"Final Blow, Part 1"
By: Zale Tregat
Kaysa Zenarr-Tregat
Merrick Braston
Moril Astren
Krik [NPC+]

Location: Zale and Kaysa's Home, New Plouton; The White Noise, New Plouton
Date: Vadris 4, 5 ABY

***

The voice filtered up the stairs, into the room at the top of the stairs. Had the holo-projector been displaying some broadcast, perhaps the voice wouldn't have been heard. There was a jocular quality to the conversation, and a familiar tone to the faint voice of the talker on the other end of the comm connection. A familiar phrase, practically musical. Could it be?

"We'll have to come to the club," Zale was saying. "Provide some moral support on the big night. How does that sound?"

At the top of the stairwell, Kaysa listened intently to verify if Zale was speaking with whom she hoped and yearned it was. There was a lull in the conversation and Kaysa clattered down the stairs to hear better, nearly tripping on her bathrobe. Panting slightly, she reached Zale and tugged on his arm excitedly. "Is it Merrick?" she whispered. "Let me speak to him. I need to speak to him."

"What? Oh, just a moment," Zale said. "Kaysa, what are you talking about? It's not Merrick, it's Moril. Saris is going to try her luck at singing. She'll be performing at the Reisa's Whisker tomorrow night if you're interested in going."

Kaysa narrowed her eyes. "Liar. Give it to me! We need to discuss something and I doubt he wants to do so with you."

"What is wrong with you, Kaysa," Zale asked. "Why would I tell you it's Moril if it's not?"

"To keep us apart," she answered. "Well, it's not going to happen, alright? He let me kiss him last night, so you're going to have to accept that he's back in our lives."

"And you think a kiss means everything's back the way it was? Kaysa...it's not Merrick, okay? Moril, say hello to Kaysa."

"Hello Kaysa," Moril said from the other end of the comm. "Sounds like things are starting to look up for you again. I'm very happy."

Kaysa's face sank, all sign of hope draining away. "Yeah," she murmured, "thanks." Clearing her throat, Kaysa walked slowly away, hoping to salvage some of her pride.

"I'll talk to you later, Moril," Zale said. He disconnected the connection and quickly followed after Kaysa. "We need to talk."

"I'm sorry," she told him dismissively, "I made a mistake. Just forget it."

"No," Zale said. "There's something more going on, and we need to talk about this. You're obsessed with Merrick and getting him back. Do you really believe a kiss he gave you last night means things are returning to the way they were?"

Kaysa halted at the bottom of the stairwell, gripping the railing with one hand. "Analesse is out of the way," she told him evenly. "Now, there's a chance. And I have to take it, Zale, or he'll be gone forever."

"Is she, Kaysa," he asked. "He was going to see her this morning. Have you heard something from him?"

"I don't know," she answered accusatorily, "have you?"

Zale sighed. "No. Please tell me what I've done to lose your trust like this, Kaysa? When did I stop being supportive of you and become this vindictive person who apparently is keeping you from Merrick behind your back? What's going on, Kaysa? What happened when you got out of bed last night?"

"Nothing," she whispered. "Merrick made me a promise and I plan for him to keep it."

"What was his promise, Kaysa," he asked softly.

She shifted uncomfortably under Zale's penetrating stare and for a moment drew blank. Looking down, she was able to gather her thoughts and recall the previous night. "I saw him in the kitchen," she began quietly. "I got him some juice...then we talked. I tried to kiss him, but he flinched away from me. He didn't want me," she whispered somberly. "I offered him my body...and he refused."

"You...you offered? Him?"

Kaysa raised her eyes to him, and in them was shame. "I-I had to. If I didn't try, he'd leave me again and go back to her. I needed to try."

"Well, I guess you'll have good news to report to the doctor next time we go in," Zale said.

"And what would that be?" she asked coldly. "That I was willing to risk a setback by forcing myself onto another man? You think it's what I wanted? I had an opening, and I needed to take it, Zale!"

"With Merrick," Zale said. "But, you're not willing to take that same opening with me. You'll consider options with him that send you shrinking in terror away from me. So, I guess what you'd have to report to the doctor is that it's not all men. Perhaps it's best if I'm not at the next session."

"That's not it," she insisted, grasping his forearm. "You've got it all wrong, Zale. I was desperate...that's all it was. It had nothing to do with you."

"At what point do you accept that Merrick has moved on and won't be back? You should talk to him, find out how his meeting with Analesse went, and go from there."

She frowned inquisitively. "What do you mean? Go where? If they're through, nothing between you and I will change. Things will be as they were before, when we were all a family. Nothing he says will change a thing. I'll still love you, still be with you and Aria. I don't even know why we're discussing all this."

"We're discussing it because you're obsessing over him," Zale said. "And apparently, you no longer trust me since you were certain I was lying to you about who I was talking to. You said I wanted to keep you apart. So, it sounds like something has changed, between you and I."

"Don't blame this on me," she snapped. "You said you supported me in this! You gave me permission to pursue Merrick, and now you're calling me obsessive? I'm only doing what we agreed upon!"

"I am here to support you, Kaysa," Zale said. "But I don't want to see you get hurt. And, I don't want to see this thing with Merrick drive us apart, and it does hurt to see that you're willing to go with him, but you will barely let me touch you."

She shook her head gently and stepped closer to Zale to cup his cheek in her palm. "That's not true. I've let you caress me, kiss me.... If it's any consolation, I doubt I could've gone through with it, with Merrick. I think I would've froze up."

"It's good to take things slow," Zale said as he opened his arms to her. "It's best not to rush things, and that goes for Merrick too. Next time I'm talking to someone and you think it's Merrick, just ask. I'll never hide that from you."

Leaning into his embrace, Kaysa kissed him lightly. "So you don't mind me chasing after Merrick, then?"

"No," Zale said. "While I wish I had you all to myself, I'm not going to try to stop you from following your heart. I just don't want you to get hurt, that's all. And, if something does happen between you and Merrick, I do hope you will be able to be with me again. Whenever that happens."

"Thank you," she whispered and nestled her cheek to his chest. "I'll go speak with him and see how it went with Analesse."

"Alright," Zale said with a smile. "What will you do if she took him back?"

Kaysa was quiet for a moment, sorting her thoughts. "I think," she answered slowly, "that...I don't quite know."

Zale nodded and then gave her a loving smile. "And, there's nothing wrong with that," he said. "If you wanted me to watch the little one while you checked in with Merrick, I think she and I could use some time together."

"Yeah...that sounds great." Kaysa kissed him again, this time longer, then smiled and rushed back up the stairs. "I'm going to get dressed!" she called down. "Summon a hovercab, will you?"

"Of course," Zale said as he reopened the comm unit and placed a call for a hovercab.

***

"The imported stuff will cost us, but it keeps them coming back for repeat shows."

Merrick Braston nodded at Chrik as he took a sip from his bottle of water. "I think you're right," he said. "Plus, it's all figured into the costs. Keep the good stuff in the inventory, I think. If we really need to cut some corners, we can probably do that with--"

"Boys! I hope I'm not interrupting." If it wasn't widely known before, it certainly was in that moment: Kaysa Zenarr was ravishing in red. She walked into the White Noise overdressed for a mere talk in curve-hugging red dress that showcased her impressive décolletage. Dark hair pulled back to expose her neck and hem teetering on the edge of impropriety above her knees, Kaysa was a walking invitation to a carnal feast. A long trench was the only thing protecting her from the winter chill, but even that was left unfastened to leave herself wide open to inspection. She wanted to be noticed, but only by one man in that room, towards whom she now swayed.

"Chrik...keeping the bar well-stocked?" Her smile dazzled.

The cigarra clinging to Chrik's lip nearly fell free as he gaped watching Kaysa approach. "Of course," he stammered, and pointed in the direction of where the bartender was wiping down the surface of the bar in preparation of the evening's crowd.

"Kaysa," Merrick breathed, eyes wide as he couldn't pull them away.

Mastering her excitement at acquiring the intended effect, Kaysa managed a sultry grin. "I've been waiting to hear from you," she told him, her voice warm and silky. "Shall we find somewhere private?"

Merrick paused for a moment in deliberation, then nodded. "Of course," he said. He gestured toward the backstage area, then led the way leaving Chrik with his jaw on the floor.

Kaysa sauntered gracefully past Merrick and Chrik towards the stage. She glanced briefly with the most alluring of smiles to ensure Merrick was keeping up. When he came to her side she watched him intently. "So...ready for your show tonight?"

"No show tonight," Merrick said. "Got one tomorrow night, before Saris' show."

"No show?" At this, Kaysa's smile broadened. "Come over for dinner, then. Aria will enjoy seeing you again."

"Analesse and I are going to be spending time together tonight," Merrick answered. "I'm sorry, Kaysa. We patched things up."

Her reaction was automatic. Smile faded, face paled slightly, and Kaysa whirled on Merrick. "You...what?" she whispered tremulously. "You never-- Why didn't you tell me?"

"I hadn't had a chance to," Merrick said. "I talked to Analesse, and had to go straight to the meeting. I was going to call you after. I'm sorry, Kaysa."

She smiled weakly while glancing down at her attire. "You could've warned me before I..." Her voice petered out as the shock of the situation robbed her mind of all thought. Eyes beseeching Merrick for answers to why she was incapable of being loved, Kaysa shook her head and backed away.

"You still look amazing," Merrick said. "Why don't you take Zale out looking like that? I'm sure he'd like to have the time with you."

"Don't," she rasped. "Don't patronize me. I wore this for you, no one else. What more do I have to do, Merrick?"

"I'm sorry, Kaysa," Merrick said, the sadness clear in his voice. "I'm with Analesse now, and it does look like our relationship is going to survive."

Kaysa wasn't aware of the wall against which her back was now pressed; in her mind, she was still physically trying to escape the reality of what Merrick was saying. "You don't love her," she murmured. "I'm your wife...you have to come home with me now."

"Kaysa, I'm sorry," he said. "I can't. I'm sorry it turned out this way."

"If you were truly sorry," she riposted, "you'd stop this and be with me. How can you just stop loving me!"

"I haven't stopped loving you, Kaysa," Merrick said. "But I love Analesse as well, and I can't just end the relationship." He shook his head and turned away to study the far wall. "If I ended things with Analesse to go back with you, would you break things off with Zale?"

"Is that what you want?" she whispered. A moment later, a subtle waft of Kaysa's perfume teased Merrick's nose and her hand slid onto his shoulder. "Would that change anything?" Kaysa asked huskily. "If it would...then that's something I'd need to think about."

"I couldn't ever ask you to do that, Kaysa," Merrick said. "I couldn't ask you to leave him and your baby. And, I don't know what I would think of you if you could just leave him like that, because I know I couldn't just leave Analesse. That you would consider it, would probably tend to put more distance between us."

"And nothing I could ever do will be enough," she told him bitterly. "You ask me for the world, and when I try to give it to you, you shoot me down. Stop toying with me!"

"And you would do anything to get me back," Merrick said. "You'd try anything if you thought it'd work. While I'm with Analesse, nothing will be enough to win me back. If our relationship ever ends, perhaps. But, unless that happens, I'm out of play."

"Merrick," she murmured plaintively, "please...just one chance." Her arms slipped about his waist and Kaysa pressed herself to his back. "Please," she whispered into his ear from behind.

He reached down and gently took her hands and loosened them from around his waist. "I'm sorry," he said again. "Not with Analesse. I love Analesse and I cannot break the promise I made to her."

"You broke your promise to me," she informed him. "You married me - that meant forever, no matter what. Did that vow mean nothing to you?"

There was a sudden fire in his eyes and tone when he snapped back with, "It meant everything to me, up until the point where you showed me just how little it meant to you during all that shit with Cadwin. I will never forget that night in the restaurant, Kaysa."

"And you think I do? You think I don't regret everything?!" she hollered. "I'm being punished for it and everything else still. The least you could do is forgive me. I'm trying not to be that person again, yet you still think so little of me."

"I've made it clear to you that my relationship with Analesse is an exclusive deal, and that I am not considering anything other than that as long as she and I are together," Merrick snapped back. "And, if you really are trying to change, think twice before you come see me again, Kaysa. Look at what you wore! You dressed to purposefully entice me, from the heels, to the perfume, to the plunging neckline, to manipulate me. I forgave you a long time ago, Kaysa" -- he slashed a gesture at her dress -- "but the games are still going. Every minute I spend with you, I have to stay on my guard to see what play you're going to make to try to get me back, and every time you've proven that necessity."

Kaysa was stricken speechless, both by the fervor of Merrick's disgust, and at the realization he had so plainly laid out for her. Her eyes fluttered down towards her dress, then snapped back up to Merrick, now filled with tears, awakening to the desperation of her tactic. It was a pathetic attempt, at best, and had failed miserably. Only, Kaysa was unaware of exactly what she had been attempting. She was reverting to the same, underhanded tactics she had before, when she had almost lost everything because of her vicious personality. Kaysa was falling back onto her old ways...and not even realizing it. Shamed and horrified, Kaysa closed up her trench and slipped past Merrick to flee from her embarrassment. "I'm sorry," she murmured in passing.

Merrick chased her as far as the door, but she was already down the hallway. "Kaysa," he called. The sudden surge of guilt was one of the worst feelings he'd experienced in a long time, but he knew it was the truth. He knew the words were true, and she needed to hear them. He could only hope that she would forgive him for that someday. "Kaysa!"

As strong as the impulse to turn back was, Kaysa was too bewildered and stunned to do anything but aimlessly seek escape. There was no way she could go to Zale and divulge to him her pathetic attempt at seducing Merrick. He would be angry, and hurt. Kaysa wasn't handling her love life well at all.

Seeing the slight pause, Merrick set to chasing after her. In her state, she would be dangerous to herself.

---

"Final Blow, Part 2"
By: Zale Tregat
Kaysa Zenarr-Tregat
Merrick Braston

Location: Zale and Kaysa's Home, New Plouton; Streets of New Plouton
Date: Vadris 4, 5 ABY

***

Kaysa questioned the wisdom of wearing two inch heels when the snow began falling in blankets over the city. Arms wrapped tightly around herself, Kaysa trudged along, having lost her way nearly an hour ago, but she wasn't at all anxious to hail a hovercab for a ride home.

The more she thought about it, the less Kaysa understood: how could Merrick not want her any longer, especially after all the passion they'd shared? He'd composed songs in her honour, yet she was nothing more than a piece of his past. She failed to understand how he could choose meek and tame Analesse over her. Did he not desire excitement in his life? Kaysa smiled wryly, her teeth chattering as lips parted. Maybe he preferred the plain and uninteresting now. It was more comforting than believing he simply despised her now.

The frigid air was becoming unbearable. She ducked blindly into the first establishment along her path. It was warm when she entered, most decidedly, but not entirely the ideal place for a heartbroken woman to be. All eyes, some leering, others red and bleary, shifted her way. Then, they turned back to their drinks, drinks that summoned Kaysa enticingly. There was time still to turn around and leave the temptation behind, but what was there to go back to? Besides, she would only sit a while and warm up, have a glass of water....

Sliding onto a stool at the bar, the tender was quick to greet her with a nod. "What can I get for you?" he asked, his voice coarse and conveying boredom.

Kaysa shook her head insistently. "Water...that's all."

"Right," the tender snorted and turned away to fill her order. "Here," he said gruffly and slid a glass to her.

The burgundy liquid inside sloshed over the rim and ran over the back of Kaysa's hand as she gripped the tumbler. A familar sweet fragrance tickled her nostrils; she closed her eyes and inhaled deeply. She gave a euphoric sigh, lowering her guard in spite of how dangerous it would be. Water this was not, but water would not suffice to dull the pain and humiliation she felt.

She'd tried to change, but had failed. It had been difficult to suppress her past impulses, to become a more patient and level-headed woman who wasn't prone to violent outbursts, irrational behaviour, jealousy, and other impulsive tendencies. But tonight she had shown herself that all efforts had been in vain. She had sacrificed so much only to gain very little. And it tormented her. Kaysa Zenarr was incapable of changing.

Her eyes fixated on the hypnotic sea contained within the glass, one of golden reds and browns that shimmered in the sparse lighting of the bar; it summoned Kaysa to indulge in the abandon it would deliver, and the banishment of all disappointment. The temptation was nearly overwhelming and Kaysa physically trembled from the struggle to resist. The liquor was close to victory.

From the shadows at the back of the bar, Merrick watched Kaysa. He'd already sent a brief message through his comlink to Analesse, letting her know where he was and that he'd be home soon for their evening together. When the glass was placed before Kaysa, he knew there would be alcohol within it. His heart nearly froze as her hand reached out, and brushed the length of the glass. She brought her fingers to her lips and sucked the condensation from them. He could see the pain in her expression, pain he'd put there. He'd hurt her deeply, and he knew the guilt would never leave him. He did not know how he could possibly make it up to her, or even if he should try.

He edged closer as he watched, not sure if he could witness her succumbing to drink yet again. He took in a breath and wished he'd contacted Zale as well, but it might be too late for that.

Kaysa's fingers returned to the glass, coiling around it tightly as if prepared to either raise the beverage to her lips, or crush it in her fist. It was unclear which she intended; Kaysa was interrupted by a slightly inebriated patron who had sidled into the adjacent stool and leaned in close to whisper a greeting. Kaysa shook her head and turned her cheek to the man. He was undeterred. When one hand disappeared beneath the bar onto her thigh, Kaysa shot out of her seat and tossed her drink into his lap, drawing focus to the bump having formed in his groin. As she stalked away, he followed.

Merrick moved to intercept, quickly moving to cross the man's path and placing his hand so the other ran his chest into it. "Seek your conquests elsewhere, friend," he said. "She's already made it clear she's not interested."

"She spilled her drink," the man growled. "I was just going to ask if she wanted another." He shouldered past Merrick, his look scathing, to continue his pursuit.

Merrick reached back and, as he turned, grabbed the man's wrist. With a powerful twist, he folded the man's wrist over. He spun him around and slammed him down onto the nearest table. With another jerk and twist, Merrick had his arm painfully pressed against his back to immobilize him. Merrick leaned down so his mouth was near the man's ear. "She spilled her drink on purpose, laserbrains," he growled. "She doesn't want anything to do with you, and you will leave her alone. Now, promise me you're going to behave and that I don't have to break your arm."

All bravado vanished with the onset of pain. The man screamed and ceased struggling as he realized the more he resisted, the greater the agony. He howled something unintelligible, but which was undoubtedly a surrender.

Merrick eased up on his hold. "Now, I suggest you head on to your home and sleep it off," he said. With that, he turned away and stalked off in pursuit of Kaysa, if she was even still close enough for him to find.

It was hard to miss the dark red of Kaysa's dress against the white, downy backdrop of snow. She was standing just outside the bar, waiting and watching for Merrick's inevitable arrival. Her smile was wary. "You're following me. Why?"

"To make sure you're okay," Merrick said. "I may not be able to be with you, but that doesn't mean I don't still care for you. That guy whose lap you cooled with that drink, he was coming after you until I persuaded him it was a bad idea."

"I don't need you to be a hero, Merrick." She blinked flakes from her eyelashes, though they could have very well been tears. "If you don't want me, then go home to your woman. I'm Zale's problem now, not yours."

"If that's the way you want it," Merrick said. "Just don't get yourself hurt. Aria and Zale need you, and I know they will want you home safe and sound."

Kaysa laughed bitterly and brusquely tightened her coat about herself. "You're still so self-righteous, aren't you? Always stepping in valiantly, and leaving with a cutting word or two. Why are you doing this to me?"

"Because I don't want to see you end up hurting yourself, Kaysa," Merrick said. "If you want to break all ties with me, I can live with that. But, that doesn't mean I don't care."

"If you did, you wouldn't simply toss me aside for someone else." Shaking her head in resignation, Kaysa said, "We've already been through all this...I don't think there's going to be the breakthrough I'm hoping for. Goodnight, Merrick."

"Goodnight, Kaysa," Merrick said. "Get home safely."

"Of course," she answered tautly and turned away. After taking a moment to get her bearings, Kaysa started off down the street, hoping she was heading somewhere close to home.

With a sigh, Merrick turned away and started in the opposite direction. As he went, he pulled a comlink from his belt and made a quick call to Zale. As he had told Kaysa, he couldn't stop caring, even if she didn't want him to.

***

"Zale!" She had clattered into the house like a charging bantha, her voice panicked. It was very close to curfew when she returned home, and from the state of her arrival, something seemed definitely amiss. Aria had just fallen asleep, and it was a wonder she didn't awaken with all the commotion. Zale heard his name again, then rapid footsteps up the stairs. Kaysa's voice called to him from the hall, now frantic.

Zale rushed out to her, concern clear on his face. "Kaysa-- What...what happened to you? Is everything alright? What happened?"

Kaysa threw herself into his arms and buried her face into the crook of his neck. Ice crystals had formed in her hair and snowflakes still dotted the brown curls. Kaysa was shivering and her coat damp as Zale's arms came around her. "I can't believe him," she whispered into his throat, muffling her words. "I can't believe he could be so cruel."

He held her close, and drew her away from the door and toward a fire crackled in the fireplace. "What did he do, Kaysa," Zale asked. "Tell me what happened?"

"He...he's back with her," she answered, a trace of scorn in her tremulous voice. Her once painted lips had turned a frigid shade of purple and chattering teeth made speech difficult. Kaysa simply collapsed onto the sofa from exhaustion when they were near, and said nothing more while she absorbed the radiant heat. When she was at a comfortable temperature, Kaysa sighed and continued her tale. "I don't know why he's so maddeningly contradictory. He says he cares...yet he won't be with me, no matter how doggedly I pursue him. And the things he said... He made me sound so horrible. I'm not a horrible person."

"It sounds like he cares for you in a similar manner to how Keeve cares for Maeren," Zale said. "The feelings are still there, but for whatever reasons, he won't act on them."

"That doesn't matter," she told him, her lip curling into a sneer. "He's so imperious and arrogant. He's become so like her.... And to think," Kaysa exclaimed, recall of her time in the bar fueling anger, "I would have jeopardized everything for him! The bastard doesn't deserve it. How could I risk losing you and Aria for him? He doesn't even care!"

Zale smiled as he held her close, offering the heat of his own body to her. "He always has been a bit full of himself," he said.

"Completely," Kaysa agreed. "That's why...." Her eyes found Zale's as she craned her neck to gaze up at him. "I'm...I'm giving him up. I almost ruined everything for a man who won't love me, won't forgive me. You'll hate me," she warned, "but...I nearly had a drink tonight. He upset me so badly I could hardly think straight. But then I did," Kaysa assured him hastily before he could chastise her severely. "I started thinking about you, about Aria and...and I saw you slipping away farther the more I craved that drink. And it scared me," she admitted. "That's when I knew for sure that I loved you more than I'll ever love Merrick. And that's why...." Kaysa closed her eyes, unable to bear witnessing Zale reject her, if he chose to, as she kissed him invitingly. "That's why," she breathed against his lips, "I came back. And that's why" --her hand glided over his thigh enticingly-- "I'm ready."

"Are you sure," Zale asked, holding himself back, not wanting to push ahead until he was sure she was ready. "I'll go at whatever pace you want to follow."

Showing him just the pace she was working at, Kaysa dipped her hand into his pants and climbed onto her knees. As she kissed him again, deeply, she straddled his thighs and leaned her hips in towards his. Against her crotch, she could feel her own hand working within his pants. Kaysa moaned softly into his mouth.

"Oh Kaysa," he murmured. Whatever chill had been afflicting her was gone, now replaced by a burning heat that filled him completely. His arms circled around her and he returned her kiss with a passion he hadn't felt in some time.

"Aria's asleep?" she asked quickly, then resumed savouring his lips feeding from her own.

"She is," Zale said. "Bathed and I read her a story. And, she was out after the puffle man even got to the woods."

Chuckling, Kaysa withdrew her hand from Zale's pants and single-handedly unfastened them. "You still remember your Shac'tae training?" she inquired eagerly.

"Might need a little bit of a warm up, but I have a pretty good idea it'll all come back to me pretty quickly." He gave her a smile that was both affectionate and enticing. "Care to see how much I can remember?"

"I wouldn't mind being your test subject," she replied smoothly just as she peeled back the top of her dress, revealing the prize Merrick had refused. He would regret it, in time, when Analesse left him once again. The next time, Kaysa wouldn't be giving him any second chances.

Zale enveloped her in his embrace and shifted them both into a more comfortable position. With that, he proceeded to show her exactly how much he remembered and how much he truly loved her. And through it all, Aria didn't wake up once.

---

"Settling In"
By: Keeve Zenarr
Talara Sorenne

Location: Keeve's New Apartment - Unknown Location in New Plouton
Date: Vadris 4, 5 ABY

***

The new house was amazing. It was even more amazing how quickly they'd been able to move in. Though, since Dargus had left Keeve all of his money, Keeve was definitely rich enough to be able to get what he wanted and when. The house itself had four floors, and a basement area. Master Brael had her own room and enough space for the babies. Zari and Talara shared a room with Kellin. Dev had his own room, as did Maeren. And then Keeve and Kimara shared their room as usual. And, also as usual, Hope had free reign of the whole place.

Somewhere in the house, a baby started crying. It took a moment, but Talara thought it sounded like Sari.

"It's so cruel," she said, turning away from the window. Snow covered the ground down to the white sands of the beach where the waves crashed, scattering the flock of snow birds that kept scrambling onto the sand whenever the waters receded. She turned to see Keeve raising a questioning eyebrow to her. "To live so close to the beach, and not being able to go down without fear of freezing to death."

"It won't be winter forever," he reminded her, jotting some notes down on his datapad from where he was reclined on the sofa. "There's plenty to do in the snow. You just have to use your imagination."

She shot a grin over to him. She came away from the window and sat in the chair across from him. As soon as she was in the chair, Hope bolted out of the kitchen and launched herself into Tala's lap.

"Oof," the young Jedi said with a laugh. "You little ball of energy. You don't care that it's winter, do you? If you went outside, you'd get lost in all that white. I think Hope likes it better here too, with all the windows and open spaces. This is a much better home, Keeve. I think we all like it better here."

"Even Dev?" Keeve asked with a raised eyebrow. "He seems a little uncomfortable."

"I don't know," she said. "I want to...to sleep with him, Keeve. I mean...for at least once in my life, I want to be with someone I actually want to be with, someone I choose. I don't know, though. He...he seems to be more comfortable around Zari than me, lately. It's weird. Do you suppose...? Do you suppose what happened scared him away from me and he doesn't like me now?"

Keeve refrained from grimacing in an expression of discomfort. He sighed heavily and sat upright, then set aside his datapad, despite how tempting it was to occupy himself with work rather than Talara's love life. But, Talara was seeking advice, and no matter how uncomfortable Keeve was, he felt responsible for listening and helping, as any friend would. "I think," he began slowly, thoughtfully, "that he may be self-conscious about his own...inexperience. You're practically an expert at this whole sex thing - he doesn't want to let you down." Shrugging, Keeve muttered, "I guess...."

"He's been with girls before though," Talara said as she scratched behind Hope's ear and earning herself a purr. "I'll talk to him and make sure everything is okay. Maybe the whole idea is silly, but...but is it wrong to want to be with someone I want to be with?"

"No," Keeve admitted tightly, his uneasiness bleeding through the calm. "But after all that's happened...are you even ready for intimacy yet? You haven't really talked about it...at least not to me. Unless you're uncomfortable doing so," he added hurriedly.

"Oh no," she said. "Keeve, I could talk to you about anything. But, are you comfortable talking about it?"

"Why wouldn't I be?" he asked indignantly. "We're still friends, aren't we?"

"Of course," Talara said with a smile. After a moment, her smile faded and she sighed. "It was so terrible, Keeve. At first, I thought he was just going to...to have me himself. But, then he put me in the club. It wasn't bad when I was singing, but after he said I had to make money. People were paying a thousand credits for an hour with me. And when it was over, he brought me home to his own bed. He hates me, I know that, but I think he...he also cares for me."

"Don't delude yourself," Keeve warned gently. "He doesn't give a damn about you, other than how many creds you can put in his pocket. Even if he did," Keeve reasoned, "does it really matter? Is he someone you'd want to spend your life with?"

"I don't want to be near him ever again," Talara said. "I'd rather be with people I like, and who aren't trying to use me."

Keeve grinned as he reached out to pat Talara's knee. Hope batted at his hand. Keeve scowled at the reisacat and pulled away. "I see you've found a protector," he grumbled.

She grinned and stroked the length of Hope's back. "It's okay," Talara said. "He's a friend. He can touch my knee if he wants. Okay, Hope?"

"Well, it's not a want," Keeve explained. "It's just an expression of...affection. I mean, Dev's the one who should be doing the knee-touching....considering you want to sleep with him," Keeve trailed off. Watching his hands fidgeting with his pantlegs, Keeve asked awkwardly, "You...were talking about sex, weren't you?"

"Well, as much as I love you," Talara said with a laugh, "I know that...well, we're not...you know. So, I was just...talking about...friendship knee touches."

Keeve smiled abashedly as he clarified, "I was...talking about you and Dev. But...thanks for letting me know you're still open to...that...with me."

"Friendship? Of course I'm still open to that with you," Talara said. "And you can touch my knee because you're my friend. Though, don't make a habit of it, because I don't want my boyfriend to have to get upset at you."

Keeve snorted. "Yeah, like he could do anything about it."

"Well, I'm just glad you're not the type to do anything to spite him," Tala said with a laugh. "Though, I imagine if he got jealous, he might be less hesitant."

"Then you're really serious about hopping in bed with him?" Keeve cleared his throat, betraying his discomfort. It was clearly not his preferred topic of discussion. "And you're absolutely ready?"

"All I'm certain of, Keeve, is that I want to be with someone I love," she said. "I don't know if I'm ready. I'm probably not, but...but after everyone I've ever been with, not one of them has ever been someone I'd choose to be with." She didn't mention their brief encounter in the palace, though she barely knew him at the time. "I just...it's stupid, but for once I want to be held close by someone whose love I can see when I look in their eyes."

"As you should," he agreed, "but you want it to be meaningful, right, and not just a fling. So until you're sure you're ready...why not wait?"

"With Dev, it's not a fling. He's my boyfriend. Just like it wouldn't be if you and I...you know. But, I'll just wait until it feels right. That's best."

Keeve sighed, his relief obvious. He smiled and rubbed his hands together vigourously. "Glad to be off that topic. You really need a girl to talk to. Unless" --he cocked an eyebrow-- "you think of me as one of the girls?"

"No, you're definitely not a girl," Tala said. "And, I can talk to Zari. But, she's at the store with Kim and Dev now. They had to get him new clothes since he didn't have any. I like talking to you, Keeve. I won't talk to you about that stuff if you don't want to. I just...since we can talk, it...it felt right."

"Well, then." Keeve smiled apologetically. "You can tell me anything, Tala. I'm determined to be more understanding and tolerant, and less uptight." Pausing in thought, Keeve then asked, "Is it working?"

"It is," Talara said, her manner suddenly more serious. "You seem less...forced. It's a nice change. I approve, Keeve. What does Kim think?"

A dismissive hand gesture and he replied, "She gets excited if I brush my hair differently - Kim's opinion doesn't count. But...I hope I don't drive you insane anymore and that you feel you can live in this house without being frustrated with me."

"I think it's safe that I can stay here and be happy," Talara said. "I was stupid before, but I know who my true friends are and who my family is."

Keeve frowned slightly. "So...you don't want to have sex with me anymore?"

Talara blushed. "Keeve, if you said you wanted to have sex with me, I wouldn't be able to get my clothes off fast enough, or yours. But, I can't put my life on hold waiting for what would probably never happen. So, I'm focusing on being the friend you deserve, and not some needy little girl who is only concerned about myself. It has to be something we want, not just me."

"And with Dev in the picture," Keeve explained. His fortitude began wavering, so Keeve finished hastily, "We can't have sex, but if you ever decide you don't want to be with him anymore, then I should be the first to know."

She moved from the chair to the sofa beside him, and studied him as he watched her. "I can't do anything while I'm Dev's girlfriend, and I really do care for him. And, I promise you will be the first to know, Keeve." She reached over and touched his hand, and the reisacat in her lap batted at both hands. "Hope will undoubtedly be second to know."

"Hope's a meddler," he muttered, glowering at the reisacat. Hope nipped at Keeve's hand, then bounded off with an imperious meow. Keeve chuckled and focused on Talara again.

His expression softened as he studied her face, how her cheeks had thinned out in her time away, bringing into prominence a maturely feminine quality it had lacked previously. Even her eyes had changed - they were filled with a wisdom that only came with having discovered firsthand that the universe was not as safe as a child's innocence leads them to believe. Talara, Keeve had to admit, was no longer that child. And the shape of her body, altered by puberty, made that quite clear. It made considering a relationship with Talara that much easier.

He smiled crookedly, allowing his charm to work its magic. "So...when you're bored of Dev, maybe we could ask Kim if she'd let us" --his hand came up to brush lightly over her arm-- "give it a shot and see what happens?"

At his touch and the look in his eyes, Talara felt a flutter in her belly. Calling on her Jedi training to remain calm under pressure, she nodded and returned his smile. "Sure, I think that sounds like a good idea," she said. "I'll spend some time with Dev and, you know, see if it feels like it'll work out. You never know, maybe he and Zari. They get along well now that she isn't blabbing my life story at every chance she gets." She leaned against him, a comfortable pressure of her body touching his. "And, you'll need the time to talk to Kim."

"Only a little," he said. "If nothing comes of whatever happens...no need to get her all excited, hm?"

"That's very true," Talara said. "How about I let you know what the situation with Dev is, then if it comes to that, you can then talk to Kim. That sounds like a more efficient plan. That way she doesn't get all needlessly excited if nothing happens."

"Plans," Keeve echoed in distaste. "I'm beginning to hate those. I think spontaneity is more appealing, don't you?"

"Definitely," Talara said. "It's much better to actually live your life, rather than to spend all your time trying to make things just right, only to then never have time to actually enjoy being alive."

"Like you letting the snow keep you from having fun?" Keeve inquired with a pointed smile. "You do know there's fun to be had out there." Moving his face close to hers, Keeve dropped his voice to a whisper and teased, "Come on, Tala...let's have some fun."

Talara grinned, and nodded excitedly. "Yes!"

"Then get your warmest jacket and boots and let's go." Before rising, Keeve took the hem of Tala's shirt between his thumb and forefinger and rubbed. His finger brushed against the flesh of her abdomen. Keeve grinned, knowing full well the effect he would achieve. "And wear a thicker sweater, okay?"

"I'll have you know I'm feeling plenty warm right now," she said with a sparkle in her eye. She got up reluctantly and rushed off to her room.

Switching to a thick sweater and grabbing both jacket, gloves, and boots, she met Keeve at the front door. She was still grinning happily as she pulled on the cold weather attire. "All toasty," she said.

Keeve, too, was all bundled up. "I've told Kal we're off, so..." He smiled and offered his arm to Talara. "Let's go let loose."

Talara slipped her arm through his as he opened the door for them both. Arm in arm, they ventured out into the cold, yet surprisingly cheerful day.

***

Noses red as tafta nuts and dripping excessively, Talara and Keeve weren't the most attractive of people out among the snow that night, but neither seemed to mind: they laughed together as they recalled their disastrous attempt at hoverskiing over cups of steaming hot choco. They had spent an hour trying the winter sport, then had switched to ice planing...which turned out to be even more of a failure. Keeve still rubbed at his sore rear from time to time and was offering to do the same for Talara before they burst into another fit of laughter.

"I'm really effective at it - truly!" Keeve insisted. "I've been massaging my own for an hour now."

"I didn't fall nearly as much as you," Talara said, setting her mug down on the table. She shifted on her seat and pointed to her backside. "I do think I have a bruise right there from where I fell into that one snowbank. If we go do that more, I'm sure we'll get better."

Keeve snorted. "And you said there'd be nothing fun to do. Aren't I supposed to be the pessimist here?"

"I hope I'm not too pessimistic," Talara said. "I wasn't thinking of stuff like this, especially with the beach so close. But, I bet if we had had some thermal suits, we could actually wavesurf out there. Some of those waves are pretty big."

"I've never tried wavesurfing," Keeve admitted, normally uncomfortable about revealing his shortcomings. "You'll teach me then." He took a sip of his drink, and added, "And I can teach you something in return."

Talara closed her hands around her mug and let her hands absorb the warmth. "I've only done it once when I was still on Naboo. It's fun, though normally not done in the winter. But, with a thermal suit, you don't usually have to worry. Maybe we can do that tomorrow if you're not busy." She bumped her shoulder against his. "So, what are you going to teach me?"

Keeve watched her sidelong and asked suggestively, "What would you like me to teach you?"

Talara grinned and felt her face go warm. "Well, we could play it by ear and see what you can teach me," she said.

"Talara Sorenne," Keeve drawled, leaning in towards her until the warmth of his breath rolled against her cheek, "are you flirting with me?"

"I think perhaps I am," she said. "I hope you don't have a problem with that."

"Only if you don't plan on doing anything about it." His lips brushed against her cold cheek, transferring some warmth to it. "So," he murmured, "do you?"

Her eyes found his and she nodded slowly. "Yes," she breathed. Her hand slid comfortably into his. "I do."

"Then have dinner with me." Setting down his cup, Keeve slid his free hand across Talara's thigh and rested it on her knee, as Hope had prevented him from doing earlier. He smiled encouragement. "Just you and me. And not a casual dinner - something elaborate."

"I'd like that very much, Keeve," Talara said. "I'll need something nice to wear. A dress, I think. I don't normally get to wear dresses. Do we have time to shop for one?"

Keeve grinned, unable to mask his relief. "Sure." With some uncertainty, he asked, "You mean it? You'll really have dinner with me? Won't Dev mind?"

"I don't really know," Talara said. "But, it's just dinner, even if it will be all fancy and nice. I'll talk to him about it later, but I really like spending the time with you, Keeve. Things seem very different now, and it's nice."

"Different? That's all?" Keeve cleared his throat, growing slightly discouraged by Talara's lack of reception to his advances. He furtively removed his hand from her knee before Talara detected any impropriety. "Well," he continued awkwardly, smiling, "different is sometimes good. And if he has a problem...Dev can come along. We should ask him anyway. You two need to get closer."

Talara reached out and caught his hand then brought it back to her knee. "In this case, different is amazing and wonderful," she said. "And this is going to be a special dinner for just you and me, and I'm wearing a dress. And, if Dev has a problem, maybe that's for the best. But, I want my night with you." She leaned closer to him. "And maybe I'm greedy, but I want more than a night. I want to spend more time with you, Keeve. I hope that's okay with you."

"Of course it is," he answered seriously, "but how much time, Tala...and what kind of night is it you want? I'm pretty confused right now. I don't know if I'm overstepping...."

"No plans, remember," she said. Her smile was caring as she slipped her hand into his. "You asked me to dinner, so that's where we'll start. If that's all our night is, that's all it is. If it's more than that then we'll have to deal with it. But for now, we should take things one step at a time and see where that leads us."

"And if it leads us to trouble with you and Dev?"

"Then we'll cross that bridge when we get to it," Talara said.

Keeve sighed, his resolve dwindling. "You know how I like to plan things, to have them go smoothly," he explained. "I don't want to do that now. I just want to follow my compulsions, my desires." His hand traversed the length of her leg before settling between her thighs, while his lips brushed hers as he whispered, "I want to follow my instincts...even if they're wrong."

"Oh," Talara gasped. Her heart was suddenly hammering in her chest, and her breathing was much heavier. She'd dreamed of moments like this for so long, and had practically given up on them, especially after their last long talk. She did truly care about Dev, and a part of her was feeling incredibly guilty. In the end, she wanted what Keeve was giving her. His touch, his passions, the fun they'd had that afternoon. It was more than she'd ever hoped to get, and it only served to deepen her feelings for him. "I want that too, Keeve. I really..." Unable to finish, she pressed her lips to his again.

With their bulky jackets interfering, it was difficult for Keeve to get his arms fully around Talara, but he managed, pulling her into him. He returned her kiss with some reservation, his hesitation still lingering on the surface of his consciousness; but Keeve recalled what his mother had told him, and the regret he had experienced when he thought Talara gone for good, and he knew a chance to explore where a relationship with Talara might take him could not be squandered. Relaxing into the moment, Keeve gave himself over fully to the kiss, perhaps a touch too greedily. Talara seemed bothered not in the least, however.

When the kiss did finally end, Talara found herself enfolded in Keeve's arms. She looked up at him and smiled. "Tonight, after our dinner, I'm going to have a long conversation with Dev. I don't know if he'll still want to be my friend, but I want this. If you do, I mean. If we're to be, then I'll have to talk to him."

"You don't love him?" Keeve asked, pushing a lock of hair away from Talara's eyes. He smiled. "If you do, you know we can wait."

"I care for him," Talara said. "He's a very good friend, or has been. And, I haven't really known him all that long. I know my feelings for you go deeper, Keeve. And those are feelings I definitely know I want to explore."

Keeve nodded slowly. "You can see yourself sharing me with another woman, then? No jealousy?"

"As long as we have moments like this, no jealousy," Talara said.

Chuckling, Keeve asked, "Now do you want me to massage your backside?"

Turning slightly onto her side, Talara flashed him a grin. "You may, my dear."

With a laugh Keeve pulled her onto his lap instead of accepting her offer. "Maybe later," he told her playfully. "We have to go shopping, remember? Unless you've changed your mind about dinner."

"Not at all," Tala said as she pressed a kiss against his nose. "And I haven't changed my mind about wearing a nice dress either."

"Good, because I think I deserve to see you all decked out," he reasoned with mock dignity, even setting his mouth into an imperious line. "I'm a man with needs, and since I've had to wait so long for you to come around, you owe me."

She was still grinning as she slipped her arms around his neck and leaned into him comfortably. "And, I think I will need to be dressed my very best to make a good impression and so you'll want to see me again tomorrow."

"We live together," he pointed out. "How could I not see you?" Keeve's expression grew serious, a hint rueful as he admitted, "I wasn't nice to you a lot of the time. I was just trying to drive you away...and it worked too well. But I'm sorry, Tala. I hurt you and I've always felt guilty about that."

She glanced down at her legs as they draped off his and the way she was leaning against his chest. "It's all in the past," she said. "And we can make up for it now."

"In that case," he announced, his smile as crookedly endearing as ever, "I'll pay for the dress...and anything else you want."

"I guess that means we're going to have to move," she said. "I think I saw a place that had nice dresses near where Kim buys groceries. Down that one street, and next to the place that sells hoverboards."

"You're going to want a hoverboard, too, aren't you?" he surmised, then groaned. "You're going to take advantage of my weakness! That's completely evil."

She laughed and shook her head. "No, no hoverboard, but it's next to the place with the hoverboards. If you want to go hoverboarding together, I think that'd be fun though."

"We could try," he allowed, "but how about we get out of the snow, first? Aren't you cold?"

"I will be if I move," she said, "but you're keeping me warm right now. Let's go see if we can find a dress, and then we can decide which fancy restaurant we want to go to."

"While we do," Keeve mentioned as he and Talara rose, though remained close, "I'll comm Kim and let her know what's happening. I don't want to worry her into thinking Reinrich's done something to us." Mention of Talara's tormentor put Keeve into an obviously sour mood. He shook his head in disgust. "The things he said.... He's a lying bastard. I should've killed him for that alone. Those things he said about you, about wanting him...." Keeve sighed. "I don't believe him, Tala. You wouldn't."

"Whenever he forced me to be with someone, I escaped by wishing it was you," she said. While there had been much pleasure in her torment, it was something she would gladly never have to go through again. "It's...it was...I can't describe it. He said he would hurt you, and so I went along, because I couldn't bear to have any of you hurt because of me."

"I know," he assured her gently, cradling her cheek with his palm. "How could anyone enjoy something like that? You don't have to explain yourself to me."

Overall, she hadn't enjoyed it, but there were parts that were very pleasurable. She figured Keeve didn't need to know that, and when it came down to it, she didn't want to think about what it meant about her.

"But, I would like to explain to you just how happy you've made me today," she said. She tried to pull him towards their speeder. "I think I'm going to need awhile, so let's start now while we go shopping for clothes."

Keeve allowed himself to be dragged away, since it was Talara doing the dragging. "So...do I get to buy something, too, or is today all about you?"

"Well, if you have something already, you don't have to," she said, "but it's up to you. But today is all about us."

He smiled skeptically at her and muttered, "I bet you won't be saying that when I try to tear you away from the dress shop."

Stopping before their speeder, Talara leaned up and kissed him. "Bet you I won't," she said. "As long as I have something nice to wear for you, that is."

"And if you don't," he added with an innocent shrug, "you'll have to wear nothing at all, I guess...." He grinned mischievously.

"Oh, I guess so," Tala said with a playful glare. "But it's only fair, if I'm not wearing anything, then neither are you." With a final kiss, she opened the hatch and slipped into the speeder. Once seated inside, she watched him as he came around to the pilot's side. Things had definitely taken a very dramatic turn, and she liked it.

Once settled, Keeve shot Talara a bewitching smile and thrilling stare before speeding away towards the dress shops. He and Kim required a long sit-down to discuss the situation, though he suspected she would squeal with joy over the news. But...what to report? Keeve thought. They had done little but kiss and touch...however the longing with which Talara now watched him warned Keeve that there might be very much more soon enough.

---

"How Did I Get Myself Into This"
By Chun Li, Escort Pilot

Date: Vadris 4, 5ABY
Location: Drogen and Corellia

***

Li was prepping her fighter for the job she had to do for Rylaa. She had made a record of everything she had seen both on the inside and the outside of Rylaa's ship. One copy was with a lawyer on Chimaeria, together with some other things she knew about New Dawn. She had also send a copy to another lawyer on Coruscant and a third copy on Kuat. She would take everything with her and find a third lawyer on Corellia to do the same. If Rylaa then killed her, he would find that a lot of things he wanted to keep hidden would suddenly surface. And he would never be able to find all lawyers she had hidden stuff with as she paid for this, luckily not all that much, with different accounts she didn't use for anything else.

She had been given a package and a name and address for delivery. A scan showed that there was nothing out of the ordinary in the package, but Li didn't believe that for one moment. But as long as the customs officer would believe it, she would be fine. And it wouldn't be a trick from Rylaa either, as she was more valuable to him alive then dead, at least for now. With the package and her personal stuff loaded, she put Axon into his socket and then got in herself. She asked permission for take-off from control, which she got very quickly. Clearly goofing off with the Jau wasn't permitted.

As soon as she cleared the Drogen airspace, she turned towards Corellia and entered hyperspace. Luckily the trip didn't take all that long, specially since she went into hyperspace with her three engines. A couple of hours later she dropped out of hyperspace near Corellia. Immediately she got a summons from a custom's frigate for an inspection. Li turned towards the frigate.

"Be ready for another inspection, Axon," she said to her droid. It beeped back at her that Fa'Rong should be very clean by now, from all the inspections. "I can only agree with you, but that's life," Li responded.

As she came closer they could see that a standard 'we board you' inspection would be kinda difficult, so they opened their hangar bay and told her to enter. She put her fighter down on the indicated spot and got out. She had taken her Ivana Skonezcna identity for now.

"What brings you here, miss Skonezcna," the customs official asked after reading her ID.

"I'm looking for work," Li said, "I'm an escort pilot."

"I see," the official said. At that moment Axon beeped something from the fighter. "Assault gunboats don't have astromechs," he said, probably thinking she was smuggling droids.

"This one does," Li said, "I've made modifications."

A scanner crew came forward with their gear and went over the ship. The only thing that gave an awkward moment was Li's toy, which she had kept. But the special package was not found, mostly because Li hadn't kept it in her fighter's storage compartment, but in Axon's. And the droid had more then enough circuitry working to confuse the scanners.

"Okay, you're cleared," the customs officer said, putting the appropriate marks on her ID card. Li got back in her fighter and moved out of the frigate towards the planet. When she had landed, more customs official were standing by, but Li simply showed them her ID with all the marks the official on the frigate had put on and she was free to go.

Together with Axon she moved into Coronet City. After getting a room in a hotel where she left the droid, she went out to a public comm station. Having received a number to call, she placed the comm call.

"Yes," a man's voice answered, or at least it sounded like a man.

"I have the delivery," Li said the agreed upon code phrase. The voice at the other side named a time and place plus a mark to identify each other and Li said it back to make sure there were no mistakes. The entire call had taken less then a minute. Li then took a taxi to Treasure Ship Row, in search for the cantina where the meeting was supposed to be. She found it quickly, but since she still had some time to spare, she walked along Treasure Ship Row in search for some things that might be of use.

A couple of hours and five indecent proposals later she returned to the cantina and put herself in a secluded spot from where she had a good view. Five minutes later a man wearing the agreed upon clothing walked in. He spotted Li as well and walked over. Li quickly checked the picture Rylaa's man had given her.

"You have the package," he asked. Li simply slid it over. The man took it and opened it to inspect its contents.

"It looks okay," he said, before standing up and moving out of the cantina. Li finished her lomin ale and decided that now she had seen the man, it would be a good idea to try and figure out who he was. As she didn't have a name, she decided for the direct approach, so she went to the bartender.

"Excuse me," she said as some credits were moved over the counter, "but that man who just left. Do you know who he is?"

"I don't know his name," the bartender said, "but he's something high with CorSec. I once saw him during a raid."

"Thank you," Li said before she too left. She quickly moved towards a public console and started a search. Knowing that he was from CorSec would narrow the search considerably, and the bartender thought he was something high, so she would start at the top and work her way down. It took her more then two hours, but in the end she had the name of a colonel. She added this to the datapad with information she had and went back to her hotel. Tomorrow she would search for a lawyer and then she would head back to Chimaeria.

---

"Idle Planning"
By: Rilanna Kir
Shrezade Anoran
Hajne Toray

Location: Drogen Shipyards
Date: Vadris 4, 5 ABY

***

It was one of the few times they had alone together these days. With the Jau occupation of the station, their every move was watched and monitored. Even now, a pair of Jau guards stood outside the door, probably terrorizing poor Hajne with their mere presence.

Rilanna Kir paced before Shrezade Anoran's desk as the station administrator sat on the edge of the desk watching her. At Ril's wrist, a green light blinked softly on the chain wrapped there. It had thus far been missed by the Jau, a gift courtesy of Drogen's resident slicer, Ty Kat'Ritara. The Jau outside would be able to hear the murmur of conversation, if they tried to listen in, but the words they heard would be of shipping manifests and repair schedules.

Finally turning back to Reza, Rilanna sighed. "I don't know how much longer I can live this way," she said. "There was a disturbance in one of the bars Down Below. I went to investigate, and my shadow followed along as usual. When I finally diffused the situation and things were back to normal, he saw fit to criticize the manner in which I handled the situation. Not openly criticizing, mind you. But, in that way they have. Steely looks, and the way their upper lip curls into a sneer. He said something in that language of his, then again in Basic, but the meaning was clear. A Jau would have handled the situation much better than I did. Honestly, I think he was just upset because no one got sent to their precious mine."

"That," Reza allowed, "and they're trying to wear you down, crush your spirit. For as capable as the Jau are as fighters, they play a great psychological game."

"Have you heard their latest ploy on the planet," Rilanna asked, ceasing her pacing to round back to face Reza. "News burst yesterday reported that some terrorist in New Plouton attacked one of the Jau checkpoints. The guy blew himself into atoms, but the Jau had to make another message out of him. They randomly collected ten people, people who had done nothing wrong, and sent them to their mines. Apparently, it's hurt us and you will be indirectly responsible for causing harm to innocents. It's insane!"

"It is," Reza granted calmly, "but if we act too soon, we will ruin any chance of overthrowing the Jau. They will not allow us a second opportunity."

"No, they won't," Rilanna said as she finally dropped into the seat in front of Reza's desk. "I was approached by Tasia Harough last night. They're organizing a resistance on the station. They'd like for me to help, however I can."

Reza smiled briefly. "And in what way does your ex-lover wish you to help?"

"My guess is to get the Jau off the station so she'll have a better opportunity to lure me back into her bed with Sergeant Coin. I just want to get the Jau off the station so I don't feel like I'm being constantly watched. Once they're gone, I'll also be able to help search for Lerrah."

"You do realize, even if the Jau are eliminated from this station, there are still those on the planet to contend with. You will not succeed unless you can coordinate your efforts with a resistance on Tae'Karada."

"Which means somehow the resistance on Tae'Karada will need to be found and contacted so that our efforts can be coordinated," Ril said. "I don't see that being very easy given how tight the Jau are keeping things. Though, I have a few ideas how to begin trying to get in touch with someone."

"Someone?" Reza cocked an eyebrow, her curiousity piqued. "You know this someone? Or are you just hoping there's a 'someone' to contact?"

"Just a hope," Rilanna said. "There's got to be someone on the planet who has to fight back. Hasn't there? Everyone can't have just rolled over."

"And if they have?" Reza shrugged. "If there is...how do you expect to contact them?"

"I haven't figured that out yet," Rilanna said. "You do think it's necessary, right? To fight them?"

"It is," Reza answered pensively, "but it depends on how you choose to do it. You can either use a more overt, destructive method that would only leave much chaos and death in its wake...or you can choose the subtle approach." She smiled serenely. Subtlety Shrezade Anoran did lack at times in speech, but she much preferred the underhanded, sly approach in matters of business...and war. "That filthy repairwoman and her gang have chosen an approach that is...appealing."

"I would guess that's more the sergeant's guidance than Ty or Tasia," Rilanna said. "Though, he does tend to be a bit stubborn and headstrong, he's got a good head for tactics."

"And so...you will be helping them?"

"As much as I'm able," Ril answered. "And, at this point, I can't really tell how much that is. What about you?"

"If there's anything I can do," Reza told her. "I have no power, Ril. I'm a figurehead meant to appease the masses. What can I do?"

"Potentially the same things as me," Rilanna answered. "Though, I'm not sure if they would watch you or me more closely."

Reza smiled shrewdly. "We'll have to see, then, won't we?"

"Whatever I find out about the resistance, I'll let you know," Ril said. "I only hope we can get rid of them. I want things to go back to normal."

"Don't we all. But you can't rush anything. The Jau didn't plan Tae'Karada's attack in a matter of hours," she mentioned sagely, "so we can't expect to beat them so quickly."

"No," Ril said with a shake of her head. "It will take some time, but the sooner we start the sooner it'll all be over. For as bad as it is here, it must be much worse on the planet."

"First the station," Reza advised, "then the planet. Or are you beginning to develop ambitions as grand as mine have always been?"

Rilanna chuckled. "Probably not that grand, but something does need to be done." She stood from her seat and sighed. "I will need to get back now. And I'm sure Hajne will be happy to be free of the Jau outside. I'll keep you posted on what transpires with our little insurrection." She gave Reza a wink and headed for the door.

"If you need anything," Reza called to her lazily, "I'll be here...wiling away the hours in utter uselessness...."

Rilanna turned at the door and grinned. "I'll be back soon," she said, then backed out of the door, leaving Shrezade alone. She glanced at the Jau standing near Hajne's desk. "Come on, Sparky, let's go. Haj, I'm rescuing you from his charming company. Don't let the administrator get too bored."

Hajne noisily exhaled a sigh of relief. "I won't, Rilanna," she promised squeakily.

"And I'll say hello to Cham for you when I get back down to the security office," Ril said with a grin.

She sighed dreamily, propping her chin onto her fist. "Chammy-pooh.... I can't wait to get my hands on his furry little--"

"Haj," Rilanna said, holding up her hand, "I don't want to know about that part."

Giggling, Hajne sang, "But it's the best part."

"Yes, but that's one of those things you just don't announce, unless you're Tasia."

Unable to control it, Hajne covered her mouth with both hands and snickered.

Ril gave the woman a wink. "I might be able to let him off duty early, but only if you're not going to be working late."

Hajne clapped giddily, then snatched up her cosmetic kit and excitedly began applying colour to her cheeks.

Ril laughed. "So, I take it you won't be working late. See you soon, Hajne." With that, she sauntered out with her Jau guard trailing behind. She really couldn't wait until the alien menaces were gone. It couldn't be too soon.

---

"A Night Out"
by Vincenzo Lapenta, Neurosurgeon
and Sarah Lapage, Neurosurgeon

Date: Vadris 4, 5ABY
Docation: Yuarteira District, New Plouton; NPIN, New Plouton

***

Vincenzo and Sarah had their first night off together and they had decided to go out eating somewhere. Vincenzo had found a nice restaurant in the Yuarteira District. It was a small business, not expensive and very good. They also had a very nice atmosphere.

"Where are we going," Sarah asked him for the tenth time that evening while she was applying the finishing touches on her make-up.

"You'll see," he replied, "it's a surprise. But you'll like it, don't worry."

The taxi he had ordered to pick them up arrived a minute later. Vincenzo gave him the address, but Sarah didn't know the city all that well and it didn't mean anything to her. They arrived at their destination ten minutes later. The Jau occupation made that there was almost no traffic. As they got out, Sarah looked around.

"Where's the restaurant," she asked.

"Right there," Vincenzo answered, pointing at the small restaurant.

"That's it," Sarah asked, surprised.

"Wait until you see the inside and have tasted the food," Vincenzo said as he lead her inside. The atmosphere was indeed much nicer then on the outside, with nice, small round tables. Also there was some soft music playing in the background.

A waiter escorted them to their table and brought the menus. "It is indeed nicer on the inside," Sarah allowed, "and the menu looks nice."

"The Tolian backribs are very good," Vincenzo said, having tried them before.

"Then I guess I'm going to try those," Sarah said. As a native she had them before.

"Two times the Tolian backribs," Vincenzo told the waiter when he came to their table, "and a bottle of Voloria Wine."

The waiter left to get the orders while the couple made small talk. It didn't take long for the food to arrive.

"I must say I'm pleasantly surprised," Sarah said after trying hers, "I wouldn't have thought to go looking for a place like this down here."

"Always keep an open mind," Vincenzo said. Sarah said nothing but took of her shoe and let her foot do some wandering over Vincenzo's leg. The only response was a grin that spread over his face, but he continued to eat. When they were finished Sarah's leg had done a full tour. Suddenly Vincenzo's comm went of. He took it. "Okay, I'm coming," he said after having heard the person at the other side.

"What's wrong," Sarah asked.

"Emergency at enpin," he responded, "I have to go."

"Why, you're not on duty?"

"But I still am on call. Clearly a difficult case or too many cases. I'll know when I get there." In the meantime he had called over the waiter to get the check. He paid and then they left, a bit of anticlimax for what could have been a great night out.

"You can go home," Vincenzo said as the taxi arrived at the NPIN, "you have the morning shift tomorrow."

"Okay," Sarah said. They embraced before Vincenzo went inside the building.

---