"Expanding Territories"
By: Farnsworth Longbottom III - Human NPC (Red Fangs)
Morgal - Barabel NPC (New Dawn/Ares)
Tinga'lok - Twi'lek NPC (Red Light)
Chai Itrelt - Devonian NPC (Street Gangs)

Location: Tae'Karada
Date: Rheudis 5, 4ABY

***

Under New Plouton is a vast but overlooked system of tunnels and chambers that once was used by an army of droids to maintain the sprawling city. In one of these many chambers four aliens sat around a simple wooden table, the only light was provided by a dim bulb which swung gently in the cavern breeze. Each of the four around the table had their face hidden by shadow, and each represented one of the four power players in the gangs in the city.

The human, a Corellian who claimed his name held a noble title on his home planet, was the kingpen of a group of swoop raiders. He was known as not only a hell of a swoop stuntest, but also as one of the most daring criminals seen in a long time. The Red Fangs, as they were known, had pulled many of the major heists over the last couple years. They had close ties with the planetary rebellion against the dark Jedi empresses and were able to lay their hands on some military grade equipment.

The Twi'lek, a green-skinned female whose exotic body was draped in little more than tissue paper, ran the red light districts of New Plouton with a ruthless fist. Her organization was known for being fair and helpful to its members, but devastating to anyone who sought to intrude. Most of her troops were plucked from the various mercenary groups working on Tae'karada and they trained the rest, most of them hardened thugs and criminals. As a result, she had a tough cadre of guards to protect her "ladies" as they worked the streets and many sex shops.

The Devonian was here to represent the various street gangs in and around New Plouton. Though small individually, many had grouped up to form a sprawling syndicate of petty crime. They had chosen the Devonian as their representative because he was the smartest.

The Barabel represented the group that had called the meeting, New Dawn. New Dawn was an up and coming crime syndicate with access to military grade hardware and training. They were intelligent and ruthless in their operations, many times leaving no one alive to tell the story of what had happened in their wake. They seemed to have powerful financial backers and never hurt for money. The crack troopers of New Dawn were already known on the streets as people that you should not mess with, they were the ones that would kill without mercy.

Unknown to the other three, New Dawn was ran by a short chubby man called Rylaa Lyssander, the CEO of Ares Macrotechnology. Morgal had been plucked from the mercenary company Rylaa had used to assault the banking complex and pressed into service here. The leadership qualities he had shown during that particular raid had allowed him to excel in heading up Rylaa's underground troops. So far he had excelled in leading and training the thugs and various ruffians that had come to be employed in the para-military organization. The best of them were sent ahead for further training and introduced as corporate troops.

The three other gang leaders were talking quietly amongst themselves, unsure of what to make of the odd proposal by New Dawn. Rylaa, before he left an his private adventure, had told Morgal exactly what he wanted when he returned. He wanted to begin to unify the various street gangs and underground organizations in a large, centrally managed syndicate. It was well known the organized crime was better and the three major groups had responded well. The rodian smuggling underground had already joined New Dawn as well as several smaller groups. The three present on this day were really the last of the major opposition.

The only real bastion that Morgal had been unable to breach so far was Thanatos. The underground there was ruled by Jadda the Hutt, and he ruled it well. Though a couple of the smaller street gangs there were willing to join, it was still a major stronghold of opposition to New Dawn's expansion. Something would have to done about the Hutt, soon. But for now...

"Alright," Morgal's low but still booming voice echoed through the chamber. The other three silenced immediately, either because of the huge barabel's presence or because of the fact that his retractable claws, hard as durasteel and sharp as a vibroblade, had just dug several deep furrows in the cheap wood. "We're here to discuss your joining of New Dawn."

"What I want to know is what the hell you are all about," the human began, the other two nodded in affirmation, "You've only just come into power a month or two ago and you've already absorbed several of the powerful groups in the area into your own. What I've been told is that your dangling money and power in front of everybody's faces like a lure and then turned around and told them to bide their time, to wait for something. Well? What are they waiting for?"

Morgal grinned and his dagger-like teeth flashed in the dim light. "We are waiting for the return of my master. When that happens, that's when the fun will begin."

"Where does your money come from?" The Devonian asked in thickly accented basic.

"That's something I can't tell you just yet," Morgal replied. "After you have joined our organization and you have gained our trust, perhaps we will tell you. That is very privileged information."

"What would we gain from joining?" The twi'lek inquired.

"Protection, money, training, contacts... whatever you need."

"I have no needed for protection," she answered with a sneer, "My men are very well trained and have excellent equipment."

Morgal chuckled darkly. "Yes, I'm sure they are all that you say and probably more, but they do not have access to what we can get our hands on. Would you like and example of what kind of firepower we can bring to the table?"

"Show us what you have," the human said, interested. Morgal brought a small holodisk from his pocket and popped it into the player centered on the table. A heavily doctored video began to play of the Ares raid on the kir'thana village. Without showing much of the experimental technology and weaponry, it adequately demonstrated the kind of sheer destruction that could be wrought in a short span of time. The three sat amazed at what they saw and when the room went dark again, they said nothing for some time.

"What did they do," the twi'lek asked, "to deserve that kind of slaughter?"

"Nothing," Morgal responded, "nothing at all."

The human swallowed hard before speaking. "You killed those people... because you wanted to?"

"They served a purpose."

"And what purpose was that?" the human asked.

"A demonstration," the barabel responded with a grin.

Cowed by the ferocious display, the three leaders looked at each other. "Give us a bit to talk about this." The Devonian said. After a bit of chat they agreed to join the New Dawn. Morgal had expected it, in the end, they always joined.

---

"Paying Debts"
by Dani
Zarrak
and Zari Zathmir

Location: Jedi Temple, Tae'Karada
Date: Rheudis 5, 4 ABY

***

After arranging for Kael to watch Nieme very quickly, and explaining the need to go into the forest, Dani had slipped away from the Temple to bathe and take care of other needs down near the waterfall. She knew Kael had to leave for the desert, but he assured her he could watch over Nieme for just a little while.

A part of her felt bad for making Zarrak wait outside of the Temple grounds. Still, it was easier to have him make a camp, than to explain him to the Jedi. She'd told Kael, and Kael had agreed that bringing him in would have caused a stir. Though, he'd told her not to keep Zarrak's presence a secret for long, or else she'd risk losing the trust she was gaining. She sighed, and wished things didn't have to be so difficult.

As she stepped through the forest, she could feel her hair dripping down her back, still wet from bathing in the pond. The clothing she'd worn in their escape was wadded up in a ball in her hand, while the other held the split skirt she wore to keep it from snagging on the underbrush. It was split to reveal the purple flesh of her thighs all the way down to her booted feet. The wraparound top she wore left her midriff exposed to the chill of the winter cold, but with the Force it was not as uncomfortable as it should have been. She'd have to arrange for warmer clothing once she'd managed to achieve better relations with the Jedi.

She entered Zarrak's camp, and as he spun toward her, she held her hands up for him to see. "It's Dani," she said. "I just wanted to come out and see how you were doing. We're staying in the courtyard for now until the Council can convene. If you want to come up there and stay with us, I think it will be alright now."

He glanced up at her and his eyes took a stroll down her body. The Dug shifted his shoulders in a shrug.

"I've been bored out of my damn mind," he growled. "I guess I could do that...it's been a while since I've last had some female company."

He jumped to his hands and placed his Scatter pistols in the holsters at his side. He scooped up some sand and tossed it into the fire he had started.

"So what else are you two planning? All I have to say is that had better be worth my time, you've dragged me half way across the entire damn planet."

"Right now, my only plans involve getting Nieme sane again," Dani said. "After that, I'm uncertain what will happen. If you find it not worth your time, I won't hold you here. I'm sorry we took you away from the clone you'd been promised, Zarrak. I don't believe any of those in the Temple would be willing, and Nieme's not herself and quite possibly incapable of much. I've never been with a Dug before, but if that is the sort of companionship you seek..."

"Would be nice...but you are after all Nieme's. Not so sure if she'd be willing to share you," he said, shrugging his shoulders simply. In truth she still scared him, part of him was glad to be forced to make a camp, it kept him away from those eyes...

He mentally cursed himself off. This is what happens when you work for royalty and politicians. They make you wait and wait and then boom, you're thrust in the middle of something else.

"I did make a pledge of loyalty. Getting the clone was my payment, it also would've ensured my loyalty to you two. Also if you needed something done and someone else hired me I'd complete your mission first."

"The clone is unavailable now that we are away from the palace," Dani answered. "I do not like the thought of owing debts, and if you wish for your payment, I will pay. Nieme is in no position to pitch a fit, in any case, so do not worry yourself over her reaction. If you would prefer another, then we will have to make arrangements for that at another time. Just, do not concern yourself with Nieme. I am my own woman, and while she is my lover, she has no say who I am with otherwise. Ours is an open relationship." She gave him a grin. "Besides, no one can limit a Zeltron's pursuit of pleasure."

Zarrak nodded his head. Maybe it was profitable for him to join forces with them. As long as he benefited from it he would happy.

"Sounds good to me. Consider this my pledge of loyalty. Whatever you need done, consider me your willing servant." He swallowed his pride at his last comment. Dani was going to live up to the end of the bargain that he had agreed on with Nieme so the Dug only considered it fair that he lived up to his.

Zarrak blinked his yellow eyes in the darkness. "Tell me, how does it feel to have all of this power? To know that you can get almost everyone on this rock to do what you say? I myself know what I'd do with it, I'd use it. And if anyone doesn't agree with my views then they'll get a blaster bolt in between the eyes."

"That works well until there are more blasters aimed between your own eyes than you can deal with," Dani said. "When your policies become unpopular, dissent is inevitable. Eventually you'll be able to stop some of them, but not before one of them breaks through. Still, the power is amazing, even if all you seek are frivolous things." She studied him for a moment, then smiled. "It will be good to have you with us, Zarrak. There are many who don't approve of Nieme and I, and they will not wish for us to continue living. Whatever protection you can provide, we will be very appreciative. Speaking of appreciative, have you ever been with a human or near-human woman?"

He nodded. "Yes I've sampled many beauties of the galaxy before. Back when I was a popular Podracer on Tatooine women would at time hurl themselves at me. Of course while I worked as a slaver some of them were forced, but the main thing is I have." Zarrak fiddled with one of the mustachio like objects on the side of his face. "I think this is going to be one of my favorite jobs," he said with a grin and a wink.

"I'll do my best to make sure that it is," Dani said with an enticing grin. She reached out to caress his cheek. "I think you'll find that I am a much better substitute than an emotionless clone. You may as well get your worth out of our alliance, yes?"

"Hell yes," he said, a smile touching his lips once again. He enjoyed the feel of her hand on his cheek. He was going to definitely enjoy this. It had been a while since he was last with a woman, and Dani was probably going to be the best he ever had.

With a sultry smile, Dani moved closer to him. Using her hands and lips, she continued her caresses. While Dugs couldn't really be considered the most desirable of species in the galaxy, Dani's own sense of beauty could find something desirable in most all beings. Even as Dani's deft fingers fluttered over Zarrak's skin, somehow her own clothing ended up piled beside them on the ground. "Enjoy, Zarrak..."

The Dug started his own kisses, starting at her neck and then to her lips. His large hands were caressing her back while his hand like feet were stroking down her belly.

"I think I will," he said.

***

Clothed again, Dani strode through the forest back toward the temple. She carried several bundles in her arms, including the clothes she'd changed out of after her bath earlier. She'd bathed quickly after her time with Zarrak, not wanting to return to the temple smelling strongly of sex. She could not know how Nieme would react, and while her lover would not have minded the romp she'd taken with the Dug, in her addled state, the sensory perceptions could make her condition worse.

"We can pitch your tent next to the gazebo where Nieme and I slept last night," Dani said. "It's a comfortable place, and affords privacy." She glanced down at Zarrak. "I hope your first payment was a suitable one. We'll need to make sure future payments are made within your tent...I don't think we'd want any of the Padawans walking in on us, would we?"

Zarrak nodded his head. He too had cleaned himself off, he wasn't sure how the Jedi would react if they found out he'd had sex with Dani.

"Don't worry," he said, "it was better than credits. And coming from someone like me that's saying something. And you're probably right, we wouldn't want them to see."

He found the site that Dani had talked about and he began to set up the camp. The Dug didn't mind setting it up again, at least this time he wouldn't be lonely.

"How do you think the Jedi will react to my being here?" The thought dawned on him for the first time since he arrived here. He wasn't sure if he could handle a Jedi in a fight.

Dani looked up from checking on Nieme and gave Zarrak a grin. "I don't think they will be happy that I kept your presence a secret," she said. "But, in the end, I hope they will understand my motivation. But, as long as we mind our own business and are on our best behaviour, I don't think they will have a problem with you being here."

"I'll do my best to behave myself," Zarrak said. He then gave her a roguish grin. "I am after all a Dug and a bounty hunter so I'll make no promises." His face darkened. "If anyone tries anything with me don't expect me to turn the other cheek. I don't want any of them entering my head, finding things out about me." His small frame shuddered at the idea. The Dug didn't understand Jedi, he lived most of his life on Tatooine. Things were simple there and when he became a bounty hunter he adapted to that life style. "Whenever you want to introduce me, I'm ready."

"I guess now's a good a time as any," Dani said with a slight grin as she nodded toward a short, blonde Padawan. She carried a tray filled with dishes for Nieme and Dani, though she looked quite startled when she saw Dani speaking with Zarrak. Dani bowed. "Padawan Zathmir, thank you."

"Hi, Dani," Zari said softly, warily. "Who...who is he?"

"Padawan Zari Zathmir, meet Zarrak. He's been helped us get away from the Palace, and he's watching us to make sure nothing bad happens. Zarrak, meet Zari Zathmir, Jedi Padawan, though her friends call her Zeezee."

"Hi," was all Zarrak had to say. His eyes were on the tray of dishes. He really didn't have that much to eat and his stomach was growling. "I assume that food is for the Empresses?" the Dug asked.

"It is," Zari said. "We didn't know there'd be more than just Dani and Nieme."

"Nieme hasn't been eating," Dani said. "If you can, let Zarrak have hers. Would you ask Orn to make something that I could feed to her? Liquids with plenty of nutrients would be best."

Zari glanced over to Nieme, then back to Dani and nodded. "I can," she said. She turned her attention to Zarrak again. "You're a Dug, aren't you?"

Zarrak had grabbed one of the trays and opened it up, he sniffed at it. He grabbed a fork and a spoon and began to eat. He wasn't sure what some of it was but whatever it was, it was good. He bit into a piece of fruit and chewed thoughtfully. The Dug glanced up at the girl and nodded his head, "Yes, I'm a Dug. Why do you ask?"

"Just curious," Zari said. "You don't have to be defensive about it. I haven't had a chance to meet beings from many species yet. Master Darr was teaching us about some of the species of the Core last week. Were you born on Malastare? Is it a nice world? Have you ever raced pods? Dugs are supposed to be great at it."

"I was born on Tatooine," Zarrak said. "See, on Malastare the damned Grans run everything and people are like slaves to them. Some joke around saying 'all the Dugs on my planet are in prison'. So being on Tatooine I wasn't a slave, I was free. Of course once I became a bounty hunter I worked for a few Grans but I didn't take crap from them."

A smile touched his lips. "And before I was a bounty hunter and other things I was a pod racer, I was pretty good. Had a few fans won a couple of races. Of course then things went to hell and I left racing."

"That sounds terrible," Zari said. "Do you miss racing? There's a pod racing track here, you know. Maybe you could race again, if you wanted to. I wish I could do that, but I can't here. I think it'd be a lot of fun."

The Dug glanced over at Dani as if silently asking for some help. He quickly remembered that he had to be polite so he turned his focus back to Zari and he nodded. "At times," he said. "Being a bounty hunter pays better and I see more places. If the time arises and if I can, I may jump into one race. Not sure."

Dani laughed softly. "Why don't you head on in and get something from Orn for Nieme, Zari," she said. "I think Zarrak's hungry and would like to finish his meal. If he's up for it, maybe Zarrak can answer your endless stream of questions later."

Zari grinned at both Dani and Zarrak, offered them a bow, and hurried back into the Temple to get food for Nieme.

Once she was gone, Dani laughed. "Don't worry," she said. "She'll probably forget whatever questions had bubbled up, and you'll be safe."

Zarrak continued eating without a word. When he was finally done he pushed away the plate and reclined, picking at his teeth with a claw on one of his finger-like toes.

"I just surprised myself," he said, his tone obviously foreshadowed that he was about to make a joke, or at least attempt to. "Apparently I can be polite. If I can keep this up when I meet the other Jedi it'll be smooth flying from there."

Dani laughed aloud. It sure did feel good to do so. "Anything is possible," she said. She glanced over at Nieme, sleeping fitfully under the gazebo. She felt sadness in herself and the turmoil boiling within Nieme. "Anything is possible."

The Dug yawned. "I think I'm gonna get some sleep. I'll see you in the morning."

He closed his yellow eyes and within a couple of minutes the tiny bounty hunter's gentle snores could be heard. Every once in a while his large ears would twitch.

Dani watched him for a little while, then smiled. She grabbed a blanket from his things and covered him. "I do hope you will tell me when our debt to you is paid," she whispered. She had never liked the idea of using sex as currency, preferring to give it freely. Until their debt was paid, she would be happy for Zarrak's company and protection. Hopefully it would not be needed.

---

"Vanished, Part 1"
By: Zale Tregat
Moril Astren
Keeve Shivral
Kimara
Merrick Braston
Analesse D'vrishay

Location: Streets of New Plouton; The White Noise - Yelldon, New Plouton
Date: Rheudis 5, 4 ABY

***

Zale Tregat scanned the map in front of him, as did the others in the room. The areas covered in blue dominated the holographic display. Those areas were the places that had already been searched. The map covered the entire planet of Tae'Karada. The areas marked in red covered a much smaller area. These places had not yet been searched.

Zale Tregat was running out of options.

"You need sleep," came the hushed voice from Zale's side.

"I'm fine," was Zale's reply as he forced himself to not give in to the yawn trying to break free. "We've just got a few more areas to cover."

"We haven't covered them for a reason, Zale," Moril Astren said as he stepped into Zale's field of view. "Look at the places, Zale. We've left them until last for a reason."

"And, we haven't found them where we've searched," Zale said. "That tells me they're in the red."

"Or we missed them in the blue," Moril suggested. "We could have missed them. Zale, you're exhausted. Our people are exhausted."

"What are you trying to do, Moril? They're out there somewhere and we have to find them. Are you suggesting we call off the search, abandon them?"

"Of course not, Zale," Moril said with a sigh. "We've been searching for days. We haven't found anything. Even Kim and Keeve are here searching. You've hired outside help. We're pulling out all the stops, but we're wearing ourselves out. You need sleep."

"So do you," Zale said.

Moril wanted to scream. "Yes, I do," he said as calmly as he could. "We all do, but the more tired we get, the sloppier we get. We still have people out looking. They'll be reporting back soon. I suggest that we get some sleep, at least a couple hours." Moril glanced over at where Keeve stood with Kim, as if pleading for some help.

"And if you're not gonna sleep," Keeve put in with a surreptitious nod to Moril, "at least visit your daughter for a while. You'll be a stranger to her soon if you keep this up."

Zale sighed. "I wish I could bring her here with me, but this is no place for a baby," he said. "Fine, I'll go home and spend time with Aria. If anyone comes up with anything, notify me immediately. I'll be back in a few hours then." He gave Moril a meaningful look, and the man nodded gravely. With a heavy sigh, Zale started toward the door, forcing himself not to look back.

Once he was out of the door, Kim turned to Keeve. "He looks terrible. I bet he hasn't slept since he heard. He's going to kill himself at this rate, Keeve. He's wearing himself down bit by bit."

"I'll talk with him later," Keeve assured her. "I'm not sure he'll listen to me, but I'll try. I just don't know how to make him give up. He'll need to, in time, but the only person I think he'd listen to is Merrick, wherever he is," Keeve grumbled.

"I asked Zale, but he wouldn't answer," Kim said. "Zale said it was Merrick's place to say, not his. I think, if you approach him right, he'll probably listen to you. I guess...I guess just give him someone to talk to. At least Aria will get to see her daddy for a little while."

"It'd be even better if Yara, Marillia, and Sarilla could see their father." Regarding Moril, Keeve asked, "What are the chances of us finding them? We've searched the entire province - either they're not here, or they're--" He sighed, unwilling to speak what was on everyone's mind, no matter how he resented Maeren and Kaysa. If they were dead, he knew Zale still wouldn't stop until their bodies were found. He continued, "When do we stop, Moril? Until Zale relents?"

"Let's say it was Kim instead of Maeren who was missing," Moril said. "When would you stop searching?"

He smiled wryly at Kim and answered, "I don't know that I could. That's why I'd need someone to convince me to do so."

"And you'd fight us off," Moril said with a knowing smile. "Just like Zale's doing, you'd fight us off. He'll stop searching when they're found, or when he knows it's hopeless to keep searching. We can't force him out of it...and would you want someone to force you to stop seaching?"

"Sure," Keeve shrugged. "It would only give me motivation to search harder. But...I understand. I only hope he doesn't do something crazy."

"I'm sure he'll be no more crazy than he normally is," Moril said with a grin. "Let's all take a two hour break. We'll reconvene back here at the end of that, and see if we can spot something we missed before."

Keeve nodded, having become surprisingly obedient towards Moril since the search's commencement. "That'll give me some time to track Merrick down and ask him a few questions. You have any idea where I might look?"

"Best bet would be the White Noise," Moril said. "If you don't find him there, let me know and I'll have an address where you might be able to find him."

Kim chuckled. "The all-knowing Moril."

He gave her a grin. "Wouldn't be much use here if I didn't know everything, would I?"

"Yeah," Keeve smirked as he clapped Moril on the back, "a complete asset to the team. How about you go home to your girlfriend for a real ego stroking, hm?"

"She definitely would like that," Moril said with a dry chuckle. "I don't think I've ever seen Saris this nervous before. She hasn't been able to sleep much either worrying about Maeren. I"ll see you in a few hours, Keeve."

With a salute, Keeve watched Moril turn and depart, then regarded Kim with a tired smile. "You coming with me, or do you want to go home for a nap?"

"I'm coming with you," Kim said with a grin. "If I go home, Hope will just want to be petted and fed and paid attention to, and I wouldn't get any sleep. So, she'll have to wait for later on for snuggle time with mama."

"So will I," he quipped and slipped an arm around her waist, leading her away.

They were at a standstill in their search for Maeren and Kaysa - the only person capable of steering Zale away from insanity was Merrick, and it seemed he had turned his back on them all. But Keeve would find out for certain when he confronted the musician...if he could be found, though considering their luck with retrieving lost kin, Keeve wasn't too optimistic.

***

"I think we've got the lighting handled," Merrick Braston was saying. "I still think we should remove this wall, and open things up a little more. Though, for versatility, we may not want to remove it completely. We could set it up so it rolls into place when we want to close things off more." He glanced over at Analesse D'vrishay. He chuckled softly. "Or I'm getting a little too overenthusiastic with the rolling and sliding pieces of the new White Noise."

"No, no," she assured him, chuckling, "I really think you've got an eye for this sort of thing. And, it's amusing when you get that large, wondrous grin on your face. It nearly has me forgetting how much work we have still to do."

"We've made it through a lot though," Merrick said as he gave her an affectionate grin. "So, should we tackle the kitchen or backstage renovations next?"

Lessa scratched delicately at her brow as she reviewed the agenda on her padd, disturbing the curl resting against it. "We should probabaly focus on the kitchen," she decided thoughtfully. "If we can't open this place because of a non-functional cooking area from which we can feed our customers, there'll be no need for a backstage area." Glancing up at him sidelong, she suggested, "Or, we could just call it a night and go home."

"Kitchen it'll be," Merrick said with a laugh. "Though, we have made a lot of progress today. Why don't we head home and take the rest of the night off. I think we've deserved it. And, I think if I spend too much time here in the White Noise, I won't want to ever come back." He gave her a chuckle as he reached out to take her hand.

"So, that's what you've been doing all this time," a snide voice called from behind. Analesse drew her hand away, laying it against her chest to settle her racing heart. Both turned to their intruder, a very angry-looking Keeve Shivral.

Merrick turned his gaze to Keeve, a perplexed eyebrow raised. He indicated the datapads strewn over the table before him. "Planning the renovations for the White Noise," he said. "What are you doing here? And why the sour look?"

Keeve marched over to them sullenly, Kim hurrying to keep up, while Analesse watched Merrick with increasing anxiety. "Merrick...what's going on?"

"Tell your mistress not to worry," Keeve snarled, "I won't tell my mother. Couldn't if I wanted to - she's too busy being missing and presumed dead!"

"And Zale is taking care of it all," Merrick said as he stood up. "Perhaps you haven't heard yet, Keeve: I'm divorcing Kaysa. She's no longer the woman I married, and no longer the woman I love. She hasn't been for some time. I am assisting in the search in my way, but the renovations on the White Noise can't be put on hold and I'm not going to set Analesse aside to worry about the woman I'll be divorcing soon while sitting around and doing nothing that can contribute to the search efforts. I'm worried about Kaysa, Keeve, but I can't do more than I am with Zale already. I don't expect you to understand, but that's how it is."

"Merrick, I'll wait in the back," Analesse said softly. She was prevented from moving beyond the table by Keeve's imposing form standing before her chair. Having risen, she was forced to gaze upright past his chest, into Keeve's narrowed eyes. "Who are you?" he asked harshly. "Don't you know you're driving another wedge into this family, one more we don't need?"

Analesse's eyelids fluttered, too hesitant to blink fully and lose sight of the irate man before her. "I-I'm sorry," she whispered breathlessly. "But it was Merrick's decision."

"I don't like your attitude, Keeve," Merrick said, his voice low and dangerous. "If anyone's driving wedges here, it's you. Now if you can't keep a civil tongue in your head, I suggest you leave."

"I don't like your attitude either," came the mumbled retort from Kim who was standing just behind Keeve. "Perhaps, there are wedges because you chose me over Maeren too. Maybe, you should go back to her, Keeve, to keep us all wedge-free. Or is it okay for you to be a hypocrite?"

Keeve rounded on her, more stunned than angry. "That's not it, Kim! I may not be with Maeren, but I still made the decision - after much arm-pulling, albeit," he pointed out, "to help and find her. How am I a hypocrite, or do you agree with what Merrick's doing?"

"I think it's up to Merrick to decide how he helps," Kim said. "And he did say he was helping the search. He's just not sitting around and snarling at everyone and snapping their heads off. Now I think Analesse deserves an apology for the way you've treated her so far."

"I don't even know her," he scoffed. "I don't owe her anything." And shooting Analesse a withering scowl, he grudgingly moved from her path. She carefully sidled past her chair and skirted the round table until she was beside Merrick. Keeve was shaking his head slowly in disgust. "And what about Zale? Hm? Don't you know what he's going through? Don't you know that you're his closest friend in the world and you've abandoned him? Did you think of that?"

"I know what he's going through," Merrick said. "I talked to him this morning. I talk to him every day." Merrick sighed and shook his head. "What do you expect me to do, Keeve?"

"You should ask him what he wanted to do when he first found out," Kim offered. She leaned close to Keeve. "You're on the couch tonight. Or I am. Either way, I'm not sleeping in the same bed as you, and whether I sleep under the same roof with you is still under consideration."

"Like it or not," he told her, "I've still got a point."

"No," Analesse spoke up, "you don't. I've been with Merrick these three days, and even though I see him smiling, I know he's aching inside to go out there and do something." Smiling up at him sadly, Analesse admitted, "I think he's afraid I won't be here when he gets back if he decides to go out there and do something more."

"Then...stop giving him that impression," Keeve advised her tactlessly. "Promise him you won't run out on him."

She studied Keeve curiously, her eyes captivating in their sorrow. He broke eye contact quickly, unable to remain angry while witnessing her grief. "I can't make that promise to him," Analesse explained quietly. "We have a bond...and I know very little about love, but I believe that bond can be broken with enough time apart. And without Merrick, I have very little reason for remaining on Tae'Karada. I may just leave if he strays too far, for too long. Yet...I don't want him to resent me for preventing him from doing what I know he's agonized over: joining Zale physically in the search. And if that's what I'm doing, then..." Her eyes shifted towards Merrick's again, but were now smiling. "Is that what you want, Merrick? Instead of being cooped up in here, do you want to join Zale?"

"I want Kaysa and Maeren found," Merrick said. "I'm worried sick over the whole thing. But I think the attacks on Analesse were in part because of Kaysa. I don't know if Kaysa sent those bastards, but I think she was at the heart of it. I want her found safe, but I'll have to support the search for her in my own way. My life is with Analesse now, and I can't put that on hold, put the renovations on hold, and make the choice to search for the woman whose actions led to Analesse almost being raped over spending time with her. No, my place is here."

Keeve smirked as he commented with a near fondness, "You bastard...you're completely gone on her, aren't you? Really?"

Merrick reached out and took Lessa's hand. "Completely," he said. "It isn't the same passion Kaysa and I had in the beginning, but it's something so much more. We don't have to do anything to be content together." He looked at her and smiled. "Putting everything together, I think we have more passion than Kaysa and I could ever generate. Yes, I love her and I'm completely gone on her."

Kim made a noise similar to the noise she made when Hope learned a new trick, as if she were witnessing the most adorable thing ever. When Keeve glanced at her, she blushed brightly.

Keeve rolled his eyes as he turned back to Merrick and Analesse. His anger had been allayed by Merrick's overly romantic speech, to be replaced by complacency. "Fine...do what you want. But could you at least go and talk to Zale? He's a mess. And don't worry" -- he grinned facetiously-- "Kim and I will watch your girlfriend for you."

Merrick turned to Analesse. "I probably should talk to him," he said. "If you want, you can come with me. I'm sure Zale wouldn't mind a progress report on the renovation."

"I don't think he'd want me there pestering him," Analesse replied, still rosy-cheeked and smiling from Merrick's profession of love. "You and he need your time together. I'll be fine."

"And you'll be here when I get back," Merrick asked with a charming smile.

"For a while," she answered coyly, and leaned forward to place an ardent kiss upon his cheek. "Do what you have to do," Analesse whispered into his ear. "I won't go anywhere as long as I know you want to come back to me."

"Without you, there's nowhere else for me to go," Merrick whispered back. "My heart is with you."

Analesse's irresistable lips curled into a smile as she quipped, "It better be, or you're never getting into my pants."

"While that is a tantalizing offer," Merrick added mischievously, "I want you to know I want you for more than what's in your pants. Just so you know."

She nodded, grinning sarcastically and patted Merrick on the chest. "Very smooth. Do not add that to one of your songs."

"Oh," Keeve groaned, "can we please get going? I can't take much more of this."

"Promise I won't," Merrick whispered to Analesse as he stood to face Keeve and Kimara. "Alright, I'm heading to check in on Zale. If you want anything from the bar, it's still open, especially for my special guests."

"Come on, I'll show you around." Analesse stepped aside, her arm sweeping towards the grand hall awaiting them. "I'll even give you a peek at Merrick's dressing room."

"Oh, I've always wanted a peak in there," Kim said with an excited giggle. She gave a grin to Merrick as he gave Analesse a quick kiss and slipped out of the room. "So, how long have you and Merrick known each other? Was it love at first sight?"

Analesse chuckled while Keeve again rolled his eyes. It was certainly going to be a long night.

---

"Vanished, Part 2"
By: Keeve Shivral
Kimara
Merrick Braston
Analesse D'vrishay
Vrax Draydge
Kaysa Zenarr
Maeren Shivral

Location: Streets of New Plouton; The White Noise - Yelldon, New Plouton
Date: Rheudis 5, 4 ABY

***

They had chatted much during their tour of the White Noise, but much of their conversation was steered towards that of the renovations by Analesse, who was too modest and reserved to discuss her relationship with Merrick...at least in front of Keeve. Insisting that the premises be checked for any intruders regularly after learning of Analesse's recent troubles, the two women were now left alone in Merrick's dressing room, both nursing drinks procured from his personal bar.

Analesse stared into her glass pensively. "Do you know Merrick well?" she asked quietly. "Is he just as he appears to me?"

"I don't know him as well as Maeren," Kim said with a thoughtful look. "He's a very wonderful, compassionate man, and as far as I know, you're seeing the real him." She glanced around to make sure they were alone, then turned back to Analesse. "If I weren't with Keeve, I could honestly see myself falling for Merrick." She gave her a grin. "Though, it looks like I've definitely missed my chance now. It's wonderful to see Merrick happy again."

Analesse smiled briefly before asking, "Did you know his wife well?"

"Kaysa? Not really," Kim said. "I know there had been problems, but I haven't been with the family long. You see, I'm a...well, I'm not...it's a long story though. Maeren was much closer, and Kaysa wasn't interested in getting to know me or Saris."

Analesse smiled wanly. "Well...she was missing out. You're a nice girl, Kim. Makes me wonder what you're doing with Keeve. He's just so...aggressive."

"He's...yes, he is," Kim said. "When we're alone most of the time, he's very sweet and charming. But, when...when he's around people who make him angry, and I think that's everyone except me, he's like that. He's had a rough time of things, and he was forced to grow up very quickly. I don't know if you've heard of Dargus Kandran, but...biologically, Keeve is eleven years old, but Dargus used some type of cloning technology to make him grow up quicker. His mother abandoned him right after he was born, her parents, while they're probably wonderful people, weren't the best at parenting. He's had a rough time of things, but with all my heart I do love him."

"Merrick hasn't spoken much about the family-situation," Analesse admitted, after recovering from her initial amazement. "I don't know when he'll be ready to include me in that part of his life, but" --she shrugged-- "he and I are just getting started. When he feels confident about us, I'm sure he'll want me to grow accustomed to his family."

"I'm sure he will," Kim said. "He does love you. It's very obvious just to see it in his eyes. And, I imagine it's difficult for him to talk about his family. He doesn't want you to be pushed away or feel like an outsider, so he doesn't talk about it."

Analesse smiled queerly. "But...that's what I'm here for. Why start hiding things from me when we should be closer now? Does he always close himself off like this?"

"I think he's just trying to spare your feelings," Kim said. "You seem very uncertain about the relationship, and I don't think he wants you to feel like he misses the life he had with the others by talking about it too enthusiastically."

"And he should know by now," Analesse riposted with a trace of irritation, "that I can handle it. I'm not weak and fragile; I've encountered enough adversity in my life that I'm pretty sure I can handle even the most shocking of revelations."

"Except that if he were to help search for Kaysa, you'd probably leave him," Kim reminded her.

"And would you blame me?" she asked. "Merrick and I have only just begun this relationship. It would be best to end it before we become too deeply involved, if I wasn't going to be a priority. It would be easier on us both."

Kim raised an eyebrow. "And you still wonder why he might be hesitant to involve you in the family? To talk about us? You've met Kaysa and her wonderful disposition. You've now met Keeve and his. He loves you and wants to be with you. Given how fragile your relationship is, he's afraid that if he turns around you'll be gone. I bet he doesn't want to talk about us because you'll fear that you can't live up to the good times or that you'll want no part of it because of the bad times. Are there things you haven't talked to Merrick about because you figure there's no real issue if they're not discussed?"

"No," she answered with a light chuckle, "we simply haven't had time. It's only been a couple days. Which is one of the reasons I wonder if he really feels what he says he does. Can love really happen that fast?"

"When you really connect with someone right away," Shiv said with a knowing grin, "yes it can. When I met Merrick for the first time, it--" She trailed off suddenly, a frown creasing her forehead. She shook her head and looked up at Analesse. "That's not the way it happened though. I liked Merrick, but...but...I don't know what I'm saying." She sighed softly, met Analesse's gaze, and smiled. "Yes, it can happen that fast."

"Kim?" Analesse asked slowly. "Are you trying to tell me you've been with Merrick, too?"

"No," Kim said quickly. "Well, sort of yes, but it's complicated. It's all really complicated. I'm not sure what Merrick has told you about me, Saris, and Maeren. Everyone believes that Maeren's the real Maeren and me and Saris are clones. I'm the original. There was a problem or something when the doctor was trying to transfer memories, and...well, the one who is Maeren now ended up with memories, and mine were completely ereased." She frowned and looked very confused. "Or...or not completely. I can't remember it, but before I had a relationship with Merrick. Maeren remembers it, but never was. Pretty messed up."

Analesse stared at Kim, completely perplexed. "I...this is all a little odd, isn't it? Do things like this happen all the time to you and your family? Merrick's told me the strangest stories..."

"We seem to attract them," Kim said with a sigh. "I hope I'm not scaring you off with all this. Like I said, it's probably the reason Merrick didn't say anything."

"Then he's a fool," Analesse stated forthrightly. "It only makes me wonder what else he's hiding." Cocking an eyebrow at Kim, she asked, "Is there anything?"

"Whoa," Kim said. "Let's drop out of hyperspace a moment. He's not hiding anything from you. That's not Merrick. Do you want him to tell you about what happened between him and Kaysa, or him and me? Or do you want to have your new life with him? Considering that you seem a touch jealous and paranoid about Merrick, maybe it's best that you don't hear anything about the family. You make it clear that if he doesn't give you his full attention, you're gone. If that is truly how you feel, maybe it'd be best if you go. If you don't want to make your relationship work, if you'll give up at the first sign of trouble, at your first argument, if he tries to help the family you seem to want to know about but are afraid to let him near, then...maybe you're not ready for a relationship. I just hope you realize that if you do leave him, you'll break his heart worse than it's ever been broken. You can see that just looking at his face, in his eyes. Of course, that means you'd probably be the subject of a not-so-flattering song." She sighed. "I guess, what I'm trying to say is don't turn into a paranoid, suspicious witch like Kaysa is. Don't try to control every second of your relationship, and don't manipulate him. Notice how you were fine letting him to go to Zale with promises that you'd be here, but if he tried to help Kaysa, you'd be gone so fast, the White Noise would implode from your plasma trail? That's jealousy. You have nothing to be jealous over, Analesse; he's yours and only yours, and if you can't see that, then you need to take a step back and look again. I want you both to be happy, and you can be, but...but...just don't be like Kaysa. Don't play those games with his heart, and you'll be fine."

Analesse ingested Kim's heartfelt, yet rather indelicate, speech while staring into her glass. The first impulse to strike Analesse was to dismiss Kim entirely, but her words rang too true, even if sometimes inaccurate. "I'm not jealous or paranoid," Analesse told her quietly. "I'm simply...cautious. It's the same way with business. If you jump headlong into things, there's always a possibility of failure or disaster. I don't want this relationship with Merrick to end up that way, and if it can be prevented..." Her slender shoulders lifted, then sank again with a shrug. "I'm willing to try, but there will still be some hesitation on my part until I'm certain I won't be hurt in the end." She raised a pointed eye towards Kim. "That is important, isn't it? As much as Merrick's feelings are? I am allowed to worry about being hurt, myself, am I not?"

"You are," Kim said. "It's just...I guess, don't be too cautious. I'm not much of a business person, but I do know that you have to take risks sometime. And, trying to manage a relationship as if it were a business deal, while it may be efficient on some levels, will lack one of the key ingredients necessary for a lasting relationship: passion."

Analesse smiled enigmatically as she told Kim, "Don't you worry about our finding passion. I think we're more capable of that than you believe right now."

"Well, I couldn't imagine Merrick not being passionate," Kim said with a grin. "I have no idea what sex might have been like with him, but just listening to his music...it's filled with passion. I bet he even puts his socks on passionately."

"I wouldn't know about the sex part," Analesse said with an awkward chuckle. "But his songs are definitely passionate. I'm guessing Kaysa was too...and a little crazy. Though he insists that wasn't the attraction, even if" --she rolled her eyes-- "he did take me to a pod race and expected me to enjoy myself."

Kim laughed. "I want to go see a pod race, but Keeve...he's not all that excited to go, even though he raced pods. And, from what I've heard, Kaysa has changed a lot over the last several months. She used to be more balanced than she is now. I never really had a chance to know her from before. I mean, I can't remember any of it. It's really hard to get used to, you know? But, if you didn't enjoy the pod race, I'm sure he was fine with that."

There was a soft laugh as Analesse confirmed, "He was. I just hope he doesn't expect too much excitement and spontenaity from me. I'm really rather...reserved, and as a celebrity, Merrick most definitely enjoys attention. How could he not, performing in front of hundreds of adoring fans each evening?"

"I don't know," Kim said with a grin, "but he's so much better on the stage than on a recording. It'd be a disservice to the fans who love his music not to perform for them. But, just be yourself, and I'm sure Merrick will love you just fine, spontaneous excitement or no."

"You're very insightful for someone so young," Analesse commented, her eyes glittering with mirth. "I guess, having loved so many for so long, you've gained plenty of experience in such matters."

Kim couldn't help the giggle that bubbled up. "That must be it," she said. "Either that or I've read too many of the fortunes out of the Wisdom Cakes Keeve and I get with our lunches at work."

Analesse frowned quizzically. "Wisdom whats?"

"You haven't heard of them? Oh, you don't know what you're missing! Wisdom Cakes. It's this cake -- which is quite tasty, by the way -- and they make it around this egg. Once you've eaten up all the cake, you're left with just the egg, which you open. Inside, there's this little tiny reisakitty that pokes her head over the shell, and she delivers this wonderful pearl of wisdom. Once she's done that, she flies off. It's the cutest thing ever! You'll have to try one!"

Analesse laughed, finding Kim's glee endearing. "Whatever the case, I appreciate your advice." Raising her glass to Kim, Analesse added, "Thank you."

"I'm more than happy to be here for you to talk to," Kim said. "And, it is really nice to have someone to just talk to. Don't get me wrong, I love Keeve and I love talking with him, but it's nice to talk to other people too. With the family falling apart, I don't get many chances to do that now."

"I don't have many friends myself," Analesse confided. "It's difficult to know who's being sincere and who isn't in my business...so friends don't come easily. I wouldn't mind speaking with you again," she offered, "if that's something you'd like."

"I'd like that," Kim said with a grin. "And, I could tell you all of Merrick's little secrets if I remembered them. And, even if Merrick and Kaysa aren't married anymore, that means you can still be part of the family."

Analesse smiled demurely and looked away. "That should probably wait until Merrick and I have had more time to get used to one another. But...that sounds nice."

"It does, doesn't it? And, don't worry about Keeve. He may snarl and growl a lot, but he's really quite gentle."

"I understand. I know plenty of men like him. How long have you two been together?"

"As a couple? Maybe a week. Things have been happening so fast, I've lost track of time."

"Longer than Merrick and I," Analesse commented. "You're like Merrick - you fall in love quickly. How...how do you do it?"

"I don't know if there's really a how," Kim said, a slight smile revealing her thoughts about Keeve. "I just trusted what I felt, and...decided it was worth the risk. I've actually known Keeve for a few months, and at the time he was married to Maeren. I think finally, we got together when he decided to follow his heart, and here we are."

Smiling wistfully, Analesse mused, "Like a holoromance. Sounds like Merrick's entire life, as far as I know." Steering her mind towards his absence, Analesse traced the rim of her glass with a finger as she asked, "What do you think's happening? He's been a while."

"If he's not on his way back already, he's probably chatting with Zale. Though, I imagine the two of them could be struggling trying to figure out how to change Aria's diaper."

Analesse chuckled, uplifted by Kim's humour, which added levity to her grave thoughts. Her worst fear was Merrick dropping everything to search for his wife. As much as he insisted she was the only love in his life at that moment, Analesse still worried and wondered.... "I should've gone with him," she murmured. "What if...what if he needs me?"

"Then he'll just have to come back and find you here," came the voice from the doorway of the dressing room. When Analesse turned, Merrick was standing there watching her. "Zale's fine, especially after a little chat. And, I told him I'd talk to you about it, but he was wondering if we'd mind watching Aria when she needs watching."

It was impossible to suppress the relieved, ecstatic grin that had transformed Analesse's worried features. Before she could bolt from the sofa and rush into Merrick's arms, Keeve appeared beside Merrick in the doorway, looking perplexed. "I checked the place - it's all clear...but how the hells did you get in here without my seeing?"

Merrick chuckled. "Trade secret," he said. "There's actually an entrance through the alley out back. You'd never know it was there unless you were looking at it. It's nice to be able to get away from persistent fans."

Keeve frowned, and grumbled, "You could've warned me..." Then he waved Kim over. "We should get going. We need to get some rest and go feed Hope."

Kim sighed dramatically. "She's probably figured out a way to get her food without our help," she said. "Our reisa has to be the cleverest of all." She grinned happily at Keeve. "She's our baby though. At least until Keeve knocks me up."

He gaped, and Analesse turned her head away to conceal a gentle chuckle. Screwing up his face poutily, Keeve waved Kim over irritably and stressed, "I really think it's time we left. You've had too much to drink."

"I really haven't," Kim said with a giggle. "Though, I think you could use a drink or two to loosen up, Keeve. You're always so grumpy."

"Don't be hard on him," Analesse advised Kim playfully. "He's modest, I can see that." Leaning forward, Analesse whispered companionably to Kim, "Now, listen to your boyfriend and go home. I'd like some time alone with Merrick."

"I'll talk to you later," Kim said with a smile for Analesse. She pulled out a flimsiplast sheet and quickly added their comm code for the home and the office and slid it over to her new friend. "If you ever want to talk or get together, just let me know." She stood and started toward the door. "I'll see you soon." With that, she scurried to Keeve's side. "Come on before Hope learns how to order in."

"I wouldn't put it past her," he quipped sardonically, and allowed a glimmer of affection poke through his sullen facade by wrapping his arm around Kim's waist as they turned out of the room. "See you, Merrick. We'll comm you if we learn anything."

"Thanks," Merrick said. "I'd ask you if you wanted to watch Aria, but I hear you have your hands full."

"It's alright," Analesse spoke up, now standing from the sofa and approaching. "We'll watch her." She came up beside Merrick, and smiled warmly. "I think it'll be...interesting, to say the least."

"Yes it will," Merrick said with a warm smile for her. He slipped his arms around her once she was close. "It will be our domestic adventure."

"Ok," Keeve interjected with an uncomfortable grimace, "time to go." Before he could witness any exchanges of passion, he hurried Kim away, who was twisting her head and straining for a glimpse.

Analesse chuckled and waved farewell to her friend, then returned her attention to Merrick. "I've never been around babies before," she admitted, raking her fingers through Merrick's windswept hair. "But I'm open to the experience."

"Good," Merrick said as he took one of her hands and brought it to his lips. "Aria's a real dear, and I think you'll fall in love with her. She's only a few months old, but she's certainly aware. Zale said he'd let us know when he'll need someone to watch her. And, I think everyone would rather have family watching than strangers." He gave her a kiss, his lips brushing hers briefly. "Welcome to the family."

"Not so fast," she reminded him, smiling fondly. "We still haven't heard Aria's vote. You think she'll approve?"

"Oh, I'm quite sure she will. We'll know soon enough. We should be hearing from Zale within the next day or so."

"Did he have any news?" she asked softly.

"Moril and Keeve basically confronted him and forced him out of the office to get some sleep," Merrick said. "He looked like he hadn't slept in a week, though I'm not sure how bad that is for Zale. He can be very driven at times, and the drive fuels him. The crash at the end, though, that's not good. He's still my friend, and I hope I can be there enough for him during this. Next time I go over to see him, you should come along. I do think he'd like to see you again."

"I'll come," she agreed. "Perhaps I can engage him in talk of renovation plans and the completion schedule.... It would take his mind off things."

"That's true," Merrick said. "And, when we pick up Aria, it'd probably be best for you to meet her right away."

Her smile radiated eager anticipation as she answered, "I can't wait. I've never-- I don't even know how to hold a baby, but I'd like to."

"I don't have much experience either," Merrick said. "But, when you're holding her, and you look down into her eyes, it's magic."

"I think," she whispered meaningfully, holding Merrick's ardent gaze, "I know what you mean. Shall we call it a night?" Her lips brushed against his cheek as Analesse closed the distance between them and embraced Merrick. "We can go home, listen to some music, drink some wine...and just be together."

"That sounds like the perfect end to the evening, my dear," Merrick said. Keeping his arm around her waist, they started toward the door together. Merrick couldn't imagine a time when he'd felt more happy and content. Somehow, he knew things would work out. Somehow.

***

In Keeve's speeder, Kimara was reclined back in her seat watching the stars glide past in the sky above. Blindly, she reached over and slipped her hand into Keeve's. "She seems like a really nice person when you start talking to her and she gets comfortable," she said. "I'm very happy for Merrick. He has such a big, wonderful heart, he deserves someone who's going to love him just as much."

"He's going to get burned, Kim," Keeve warned. "As nice as she is, it hasn't been long since Kaysa went missing. If he finds her and doesn't need Analesse's comfort anymore..." Shrugging, he sighed.

"What comfort, Keeve? Kaysa tossed him aside for Cadwin. If she tries to get him back, it'll just be so she can get what she needs from him. She doesn't care about his needs, or anyone else's. And, maybe it's a girl thing and you couldn't see it, but what Analesse and Merrick have, it's the real thing. It's far more real than Merrick ever had with Kaysa."

"How do you know?!" he exclaimed with an incredulous laugh. "Were you with them at all hours of the day? Can you read Merrick's heart? He wouldn't have been with Kaysa if he didn't love her."

"And would she have done what she did to him if she loved him, Keeve," Kim asked softly. "I know what I saw when they were together. And, I think, given what I was made to be, that I'm a good judge of people on an emotional level, don't you?" She peered more closely at him. "What would it take for Maeren to get you to go back to her now, Keeve?"

His jaw clenched and his lips pressed thin to convey his anguish. Between gritted teeth, he admitted, "I couldn't, no matter what. But...it would be hard to tell her that, if I were to see her again."

"You will see her again, Keeve," Kim said softly. "We all will. And, I'm glad that I don't have to worry. Worrying about Maeren and Kaysa is hard enough as it is. I hope they're alright. I really do."

Keeve nodded absently, his mind wandering beyond the winding road before them, past Kim's tender caress of his arm, and to the woman he had known as his Auntie Shiv. Though she was a clone of the real Maeren sitting beside him now, his mind had trouble separating the real, from the manufactured; the replicated Maeren still held a place in his heart, even if the love for her had fled just as she had.

As much as he had protested, Keeve now felt a determination to find her, no matter the pain she had caused and no matter how far away. Ah Maeren... his mind lamented, and Keeve's sadness was picked up by the howling wind outside, carried across the snow-laden streets of New Plouton, its path alighted by the dim starlight penetrating blankets of clouds, until it whirled past the ears of a cloaked blonde figure pausing a moment upon the loading ramp of some freighter, in some starport somewhere on Tae'Karada; her tear-soaked brown eyes rose and gazed across the darkened sky where she set aflight her good-byes to the family, the friends and lovers about to be left behind, and felt Keeve's grief, experiencing a pang of guilt in knowing it might only grow worse, depending on what her uncertain future held.

His name sputtered from her lips as a scarred, mangled hand pushed her into motion again with a gruff insult. She caught up to the other cloaked figure making her way to the top, where the woman's sorrowful hazel eyes shifted towards her own. Limp, brown curls peaked out from beneath her cowl, lacking in lustre as much as her pallid flesh was now - no longer the vibrant, stunning woman who had first captured her heart a year ago; her spirit, too, was dwindling, and with visible resignation the woman stepped onto the ship with her blonde-haired companion.

"Come on now," her ragged voice encouraged, a wiry, weak smile struggling to find her lips. As her arm slipped through her fellow captive's, Kaysa Zenarr kissed Maeren Shivral's brow. "Don't worry. This'll just be another adventure for us, my star."

"As long as it's with you," Shiv whispered back, "I'm sure we'll make it through. Like always."

Behind them, the ramp retracted, and door hatch slid into place, closing them off from the planet they had called home for so long, where they had shared so much passion, laughter, heartache and joy, and now shared their greatest fear that no one would even notice them gone.

With a screaming howl, the freighter kicked into the sky and roared from the atmosphere and out into space. As the planet dwindled from view, unknown to Zale Tregat still back in his home on the surface, so did the chance of finding his wife.

---

"Desperate Sanctuary, Part 1"
By: Zari Zathmir
Dani
Orn Gham [NPC+]
Kael Selrid
Laedra Vorrel
Koran Darr

Location: Jedi Temple
Date: Rheudis 5, 4 ABY

***

It was the waiting that was the worst part. The quiet didn't help much either. But, by far, the waiting was the worst. The silence of the Jedi Temple was palpable. Zari Zathmir had already gone through two lightsaber drills, meditated, and studied up on the Jedi Knights of one hundred years ago. And now, because she could think of nothing else to do before meditating again, Zari padded toward the front of the Temple to peek out of the front doors to see if she could spot the returning airspeeders.

Dressed in Jedi robes, she moved silently on bare feet. She had a suspicion that had she actually donned any footwear, most who knew her would suspect she'd been replaced by some sort of clone. She could not remember the last time she'd worn any shoes or boots aside from perhaps a pair of sandals several years ago while travelling through brambles on her homeworld of Agarra. She reached the front door and pushed it open. As she suspected the sky was clear. As she started to turn away, movement to the side of the doors caught her eye.

The sight she beheld was out of nightmares. The purple-skinned face looked up just as her own eyes settled on the two figures. Deep, violet eyes met hers, and Zari felt herself scream.

"Wait," came the cry. Zari was sure it had been called out more than once. "Wait, Zari. We mean you no harm. I promise. We won't hurt you."

"Wh-what are you doing here? Y-you're supposed to be at the Palace!" Frantically, Zari sought the control Master Vorrel and Master Brael had been teaching her, but it eluded her. "P-please don't hurt me. Just go away!"

"I promise we are not here to hurt you, Zari," Dani said and glanced down at her unconscious companion. "We're here because it's probably the safest place I could think of on the planet to go."

"It's not safe, Dani," Zari said. "They'll hurt you when you get back for all the people you hurt."

Dani smiled and shook her head. "No, at least I hope not. I hope that they will give me the chance to explain some things, and to treat us fairly. That is the Jedi way. If, after that, they still see us as a threat and one that must be destroyed, then perhaps you are right. I just hope that I am given the chance to speak."

"You...should go, Dani," Zari said and glanced down at Nieme. "You're an evil influence! You'll disrupt the Temple!"

Dani sighed gently. "I hope that I can avoid that," she said. "I take it they are all out?"

Zari nodded meekly.

"We will not bother you, and we will wait right here for the Council's return."

"I wish you would go," Zari whispered. She whirled around at the sound of booted feet approaching from behind. Her eyes opened wide. "Mr. Orn. You should go back to the kitchen. It's not safe here without ...without the Jedi here."

The corpulent chef laughed softly. "Why wouldn't it be safe? Are we under attack?"

"No," Zari said, and quickly added, "but what if we were? What if Nieme and Dani snuck out of the Palace when the attack started so they could claim the Temple! What if they were sitting out on the porch right now!"

"Zari, what is wrong with you?" he asked, increasingly amused by her irrational behaviour. Still smiling, Orn reached Zari and stopped cold at the sight awaiting him. His own eyes fixed to Dani's large violet ones, silently pleading with him, then they dropped to Nieme dangling limply from Dani's thin arms. His voice dropped to a deathly whisper. "What are you doing here?"

"We've come to request asylum with the Jedi Order," Dani answered. "I am ready to leave the path of darkness I was following behind me, and...and Nieme needs help."

Orn narrowed his eyes at her, though it was difficult to truly be angry when faced with a bedraggled Dani and an unconscious Nieme who looked no better off. "You two have had your chances," he told her coolly. "Haven't you caused enough trouble?"

"Hopefully there is some way for us to make up for the trouble we have caused," Dani said. "I did not do enough, I know that. I tried to temper Nieme's hand in her actions, but it was difficult, especially as the madness claimed more and more of her mind. I went along with what she did because I love her, and could not leave her...especially not to get worse. I tried to hold her back where I could, but had she suspected the truth of my actions, she would have turned on me." She shook her head. "I only hope I am capable of making amends for the pain and suffering that have been a product of my hand."

"How do I know this isn't a ruse?" he asked skeptically. "That you're not saying all this to get our guard down before you two strike again?" Orn sighed, shaking his head regretfully. "You tricked us all once, Dani. You can't expect us to believe you again."

"I trust that the Jedi Council will be able to figure out the truth of the matter," Dani said. "That is really all I have, and I hope it will be enough. If it isn't, I'll need to search elsewhere. I know I can't take Nieme to my homeworld, her madness would cause my people many difficulties. I'm sure if I cannot find sanctuary here, that somewhere in the universe will open its doors to us." She looked up into Orn's eyes. "I can't ask you to trust me, not after what has happened. And, I don't know what I could do to prove myself, but I would be willing to do anything to do so."

Orn exhaled deeply, his shoulders dropping as all his resentment and anger began draining away. To have his girls back, Orn would give anything. But could they be trusted? "I...I can't make this decision," he told her quietly. "This isn't my Temple, Dani. All I can do is give you shelter until the Masters get back. You can--" He sighed, momentarily doubting the wisdom of his judgement. But he couldn't turn them away, not when his heart was being tugged in their direction. "The courtyard," he finally said. "You can wait in the courtyard until they return. I'll-- I'll have blankets and food brought out for you."

"Thank you, Orn," Dani said with a smile. "I won't forget this, and I will repay you somehow." She stood and bowed to him.

Behind Orn, Zari peeked out to where Dani turned to speek soft words into Nieme's ear. Nieme, however, didn't stir. Reaching out with the Force, Zari clumsily determined that Nieme really was unconscious, but didn't let that diminish her wariness. "Are you sure it's okay," she whispered to Orn.

He smiled wanly at her. "No. But what other choice do I have, Zari? If they're here, at least we can keep an eye on them."

Zari nodded. "You're right," she said. "And...and maybe she is telling the truth. Even when I was their prisoner, Dani...she always seemed...concerned and caring. But...but it could have been an act."

"If it is," he reasoned, "then this is the best way to find out." Nodding to Dani, Orn gestured ahead, towards where the courtyard would be. "I'll lead you there. Zari will scrounge the kitchen for some snacks." He winked at the young Padawan. "Won't you?"

"Yes, sir," Zari said as she gave him a grin before disappearing back into the Temple. As she fled toward the kitchens, her feet made barely a whisper across the Temple floor.

Dani stood up, holding Nieme in her arms. "Again, Orn, I can't thank you enough. I know I don't deserve kindness, but you have shown me some. You have a beautiful heart."

"Stop," he told her wearily. "You and Nieme...you've just about broken it. I don't understand how you girls could have gone so wrong."

"Many things went wrong," Dani said softly. "I've done what I could to keep them from going even more wrong, but...it was....I couldn't just leave her... I just hope I can do enough now to make up for it. Perhaps in time I can prove myself again."

"Perhaps..." he murmured, and in the ensuing silence, Orn sighed and held out his arms. "Here." His eyes motioned towards Nieme. "As tiny as she is, I know she's not an easy load to bear."

Dani shifted Nieme into Orn's arms and gave him a weak smile as she then bent to retrieve what few belongings she'd brought with them. "After awhile, she does get a little heavy."

"Not for me," Orn told her with a meaningful glance and wistful nostalgia in his voice. "She's never been too much for me, Dani. I've taken care of her so long, watched over her..." He shook his head sadly, looking down into Nieme's sunken, haggard face. "How did it come to this?"

"I think it happened in the middle of all the stuff with Kael, and then what happened to us in the desert. She couldn't handle it, and...and it tore her up inside. Her visions are back too, and...and I think they're a big cause of her current condition."

He sighed heavily. "And how are you going to fix her?"

"If I can keep her here, that will help," Dani said. "This place could be a good influence on her. Maybe being around you again will help. I don't really know, Orn, but she has to get better. This....whatever she's become...it's killing her...and to see her whither like that, it'll kill me as well."

"That's not going to happen," Orn told her with sudden fervour. He drew Nieme in more closely to his chest, protective of the fragile, tormented girl he had once considered his own daughter. "We'll get her through this, Dani. You have to believe it."

"With you helping," Dani said a little more brightly, "I think we can. I know we can, Orn. Thank you so much for this...however I can repay you, just name it."

"Just...try," he told her. "Try to stay on the right path, Dani. That's all I want from you."

"Then that's what I shall do," she said.

Orn's companionable smile radiated warmth and fondness towards Dani. They reached the courtyard, entering it only after Orn had ensured it was unoccupied. "The gazebo will be the most comfortable spot," he suggested.

Dani looked over at it and nodded. "I agree," she said as she led the way toward the structure with hers and Nieme's belongings while Orn carried Nieme. "I wonder when they will return."

He shrugged his heavy shoulders as, gingerly, he set Nieme down upon the gazebo's floor. He remained squatted before her, studying her strained features as Nieme struggled through a fitful rest. "When they come and see her as she is now, I'm sure they'll listen to your story."

"I do hope so," Dani whispered. "I don't know who else I could turn to. Well, I will hold on to hope...that is all I can do now."

"And I can help," Orn added, patting Dani's knee. "I'll get you two some blankets and see what's taking Zari with those snacks."

"Thank you again, Orn," Dani said as she settled onto the floor of the gazebo beside Nieme. "She probably stopped to get a snack of her own."

"There'll be plenty left for you, don't you worry," he chuckled with mirth. Giving her an affectionate wink, Orn rose and lumbered away, leaving Dani with an unresponsive Nieme and the stars.

Dani slipped her arms around Nieme and sighed softly. Smiling at her lover, she softly began to sing a song in her native tongue, using some of her pheromones to soothe Nieme's sleep. She could only hope and pray that help could be found for Nieme before it was too late.

***

Only Dani's food portion had been touched, while Nieme's remained, cold and unnoticed by the comatose girl laying curled in a ball beneath one of the quilts Orn had scrounged for them. She whimpered in her sleep now and then, and Dani found it a blessing that Nieme was too weak to scream, for she would have done so with the horrors invading her unsettled mind.

For a good portion of the night, Dani had maintained her vigil over Nieme's sleep. She wasn't certain when it had happened, but sometime during the night sleep overcame her and she'd drifted off. She remained close to Nieme, her body protectively curled around that of her lover. As she slowly came awake, the flickering of light through the trees shone on her closed eyelids. Finally, she managed to open her eyes, and just in time to see several shapes looming over her.

"Please do not move, and do not reach for your weapon," came the request, delivered calmly by a decidedly feminine voice.

Dani tried to focus her eyes on the shapes. They wore Jedi robes, and were obviously not pleased to see her. "We...we would like to request asylum with the Jedi," she finally managed. "We no longer wish to hurt anyone. And...and Nieme needs help badly."

One of the figures crouched before them, resolving itself into the form of Laedra Vorrel returned unscatched from the day's battle. With no indication of bitterness or resentment towards she and Nieme for all their past misdeeds, Laedra extended one hand and laid it delicately across Nieme's brow. The girl groaned faintly and squeezed into a tighter ball at the contact. Laedra withdrew her hand and looked into Dani's eyes. "She has lost herself in an abyss of fear and pain," Laedra explained of what she had felt. "How did she come to this?"

"It has been slowly building," Dani answered. "The worst of it began when we were attacked in the desert. It's only become this bad recently. With her like this, I could no longer continue my charade in the Palace. This was the only place I thought we might be able to go for help."

Laedra's eyebrow arched curiously. "Charade? Do you mean to tell us your fall to darkness was a ploy?"

"Not entirely," Dani said. "I never succumbed as much to the darkness as Nieme, mainly because the way it feels...it was unpleasant. But...I knew that if I were not there, Nieme would have been far worse. I had to be her balance. I did many things I was not happy with, and still feel terrible about. However, there were many instances where I helped to ease Nieme's hand...where I could."

"You couldn't do it alone," Laedra told her, allowing a touch of compassion to bleed through her otherwise emotionless voice. "And you can't now. But you cannot simply return here after everything that has happened. The decision must be the Council's."

"I understand," Dani said softly. "Thank you at least for the chance, whatever may happen."

"Everyone at least gets a second chance," came a voice from behind Laedra. Talara stood there, watching Nieme and Dani. There was a hint of wariness, but she showed none of the fear Zari had held. "I hope you are true to your word, Dani. I have always liked you, even when you were bad. I would hate to see you break your word now, because if that happened, I don't think you would be allowed to go."

Dani nodded slowly. "I knew that when I came here," she said. "I have no intention of breaking my word now. And, I am deeply sorry for how we treated you, Talara."

Tala shrugged slightly. "You were always kind to me when you were able to be," she said. "It helped." She gave Dani a bow, and turned to enter the Temple.

She'd been avoiding his gaze, but Dani finally allowed herself to glance at Master Darr. "I...I'm sorry for...for what happened that night." She smiled shyly. "Well, mostly sorry." As Koran seemed to glance aside, Dani blushed brightly.

To cover the awkwardness, Koran touched where Dani's lightsaber had nearly ended his life. "I know you aimed your strike precisely in that attack on the palace. Thank you."

"I would have done the same for anyone," she said. "I did not want to kill any of you, but I...I did have to make it look...I had to convince Nieme."

"That is what I am having trouble understanding," Laedra explained carefully. "You knew Nieme was growing weak - why didn't you stop her sooner, Dani? Why did you allow her to continue with her crimes?"

"She was growing unstable," Dani answered. "But, she wasn't weak yet. I went into the desert for a special ceremony, and I had hoped that when I did, she would sit fearing for my safety. Based on her actions, that's the direction she was headed. It seems as if she figured me gone...and it got worse. I believe her visions returned then too. I miscalculated by going to the desert, but in the end, it put her in the condition she's in now where she can't hurt anyone."

"Yet now," Laedra observed quietly, "she suffers, and I am not certain how to draw her out of this void she's fallen into. But, if the council allows it" --she smiled faintly at Dani-- "we will do all we can to help her."

"Will it be alright for us to remain here until the Council decides," Dani asked. She retrieved her lightsaber carefully and held it out. "I will willingly surrender my weapon."

Bowing her head in gratitude, Laedra accepted the weapon. "You appear comfortable enough out here," she determined from a single glance at the blankets and food supplied to her. Laedra had a solid idea where they had procured those.... Rising, Laedra stepped back to join Koran and the others. "If it gets too cold, you will let us know?"

"I will," Dani answered. "I know we have been responsible for much pain and suffering, but I thank you for your kindness in allowing us to remain here." She bowed as best she could from where she sat.

Laedra returned the gesture, but could not respond to Dani's thanks, for she was not yet certain the Jedi could help the two girls anymore than they were now.

"We will confer with Orn, and see if he has food to spare for later in the day," Koran said. "Though, I am quite certain he will find some for you. We will keep someone nearby, and I'd advise remaining here and out of sight. While we may be able to speak calmly to you, there are many others who would see you as nothing more than the enemy."

"Thank you, Master Darr," Dani said again. As Nieme stirred beside her, she placed a gentle, calming hand on her shoulder. She sighed with a touch of weariness and gave the Jedi a smile. "Thank you again."

From the other side of the courtyard, Kael approached slowly, watching Laedra and Koran, as well as Dani and Nieme. "Master Laedra, Master Darr," he said. "Master Brael has given birth to twins, but other than that, there is no other news to report from the Temple." He glanced at Nieme and Dani. "Well, except for the obvious."

Laedra sighed and allowed a small chuckle. "An eventful evening, no doubt." Glancing significantly at Dani and Nieme, she mused, "I only wonder what tomorrow will bring."

"No trouble from the two of us is my hope," Dani said with a shaky smile.

"Well, if the two of you will be alright here," Koran began, "I need to prepare an after-action report for the Council."

"We're fine," Dani said.

Koran glanced aside at Laedra as if to ask if she were coming. She nodded and started away with Koran, calling back to Dani, "If she awakens and cannot be calmed, summon me and I will assist you."

"I will, Master Vorrel," Dani said, allowing herself to finally feel a touch of relief that things would be a little better. Or at least, she hoped.

Once the Jedi Masters were gone, Kael approached. Dani watched him up to the point where he sat beside her. She met his gaze, and smiled. She allowed herself to collapse against his body. "I'll do what I can to help," he said.

"Thank you, Kael," Dani whispered. He covered her hand with his own. "I know Raeila won't want Nieme around, but perhaps once I know she'll be alright here, I could visit Raeila again. I...I would like to think she'd like to see me again."

Kael smiled. "I know she will. I need to call her, I'll let her know you're alright. Perhaps, if I can talk to Master Vorrel, you might be able to talk to her too."

Dani smiled. "I'd like that, Kael."

"I should probably go and speak with Master Laedra then. I'll talk to you again soon." He leaned in and gave her a gentle kiss. With a smile for her, he rose and returned into the Temple.

---

"Desperate Sanctuary, Part 2"
By: Dani
Kael Selrid
Laedra Vorrel
Raeila Selrid
Ferrig Mullerin

Location: Jedi Temple
Date: Rheudis 5, 4 ABY

***

When Kael entered the Temple, he found Laedra going over the daily reports. He had a feeling that she was having a time of translating Zari's reports. One of the most recent of the batches of Padawans to join the Temple, Zari tried very hard, but sometimes had a habit of rambling, especially in her reports. "Master Vorrel, may I have a word?"

Tired, strained eyes looked up at Kael and a smile followed. "Have a seat," she offered with a gesture towards the chair opposite her own at the large conference table. As he accepted, Laedra sighed and reclined in her own seat. "It's been a long day, hasn't it?"

"Extremely long," Kael said. "Once things are settled here, I'm going to return to the desert for the night. I figure I might search through all my new medical texts and see if I can find anything that might be able to help Nieme. I hope with Yelara on the throne and the New Republic guiding the planet's leadership, we can find some semblance of normalcy again."

"As optimistic as I am," Laedra explained frankly, "I believe it may be some time before that happens. But certainly," she added knowingly, "go and visit your wife, Kael."

"I need to contact her, to let her know I'm alright," Kael said. "One of the reasons I've come to you, is to seek permission to allow Dani to speak with Raeila too. Rae and Dani are close, and I know that Raeila would like to hear from Dani to know that she's alright as well. If necessary, I can use one of the portable comm units from the speeders."

"You and Dani are close as well," Laedra said pointedly. "Is that going to be a problem, Kael? If she is deceiving us, will you be able to see through her, or oppose her if the time comes?"

"If she is," Kael said, "I will know. And, we are close...in a manner of speaking. She and Raeila are closer, and the love they share is honest and open, and...in that, I trust Dani. But, if she does fall back toward darkness, I will know."

Laedra held his gaze, searching his eyes as she reiterated, "But could you bring yourself to stop her?"

"If it came to that, I could," Kael said. "As much as I would hate to do it, it would need to be done. I will always do my duty if it comes to it. Though, honestly, I don't think we'll have trouble with Dani."

"No?" Intrigued, Laedra sat forward and laced her hands upon the table. "How can you be so sure?"

"Because I trust the Force," Kael answered. "And, because I do know Dani well enough to be able to get a sense of things like this."

"Then I hope you're right, because if we do give her our trust and she betrays it, the Jedi could be in much trouble. We did pledge ourselves to the High Princess," Laedra reminded him. "It is our duty and a matter of loyalty to turn in Dani and Nieme. I simply don't find it conscionable at this moment to hand them over to the authorities, not with the state Nieme is in."

Kael nodded. "I have a feeling Dani knows that," he said. "If, when they are finally turned over to the authorities, do you suppose they will ask for their deaths?"

Frowning pensively, Laedra shook her head. "I have no idea. I'm not certain how Yelara thinks, or how easily swayed she is by the advice of her advisors. If someone wants them dead, Kael, there is a chance they may get their wish."

"With Dani returning to the light, it would be a shame to lose her talent in such a way."

Laedra sighed. "In the end, it may not matter what we believe. If it comes to it, perhaps we can have Liam speak to Yelara on their behalf and gain amnesty for them. Though," she added with a conspiratorial smile for Kael, "we don't have to inform anyone they're here, not for a long while, I imagine."

"That is true," Kael said. "Do you have any objections to my letting Dani use the comm when I call Raeila? Or do you believe the council will object?"

"If she doesn't step foot in the Temple," Laedra reasoned, "there would be no infractions made. Let them speak - no harm can be done in that."

"Thank you, Master," Kael said. "I will let her know, and we'll use the comm in one of the speeders."

She nodded. "Who will watch Nieme?"

"I had thought to bring one of the speeders into the courtyard," Kael answered. "That way she could keep an eye on Nieme while we talk to Raeila. Alternatively, if someone was available to watch Nieme, that would be an option as well."

"That might not be a good idea," Laedra informed him with a wan smile. "I think we need to keep their presence here as low profile as possible until the council can convene. And," she added, "if this is a ruse, I don't want Nieme turning on us without Dani there to appease her."

Kael nodded. "I will bring the speeder into the courtyard so that Dani may be near Nieme while we speak with Raeila," he said. "I will also keep the conversation short. I do not quite know how Nieme will respond to Dani and Raeila's closeness."

Her eyebrow raised and her eyes took on a direct, watchful gaze. "And how are you responding to their closeness? If I recall correctly, was it not possessiveness and jealousy that first drove Nieme from you into the desert...where this all began?"

"I am a different person than I was then," Kael answered. "I believe I have grown and matured in my time as a Jedi, and I feel happiness for both Dani and Raeila. I do care for them, and I love Raeila enough, and she me, that our relationship is secure even with her feelings for Dani. They developed a bond, of sorts, when Raeila held her prisoner in the desert, and that bond was strengthened later on when Dani helped Raeila get away from pursuers."

"I just want to stress," Laedra explained, "that you have already become personally involved in this situation with Dani and Nieme. If you do ever need to take a step back, no one will think any less of you. In fact" --she smiled-- "we could only ever develop a greater respect for you - it takes a very strong individual to recognize when they have lost their perspective and need some distance to regain their focus. I know you can do just that, Kael."

"Do you feel that I've lost my perspective in this matter, Master," Kael asked.

"No," Laedra answered without pause. "And I don't believe you will. But if the Council brings into question all that we have just discussed, I simply wanted to be prepared to answer them if necessary. Now that we've spoken," Laedra finished, "I believe I can more confidently speak on your behalf, even though I'm not your Master and it is likely not my place to do so." Shrugging her delicate shoulders, Laedra confided, "I understand the conflicts you have faced and how far you've come. I want to stand in your defence for that reason alone."

Kael bowed. "Thank you, Master," he said. "Your confidence and faith in me is encouraging. By your leave, I would like to go make that call now. I'll keep a close eye on Nieme."

She inclined her head. "If you need anything more, Master Darr and myself are here, no matter the hour."

"Thank you again," Kael said. "I will keep that in mind, and promise not to abuse the offer." He gave her a grin, then bowed as he started back out of the room.

She watched him with mild concern, but an overriding sense of confidence and pride in the caliber of Jedi they had produced. If he could maintain his self-command and control of his emotions during such a trying situation, Laedra was positive he could withstand any trial confronting him in the future.

***

Kael returned to the courtyard where Dani was still sitting with Nieme. He hurried through to where the speeders were parked outside the courtyard and hopped into one of them. It started easily, and he pulled it out and deftly maneuvered it into the courtyard where they would be able to be in full view of Nieme while they spoke with Raeila.

Once parked, he hopped out and strode toward where Dani was now watching him expectantly. "Master Vorrel gave permission for you to be able to use the comm with me to contact Rae."

"Next time you see her," Dani said, "please thank her for me."

"I will," Kael said with a warm smile. "Is she alright?"

"The same."

Kael nodded. "Ready?"

"Definitely," she answered. "I hope she hasn't been worried about me."

"I'm sure she has, but she'll be very relieved to hear from you. Come on." He stood up and held a hand out for her. She took it, and as they started toward the speeder, didn't let it go. He glanced at her and found her watching him from the corner of her eye. He returned the smile she was giving him.

"She's very lucky to have you," Dani said.

"I'm very lucky to have her," he answered. He sat into the seat of the speeder, as Dani took a standing position where she could keep an eye on Nieme.

It only took a few moments for him to get the comm codes for their home in the desert, and just as quickly, the comm in the house was beeping cheerfully. The greeting they received was filled withjust as much mirth as a giggle filtered through the device. "Ferrig, stop," Raeila's voice whispered playfully, then louder, "This is Rae. Who's this?"

"Someone who would like that no good scoundrel to get his hands off of you for at least five minutes," Kael said with a laugh. "Hello my arozeil. I'm back at the Temple and safe."

"Thana," she gasped, then shrieked with joy and smacked a kiss against the comm. "Kael! You're safe! You don't know how much we worried. Gods, I love you! Why aren't you here with me?"

"We've just stopped back by the Temple once the fighting was over, and once the quick ceremony with Yelara being crowned High Princess was finished. I'll be heading home within the hour after a few more things are squared away here. And, I think one of those wants to say hi to you." He nodded at Dani.

"Hi Raeila," she said softly, almost shyly. "I'm safe too. We fled here before the fighting. I think the Jedi are going to give us asylum here for now."

"You're okay," Raeila sighed, relieved. "You...you found Nieme, then? Is she-- I mean...did you?"

"I found her," Dani said. "The Jedi are going to try to help her. She was worse when I got back to the palace, but now that I'm here...I'm hopeful. How are you, Raeila? Is everything alright there?"

There was a sniffle, then a tearful laugh as she answered, "It's fine. I just...I miss you two so much! Ferrig's helped...but I want us all together again."

"I can't come there right away," Dani said with clear sadness in her voice. "They need me to watch Nieme, and make sure she doesn't do anything. But, I'll come as soon as I'm able. I miss you so very much, Raeila. My bath tonight will certainly be lonely."

That sparked a peal of riotous laughter from Rae. "Well, just invite Kael in! I bet he'll be feeling just as lonely without me."

"But he's going to be going home to you," Dani said with a laugh of her own. "I think I'll just have to take care of my own needs down at the waterfall, unless Kael wants a quickie in the speeder before he comes home to you."

"Oh, I know he'd love that!" she exclaimed with glee on his behalf, disregarding the fact he was within hearing distance. "Don't be shy, Dani. He won't refuse!"

Dani giggled as she glanced up at Kael who was rolling his eyes playfully. "Not many places we could, but I'll see what we can manage before I send him back home to you. It's good to hear your voice, Raeila. It's good to hear you laughing. It makes me very happy, and makes me hope I can see you again soon."

"What's to hope for?" she told her friend ardently. "Sounds like things are going to change for the better on Tae'karada. We need to celebrate, right? We will see each other again in no time!"

"I can't wait," Dani said with a wide grin. "As soon as I can get away, as soon as it's safe for me to leave Nieme, I'm going to be visiting you. And, you know what that means."

Raeila emitted a throaty laugh. "I certainly do... Just remember to bring Kael with you. I'm sure the three of us can have some real fun together."

"Well, we already know we can," Dani said. "And, I think the three of us were damn good in that really big bed you have down there. Have you been sharing it with Ferrig? I don't know if you'd want him to, but if you want him to join, I don't mind."

Raeila snickered. "Well, would you, Ferrig?"

"I think I'd have to pass," Ferrig said. "The three of you have something very special together, and if I joined...it'd be different. Maybe I will join you at some point, but I want you to be able to have your special time together, just like you and I have our special time together, Rae."

"I don't want you to be left out," she told him softly. "Kael won't mind - as long as you let him have a piece of his wife."

"The first time you're together," Ferrig said, "it'll be you three. I'll join you after that if you want me."

"Of course we'll want you," Dani said.

"Whatever you're comfortable with, Ferrig," Kael said. "Whatever you want, it's fine with us."

Ferrig chuckled. "I guess we'll have to see when we get there," he said.

"Which will be soon," Raeila asked excitedly, "right?"

"Right," Dani answered. "We should get going now so Kael can come home to you. I love you, Raeila. Take care of yourself, and I'll see you very soon."

"I love you too," she whispered. "And Kael...I'm proud of you. You helped save our home today. I'm so glad you're coming back to me."

"I'll see you in just a few hours, my dearest," Kael said. "Stay safe until I'm with you again."

"Don't worry, Ferrig wouldn't let anything happen to me." She nudged her brother with an elbow. "Right?"

Ferrig chuckled. "Definitely not," he said. "I'll make sure she stays safe and sound until you're here. See you soon, buddy."

"See you soon, friend," Kael said. "I'll be home soon."

With an exuberant good-bye, Raeila and Ferrig closed the comm to resume, far more enthusiastically with the news of Kael's well-being, their flirtatious game of chase around Raeila and Kael's home.

With a smile, Dani took Kael's hand and led him back to the gazebo.

"I do love you, Kael," she said.

"But you would prefer to wait until we're down in the desert?"

Dani nodded. "I do hope you understand. In Nieme's condition, I don't know what you and I doing anything would do to her. I think it's safer this way."

Kael chuckled softly and kissed her cheek. "That's fine with me, and if we did start something, we could be walked in on, and I don't think either of us want to answer those questions just yet."

"Definitely not," she said. "So that means, you need to do whatever you need to do before going to Raeila, and I need to continue watching over Nieme. I'll see you soon."

"You too," he said, and kissed her briefly.

After a quick hug that almost lingered, Dani pulled away and stepped closer to Nieme. With a chuckle, Kael returned into the Temple to get ready for his trip to the desert.

Dani returned to her spot at Nieme's side. She began another of the songs she'd been singing to her lover, gently stroking her hair. She only hoped that things would get better, but that was only a matter of waiting for time to pass and healing to begin.

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