koran nodded. "Determining these sorts of things is never easy," he said. "Sometimes it is best to just accept the gift you possess and use it to the best of your ability."

"You said you could sense I have abilities with the Force, something more... What did you mean?" he asked, leaning forward on the chair. "I meant that I don't sense the potential within you, but I do sense something. There may be a tenuous connection through the Force. If I were to attempt a guess, I would suggest that your ability is to sense life in some manner."

A'Kin nodded, leaning back against the chair. It wasn't anything he hadn't heard before and couldn't help the sigh that escaped from him. "Thank you for your time..." he said, standing. "I'm sure you're busy with matters so I'll no longer waste your time."

"You are displeased with the information I've given you," Koran said. "What do you hope for the Jedi to do for you, Mr. A'Kin?"

A'Kin stopped for a moment, regarding the Jedi. "To be honest, I don't really know. This was my last hope for answers... It appears it will remain a mystery, perhaps Yoda was wrong..." A'Kin bowed his head at the Jedi and the young lady present. "Good day to you..."

At that moment Alisson walked into the room. She saw the man standing in the room with Koran Darr. He was not a usual face at the Temple. She walked inside and gave a slight bow. "Good day. I am Alisson Blair. I heard something about Master Yoda being wrong... I'm sorry to jump in like this but I couldn't help overhearing those words. And even though I never met him in person I don't think he was the type to ever be wrong in his judgement. I'm sure that Master Darr agrees." A'Kin nodded to the newcomer. "Perhaps..." A'Kin replied, glancing at the others gathered. "I'm sure you have more important things than speaking with me...so I'll take my leave... Good day Alisson."

Kael looked at Koran, as if to say "See?" but said nothing more. Koran stood and took a step after A'Kin. "If you wish to leave, then you are free to do so. I do not know what you're seeking from us, and you seem to be reluctant to reveal it to us. I bid you a good day, and hope that you are able to come to the answers you seek. If you do not wish the Jedi's assistance, that is your choice, but we cannot assist you without all of the information."

A'Kin turned, looking back at Kael, catching the glance he gave Koran. "Only my bloodline have had the ability to see the 'auras' around people and animals." A'Kin began glancing at Alisson and the other Jedi within the room. "Though the ability skips a generation or two, only my family have ever had this ability. I wish to know why it's only me and my bloodline who see these auras, and what it means when I look in the mirror and see my energy flow...moving in the opposite direction to everyone else's."

"What did Yoda tell you?" Koran asked.

"That 'when all else fails I should turn to those of the Force to find what I seek.' He wasn't much for talking...it took me six hours just to find out he was a Jedi... The phrase 'getting blood out of stone' came to mind on more than one occasion." He looked around the room before walking over to one of the windows. "He was slightly surprised when I told him that I could see his aura, which was considerably large for someone of his size. Even though I knew he was a Jedi he never admitted it, shifting the topic more times than I could follow. But that's all he said."

"Why do you need to know these answers? I have found that, in life, there are some questions worth asking, and others that no matter how often you ask, or who you ask, you will never receive an answer, and commonly the answer you receive will lead to more questions without answers."

"Some answers are worth seeking," A'Kin replied."There is a fine line with the questions that can be answered and those that cannot. All questions have answers...they just wait to be found."

"The Jedi can attempt to help you find the answers to your questions," Koran said. "However, my feeling is that the answers may lie with your own people."

A'Kin nodded. "If you're right...then I'll never find the answers..." he said, half whispering to himself than answering Koran. "But I thank you for all your help," he said, turning back to look at the Jedi. "And if there is anything I can do for you in return don't hesitate to ask."

"Well...why do you need answers?" Raeila asked curiously, speaking up for the first time. "I mean...you are as you are. Why not just accept it? It doesn't sound like such a bad thing..."

A'Kin's eyes stared at Raeila, watching the energy flowing around her, the shifts in colours and intensities. "I've been searching for answers for longer than I care to remember...it was one of the reasons I left my people... If I stop..." He paused for a moment, realising the truth. "It will mean I've wasted the last two hundreds years of my life...chasing something I could never reach. I've left my family, my home, my people...for nothing..."

"Well, why waste another two hundred years searching?" Raeila asked. "Why not just...stop and move on?"

Alisson nodded. "I must agree with Raeila. Even though you seem to have been wanting to find answers for a very long time, perhaps you should simply accept this gift of yours. There are millions of races spread out through the galaxy and each has unique traits. This is the way of nature. Sometimes we are born different. It is just so. Just like Jedi are born more in touch with the Force than other people you are born with a unique trait..."

A'Kin nodded as he looked at Alisson in thanks. "Both intelligent and beautiful...a dangerous combination. Perhaps that is what he wanted me to find out." A'Kin thought for a moment. Perhaps it was time to move on. He had a respectable job now governing over New Plouton, his clubs, shipyards and other enterprises were booming. For once, his life was finally on track.

"He being Yoda?" Koran asked with a raised eyebrow.

A'Kin nodded as he glanced at Koran. "He said I'd find the answers if I spoke with you, the Jedi. Perhaps the answers weren't the ones I was expecting."

"Or wanted," Raeila added gently. "I hope you do find what you're searching for, sir."

"Only time will tell..."

"Only time will tell," Koran echoed. "Thank you for coming by, A'Kin. I hope that, if we have not answered your questions that we have at least given you direction and focus in your thoughts. The Jedi have answers for many questions, but not all questions. Master Yoda was never one who was fond of speaking plainly, so there could be any number of interpretations to what he told you."

"In any case, we wish you well," Alisson nodded.

A'Kin nodded his thanks before exiting the room and temple. His speeder was exactly where he'd left her. The rear door hissed opened like an airtight seal breaking. He turned, looking back one last time at the temple. He sighed, sliding into the back of the speeder, feeling the leather squashing under his weight. "Home..." A'Kin commanded, leaning back.

"As you wish, sir..." replied the droid. The speeder's vertical thrusters fired, lifting the sleek black speeder off the ground. The bottom wings at the back of the craft folded out as the undercarriage rose into the underside, locking into place. The main engines fired, sending huge flames of burning plasma driving the speeder forward, taking A'Kin home.

---

"Royal Affairs and Business"
By: Alicia Ashantee Gardan
and Oot Kovan

Location: Royal Palace, Arcadia
Date: Lythe 4, 4 ABY

***

Alicia was driven to the Palace by her chauffeur. While on her way over she saw that the region of Arcadia was becoming once more the location for the more noble. It was perhaps a location for her to buy a chateau. Maybe it would prove useful for later business, and besides, the land price was cheaper now...

The Palace, however, was fully restored and it was as grand as it could be expected. She had heard about it in the past and it matched her expectations and a bit more, perhaps. As they were allowed inside the Palace grounds, she was even more impressed with the gardens, with their nicely worked patterns and green areas. But Alicia was never one to show that she was impressed.

The luxurious speeder came to a stop and the side door opened vertically. Alicia stepped out and looked about to see her surroundings. A man came forward and gave a bow. She wasn't going to meet the Emperor Regent, since he was unavailable at the time. However, she was going to meet the person in charge. A woman that went by the name of Oot Kovan. A Twi'lek woman, as she had been informed. She was let inside the throne room, but no one was in it. She waited for a while until she heard the doors open behind her and a female Twi'lek came through.

"Oot Kovan, I presume?" Alicia asked as she gave a respectful bow.

Oot gave a nodding bow. "Yes," she said. "I am Oot Kovan. Welcome to Arcadia and the royal palace. How may I help you...?"

"I am Alicia Gardan, from the Gardan Corporation," she introduced herself. "I realise that you are a woman of business and, just as well as me, have little time to spare. So, I will go directly to the point. This is a system with a lot of potential. However, it has also been in a devastating battle recently. Infrastructures are in bad shape and some of the buildings in Arcadia and New Plouton have been severed badly. I've seen it myself. Also, I'm told that your economy is suffering, which is most expected from a planet coming out of a war..." Alicia said. "I'm here to offer our help. Our corporation is well knowledgeable on real estate. Plus we can supply with almost any raw material needed. And we're willing to help you re-build your planet."

Oot contemplated the words for a moment and then nodded. "We are willing to accept any bids you wish to make," she said. "It is a time of rebuilding, to be sure, and we welcome all offers for help. The council and I will need a proposal from you, with all projected costs laid out for us. If your price is reasonable, I am certain we can come to an arrangement."

"I am one step ahead of you and took the liberty of having prospects made and a full scale study for the regions of Arcadia and some parts of New Plouton. It's all here in this datapad," Alicia explained as she delivered it to Oot Kovan. "I'm sure that you will find the price we ask more than reasonable. Now, there is one thing we would like aside from this deal. To be the corporation with the contract to build real estate in the name of the Royal Council in Tae'Karada. You can call it a terms of exclusivity."

Oot nodded, as she looked over the datapad. "The details appear to be here," she said. "I will take this before the council, and discuss it. Even though the High Prince Regent is off-planet, he's entrusted us with the power to make decisions such as this one. If everything checks out, and yours are the best prices as you claim, I believe we can say we have a deal."

"Then I trust you will let me know soon?" Alicia asked with a gentle smile. "Also, I will need to know what areas you would prefer for us to work on first. Or you can trust my judgment and let us do it according to what we believe would be more important."

"We'll want to see your plans before you begin," Oot Kovan answered. "While we may trust you to do the work, we do have our own vision of what we wish Arcadia to be. If you wish, we can have a meeting with our various planners to discuss the plans we have in mind."

"Of course " Alicia smiled gracefully. "I am at your disposal to talk to your planners. My contact is in the datapad also," she said. Alicia then sighed. "If there is anything else you need, feel free to contact me. I would be most glad to offer assistance." She then bowed slightly.

"Thank you, Alicia," Oot Kovan said with a gracious nod. "I will speak with you again soon. I am quite certain we will be working together to make Arcadia the gem of the Tae'Remok."

"Miss Kovan." Alicia nodded as she shook the Twi'lek's hand gently and walked out of the room. If this deal would go well then she would certainly make the right acquaintances with time and become closer to the nobles of the system. And that was very good for her personal businesses...

---

"Keeping Promises"
by Zion Xandler
and Raeila Mullerin Selrid
and Kael Selrid

Location: New Plouton
Date: Lythe 4, 4 ABY

***

Over the past few months he had taken time to develop his systems and keep a low profile. He was glad with himself about helping the New Republic take Tarkin off the planet, and out of existence for that matter. But he had been a silent help and actually preferred it that way. At least he could keep his identity hidden. One thing was knowing that 'the Worm' had helped out, but knowing his true identity was entirely different.

He sat back and sighed. It was interesting how he was able to get so many jobs, despite the economy that was supposedly on a slope at the moment. He had made good money, but that was of a minor care for him. He had more than enough money, although it always felt good to have some more... He pressed a button and looked at the screen as an image of Raeila became visible.

Zion had thought of looking for her, and he knew that she was not dead from the battle three months ago, but wondered how she was still... He had almost sent her a thousand messages before, but never got around to sending them. He had decided otherwise this time and sent it, asking her if he could come by and that he had things for her and Kael as well as a promise to keep.

She had agreed and suggested he drop by her office in New Plouton for a chat. So, there he sat, now, in the waiting room outside the main office. It was ten minutes later that Raeila emerged, clad in a smart business suit with her hair pinned atop her head in a bun. She beamed him a smile when their eyes met, and quickly she dashed towards him. "You're not dead!" she exclaimed, then threw her arms around Zion's neck as he still sat.

Zion grinned and held her in his arms as he looked down at the girl. "I was worried 'bout you!" he told her. "Glad to see you're ok. And you look really sexy in that outfit, girl! Not that you don't look sexy in just about anythin' you wear...or don't wear for that matter!" he smiled. He then let her go and took a few steps back. He admired her figure, as he hadn't seen her in a long time. "Thanks for letting me see you..."

"Of course!" she exclaimed. "I can't just turn my back on my only friend in New Plouton." She grinned and fingered a new piercing on his lip. Giggling, she pulled back. "So, what have you been up to? I haven't seen you since after that mission." Leaning in, she whispered, "That was the most fun I've ever had!"

Zion laughed at Raeila's last comment. "You're crazy, girl! I wouldn't want to ever get at somethin' like that ever again!" he told her. "But yeah, it has been a long time. Too long! But hey, how's things with your life? Where's Kael?" he asked, hoping deep down that there was a chance that she might say that she had left him. He wondered if that other girl, Nieme, had ever gotten around to getting Kael's heart.

"He's on his way," she answered. "Did you want to come into the office? I can get you a drink." Rae took his hand before he could decide one way or the other, and tugged him along. "So," she asked with a mischievous smile, "anyone special in your life yet?"

"None other than the ones I create," Zion teased as he thought of his new experience in holograms and in virtual reality. "Computers..." he said so as to give an explanation that would be more easy to comprehend as he followed her. "You know you're still the one I like!"

Raeila smiled and shook a reproving finger at Zion. "You know I'm a married woman," she chided, though she still blushed. As they stepped through the door, Rae stopped, and when he came up beside her, she gestured towards Ferrig, still sitting behind his desk. "And this is my brother, Ferrig Mullerin. This is the guy I've been telling you about, Ferrig."

Ferrig stood and looked Zion over. "Hey there, Zion. Zion, right? I take it this is a social visit?"

"Yeah, it is. Nice to meet you!" Zion answered as he shook Ferrig's hand. He then took another look at Rae and at Ferrig. "Actually, it's also a visit to talk to Raeila 'bout somethin'... You see, I once promised a trip to the Beaches of Spira. You still wanna go?" he asked the girl.

Rae grinned and looked quickly between Zion and Ferrig. "Oh...a beach," she cooed. "I'd love to go!" Her smile vanished then, and her excitement deflated. "But...I don't know if Kael can take that much time away from the Temple. And...I'm a very important representative for the Jedi..." She sighed, clearly disappointed. "Maybe if I find a moment to spare...can I still take you up on it?"

"I wouldn't offer if I didn't want you to take me up on that offer!" Zion replied. "But if you can't make it now, maybe we can go some other time... Either way it's good to see you again," he smiled. "Hey, I'm also here because I wanted to show Kael somethin'. Maybe he could spare a few moments and come to the apartment where you stayed once?"

Rae smiled uncertainly. "I...I guess. I mean he is in the city.... I could comm him and see, then meet you there if you want. Though if you plan on hiring him for another mission..." She sighed. "I really don't know, Zion. The last one wasn't much fun for him."

"It wasn't fun for me neither!" Zion laughed. "No. In fact I don't think I ever wanna try somethin' like it again! This is totally different. No hiring. It's not a job, it's just that I want him to try somethin' that I've been workin' on. Virtual reality," he explained.

Raeila giggled. "You mean...like those sex programs some of the men use around here? Oh...I don't think Kael is interested in that!"

Zion laughed loudly. "No, not like those sex programs. In those you can only hear and see. In this one you can feel and touch as well with the help of some gear parts I made myself. Now, Kael being a Jedi, could use this to train himself against different foes. I simply thought he'd like the idea..." Zion explained.

Raeila raised a curious eyebrow and looked back at her brother, then gazed up at Zion again with a broad smile. "Well...let's get going then." She slipped her arm through his. "I'm on break anyway. Ferrig, will you comm Kael for me? Tell him we're...." She frowned at the man. "Where we going again?"

"You remember... My parents' former apartment. Where you stayed a few days," Zion replied.

Raeila cleared her throat, remembering all too well the days she'd spent there, and others with Zion. She never had told Ferrig... "Just tell Kael we'll be at lot 25 on Vrouja," she told her brother.

"Sure, Rae," Ferrig said, a suspicious gaze finding Zion. "I'll let him know you and Zion are off together. 25 Vrouja. I'm sure he'll be right there."

And with a blown kiss from Rae, the two slipped away.

***

Upon arrival at the apartment, Zion opened the doors only to reveal that the apartment that once was, was now completely different. Most of the furniture was no longer visible and the wall seemed to have some small devices attached in a pattern that suggested little squares. At the center of the room stood a helmet, a suit and a pair of gloves and at one of the corners of the room was a computer console. Zion turned to Raeila and gave her a smile. "So, do you wanna try it or do you want to wait for Kael? I can program it for almost anything you want to experience..." he told her.

Her smile was lascivious as she answered, "Anything? You've really been lonely without me, haven't you!"

"You have no idea..." Zion grinned. "And you have no idea how much I've worked on this. I can create any environment, any persona, and even work on personality of the virtual characters. It's almost as real as the real deal!" he told her. "There's even a version of yourself..." he teased her.

Rae's eyes lit up and she emitted a squeal as she bounced in place. "Really!? Oh...wow! Let me see!"

"Sure!" Zion smirked. "Just put on that gear and I'll initiate the program," he told her. "Let me know when you're ready."

She giggled and bounded towards the equipment. The gloves were easy enough, but the helmet took some studying before she finally had it on. She felt awkward, and imagined she looked odd, but she was still beaming with excitement. "Ready!"

Zion looked at Raeila to make sure everything was set right. "Ok, kitty-cat. I'm gonna put you in a virtual world. A lagoon. There you'll meet yourself. A version of yourself..." Zion told her as he inputted the codes. As he initiated the program he could see on a screen all that Raeila saw in virtual reality.

A lagoon with a beautiful sunset, surrounded by trees with birds that flew from them. The sound of the water that was crystal clear... Then a few steps from behind came closer to the spot where Raeila stood. It was her virtual self, dressed in a bikini with a scarf for a skirt on top. "Hey there!" the virtual Raeila said.

Raeila's eyes widened at the image; she was impressed at how great she looked in a bikini. "Oh gods...what is this place?" she asked with wonder. Trepidly, she reached out to the other Raeila, and gently prodded her shoulder with a finger. She gasped and pulled it away as she felt solid flesh beneath. "You're real!"

"Of course I'm real! Well... Real in this world." The virtual Raeila smiled back with a giggle. "Come on! I wanna go swimming. Come with me!" she invited.

"Swimming?" Raeila was puzzled. "But...that water, it's not real. And I don't even have a suit!" She glanced down at herself, and her eyes grew wide. Her conservative suit had been replaced by a bikini matching the simulated Raeila's. She smoothed a hand across her bared stomach. "How...."

"Everything's possible here!" the virtual woman said to her apparent twin. "Isn't it great? Come on, the water should be almost warm at this time. You'll love it!" the virtual Raeila giggled as she took the real Raeila by the hand and pulled her along and into the water.

Raeila gasped at the sensation of her feet dipping into the warm ocean. Outside of the simulation, she wriggled her feet within her shoes; they felt drenched! She sighed and turned her face up towards the sunlight, then squealed as a spray of water splashed onto her. The virtual Raeila giggled, her hands dripping with the water she'd thrown at Rae. "It's real!" she exclaimed. "Zion...you're incredible," she said to the surroundings, wondering if he was still there, or if she truly had been transported to a new place.

"Zion says that it's almost hard to disconnect!" the virtual Raeila said with a smile. And as soon as she said that, Zion appeared at the water shore. A grin on his face.

"So, you like my VR program? Pretty neat, huh?" he asked.

She giggled and dashed up to him, kicking up water as she ran. "This is amazing!" she told him and flung her arms around his waist. "It's so real... I can feel the sunshine," she breathed.

"Yeah, it's pretty amazing!" Zion grinned. "And this is just an example of what I can program. So, do you wanna exit the program?" he asked her.

"No," she admitted, "but we probably should or I'll never want to leave this place."

"Computer, terminate program!" Zion said aloud. With that, all the virtual reality vanished, leaving Raeila and Zion in the center of the room, dressed with the gear that made VR look so real. Zion took off Raeila's helmet and smiled. "Now you see why I thought that it could be useful for Kael as a Jedi. Imagine training in this system! The chances are almost infinite!"

"A person could get lost in that place," Rae said, her eyes still wide with wonder. She unwound her arms from Zion's waist, and he obligingly took her hand to remove the first glove. "You really made this?" she asked. "You're really smart, Zion."

"Yeah... I've been working on computer systems most of my life and I've worked up holographic projections and cybernetics in one. You remember my house keeper don't you? Now I've extended that basis for virtual reality and perfected it. Looks pretty cool!" he smiled. Zion then took off his gloves. "Maybe I can sell this to a company, or even set my own company doing this. Surely it would pay off!" he said. "But I wanted to give you guys one for free. So you can go wherever you want and not have to leave the Temple. And maybe Kael could use it for practice also..."

"Really?" Rae smiled. "You'd do that for the Jedi?" She laughed and threw both arms around Zion, then pulled herself up to reach his cheek for a kiss. "Thanks."

"You're welcome!" Zion smiled. "Just don't be a stranger anymore and come by for visits more often, ok?" he told her. "Oh, and whenever you want to take that trip to the Beaches of Spira, just let me know."

"Oh, I'd love to go right now," Rae told him, sighing wistfully. "But Kael can't get away." She smiled mischievously, then. "Although, I'm due for a vacation soon..."

"Not planning on going on a vacation without me, are you?" Kael asked as he walked into the room. He gave her a smile, and glanced at Zion. "My love, we really need to do something about your brother; he's far too jealous for his own good. I think ever since Nieme and Dani grabbed Talara, he's gotten very overprotective."

Rae smiled quizzically at her husband. "Why ever?" she asked. "I told him Zion wanted to show me something." She grinned at their friend, and nudged him with an elbow. "Go on...show him!"

"Call it a gift..." Zion grinned. "Somethin' that you will be able to use for almost unlimited purposes. If you'll wear that gear I can show you."

"Of course," Kael said and stepped forward. After a moment of hesitation, he began pulling on the gloves, though required Raeila's help with the helmet. Once he was ready, he turned to where he sensed Zion in the room. "Okay. I'm ready."

Zion uploaded all the necessary info and looked to see if Kael was all set up. "Ok, I'm gonna set you in the very same program that Raeila just tried out," he told Kael. It only took a moment before Kael could see what Raeila had seen before. The water, the trees and the birds. The sounds of nature around and even the feel of it all.

The virtual Raeila showed up again. "Hey!" she giggled at Kael. She was still dressed in the bikini.

Kael raised an eyebrow, and stretched out through the Force. There was only empty space where the bikini-clad Raeila stood, however he could still sense the presence of Zion and Raeila in the room. "Zion," Kael said in the real world, "have you considered looking for a girlfriend who isn't my wife? While this is very impressive, I'm afraid you may be getting somewhat... obsessive."

Zion laughed. He blinked at Raeila and dressed into the second suit, initiating himself into the program where Kael already was. His image materialized near Kael. "Maybe..." he answered. "But the purpose of this was for you to try out the scenery. You can interact with just about anything you see. And you'll get the feeling of touch as well. Go ahead. Try it."

Kael shook his head. "The point I was trying to make, Zion, is that you have a fully rendered holographic representation of my wife in your program." He turned to regard Zion in the holographic environment. "I wouldn't want you to set yourself up for a fall, or to end up hoping for something that will most likely never happen. Raeila and I have a very solid, loving relationship. I know you hope that something will happen and she'll come running back to you. Where I come from, that's called digging in the sand for the ocean."

"Computer, delete program Raeila!" Zion ordered. As soon as he did so, the virtual Raeila disappeared and was no more. Zion turned to Kael. "Does that make you more content? I made the virtual Raeila because I thought it would be fun. I know I'll never be more than a friend," Zion said seriously. "But, come on, why don't you tell me what you think of this little system that I created?" he grinned.

"It's very detailed," Kael answered as he looked around. "You could be almost anywhere and see pretty much everything you could ever hope to see. The amount of detail is...is stunning." He turned back to Zion. "Very impressive."

"I was thinking of selling this idea to a corporation. It'll make a lot of money, I'm sure. But I wanted to give you and Raeila one. I thought that you might use it to practice... I mean, imagine fighting foes under any type of situation you can imagine! And you never get the chance to hurt your foes either," Zion explained to Kael. "With the console I built it's very easy to use and I could teach you and Raeila how to operate with it."

Kael looked around at the scenery a little more and then glanced back to Zion. "I don't envision it receiving much use for training Jedi, but I'm certain there are other applications in which it can be applied." He gestured to the beach environment, and turned back to Zion. "And, it certainly has recreational uses as well."

Zion smiled. "Yes, it does! And all it requires is an empty room. And it doesn't even have to be a very big one at that," Zion said. "Computer, end program!" he ordered, thus ending the program and going back to reality. "Whenever it's possible to go to the Temple and have it set up, let me know," Zion smiled.

Kael began removing the gear, setting it aside with Raeila's help. He gave her a smile and slipped an arm around her waist. "I think we should be able to do it at the end of the week, don't you? We've got that large room just down from your office in the Temple."

"I bet all the Padawans will be just bubbling with excitement to get their hands on it," she told him with a large grin. "This really is great, Zion. I know all the Jedi will be very grateful." Her eyes grew wide, and Rae suddenly bounced eagerly. "Dinner! You should definitely come to dinner, Zion!"

"That sounds great!" Zion smiled. "I'll be around at the end of the afternoon. And I'll take some wine. A special Vesuvian blend. You'll love it!"

"Tomorrow night, then," Rae announced, glancing at Kael briefly. "It'll be great...right?"

"Really great," Kael said with a smile. "If we're going to be having wine, we might as well make an occasion of it. You should bring a date, Zion."

Zion stared at both of them. A date? Well, he could get one, of course... "That's a date then!" he smiled with a nod. "And we'll have a great time, I'm sure."

"Of course we will," Kael said with a wide smile. "It'll be a wonderful evening. I'd say we could make an event of it, but I doubt Ferrig would want to, not with...not with Talara still gone." He glanced at Raeila, and quickly masked his expression. Ferrig had been a concern of both of theirs recently. He just hoped his friend could pull himself away from the depression and remorse. He put some good cheer into his voice and forced a smile. "Though, maybe we have a chance of convincing him."

Rae squeezed Kael's hand and smiled. "I think we do. It'll be fine, Kael." Her gaze shifted to Zion again, and her smile broadened. "Drop by tomorrow night. They'll be expecting you."

Zion nodded with a grin. "Sure thing! And after dinner I'll just take a couple of hours or so to set up the VR system. Maybe less than that!" he smiled.

"Great!" Raeila giggled happily and moved forward to embrace Zion. "We'd better get going," she said as she pulled back. "My break's over and Kael has patrol duty today. Thanks for the demo!" Leaning forward, she added with a wink, "And I really like what you've done with me in that simulation. I look good in a bikini."

"You'll love Spira then!" Zion answered with a wink. He then nodded to Kael. "So, I'll see you tomorrow then."

Rae grinned at Zion and waved vigorously as she and Kael departed. She wondered if the simulacrum of herself in a bikini would be a permanent component of the program; she knew a few Jedi Padawans would certainly enjoy that.

Zion watched them leave and raised an eyebrow. Who was he going to take with him to the Temple? He had many acquaintances who could provide escort, but that didn't leave him without the trouble of figuring out who he should take with him. Even so, he would figure it out sometime soon. For the moment he had work to do.

---