"Simple Chaos"
By: Raxis L'ygr - Bounty Hunter

Location: The Yallder District, New Plouton
Date: Niothe 7, 4ABY

***

Small, green numbers scrolled vertically down the side of Raxis' datapad as the credit transfer wired itself across the Guild's secure network. With the exception of the monitor's eerie lavender glow, the seedy hotel room was an abyss of cold and unforgiving darkness. Outside, thirty floors down, the low-lives and hooligans of New Plouton milled about the cantina district. From the shadows, Raxis lifted himself from a prone position to view the screen. Pale violet light masked his skin, as he rubbed his clean shaven face and tapped a key on the datapad.

"Slow transfer as usual...." Raxis hummed to himself. "Let's see what news there is on the network..."

Raxis tapped on the datapad's numerous keys and loaded the secure-line news network for the guild, keeping an eye on the data upload on the side of the screen. The Guild's news was always pretty informative, when it wasn't being used to lure in the bounties of another hunter. Since the Empire controlled which news was allowed onto the planetary systems, the Hunter's Guild news was regularly factual, being that it wasn't below the Empire to hire Bounty Hunters to do their dirty work. After all, they hired Boba Fett and Bossk to find Han Solo for being a leader of the rebels, and then handed him over carbonized to Jabba himself as a reward. The Empire wasn't stupid enough to rely on Bothans for rebel information, when they could pay much cheaper fares to have a bounty hunter bring in a few themselves.

"Ok, let's see here..." Raxis began, and started to sip his drink.

Mere nanoseconds later, Raxis saw something that made him inhale his drink, sending him into a violent coughing fit. Throwing the drink to the floor with a crash, Raxis knelt over the side of the sofa and pounded his fist against his lungs to clear the alcohol from his esophagus.

"It's not possible..." Raxis said to himself, and shook his head clear before returning to the screen.

"Jabba the Hutt has reportedly been slain on the dunes of Tatooine, and Boba Fett is reported to have been also slain at the scene?" Raxis read aloud in disbelief, to ensure himself that his eyes and ears were hearing the same thing. "Blasted Boba Fett?"

Raxis smirked and tapped the button to confirm his data's transfer was completed and lit a cigarra. He couldn't believe it. Five days before the Death Star exploded, he was reassigned to Tatooine. A few years later, he left Tatooine to work in New Plouton, instead of working for Jabba in Tatooine. For a moment he questioned if he was an avatar of bad luck, but quickly shook the thought. For the fifteenth time this year, Raxis was one lucky dog.

"Well Jabba..." He grabbed his bottle off of the floor and hefted it upwards. "You ran a good company, but you shouldn't have fed the guy that told you that messing with the rebels would kill you someday to the Rancor."

Raxis downed the remainder of the ale from the bottle, and rested back into his seat to continue the news. Reading entry after entry, he decided to load up the section listing for New Plouton itself. Raxis cracked a grin at what he saw.

"Masquerade Ball, eh?" Raxis mused. "Tsk tsk tsk. I guess this would be a good place to start."

He clicked the data transfer button to relay credits to his contact on Mos Eisley, who was charging 1500 credits for a professionally forged invitation. It was a reasonable price, especially since he'd worked with the slicer before.

"It's good to have connections," Raxis said with a grin.

---

"Dark Dawn"
By: Syan Daywalker

Location: Vessel Aesir, Tae'Remok System
Date: Niothe 7, 4ABY

***

The blade had been constructed by a master weapons maker from the lower depths of Coruscant and tested extensively before a king's ransom had been paid for it. The blade was eighty-five centimetres from guard to point. It was four centimetres wide, and scarcely five millimetres thick at the spine. The technique used to forge it was all but lost, and even now it registered far above the armor grade of an Imperial Star Destroyer. The hilt was twenty centimetres long and etched with crisscrossing lines just right to keep it from slipping, but allowed for some of the more complicated sword-fighting techniques. Presumably, that was one of the more delicate parts of its construction.

By some reckoning, the blade was some forty years old already, but showed no signs of wear - a testament to its design. It had belonged to the father of the man that now wielded it.

And wielded it he did. Expertly. His grip was firm, but his wrists supple. The blade sung its deadly serenade as it sliced through the air. He had been in practice mode for nearly forty-five minutes now and showed little chance of stopping. What had once been the main stateroom now served as his all-purpose room aboard Aesir. A long diagonal slash ended with a twist of the wrist that pointed the blade edge down. He shifted stances, dragging his foot lightly on the floor to maintain his balance as the slice came upward from groin to gullet. No sooner had his foot settled than it was moving again, knee bent, slipping across his body as he turned at the hip and turned his hands around on the katana's grip to a cross-body slice followed by a step through. By now the opponent would be dead, but Daywalker had been through this training charade dozens of times since he'd begun this session and the shadow opponent still hadn't fell.

He stepped back, bringing the blade around, up, and down diagonally, decapitating the shadow opponent.

"Excuse me, sir." The voice came from behind and Syan all but ignored it, continuing with a crossover and saddle into a left guard stance, stabbing the blade through where the shadow man's spine would have been. He withdrew the blade with exaggerated care, and out of habit, ran the blade between his fore and middle fingers to wipe off blood that was no longer there.

"What is it, Eighteen?"

AC-18 was a Cybot Galactica product, a relic from Aesir's previous owner. Syan Daywalker turned to face her finally, hazel eyes resting lightly on the silver frame.

Her mimicry was all but absolute. "Aesir's computer has asked me to inform you that we are two minutes from reversion, Master Syan." Her voice was high and reedy, and grated somewhat on Syan's nerves. But far from enough to suggest to him that he should do something about it, or her.

"Why didn't you summon me sooner?" he asked the automaton, picking up the towel that rested on a hook by the stateroom's doorway. AC-18 followed. If it was possible to look perturbed, she did it.

"But I did, Master Syan, from the cockpit."

Syan turned his hazel eyes on her once more, as if trying to measure the truth of her statements. She was a droid, and all but incapable of lying except under certain special conditions. He had no reason to doubt her. He looked at her instead to consider her words. If she had called, it meant he had been so deep into practice he had been oblivious until she'd approached him. That was not a good precedent to set; even though he was perfectly safe aboard the ship.

His eyes were a warm hazel, the color one often found in a friend. But the complete lack of empathy behind made them colder, more unsettling than even Ysanne Isard's legendary gaze.

The antiseptic corridors of the ship gave way to the cockpit. He leaned and took the sword into it with him. Normally he could have laid it on of one the cockpit's rear seats, but they had been ripped out to make space for sophisticated comm and tracking gear. Instead he handed it to the droid to hold and settled into the pilot's seat.

The old J-Type Nubian could be a handful to fly by himself, but in the last year, Syan had gotten more used to its eccentricities. A cursory check of the system readouts was enough to satisfy himself of the ship's status. He leaned forward and toggled the hyper drive levers. The mottling of hyperspace faded into shards of light before snapping into place as stars and the Tae'Remok System.

A look outside the cockpit windows would have revealed a beautiful sight, but it held no interest for him. Bounty hunters went through enough systems to lose any sense of appeal for sightseeing not long into their careers. Syan Daywalker was no different. His sensor board told enough for him to pilot the silver space blade in and that was enough for him. Aesir reached the outer markers before her comm board lit up.

A tired looking face appeared on the small screen. "Contact-704d , this is New Plouton Control. Please state your destination and the purpose of your visit. Current course has you inbound."

Syan flicked on the audio gain. "My destination is Thanatos. My purpose is my own." He flicked it off again.

On the screen, the controller turned to look at something Syan couldn't see. A supervisor most likely. Probably running a check on Aesir's ID. Syan wasn' t worried. The tags were legitimate, as was his trail for the most part. Preliminary checks on this world suggested it wasn't one likely to deny him access, or dig further into his reasons for visiting.

He was right.

"Transport vessel, Aesir, you're cleared for entry to Tae'Karadan airspace. Please, enjoy your stay with us."

Syan didn't deign to reply to the little ploteek and just switched back off the comm board. His ship was approaching the planet's atmosphere. He pulled back on the yoke to pitch the nose up and rolled slightly to the right. Aesir's dagger shape settled into the growing thickness of the atmosphere. Temperature rose slightly, but easily dealt with by the screens. The night sky came into view and Syan followed the beacons along the planet's longitudinal spin. From the sky, he could see the darkness cringing back against the onslaught of light and found some brittle humor in the vision. Light never won out. Darkness was always there, hidden, but never far.

Three kilometres out, he kicked in the repulsors and glided in low over the desert before firing the forward thrusters to slow the ship. The landing gear folded out of the ship's wings and nose like claws before touching dirt and settling in to hold the ship's weight.

Aesir sat on the hellhole's outskirts, which suited Syan fine. One-handed, he flicked down the switches and set the ship to standby. As he walked back out of the cockpit, he could hear the engines ticking softly as they cooled down and the condensation formed on the thrust blades.

Removing his training clothes, Syan stepped into the shower in the smaller room he used for sleeping and bathed ritually. He let the water flow down his head as he applied the topical cleaner. The bubbles hissed softly, stripping the outermost layer of skin to be washed away by the rivulets. That was followed by another, slower washing, across his chest and down his arms, torso and legs. He washed his face twice and then stepped out of the shower, moving in the dark. He got dressed by habit, pulling on his 'battle clothes'.

He pulled on the Dewback coat last and made his way to the egress ramp. Eighteen was waiting there with his sword. "Good hunting, Master Syan," she said in her reedy voice.

He took the sword from her. "Lock up after me."

A small snort escaped her vocoder, as if he needn't have bothered reminding her. "Of course, Master Syan."

Syan looked back inside his ship once more before descending the ramp. His boots hit sandy ground with a soft crunch that turned into long, purposeful strides toward the township. The katana glinted softly in the dawn light as it slid into the scabbard strapped to his back. He took out the small computer that ticked out the information that Eighteen had summarized for him. The man's face flickered to life and rotated, giving him angle shots as data ticked by with physiological and economic data.

In Thanatos, he was sure he would find all that he needed to dispatch Will "Crusher" Wessel.

---

"Delivery"
By: Zen Wayland

Location: Vessel Basilisk, Tae'Remok System
Date: Niothe 7, 4ABY

***

The Basilisk dropped out of hyperspace and headed towards the bright orb of Chimaeria, its engines humming at half speed. He wasn't in a rush. He was sure that slime ball Gregar could wait a day or two more for his weapons, and if he couldn't, maybe luck would have it the man was dead. Zen checked his sensors again. Five minutes till the Tae'Karadan border patrol made the checkpoint call. Enough time to grab something to eat. He switched to auto pilot and moved back towards the small kitchenette. He rummaged through his rations, determining that nothing freeze-dried tasted good no matter what the holo-ads said.

"Hey, Fuzzball. You want something to eat?" Zen called to his small furry friend, who was tinkering with R2-451. The small red droid beeped with thanks, hoping the little Ewok would stop playing with its innards.

"Chak. Gyessh, Jeeks gunda!" the little being said. It threw down his hypo-spanner and waddled over to Zen, his paws outstretched. "Toe! Toe!"

"Alright, hold on will ya." Zen handed the little being a blue stick, which Salab starting gobbling down. "How can you love this stuff so much?"

"Gunda! Gunda!" he replied as he munched away happily.

"Yeah yeah yeah," the man replied, looking up from his own meal in disgust. Maybe he could get a meal down on the planet, although Thanatos wasn't exactly the place of excellent meals or prices. Maybe he'd visit New Plouton while he was here.

"Goo! Goo!" Salab squealed from the cockpit. How the heck that little thing moved so fast was besides him.

"Yes, yes, I see the light." He lifted Salab out of the pilot's seat and into the one next to him and sat down. "This is the Basilisk."

"Contact-950A, Basilisk, this is New Plouton Control. Please state your destination and the purpose of your visit. Current course has you inbound."

"Oh, not you again." Zen sighed in recognition.

"Mr.Waylander. I can't say it's good to hear your voice," the man replied. Zen could just picture the annoying smirk on his face.

"Listen, Controller Relin, just give me access. You know I'm cleared."

"I'm going to have to check with my supervisor."

"Yeah, you do that. How's your sister by the way?"

"You know very well how my sister is," the controller stated. Zen could hear his anger rising.

"You clear me, and I'll make sure she stays in good health." He heard the man grumble, probably looking over his shoulder to make sure his supervisor wasn't watching. Ah, ferrying prostitutes had come through after all.

"Basilisk, you're cleared for entry to Tae'Karadan airspace. Please, enjoy your stay with us."

"Oh, I need somethign else." Relin made a grunting sound. Zen ignored it. "Did an old J-type Nubian come around here?"

"Yeah, as a matter of fact. Haven't seen one of those things in years."

"Where'd it go?"

"Thanatos, but recent patrol stated seeing it heading towards Commerce City."

"Thanks. I'll make sure sure I say 'hi' to your sis for you. Basilisk out."

"Ahahhahahahehehehe!" The little Ewok squealed away slapping his little thighs with glee. "Relin chee lurdo!"

"Yeah, he's a loser alright. Now get back there and put 451 back together. I need to land this thing." He shooed the mass of fur out of the cockpit, unable to contain his own laughter.

The Basilisk shuddered slightly as it entered the atmosphere. He eased her down, setting her outside the city. A few other vessels could be seen in the vicinity, taking up residence outside the dank hole instead of trusting the docking garages. He tapped the computer twice, identifying the ship as the Aesir. Good, maybe he wouldn't have to spend too much time here. The landing gear swung out, their hydraulics puffing nicely as they took on the full weight of the ship. He heard the ship begin cooling operations and patted the console. Such a good ship. He looked out of the cockpit towards the city. Three kilometers, in blazing hot sun. Screw that.

"R2-145! Get A-wing one ready. I'm taking her into the city."

"Den! Den!" Salab cried from inside the ship.

"Why not?"

"Den yah wah." The ewok looked down at the floor ashamed.

"What do you mean no power? Is that what you were doing last night?" Wayland asked, picking the small being up and holding him to his height.

"Chak."

"Can I use number 2?"

"Chak. Salab zenga sujt 1. 2 e acha!" he said excitedly, his face lighting up like he did nothing wrong.

"Well, then have 145 ready. Load it with the box of blasters for Gregar. And get my weapons." Zen placed him back on the floor.

"Acha Zen. Acha." He waddled away, probably just happy that Zen didn't throw him through a wall. His fiddling would be the end of him one day.

---

"The Grand Masquerade Ball of Weibran the Hutt"
Starring: Weibran the Hutt, Crimelord and Party Animal

With appearances by:
Merrick Braston
Moril Astren
Maeren "Shiv" Shivral
Kaysa Zenarr-Tregat
and Zale Tregat

Location: The New Plouton Arms, New Plouton, Tae'Karada
Date: Niothe 7, 4ABY

***

A success! Truly the party was a success. Weibran the Hutt strolled through his marvelous party. He had noted a few notable absences, but he wouldn't let that ruin the evening. As he had requested, everyone wore a mask to hide their identity. Of course, there were some, such as himself, for whom the mask really did little as far as concealment went. But, he was the host, and he wanted everyone to know who he was.

"New trays of munchies are comin' out, boss," Padrick said as he stepped up beside Weibran.

Weibran's smile grew even bigger. "It's a resounding success, Padrick. I should throw parties like this more often."

"I really don' know 'bout that, boss," Padrick said. "We already had one of the representatives of the Geshredik family shoot one of the waiters. We didn't realize his prosthetic arm was also a blaster."

"Didn't the weapons scanners detect it?"

Padrick shrugged. "It should have. Don' know why it didn't though. I'm going to open a few more bottles. That band is drinking a lot, you know."

Weibran looked over to the raised platform where the singer Morrid, or Merrid, or Mandrake, or whatever was singing. After helping to track down the man's missing girlfriend, it was the least he could do to allow him to sing at the party. Besides, he was damn good. They were heading into their Jizz set, and people were beginning to dance.

Oh, a success indeed.

***

"Your music is splendid Malrick," Weibran said as he stepped up to the bandstand. "Just absolutely splendid."

"Merrick, sir," the musician said. "And, thank you. We're having a great time."

"It shows," Weibran said, and held out the platter of roasted chippin toward the man. "Chippin?"

"No thank you," Mampeck said.

"Very well," Weibran said and stuffed a few of the treats into his mouth. If the musician didn't want any, it just left more for him. "Well, I should mingle now. Good music. Do you think you could play 'The Bantha Made Off With My Wife And Now All I Have Is This Landspeeder?' That's always been one of my favourites."

The musician blanched, but recovered nicely. "One of mine too," he said. "We'll do it for you in our next set."

With that, Weibran wandered off to make sure his guests were doing fine.

***

The band was in full swing again as Weibran made a circuit around the edge of the dance floor. Everything was going well, and all his guests seemed to be in good spirits. He'd managed to commandeer another platter of chippin and was about to take a bite before he suddenly stopped. He sniffed at the meat and frowned. Underdone? No, not underdone, but there's definitely something not right about it. He flagged down a member of the catering staff.

"This chippin isn't right. Take it back to the kitchen and bring me a new platter."

The young man looked at the chippin and frowned. "At once, sir," he said. He took the platter from Weibran, and hurried off toward the kitchen.

Left with nothing to munch on, Weibran began wandering again. He came across a young woman and man dancing. The man's face was scarred from what looked like a vibroblade, but the woman truly caught the crimelord's attention. She wore a blue gown of diaphonous silks and other airy fabrics. The dress left nothing to the imagination, and the girl was truly beautiful and alive, perhaps a little on the thin side though. Around her throat she wore a wide band of blue silk that matched the dress, from which dangled a large sparkling blue gem. As she twisted away from him, his breath caught as he caught sight of the tattoo of a bird in flight on her hip. Simply breathtaking, he thought. I must have her as one of my dancers, he told himself. I must. Her feet moved perfectly in time with the music, feet clad in sandals made of nothing but thin straps that wrapped up to just below her knee. So delicate, so exquisite. Just looking at her, Weibran could feel himself getting hungry again. Where was the catering youth with the chippin? A man could starve waiting for service.

Weibran approached the dancing couple. It took a moment for them to pull out of their dance to notice him, but finally, the young man did spot him and ceased his gyrations. The girl followed suit and soon he found himself looking into a beautiful pair of eyes that reminded him of warm chocolate peeking out from beneath the mask she wore. Oh, quite scrumptious indeed, Weibran thought.

"Can we help you, sir?" the young man asked. "You throw a wonderful party, by the way."

Weibran grinned. He hoped it wasn't a leering grin, the kind he always got when Thellen put a full platter of Tarkayze lobster on the table. "Why thank you," he said. "I do hope to be able to have more. Perhaps a costume ball, sometime. I do think it would be quite grand. So, sir, how much for the girl?"

The young man stared for a moment while the girl gaped.

"Her dancing is exquisite, beautiful beyond compare, and I simply must have her for my court. She must be one of my dancing girls. So...how much?"

The man laughed softly and the girl looked like she was ready to do something naughty.

Her skin was the exact colour of baked espredaan tarts, and it set the crimelord's stomach rumbling. Weibran couldn't help noticing that a flush ran down all the way to her beautiful, pert breasts. Just like a Bespin rum cake.

Finally, the man spoke: "I am afraid that I am not the one who would make that sort of decision. The person you would wish to talk to would be Kaysa Zenarr-Tregat. She's across the floor over there dancing with Zale Tregat. You can't miss them."

Weibran grinned greedily. Oh, he would surely need a large meal soon, the excitement was too much. Oh, but what a meal it would be with the little brown-eyed lovely dancing around him. It would surely help the digestion. "Oh, thank you so very much, sir," he said. With that, he took the girl's hand into his, and planted a kiss into her palm. "I shall see you soon, my nimble, little lovely."

On his way to find Kaysa Zenarr-Tregat, a sudden commotion distracted Weibran and he rushed to see what the sudden crowd gathering to the other side of the dance floor was. When he got there, he was surprised to see an entire platter of chippin scattered across the floor. Oh the waste, he thought. Then his eyes were drawn toward the prone form amidst the upended fowl. It was the catering person he'd sent to get him more chippin. And, the boy's face was all blue.

People around him chattered in alarm. "He's been poisoned--" "Did you see who did it?" "Oh, he was the cute one, wasn't he?" "I don't think I've ever seen quite that shade before though--"

Weibran felt the room spinning. Oh, how could someone do such a vile and despicable thing? Food? How could someone poison the food of all things? Oh the horror! Why not knives or blasters or something dastardly and wicked, but not the food!

He quickly ordered the body removed and bid all his guests to return to the merriment. Oh, it was tragic. And, everything was going so well too.

Slightly subdued, Weibran set out to find Kaysa Zenarr-Tregat. Perhaps if he could acquire the brown-eyed lovely, he could lift his spirits. Or maybe another platter of chippin.

***

Weibran found Kaysa dancing with his fellow crimelord Zale Tregat. He gave them both a smile as he approached. He could tell they were married as they each wore matching masks. He adjusted his own mask and decided to get straight to the point. "Kaysa Zenarr-Tregat," he said. "I wish to buy your girl from you, the beautiful young blonde. I must have her as one of my dancers."

Kaysa stumbled in mid-step and squinted at the man as if doing so would facilitate comprehension of what the Hutt had just said. "You--" She glanced up at Zale with mouth agape, then slowly, her mouth curled into a smile. "So, you wanna buy Shiv." Her eyes focused on the Hutt again. "How much would you be willing to pay for my little prize? You know, it wasn't easy procuring her. Sex slaves as experienced and obedient as her are hard to come by."

Shiv! The beautiful little wench had a name, and as he mouthed the words, he knew it was perfect. Just like Tarkayze Butter Fowl, perfect. "Oh, I understand that completely," Weibran said with a nod. "However, she is truly exquisite. I will let you set your price for her, as you must certainly know her value."

Kaysa furtively glanced at Zale, who seemed to be giving an honest effort not to laugh. "Well, Mr...Hutt." She crossed her arms over her chest, giving the illusion she was more imposing a figure than her small frame belied. "Truly told, a slave like that...and the things she can do in bed..." Kaysa gazed across the room at Shiv dancing and sighed wistfully for effect. "I'm sure you've had many slave girls, Mr. Hutt so you must understand that some are just far too precious to place a price upon."

"But it's her dancing I need," Weibran said. "The way she moves. Look at the way her arms and legs move with the music, the way her torso twists with the tempo." He knew there was some sort of culinary metaphor for her movement, but for the life of him he couldn't imagine what it was. I really need something to eat, he told himself. "Oh exquisite. I'd go hungry for the chance to have her dance for me!" He thought about that, then turned back to Kaysa. "Well, maybe not hungry, but she's so beautiful and graceful. Surely there must be a price you would agree upon to let her dance for me."

Kaysa kept her face neutral and unreadable as she regarded the large human. There was no way she was placing Shiv into his sticky, grubby hands. She imagined it would take a week just to wash it away, and then the smell... "You know, Mr. Hutt, I'm afraid I can't make any final decisions on this matter alone. Perhaps you would care to propose your offer to Shiv's other partial owner." Kaysa raised her hand and extended her forefinger towards the stage where an up-tempo jizz piece was being performed, and the singer was practically cringing as he belted out the second verse of a song about a woman, a bantha, and a speeder.

"Mordock? Mordock's her owner?" Weibran laughed. "Well, I'll have to go talk to him. We're good friends, you see. I helped him track down his girlfriend when she was nabbed by some petty crook. That's why he plays for me. I think that he'll give me a fair price for her."

Kaysa chewed her lip to stifle a laugh. "Oh...I'm sure he will. It's the least he could do for a man who practically single-handedly rescued his sex slave girlfriend from the clutches of some evil fiend."

"Sex slave girlfriend? You mean that divine creature out there dancing is his girlfriend and his sex slave? Oh, quite delightful. But, he just lets her go dance with other men? A creature so lovely should be kept close so she's always ready to dance for you."

"Oh, she dances alright," Kaysa said with a knowing smile. "All night long too."

Zale quickly turned away so the crimelord wouldn't see him on the verge of falling onto the floor laughing. "I think I should get us drinks," he whispered. "Lots of drinks." He couldn't move himself though. The interchange between Kaysa and Weibran was too priceless to miss.

"Oh she does? Oh marvelous. Then I really must go speak with Marmack about acquiring her. Oh, isn't she beautiful? Just imagine what her dance would be like with little bells attached to her costume, and her hair pulled back in an intricate braid laced with golden thread. Oh, so beautiful. I'll go speak with Melbrick now."

Kaysa narrowed her eyes in puzzlement at Zale and mouthed, "Melbrick?" She returned her gaze to Weibran and forced a large, pleasant grin. "Well...good luck, Mr. Hutt. I hope to see my little, blonde sex biscuit dancing for you soon." She gave a polite bow to Weibran, then slipped her arm through Zale's and quickly pulled him away so they could emit the riotous laughs they'd been painfully suppressing.

With a gracious smile, Weibran started off toward where the band played. It was all going so well, so very well. Before he could reach the band, a man grabbed the sleeve of his jacket.

"Weibran," the man called out, his voice loud and boisterous despite the mere quarter of a meter that separated them. "You are looking good, boya. You don' remember me do you? Nimbre. Nimbre Fredketh. I ran a shipment of blasters for you a few years back. I got my own group now. Fredketh Inc., we call ourself. Nice, eh? Here, let me buy you a drink..."

"But," Weibran protested. It was pointless. "The drinks are free."

"I know," Nimbre said with a large grin. "I wouldn't be buyin' otherwise. You got good stuff here, Weibran. I like those little things with that green stuff."

"Chippin," Weibran said. "It's quite good. I had a platter, but the caterer who was bringing it to me had an accident."

"Oh, yes, I saw that. Poor kid. These days, you really gotta watch your health." He glanced at Weibran's bulk, and decided a change of subject would be good. "So, how's business for you, Weibran?"

"It's good," the hutt said with a smile. "So, how about yours?"

Weibran quickly learned that there was one thing Nimbre knew how to do better than anything else: talk. He must have been standing there for nearly an hour just listening to Nimbre Fredketh talk. With eyes shifting over toward the bandstand on one side and tables piled with food on the other, Weibran knew he couldn't leave. A dutiful host was attentive to his guests' needs...and Nimbre had a need to talk.

With only the chippin in his hand to sustain him, Weibran raised the food to his lips as Nimbre started in on his organization's operations in the core of the system, and just as the food touched his lip, it toppled forward down toward the ground. "Oh..." Weibran frowned as it hit the ground. He looked around, and quickly (as quickly as one of his bulk could move) bent down to retrieve it, muttering something about five seconds.

He popped the juicy morsel into his mouth and savoured its flavour. Delicious. The catering staff was truly to be commended. He turned to Nimbre and his eyes widened. A blade protruded from the talkative man's throat, blood gurgling out around the hilt. A smile spread across Weibran's lips when he noticed the sudden silence that seemed to emanate from the man. Thank the gods, he added; then he looked around quickly, and scurried off toward the band. At least he wasn't the only one who thought Nimbre Fredketh was a talkative boor.

***

Weibran had just reached the edge of the bandstand when a sudden commotion near the door brought him around again. "For the love of a Rodian hembri stew, what is it now?" he muttered. He saw white-clad figures pouring into the room, blasters held up and ready to shoot anyone that made a hasty move. "No!" he shouted, rushing forward. "Not my party. Not tonight!"

As he lumbered past a group of people, he overheard a snippet of conversation that seemed to be spreading through the room faster than the Stormtroopers flooding through the door. "The Emperor is dead. The Empire has fallen!"

The Stormtroopers seemed to be receiving the news at the same time as the party guests. They were stunned, confused. They were uncertain about what they could do. How could they arrest anyone in the name of the Empire when the Empire was no more? Some managed to escape before his guests turned on them. Gorr'gerarrar, the leader of one of the smaller smuggling organizations operating out of Thanatos picked up a Stormtrooper before the man could escape, and hurled him through one of the massive punch bowls.

As the pinkish-red liquid rained down, the barely contained chaos seemed to erupt like a starfighter pierced by enemy turbolasers. Weibran waddled up to the central dais, his seat of power, and made an attempt to calm the masses.

"No! No, this must not be! Stop the fighting. The party has not ended. The party must continue. The food! The drink! Do not do this! I demand that you all--"

The sentence was never finished as the chair atop the dais suddenly burst asunder, becoming an explosive shower of fire and debris. Weibran's scream filled the room and then was cut off. The concussive force of the blast shook the entire building, flinging people to the floor under its shockwave. Fire boiled up from the center of the dais, and stretched out to find the bodies of those nearby, to consume them in its fiery grip. The ceiling crumbled from the force of the blast, blackening under the searing heat. The explosion had served to achieve Weibran the Hutt's demand: the fighting had, in fact, ceased. Only to be replaced by panic.

---

"Of Masks and Murder, Part 1"
By: Raxis L'Ygr - Bounty Hunter
Ronan Dayre - Slicer

Location: The New Plouton Arms, New Plouton, Tae'Karada
Date: Niothe 7, 4ABY

***

The day began for Raxis a calm one, awoken by the sound of a shrill alarm clock and freshened by the loving embrace of a lukewarm shower. He was already weaving through the marketplace like a spider spinning a web, and was smiling for a change. He was on his way to "Kapapa's Kantina" to meet a friend.

Friends were such a wonderful concept to a man whose world was filled with such violence and pain, and it wasn't a common occasion for him to mix business with pleasure. After wading through the sea of rank market goers, Raxis stood in front of the misspelled cantina with a grin.

"Someone should teach those Rodians how to write in basic..." Raxis mused as he adjusted the crimson scarf that held his hair in a ponytail, and disappeared into the collection of filthy spacers within.

It didn't take Raxis long to find him. Ronan Dayre always near the back of the cantinas, and was wearing his trademark violet coveralls. For years, Raxis had attempted to convince Ronan to wear less flashy apparel, but given his reputation amongst the Hutts it never caused him to be the focus of any cantina teasing sessions.

"Raxis you old dog..." Ronan mused as he neared the table. "What's a filthy low-life like yourself doing in a cantina that serves watered down Bantha piss?"

"I should ask you the same, Nerf herder." Raxis chuckled and warmly shook the man's hand. "Glad you could get here on such short notice."

"What are you talking about? Didn't you hear the news? Ever since the club got shut down I haven't had much to do other than lay low and spend my credits. Two birds with one stone, isn't that what they say? Vacations are a good thing!"

"You always were quite the extravagant, Rone," Raxis quipped. "Well vacation or not, I'm not on one. I've got a date tonight with a 300 pound pale-skin and we can drink later. As you see, the prince doesn't have but a thing to wear to the party."

"Business as usual? Seems to me you can't shake that totalitarian ideal they taught you when you were one of those porcelain troops. Yeah, I got the papers, you got the plastic?" Ronan mused in his effeminate manor with a debutante spin of the wrist.

"This should cover it..." Raxis added, as he flipped a cred-chip across the table into Ronan's drink. Raxis always hated being called a porcelain, but it was due punishment for being a reformed Stormtrooper. On one too many occasions during his service, he'd had the pleasure of arresting a few peasants who'd referred to him as one...conveniently listing them as seperatists.

Ronan scowled as the chips landed in his Rodian wine, and chuckled as he flipped the shiny envelope up into Raxis' nose. Raxis laughed and then slid the envelope into the folds of his tunic.

"So tell me, were you there when it happened on Tatooine?" Raxis asked, as the two began to share stories about the years they spent without eachothers' company.

***

"Oh you're going to the ball tonight? We've been getting customers in and out of the bazaar all day," the woman exclaimed. "We've even had Merrick Braston in here, he's so talented. We'll make sure you walk out of the store dressed to kill, sir," she added.

Of the many occasions Raxis loathed, it was shopping in the upper class part of town. The rich debutantes and the bustle of whining housewives always made him sick to his stomach, and the money spent to buy such frail clothing could easily be used to outfit a fleet of trading cruisers. However, Raxis could not afford to stick out like a sore thumb in a menagerie of crystalline puppets, and be easily remembered as the only one that could be described when the party came crashing to a halt. No, he couldn't afford to become the scapegoat for the night's affairs whether he'd caused them or not.

"I'm looking for something in a crimson shade..." Raxis began. "No lace, no frills, and no effeminate qualities. I want to look good, but not like a Rodian Jawa lover. Can it be done?"

The lady giggled and covered her mouth with a knowing wink. "A soldier, eh? I can always pick them from the way they order their garb. Now, if you don't mind young women taking your measurements, we can get started right away."

Reluctantly, Raxis moved to the fitting room and disrobed. A small fleet of employees surrounded him with sizing tapes, chalk, and fabrics. For what seemed like hours, he stood in his undergarments while attempting to not appear to enjoy it. The girls were attractive despite their overly spastic attitudes. Raxis was slowly reminded with each word they spoke, that the upper crust tendency to end every sentence in a quick exclamation made his stomach turn as much as the schools that taught them to speak in such a manner.

"So how long have you worked for the Empire?" a small, petite blonde asked him as she teasingly wrapped the measuring tape around his bicep, as she admired his tattoos.

"Retired..." Raxis replied, quietly.

"Oh? Sounds exciting, getting to see the universe and wear those neat uniforms. I bet you were a lady killer weren't you?" She grinned.

Raxis couldn't help but chuckle. The girl was obviously uninformed as to the thousands of women and children the Empire alone had been responsible for the deaths of.

"Something of the sort. It gets a little cold on the Star Destroyers," Raxis flirted, spinning his web around the impressionable young girl. "I bet this must trouble your boyfriend, sizing up men in such little clothing all day long."

"Girls that work this hard don't get out to the cantinas much to meet them," she flirted back. "I'm not much of an exception."

Raxis grinned and tilted his head heavily to one side, until the joints popped therapeutically. "Midnight, at the lounge of the Windsor hotel." At this time, it was a little too obvious what this was going to lead to.

"How ironic, I planned to eat dinner there tonight," she said with a wink. "Now let me show you to the assortment of masks we have on display for the occasion."

Raxis watched her walk to the rack of masks, sizing her form down as she did so. She was a small girl, standing to merely his neck, and was thin with voluptuous hips. She wore a tight skirt that fell a few inches above her knees to a length that the morality guards would protest. He would enjoy removing it. He raised his eyes, to meet her gaze. There could be no doubt from the grin upon her face, that she had witnessed him watching her. Her inviting grin looked down over his form, and she raised an arm to wave him over.

"You'll still be in the clothes at the cantina, I assume? I'd so prefer it," she mused. "Now let's pick a mask."

---

"Of Masks and Murder" Part II
By: Raxis L'Ygr - Bounty Hunter

Location: The New Plouton Arms, New Plouton, Tae'Karada
Date: Niothe 7, 4ABY

***

The speeder came to a halt in front of the New Plouton Arms, and the chauffeur hurried to the side door to expose the new arrival to the party. It was dark again in the city, and the speeders awaiting their turn in line to drop off their guests were many. After a grueling thirty minute wait, Raxis could finally find himself a less impatient man.

"We have arrived, sir," the chauffeur announced, as the door slid open.

Donning his porcelain mask, Raxis stepped from the vehicle onto the platform. Pala, the girl from the Bazaar, had suited him extravagantly in a crimson suit with breeches the color of blackened smoke. A red cape flowed from his back, and was fastened to his right shoulder blade to an ornate shoulder plate. The buttons on his tunic that ascended from his left hip to his shoulder were connected with chrome chains and steel buttons that were shaped like serpent beasts. One, too small for the unwary eye to see, had red eyes.

Staring from eyesockets were Raxis' jade green eyes. His mask was colored the purest shade of white, adorned with emblems of a serpent's tail spiraling across his face. To his good fortune, Pala was also a beautician, and had elected to design his hair in a fashionable ponytail with a silken crimson knot. Complete with an obsidian cane, Raxis was indeed dressed to kill...which was the point.

He made his way up the platform to the security checkpoint, surrounded by the best dressed scum in the galaxy. Behind him, a man and a woman waited impatiently as they discussed the night's affairs. The woman, with a scar down her face from a blade, was beautiful despite her forced deformities. The waiting process, for this event, Raxis found to be tiresome and slow. However, the goons at the security gate patted him down and allowed him passage as the weapons scanner failed to detect his expertly created implement of destruction. It was a small amount of highly volatile liquid used as a component of hyperdrive applicator, shelled in a chromium ornament. It was completely common, completely inconspicuous, and completely deadly when combined with a homemade detonator.

For what seemed like ages, Raxis stood amongst the wall and made conversation with the debutantes. Tonight, Hutch Dobbs was his alias. He'd used it a few times before on Tatooine as a notification of his alliance with the Hutts. He couldn't believe that the host of the party was nicknamed the "Hutt" and allowed it to pass. What kind of fool would gain the Hutt's attention in such a manner, when the surname of Hutt was reserved for members of the family itself? It couldn't be allowed to continue, and Jadda would be pleased with his ability to act in the wishes of the Hutts without need of order. After all, Jabba had personally accepted him for assassinating a Hutt double agent, when Raxis was a mere outsider. It placed him inside the circle, and Raxis intended to stay within that circle.

From the corner of his peripheral vision, Raxis watched the monstrosity of a human waggle across the floor to introduce himself to his guests. Did he invite the Hutts? Raxis assumed that he didn't, for he didn't see a single Hutt in sight. Raxis found it to be quite pretentious for a grotesque low life such as Weibran to shake his riches in the faces of his fellow crimelords, and he was currently wooing the same scarred guest who sat in line behind him earlier.

Where does this fool get off, Raxis thought to himself. The universe knows that crime families need to obey their boundaries. This is, after all, his own fault. Is he trying to take business from the Hutts by inviting all of these crime families to dinner, and subsequentally wine and dine them into submission? I think not.

With slight of hand, Raxis slipped the red-eyed pendant from his tunic, and concealed it beneath his cape.

One large, pretentious corpse, Raxis thought to himself, grinning beneath the expressionless gaze of his mask. Again in the circle, and afterwards in the sack with a rich Bazaar employee. Raxis...you are quite the hunter.

With expert aim, he clicked the eyes of the pendant while walking past the dais. The head of the pendant flew and imbedded itself into the bottom of the throne's seat. With such a perfect location, all Raxis had to do now was wait for Weibran to grow tired and sit. Being that Weibran was overweight and lazy, Raxis assumed it wouldn't be long.

However, life had its way of complicating things.

A ruckus began near the door, as the metallic and muffled sound of Stormtroopers issuing orders flooded the entry way. Cowardly crimelords began to flee as their muscle began to scuffle with the soldiers, and the party began to dissipate as Weibran begged them to cease and desist. With luck, Weibran decided to head to high ground to yell over the crowd, and the only high ground in the ballroom was the dais.

"Thank your lucky star, Raxis," he mused.

With but a tap of his pendant, the chair exploded in a bright flash of flame and debris. Smoke curled up from the dais, and Weibran couldn't be found. Now was the time for Raxis to leave.

Fleeing with the crowd, Raxis pretended to be an upset debutante and made his way to the repulsorlift. An older lady hurried past Raxis, moving to the same lift. The old lady, however, was quickly silenced with a swift rabbit punch to her throat, and she fell to the ground gasping for air.

"You there, halt!" a metallic voice called from behind him.

Stopping still, blocking entrance to the lift, Raxis stood with his back to the stormtrooper. Peering into the small mirrors he'd installed in the sides of the mask, he could see a lone trooper behind him with a blaster rifle.

"I'm halted..." Raxis called, raising his empty arms to his sides.

The stormtrooper approached, lowering his rifle to pull a pair of binders from his utility belt. It was obvious that this trooper was unseasoned, and it was the last move the trooper ever made.

Spinning, Raxis grabbed the wrist of the Stormtrooper and twirled behind his back. He raised a swift knee into the ribs of the soldier, and spun back to his front side. Growling, Raxis twisted the wrist of the trooper with a resounding crack, as the bones in his wrist gave way. With lightning reflexes, Raxis grabbed the rifle falling from his hand and buried the barrel into the trooper's breastplate, pulling the trigger.

The world went black, as the Stormtrooper flew through the air, dying as the hole in the center of his chest began to smoke.

Raxis stepped onto the lift, and left the party to its own demise.

***

"Thank you for the clothing..." Raxis grinned as he kissed Pala. "I owe you many months."

"Many months is it? If the rumors of the fall of the Empire are true, you can owe me more than that, Raxis," she said with a grin, shoving him back onto the bed. "I'm so happy that you didn't get hurt...it must have been terrifying."

"I was alright, darling. I was a good soldier and was able to get free." Raxis grinned up at her. "You had none to worry."

"Oh, I doubt that, Raxis. I planned ever since I saw you enter the cantina in one piece to wash your wounds. You have none, so I'll have to ease your weary soul."

"Yes, I am feeling a little astonished, and could use a little warming up," Raxis said playfully, and rested on his elbows, looking up at her.

Grinning down at him, Pala unlaced the first bracers of her skirt, and it fell to the floor. Raxis, whether she knew it or not, was about to get paid very well for one of his rare, free of charge assassinations.

---

"Prelude to Eternity, Part 1"
By: Merrick Braston
Maeren "Shiv" Shivral
Zale Tregat
Kaysa Zenarr-Tregat
Moril Astren [NPC]

Location: The New Plouton Arms - New Plouton, Tae'Karada
Date: Niothe 7, 4 ABY

***

Through the closed refresher door, Shiv's voice, singing one of Merricks' many songs, drifted through the apartment. Only Kaysa and Shiv were there now, since Merrick had left an hour ago to meet up with the band. The door opened and Shiv poked her head out to where Kaysa was working at applying a layer of coloured polish to her fingernails.

"Which earrings," Shiv asked. She held up two different sets, one sparkled and shined as the light touched it. The other was shaped into the form a pair of miniature knives. "I can't decide."

Kaysa squinted as she appraised the two pair of earrings. "I'm thinking...go with the less threatening ones. You don't wanna frighten Moril away when he moves in for a kiss."

Shiv grinned. "Sparklies then," she said. "I'm done in there if you need it. I just have to put on my dress. Are you nervous? I'm really nervous? I've never really gone out like this before. And, I'll be going out with Moril wearing an equadi. It's just strange I guess, but are you nervous? My stomach feels like it has flutterbies in it. All flittery and such." She quickly turned back from her dress to look at Kaysa. "What if he wants to have sex?"

Kaysa's hand slipped and the nail brush ran a dark red line along her finger, missing the nail completely. "Shiv!" She quickly put the brush aside and began wiping the polish off before it dried. "What kind of question is that? I mean...do you wanna have sex with him?"

Shiv felt herself blush. "Well, I-- I wouldn't mind. He's very cute, and nice. But, I'm with you and Merrick. I shouldn't be off sleeping with Moril. I can kiss him though, right? Kissing's okay, like the other day. That's alright, right?"

"Of course it is," Kaysa replied after resuming the application of her red nail polish. She paused before placing the brush anywhere near her finger and asked, "With or without tongue this time?"

Shiv grinned. "Hmmm," she said. "That would be telling, wouldn't it? But, if Moril kisses me with tongue, it's not like I have much of a choice, right?"

Kaysa laughed dryly and shook her head. "Oh, of course not. It's not like you'd try to stop him anyway. You've got a crush on him, Shiv. I think Merrick and I should be worried."

Shiv glanced at Kaysa and raised an eyebrow. "Do you really think you and Merrick could ever be in danger? If it wouldn't mess up your nails and my hair and makeup, I'd pounce on you and show you just how worried you should be."

"You insatiable sex fiend," Kaysa teased affectionately. She replaced her nail brush within the bottle of polish and rose from her seat while gently blowing on her nails. "I'm not worried at all. In fact, watching you kissing him and knowing you'll end up in my bed anyway just makes me more confident of your love for us."

"You and Merrick are everything," Shiv said as she moved closer and brushed a hand along Kaysa's arm. "No matter how much I kiss Moril, I'm yours and Merrick's for good. For always."

"I know, Shiv. I don't doubt that." She leaned forward and kissed Shiv upon the forehead. "I love you and I know no matter how far your eyes stray, you'll never run off with anyone else. If you did, I'd just have to hire some goons to track you down and drag you back to my bed."

"Ooh," Shiv purred, "that sounds like fun. Maybe we'll have to try that sometime."

"Don't you dare!" Kaysa laughed and kissed Shiv. She tested to ensure her nails were set, then moved towards the refresher. "But kiss him all you want, Shiv. I know if you see Zale and I kissing, you'll get jealous and have the urge to kiss too. Since Moril will be the only one within proximity...I guess you have little choice."

"It's not jealousy," Shiv said with a grin. "It's just that I hate feeling left out. So, I have to kiss too."

"No need to justify your future actions to me, Shiv. I understand completely. You look up to me and wish to emulate me, so when I'm on the dancefloor making out with Zale, you just can't help but do the same." Kaysa laughed and stepped out of the refresher wearing a startlingly white gown that brushed along the floor as she moved. "Just have fun, Shiv. Don't worry about me or Merrick. You deserve to just let go, especially after all you've been through, my sweet."

"Really? Ooh! Then I'm gonna have sex with Moril," she sang, and started dancing around, setting the words to one of Merrick's more upbeat songs.

"Oh, you little tramp!" Kaysa wrapped her arms around Shiv's waist from behind and impeded her whimsical dance. "If you're having sex with him, how can you be in my bed too?" She slid her hands up to Shiv's breasts and chuckled softly. "I guess you'll have to make a choice," she said as she caressed them tenderly. "Whose bed would you prefer to be in?"

"Poor Moril," Shiv said with a giggle. "I'll have to give him an extra special kiss to get him through the night."

Kaysa pressed a kiss firmly upon Shiv's cheek and pulled away. She swatted her rear and laughed. "Go get dressed, my little nymph. Zale and Moril will be here soon to pick us up."

"I bet Moril will really like the one I picked out. Do you think the equadi is a good choice for this? I mean it's all crimelords and stuff, and I'll be practically naked."

"Oh, it should be fine. I'm sure Moril will fight them off if they get too close." Kaysa smoothed the bodice of her dress, then tugged on the strapless bosom to test how securely it fit, hoping it wouldn't slide down while she was dancing. "And Zale's there too. With one hard stare, the crimelords will think thrice about even looking at you."

"All sorts of protection," Shiv said as she lifted her dress and then started slipping into it. It felt like she was dressed in a feather, and knew the way the dress moved against her body she'd be more than ready to make love to Kaysa after the party tonight. "Moril looks like a good dancer, doesn't he? I mean, he's not going to step on my feet, right? I can wear those sandals I got, and not my boots. I don't think I should go barefoot like we did when we were Zale's slaves... I mean, the host is a Hutt. He's got to leave this slimey trail wherever he goes, and I really don't want to step in that."

Kaysa grinned as she took a seat and began slipping on her own shoes. "He's not really a Hutt, Shiv. He just calls himself that for some odd, jaded reason. Zale said so. Maybe he thinks it sounds more threatening...but I still wonder why anyone would name themselves after such an unflattering creature."

"They're gross," Shiv said as she settled her dress into place. "I hope I never see one. I think I'd probably...embarrass myself." She made a face that conveyed one emotion: yuck. "If I do see one, Zale will protect me." Once her dress was in place, she took a seat next to Kaysa and started putting on her sandals.

"I think you're infatuated with the image of Zale as your valiant protector." Kaysa nudged Shiv with her shoulder and grinned. "You've got a crush on my husband, don't you?"

"He is a very sexy man, especially when he dresses all in black and gets all businessy. He gets that look, and you know you don't wanna mess with him. He just oozes with sexiness...but oozing in a good way."

"Not like Hutts ooze, right?" Kaysa winked playfully at Shiv as she rose and moved in front of the full-length mirror to appraise herself one last time. "He is quite sexy," she muttered absently. She twisted around to study how the dress hugged the curves of her rear, then grumbled and tried to flatten her seemingly oversized buttocks with her hands. "A different kind of sexy from Merrick sexy. Zale's brawny sexy. But sexy really is sexy, so..."

"Yes, Merrick and Zale are both sexy in their own way," Shiv said as she moved closer to Kaysa to help with the dress. "And, then there's Kaysa sexy. Just gets me all heated up being close to her sexiness. And, Moril's got this innocent sexiness that makes you just want to hug him and kiss him."

"Oh, Shiv, you can't resist hugging and kissing half the population of New Plouton." Kaysa laughed and batted away Shiv's frisky hands as they began doing more than adjusting her dress. She looked at Shiv's reflection in the mirror and smiled. "You look beautiful, my love. Moril will definitely have the urge to hug and kiss you too tonight."

Shiv giggled. "Oh, and I'm too much the affection slut to stop him. I'm probably going to look really silly with the mask on, but that's what Weibran the Hutty Hutt Hutt wanted... You look beautiful too, Kaysa. You make me want to tell Moril to go with Zale, and I'll be your date tonight."

Kaysa turned and slipped her arms around Shiv's waist. "Just because I'm Zale's date doesn't mean I can't sneak away for a dance or a little face sucking during the evening. And you look cute in the mask, so don't worry about a thing."

"I hope Merrick plays that one he wrote for us, 'Whispers of Sunshine.' I want to dance with you to that one. It's so beautiful, and perfect for us to dance to."

"Then I'll save that one for you, my love." Kaysa kissed Shiv tenderly, then yelped as a horn from below blared. "Oh! They're here!" She grabbed Shiv's hand and pulled her along. "Get your mask, and no sulking, you're wearing it!"

"For you," Shiv said as she grabbed it, "I will!" She rushed behind Kaysa, careful not to get her equadi caught on anything.

Kaysa snatched up her mask from the dressing table and rushed out of the bedroom with Shiv. "The least they could have done was come up to escort us to the hoverlimo. That's it," she said with sigh, "Zale's not getting any tonight."

"Ooh," Shiv said with a giggle, "more for me! Moril doesn't get any either! Well, except for those kisses and hugs, and some dances."

Kaysa and Shiv ran through the apartment door in a flash of white and blue. "This is gonna be so exciting, Shiv! We're gonna be among the elite tonight...well the elite scum, that is."

"I hope they all spend the whole night lusting after us, knowing they can't touch us."

"Except for Zale and Moril, of course. Oh, and that cute singer Merrick Braston." Kaysa laughed and just about flung Shiv into the lift. It descended rapidly to the ground floor, but not fast enough to keep Shiv and Kaysa from exchanging some caresses and kisses. Once upon the ground floor, they stepped out and sauntered with light, excited strides towards the limo. "Gods, I shouldn't have worn white. What if I spill something on myself?"

"Oh Kaysa," Shiv said with a giggle. "You won't spill anything on yourself. Besides, just concentrate really hard on spilling on Zale if you have to spill. And, I don't think he'd mind, especially if you help him clean up. Of course if I spill anything on myself, it'll be like having my own personal wet equadi contest."

"Moril will faint, Shiv! Oh, the poor man has no idea what he's in for tonight."

"I'll be gentle," Shiv said with a smile. "Ooh! There they are!"

Kaysa pulled Shiv back before she burst through the doors, and grabbed her waist to hold her at her side. "We shall greet them like the ladies we are." Kaysa suppressed a grin, but to no avail. She laughed and released her hold on Shiv. "Oh, go on. Go give Moril a big kiss."

Shiv giggled. "I'll just make sure I don't leap up into his arms yet. And, you better give Zale a big kiss too...and one for me too. I don't think Moril would like me kissing your date."

Kaysa laughed and swatted Shiv's rear. "You can kiss who you want, Shiv. Kiss 'em both for all I care!"

"I will," Shiv called back. With screeching giggles, she rushed forward into Moril's arms. By the time Kaysa reached the hoverlimo, she and Moril were still kissing.

"Good evening, my beautiful wife," Zale said with a smile. "Are you ready to go impress the Tae'Karadan underworld?"

Kaysa slinked over to Zale, her head held aloft in a haughty manner, but she couldn't maintain the false display of sophistication for long. With a squeal, Kaysa rushed towards Zale and hopped up into his arms. "My dear husband, it's only your opinion of me that matters at all."

"And, your wild, lesbian lover," Zale said with a grin. "You two look very beautiful tonight."

"And you look handsome." Kaysa narrowed her eyes at him playfully and tugged on a strand of pleated hair. "Which rich female crimelord are you trying to woo, Mr. Kaysa Zenarr?"

"Well, that all depends," Zale said with a grin. "You haven't named yourself a crimelord yet, have you?" He pulled her into his arms, kissed her, and grinned. "You are the only woman I would ever wish to woo."

"You can do that at the party. You know, I never have seen you really dance before. I mean that night at the bar with Shiv, you were dancing...I guess. But real dancing...I've never seen. You'll have to show me tonight."

"Don't worry, my love," Zale said with a smile. "I'll show you some of my better moves at the party tonight. That is if Shiv and Moril detach and get into the limo..."

Shiv giggled. "I heard that," she said, her lips still pressed to Moril's. After a moment, she did detach herself and turned to Zale. "Oh, you are looking as hot as I told Kaysa you'd be looking." She then slipped her arms around him, and gave him a kiss that was only a little less intense than the one she'd just given Moril.

"Hey!" Kaysa protested. "Hands off my husband, wench."

"Keep your jets on idle," Shiv said. "You're next." Once she finished kissing Zale, she turned to Kaysa. Before kissing her though, she glanced back at Moril and Zale. "Do you mind? This is a private moment between me and my girlfriend."

Zale laughed. "We'll be waiting in the cab," he said as he motioned for Moril to get in. "Just don't make us late you little trollop."

Shiv giggled, and then slinked into Kaysa's arms. "Here's to a wonderful party." With that, she gave Kaysa a kiss.

Kaysa couldn't keep her hands from wandering to Shiv's rear, which was separated from her bare hands by only a thin layer of blue chiffon. "Oh my..." she breathed as she pulled her lips away. "We should maybe forget this party altogether and go back inside. I won't be able to keep my hands off you tonight."

Shiv made a noise halfway between a purr and a moan. "Oh I wish we could," she whispered. "But, Merrick's expecting us. And, I really want to dance with you tonight. We'll come back here after, and I'm going to make you scream." She kissed Kaysa again. "And, maybe we can slip away together at the party...to freshen up." Her lips brushed against Kaysa's ear. "And, you can help me adjust my panties."

Smiling slyly, Kaysa slipped her hand beneath Shiv's equadi and between her legs. "Oh dear... My love, it would appear you're not wearing any. I guess you'll just have to help me adjust mine at the party."

Shiv's moans grew louder and she giggled huskily. "Oh, I would love to adjust your panties for you, my love," she said. "Maybe we could slip back inside for a little--"

"No," Zale said from the door of the hoverlimo. "No, slipping back inside. You two will have to do that later. We're running late. Now, please get in before you get arrested by the Morality Guard."

"Again?" Kaysa withdrew her hand with a stubborn huff and dawdled towards the hoverlimo alongside Shiv. "I think we need to teach him to loosen up, Shiv. He's grown far too serious since I married him."

"He has," Shiv said with a grin. "I say you get his pants and I'll get his shirt, then we'll show him what we think of the morality guard."

Zale laughed. "Get in here you two," he said. "We've got some nice fruit juice and various little snacks. And, there's a holoplayer in here for our amusement. Get in so we can get to that party, and get dancing."

Kaysa's mood brightened and with a giggle, she literally shoved Shiv into the limo. She followed closely behind, settling atop Zale's lap and covering his face with kisses. "Our first social gathering as a married couple. Isn't this exciting?"

Zale laughed under the sea of kisses he was receiving. "It is," he said. "And, I think we're going to definitely draw attention to ourselves; the four of us that is. You know, I think I like going places with my wife."

"We've only really been out to dinner and to your various apartments. Hardly going places." Kaysa laughed and finally took her place next to Zale. She pulled her mask from her purse and turned away to put it on. It was white, as was her dress, but its borders and the eyeslits were limned with gilt. At the shop, she insisted to Zale that they purchase masks that concealed only the top half of their faces. Her reasoning: she couldn't slip her husband the tongue if their mouths were covered.

Once the mask was securely in place, she faced them all again and asked uncertainly, "Does this look stupid? I mean...why the hell masks? Is this Hutt guy so monstrous looking that he needs to cover his face with a silly mask?"

"I don't think he's monstrous," Zale said. "He just has some very...strange ideas. I can't explain it, or why he's still around. I figure someone would have killed him by now."

Kaysa grinned at Zale suspiciously. "Have you tried? Or too ashamed to admit that you did, but failed?"

"He's harmless," Zale said. "Usually the only ones that try are the ones who think they have something to prove. I'm secure enough in who I am, and where my business is at, that I don't need to prove anything by picking on Weibran. He's actually quite amusing, though not very bright."

"Then I hope to meet him tonight. Shiv, on the otherhand, is worried he secretes that slime all the Hutts do. I tried to tell her he was human, but... Kids will be kids." Kaysa shrugged her shoulders and playfully stuck out her tongue at Shiv.

"Promises, promises," Shiv said with a giggle as she snuggled closer to Moril. "And, since he's not leaving a trail of slime everywhere, I could have left my sandals at home. Though, if there's a crowd, I'd hate to have my foot stepped on." She glanced at her feet and realized with as little as the straps of the sandals covered, it wouldn't matter if she was wearing them or not when someone stepped on them. "Well, on second thought, Moril will have to protect me."

"I'll protect you, Maeren," he said quickly, and slipped his arms around her. His eyes held a dreamy look as he held her. He still couldn't imagine he was sitting there with her in his arms, or that she was his date, or that she was kissing him with as much passion as she kissed Zale and Kaysa.

"Oh, aren't they so cute?" Kaysa commented as she snuggled against Zale. "I might have to let the little nymph take him to her bed. I'm sure she will agree without hesitation. And if you asked me," she said with a silky smile, "I might just join you in your bed tonight."

"Really," Zale said with a smile. "Well, would you care to join me in my bed tonight? The four of us can go to one of my properties, and we can stay in one room while they're in the other."

Kaysa cooed with delight and ran her hands along Zale's chest. She was about to agree wholeheartedly, but she ended up only shaking her head and pulling away. "We should have asked Merrick beforehand. I don't want to just leave him at the apartment all on his own after the party. It wouldn't be fair. We didn't give him any notice at all."

"Well," Zale said with a grin, "maybe during one of the set breaks, we can talk to him. If he's up to it, maybe the two men in your life can make you feel loved tonight."

Kaysa laughed uncomfortably and once again shook her head. "I'm not ready for that yet, Zale. I... Not yet."

"Very well," Zale said, taking her hand into his. "We still have a whole lot of night ahead of us, and plenty of time to figure out what happens after the party."

"You're right," Kaysa replied with a laugh to relieve the tension. "Just you, me, music and a dancefloor...and not to mention this tight dress of mine. I bet we could have fun watching you try to find a way underneath it."

"Oh, I've already got a few ideas," he said as he brushed his hand down her thigh to her knee. "It's a very nice dress. I think you and Shiv should pose for a holoportrait together. I think this much sexiness should be saved for posterity."

"What about the sexiness you and Moril are exuding?" Kaysa looked over at Moril, completely absorbed in kissing Shiv, and laughed. "I think they'll definitely require a room after this party."

"If they don't slow down, they'll need it before the party," Zale said. He tapped Moril's foot with his own. When the kiss broke, he shook his head. "No sex on the dance floor, you two. I don't want to have to apologize to Weibran when the Morality Guard storm the party and drag you two away."

Shiv giggled. "Don't worry," she said. "I think we can contain ourselves. You just might not be able to separate us the entire night."

"We wouldn't even think of it, Shiv. Now," Kaysa said as she nestled against Zale, "you two carry on with what you were doing, get it outta your system, and we'll tell you when we get to the party."

"Oh thank you," Shiv said as she settled back against Moril and returned her lips to his.

Zale laughed as he folded his arms around Kaysa. "They are cute, that's for sure."

"Do you think we were ever that cute?" Kaysa sighed dreamily and laced her fingers with Zale's. "I bet we'll be the cutest couple there once we both have our matching masks on."

"I think we will be," Zale said. "And, I imagine we can be quite cute when we want to be. I think it's going to be a good night, Kaysa. And, the four of us will have fun, and Merrick will be hotter than anything. And, people will admire and worship us. How's that sound for a night?"

"One perfectly fit for a crimelord and his wife." Kaysa brushed her lips against Zale's ear and moved her hand deftly into his lap. "I love you, Zale Tregat," she whispered. "And not just for your money."

"And, I love you, Kaysa Tregat," Zale whispered. "And not just because of what you're doing with your hand right now."

"Well, we can't have you making a mess right before the party..." Kaysa moved her hand from Zale's lap to a safer area of his lower body, his knee. "You know...I still don't have a wedding band, Zale, which means you can't blame me if I'm overwhelmed with offers to dance from single men at the party. It is your own fault."

"Well, I'll have to do something about that," Zale said with a grin. "And, looking like you do, I wouldn't be surprised if you're getting offers to dance from single women as well."

"Shh! If Shiv hears, she'll get jealous." Kaysa leaned over to check on Shiv and Moril's progress, and determined that Moril's hand was progressing very smoothly up Shiv's skirt. "Okay...correction: she will not be jealous, which means I can accept those offers readily."

"I just hope they don't spend the entire night like that," Zale said. "Or if they do, that it's not out on the dance floor. How does she do it? How can she sway so many people towards her like that? It's uncanny."

"Well, look at her. She's young, beautiful, she exudes this warmth and happiness that is just so infectious. It's not hard to be swayed by someone like that."

"Well, she certainly got to you," Zale said. "And, I don't think I've ever seen you happier. Well, except for when you married me. And, then there was that moment when you saw me again in the prison before you rescued me. Times are good, Kaysa. And, they're only going to get better from here."

"Tell me about it. I've got three lovers who are all very capable of inspiring pleasure in me. How could I not be happy?" Kaysa laughed softly then pressed her lips to Zale's. As she pulled back, her eyes glanced outside the passenger window where she saw a large hotel come into view. "Oh my gods," she commented, barely refraining from vocalizing an expletive. "That thing's almost bigger than the entire Estri-Casren Tower. He owns that?"

Zale looked out the window and whistled. "From what I remember it used to be a hotel, but he bought it a few years ago. Rumour has it that there is a full kitchen on every floor, and every room has food dispensers, even the refreshers. I guess this may be an interesting party after all. If nothing else, the food will be the best you can imagine. This guy is some kind of connoisseur."

Kaysa clambered onto Zale's lap to get a closer view out the window. "Wow...I'm beginning to think I married the wrong crimelord."

Zale kissed the back of Kaysa's neck as she gazed toward the building they were approaching. "Do you want a house like that, a mansion for all of us? Or are you going to leave us all to run off with Weibran?"

"I don't know... I mean, I've always been so caught up on looks." Kaysa mused quietly to herself, then asked, "How overweight is he again?"

Zale thought about it for a moment and then glanced at Kaysa. "How heavy would you say this limo is?"

Kaysa grimaced and settled back down beside Zale. "I think being Mrs. Kaysa Zenarr-Tregat is good enough for me."

"Good," Zale said with a smile. "Though, I've heard rumours that he has a rancor, so we'd better be careful tonight." He kissed her. "And, I'm happy you're Mrs. Kaysa Zenarr-Tregat."

Kaysa laughed wryly. "Of course you are, especially since I came with a spaceport and a smuggling enterprise. I guess you really didn't marry me only for my body."

"I married you...well, I married you because you made me," Zale said with a grin. "But I would have anyway because I love you. Plus you come with your very own blonde trollop."

"I knew you were in it for the blonde," she replied with a playfully menacing glare.

Zale kissed Kaysa and smiled. "Wouldn't you be in it for the blonde? But then you're the real reason, especially the way you make the windows rattle."

Kaysa bit back a large smile, but seeing as Shiv and Moril were too occupied to notice her embarrassment, she allowed her cheeks to flush and her mouth to form a broad grin. "That's only because you do that thing with your tongue so well."

"I do, don't I," Zale said with a grin. "Well, I think tonight I should show you another trick I've learned with my tongue. I think you might like it. But only if you're a good girl."

"Am I ever?" she asked with a crooked smile.

"Never," Zale said with a grin. "I think that's one of the things that I love about you, and it's a trait your blonde girlfriend is picking up. I think we should be afraid."

"And I should feel threatened!" Kaysa slipped her arm through Zale's and pulled him closer to her protectively. "If I'm not careful, she'll snatch you up right from under my nose...or from between my legs, depending on what time of day it is."

"She may be extremely cute," Zale said with a smile, "but she'll never steal me away from you. Besides, I don't think she wants to steal; she just wants to have fun with us, well me. She's head over heels for you and Merrick. I think she'd only ever want to borrow me for a little bit."

"And Moril too," Kaysa added with a nod in their direction. "We'd better get out of this limo soon before the heat of their desires causes them to spontaneously combust."

"We're approaching the parking compound now," Zale said. "Moril, take your hand out from...we're almost there."

Moril and Shiv turned to face Zale and Kaysa, both of them blushing. "I really could use a dance floor right now," Shiv said with a grin. "I've...I've got to dance."

"You almost were a moment ago," Kaysa commented playfully.

Shiv's grin seemed to spread from ear to ear. "I love dancing," she said. "And, I bet Moril's gonna be a good dancer, aren't you?"

"With you as my partner," he said. "How could I not be?"

"See," Shiv said. "I think we should all dance together. Real dancing, not metaphorical dancing. Though, metaphorical dancing may be fun too."

"Save that for later, Shiv. Merrick would be horrified if we started doing...the other dancing while he was up there performing." Kaysa squealed and clapped her hands together as the limo finally halted and the driver exited to open their doors for them. "This is going to be so fun! Oh, Zale, I am so glad I forced you to bring me."

"You didn't have to force much," Zale said with a grin. "Now, everyone get your masks on before we get out of here. I can't believe we're doing this, but it should be very fun tonight."

"Oh, you're looking forward to it, Zale," Kaysa said. "You're just worried I'll do something to embarrass you in front of all your crimelord friends."

Zale laughed. "Well, we'll all have masks on anyhow," he said. "I'm sure they won't even know who we are."

Kaysa helped Zale on with his mask, one matching hers, then slipped her hand into his and waited for Shiv and Moril to exit. After some giddy laughter on Shiv's part, Moril helped her out and Kaysa and Zale soon followed. "You know," Kaysa commented as they strolled along the long, crimson carpet leading to the ornate double doors, "I think you look much better with a mask, my love. So mysterious... It's kinda sexy."

"Really," Zale said with a smile. "Maybe I should wear one more often. We could go out to dinner, and I'll wear my mask. We'll leave everyone wondering about us."

"About how crazy we are, you mean?" They were greeted at the doors by two guards, to whom they surrendered their invitations. The plastisheet cards were scanned using a handheld device Kaysa didn't recognize, and once their authenticity was verified, the guards ceremoniously pushed the doors open. A wave of upbeat, contemporary music, complete with drums and horns, washed over them instantly. Kaysa's excitement bubbled over and soon, she was practically dragging Zale into the ballroom. "Hurry! I wanna wave to Merrick."

Zale hurried forward, followed quickly by Moril and Shiv. "We have to request lots of songs, Kaysa," Shiv said as they hurried toward the large open area ahead from which the music seemed to originate. "It'll be like a Merrick concert!"

"Except no throwing panties!" She looked back at Shiv and was quickly reminded that she was bereft of all form of undergarment. "Ok, correction: no throwing panties for me."

Shiv snapped her fingers and gave a playful pout. "You spoil all my fun," she said with a giggle.

"Well, I'm sure Moril can make your evening rather enjoyable, even without the tossing Merrick panties fiasco."

They finally made it to the end of the long corridor and stepped into the large ballroom. Voices rose above the ambient music and attendees with guised visages were scattered about the entire span of the room. Kaysa's eyes were drawn to the large table extending the length of the large hall and covered with the largest bounty of food she'd ever witnessed. "Do you think he plans on eating that all on his own?"

Zale looked at the food and shook his head. "I really hope some of that is for the guests. I can't imagine anyone eating that much. That's...I think it's impossible. I hope. Maybe we should have brought a sack of food for ourselves...just in case."

"It's okay, I'm not that hungry." She glanced up at Zale with a sly grin and added, "Well...not yet I'm not. Maybe after enough dancing, with my body pressed to yours, I'll regain my appetite."

"Well, maybe we should get over near the band to request a good dancing song," Zale said. "My body's ready to press itself up to yours."

Kaysa purred and gingerly pulled herself into Zale's arms as they redirected themselves towards the stage. "All night, just you and me dancing... Oh, I'm gonna fall in love with you all over again."

"I do that every minute I'm with you," Zale said as he secured Kaysa in his embrace. "Maybe Merrick will play a special song for us. Hey, there he is, talking to that Twi'lek woman."

"Woman?" Kaysa turned around faster than she'd planned, portraying herself as quite the jealous lover. "What do you think they're discussing? Is that her hand on his arm? What-- Should I go over there and say hello...just to interrupt them?"

"I think you should," Zale said with a grin. "Though, be careful, she's a crimelord. Oot Kovan, head of the Tarabassic Syndicate."

"She's a crimelord?" Kaysa scoffed. She folded her arms over her chest and gazed suspiciously at the two. "She better be requesting a song." A tall, dark haired man suddenly swept in and joined the Twi'lek, assuaging Kaysa's fears somewhat, and certainly piquing her curiousity, as well as her feminine desires. "Well... Who's he? Another crimelord? If so, Zale, I think you'd better keep your wife on a tight leash."

"I've never seen him before," Zale said with a laugh. "He's not really much to look at. A pretty boy, really. You like that kind?" At her look, he grinned.

Kaysa frowned at Zale, then playfully swatted at his arm. "He's handsome, and he's got those intense blue eyes..." She laughed and turned back around into Zale's arms. "But he's too clean cut for me. I like the rugged, dangerous types...which makes me begin to wonder why I'm with Merrick."

"Good question," Zale said as he looked back to the three talking. "So, should I be scared of this new hunk of man-flesh? Am I going to have to step out into an alley to show him that you're mine? And, Merrick's. And, Shiv's."

"Don't worry about me. My days of promiscuity are over. I'm a married woman now...and a mother, very soon. I have responsibilities that preclude me from going to seedy bars and picking up stray drunks." She sighed softly and laid her head upon Zale's chest as they swayed gently to the music. "Do you... What do you think of kids, Zale? I mean, with Keeve coming...and I imagine you'll be seeing him alot... It would be easier on you if you tolerated children...I guess."

"Kids are...you know, I've never really thought much about that. I like kids, though I haven't spent much time around them. If you want someone to help you raise Keeve, I'd love to." He kissed her. "And, I more than tolerate them, especially your kid."

"You haven't met him yet. Not that I have either really..." Kaysa chewed her lip, a nervous habit she'd been meaning to shed, but one that helped her from laughing uncontrollably in the face of discussing a tense subject matter. "What about..." Kaysa deliberately avoided his gaze and despite all efforts, lost hold of a soft chuckle. "Have you...well...ever thought about an heir or... Well...you'll need someone to take over when you're..." She chuckled again. "Silly small talk, that's all. Can you really imagine me having your child? It's...comical," she ended quietly.

Zale watched Kaysa for a moment, and then grinned. "What are you trying to say, Kaysa?"

Her gaze flew back to his and she shook her head wildly. "Nothing! I'm just... I'm being rhetorical here. I can't discuss children with you?" She laughed nervously and looked down between them. "I'm just saying that...if you want children, we can talk about it and... Just...just forget it, okay? Let's talk about something else."

"What if I don't want to forget it," Zale asked with a grin. "What if I want to talk about babies and diapers and cribs and early morning feedings?" He laughed at the frosty look she gave him. "Okay, new topic. How about we talk about going over to talk to Merrick and his apparent new friends?"

Kaysa slowly exhaled and felt the tension being drawn from her body. "Thank you," she mumbled. She looked up at him and smiled gently. "We'll talk about this again when I feel ready. But for now, let's go inform that Twi'lek that Merrick is mine."

Zale kissed her and then slipped his hand into hers. "Come on," he said. "After we talk to Merrick, let's get ourselves something cool and refreshing to drink, and then a nice dance out with Shiv and Moril."

"Something cool and refreshing that also doesn't contain alcohol, right?" Zale was already well aware of her personal reasons for swearing off liquor, but it was for more precautionary purposes that she would abstain tonight. She wasn't for certain yet, but she knew the telltale signs from experience, but until she was absolutely sure, she would refrain from giving anyone even a sneaking suspicion.

As they crossed the ballroom, Kaysa's eyes fixed on Merrick preparing to return to the stage. She nearly plowed down a small gathering of discoursing revelers as she closed the distance to Merrick with a sprint, pulling a somewhat unwilling Zale along. "Merrick!"

Merrick turned before stepping up onto the stage. He laughed and started back toward Kaysa. The look on Zale's face was priceless as he was hurled along with Kaysa, and then Shiv and Moril dancing in the background were too cute to even be expressed through song. "You guys made it," he said when they were close enough that he didn't need to shout. "I thought for sure you'd show up an hour late because you couldn't keep your hands off each other."

Kaysa's smile was levelled by the comment and she almost stumbled in her approach. "Well...if you're talking about Shiv and I, we were good. If you're talking about...Zale and I, well...we wouldn't. I mean, we're married, but..." Kaysa stopped stammering before she said something to make the situation far more awkward than it was already. She pulled Zale up beside her and gripped his hand tightly to dissipate the anxiety.

Merrick took Kaysa into his arms and kissed her before she could stammer any more. "Yes you would," he said softly into her ear. "And, it's perfectly fine that you two... You both are married, and you don't have to hide your desires, Kaysa. Now, kiss me like you mean it, my love, and I'll play 'Whispers After Midnight,' tonight."

Kaysa moaned happily and slipped her hand from Zale's. "You know the way to my heart, you fiend." She laughed softly as her arms went around his neck, and her lips enveloped his in a deep kiss. She finally pulled back, needing a lungful of air, and gazed up at Merrick with a dreamy smile.

"So, have you met Weibran yet? He's rather unmistakable, though quite amusing. Oh, there he is. Over by Shiv and Moril. If you watch, he'll consume that entire platter of food. One minute there, the next it's gone."

Kaysa glanced over her shoulder at the man and laughed softly as he interrupted Shiv and Moril. "We only arrived a matter of ten minutes ago," she said as she faced Merrick again. "Zale picked us up in a hoverlimo. He's so romantic when he wants to be."

"A hoverlimo," Merrick said with a big grin. "I'm sure that would be fun with you and Zale, and then Shiv and Moril. They were stuck to each other's faces the entire time, weren't they? We're going to have to watch our girl, Kaysa. I have a feeling she's going to fall in love again. And, looking at him, it looks like Moril is well into loving her. They're quite cute together, aren't they?"

"They are, and getting pretty serious as well. You don't mind sharing her, do you? If that's what she wants...of course."

Merrick glanced across the way at Shiv and Moril and smiled. "I think it'll be okay," he said. "Moril's a very nice guy. As long as she's happy, and as long as she doesn't fall out of love with us." He kissed Kaysa. "And, I think the chances of that are about as great as a freak outbreak of modesty on this planet."

"I guess Shiv is acting as an accomplice to that grave affliction tonight." Remembering her date - and her husband - waiting patiently behind her and being completely neglected, Kaysa playfully skulked back towards him and smiled at her two men. "Well... Um...should you get back to your band? I think Zale was going to pour me some punch. Non-alcoholic, of course, my love."

Merrick waved to the two, and quickly hurried back up to the band platform. Once up there, the band quickly dove into a lively number.

---

"Prelude to Eternity, Part 2"
By: Maeren "Shiv" Shivral
Zale Tregat
Kaysa Zenarr-Tregat
Oot Kovan
Moril Astren [NPC]

Appearance By: Weibran the Hutt

Location: The New Plouton Arms - New Plouton, Tae'Karada
Date: Niothe 7, 4 ABY

***

As Kaysa and Zale danced away toward the table with all the drinks, they were suddenly approached by a very large, nearly round man. It could only be Weibran the Hutt.

"Kaysa Zenarr-Tregat," he said without preamble. "I wish to buy your girl from you, the beautiful young blonde. I must have her as one of my dancers."

Kaysa regarded the man with stunned amusement at first, but she humoured his request without betraying that it was one that would be impossible to grant. As he spoke, Kaysa had the distinct impression he was picturing Shiv jumping out of a gargantuan chocolate cake, then his raspy tongue licking off the confection from her not for sexual gratification, but to simply avoid wasting such a delectable dessert.

As the obese host continued stating his intent to purchase Shiv, Kaysa's attention strayed to Zale. She smiled at him and whispered through her teeth, "Is this man serious?"

"I think he's quite serious," Zale whispered back. "I've heard he doesn't have a sense of humour." He turned his attention toward Weibran and stifled a laugh. He couldn't believe the man was still in business, let alone alive. As Kaysa continued the exchange with the man, playing along as if speaking of buying and selling women was perfectly natural, he could barely keep his laughter inside. He found himself wondering how she was going to get herself out of the whole ordeal when Kaysa deftly pushed Weibran toward Merrick.

It wasn't much longer after that that Weibran waddled off toward the band to ask Merrick's permission to purchase Shiv. Once the man was out of range, Zale laughed. "I never realized just how...how bad he is. And, that was genius, sending him to Merrick. I imagine the whole night will be quite fun and exciting watching us all bounce Weibran around trying to find the right person to sell him Shiv."

"He's doing a good job of bouncing himself around. That man must be made up of about six different layers of fat. How do his legs even support his bulk?" Kaysa laughed and moved with Zale to the buffet table. "Gravity must be that man's biggest enemy, and not even aside from the crimelords. I imagine they think he's as big a joke as I do."

"I imagine so," Zale said as he slipped his hand into Kaysa's. "Let's go get you that drink. You should hear some of the things they say about him. Mostly fat jokes and such. And, I hear that he's got several contracts out on his life, including the Hutts who aren't happy he's using their name."

"But they've gotta admit, it's an appropriate alias. I bet they're just jealous that he can maintain such an abundant mass...especially for a human." Kaysa lifted her mask to alleviate the itch on her nose. "These things are ridiculous. Did he think you and your crimelord pals wouldn't recognize each other if you wore these?"

"Most likely," Zale said with a grin. "He's not exactly the smartest of the bunch. Though, you've got to give him credit for getting anyone to show up. I'm surprised there haven't been a bunch of blaster fights already. This crowd tends to run on the hot tempered side."

"Like you?" Kaysa asked with a knowing smile. "Although, I think I have tamed you somewhat."

"Am I tamed?" Zale asked with a smile as he started pouring them each a drink from the punch bowl. "I think you're worth being tame for. Though, I can't let these other types think they can walk all over me. I'll have to show them who's boss. If you want, I can point out the various nefarious types around here."

Kaysa cradled her rounded cup filled with red punch in one hand and surveyed the room briefly. "You know them all? How could you? I mean, anyone can just pop up onto the scene and appoint themselves as crimelord. Makes me think I should form my own syndicate. Zenarr Industries..." She chuckled and brought the brim of the cup to her red-varnished lips. "I could be your competitor."

Zale laughed. "We could be competitive partners," he said. "And, I actually don't know them all. Only some, the rest I was going to make up things about."

Kaysa mimicked a look of outrage and punched Zale in the arm. "You shouldn't lie to your wife. I might start thinking there are other things you've made up, like how your name really isn't Zale Tregat and you're not really a rich crimelord." She narrowed her eyes interrogatively at him and said, "Moril's the real head of Antorial Industries, isn't he?"

"Actually, he's second on the hierarchy," Zale said. "The real brains is actually Shiv. We noticed you and wondered if you might be a good addition to our enterprise. It just so happens we both fell madly in love with you. Merrick's actually the head of our security division; you'd never know it to look at him, would you?"

"Oh, so his inability to hold his own in a fight is merely a cover, right?" Kaysa shot him a grin, one that soon became a wince as a fork of pain shot through her head. She laughed softly to quickly conceal her discomfort from Zale and placed down her glass before it slipped from her hand. She'd had headaches while carrying Keeve too, which meant her suspicions were beginning to prove true. "It's...it's really loud in here...don't you think?"

"There are a lot of people in here," Zale said. "Did you want to step outside? We can get some air, and get away from the noise."

"No, it's fine," Kaysa assured him, meanwhile gripping the edge of the table so the wave of vertigo she was experiencing wouldn't topple her. "I think I'll just go off to the bathroom, wash my face... I'll be alright after that."

"Go ahead," Zale said. "You're looking a little pale, maybe you should take Shiv with you...just in case. And, you two can compare notes about us guys."

Kaysa managed a smile, one that felt haggard and wiry. "If I can tear her away from Moril." She leaned close to Zale and kissed him. She dared not close her eyes for fear she'd become even more disoriented and stumble into him. "I'll be back soon. Try and seem like you're having a good time without me...if at all possible."

She stepped past Zale, in time to keep him from witnessing another headache-induced wince. The idle conversation and music seemed deafening now and dissonant as her head throbbed with pain. She managed to weave her way through the conglomerate of dancers and find Shiv, not surprisingly so, kissing Moril ravenously. She staggered towards them, but maintained her composure long enough to grab Shiv's arm and her attention with it. "Shiv? Can you come with me for a bit?"

Shiv glanced at Kaysa, and her concern grew with the pained look on her love's face. "Sure," she said quietly. She turned back to Moril. "We won't be long. Now, don't you go off dancing with some other pretty girl, now."

Moril grinned and kissed her. "Not a chance. I'll just go get a drink and listen to the music."

"See you soon," Shiv said, and slipped her arm through Kaysa's. "You have that look of a killer headache. Oh, my poor love."

"Not so bad, really. It's just being exacerbated by all this noise. Once I have some cold water splashed onto my face, I'll be all better and you can get back to dancing with Moril."

"Well, not unless you're doing good," Shiv replied. "And, don't try to fool me to get me back to Moril. I'm going to take care of you, Kaysa. Prepare for pampering."

As they stepped into a foyer, away from all the music and conversation, Kaysa sighed heavily and pulled off her mask. She studied the inside of it idly and attempted to divert Shiv's attention with a trivial observation. "The clerk... She said it's made from this high friction material. That's why it stays on without any extra attachments." Kaysa surreptitiously leaned against Shiv as they walked without rousing her concerns. She was not about to admit she needed coddling or aid of any kind. "Let's find a refresher. We can check how my panties are doing."

"I'll make sure they're doing good for you, Kaysa," Shiv said with a grin. "And, maybe give you a nice long hug. Hugs are good for everything."

"Is that why you've been apparently surgically attached to Moril since we got here?" Kaysa chuckled and slipped her arm around Shiv's waist. "My girl, you can make anyone's sour mood sweeter with merely a smile. That's why I love you so much."

"Sweet is always better than sour," Shiv said with a grin. "At least I think so. And, if I can make your life brighter, then it makes me very happy. But then again, everything about you makes me happier. And, that's part of why I love you so much."

"You love everyone, Shiv. I'm beginning to think it's far too common a thing to be truly astounded by." Kaysa grinned and added, "But it still amazes me every day that someone like you could ever have fallen in love with someone like me."

"You were mean to me," Shiv said, "but I was so gone on you that it didn't matter. I'd do anything to make you love me, just to be with you, to be like you. And, now look at us? It's amazing how much things have changed in the last month. And, it's all good now. Everything is pretty much perfect."

"Don't curse it, Shiv! It's still too fragile a thing and I don't want you jinxing it." She grumbled irritably as they passed yet another set of doors that did not lead to a refresher. At least slipping away from the exuberant bruit from within the hall had managed to ameliorate the throbbing in her head. She still required, however, fresh, cool water to cleanse the beaded sweat from her brow. "So, Mr. Hutt wanted to purchase you, did he?" Kaysa put in finally. "Quite a compliment, isn't it?"

"He did," Shiv said. "I guess he liked my dancing or something. Can you imagine that? At least he wasn't all slimey. Though, he smelled like a...a kitchen. And, the way he looked at me! Have you ever had someone look at you and suddenly you find yourself feeling like a plate of food? That's how he was looking at me!"

"Let's just hope Merrick doesn't decide to agree and sell you to him." Up ahead, Kaysa caught a glimpse of a pair of women exiting from a room, one she hoped was the refresher. "So...what's Moril like? I mean, I've spoken to him before and he was very helpful and kind... Is he romantic? Whispering sweet, amorous words to you?"

"He is," Shiv said with a grin. "While we dance, he whispers into my ear. Sweet, romantic things. And, he's so gentlemanly. And, he worries! He's always making sure everything's perfect. He's so cute, Kaysa. He reminds me of Merrick! And, there's this way he looks at me, that it reminds me of you."

"So, you've got Merrick and I rolled up into one person. I guess you don't need us anymore. Oh, finally!" Kaysa and Shiv entered the elusive refresher, and knowing their behaviour would soon become inappropriate, they each checked the stalls to ensure they were alone. "If you want to have sex with him," Kaysa continued while pushing open the doors of the stalls, "I guess it would be fine... If it's what you want, then who am I to forbid you?"

Shiv slipped her arms around Kaysa and kissed her forehead. "It's you I want to have sex with," she said with a grin. "And, it's not you and Merrick rolled into one person. He's got some of your qualities, and some of Merrick's, and lots of his own. And, he'll never replace either of you. He's a very nice man, and he doesn't have anyone else. So, it's nice to be someone special for him. But, he knows that I'm yours and Merrick's, but he can spend time with me when I'm not with you guys. If that's alright. I don't think we'll be having lots of wild sex, maybe some as long as it's alright with you and Merrick though."

Kaysa caressed Shiv's arms lightly and smiled warmly at her. "You're such a benevolent little creature. Moril worships you, and if you choose to have sex with him, it's alright with me. Just because you share your bed with Merrick and I doesn't mean you can't follow your heart and be with others you find yourself attracted to. Besides, I like Moril. If you want to affix that smile permanently to his face, have sex with the man. He deserves it."

"Then I will," Shiv said with a smile, then kissed Kaysa passionately. "But, only if I get to make love to you after, or later, or soon. I love you, Kaysa." She felt her eyes tearing up and a wave of giggles working themselves free. "Now you're making me all emotionally giddy."

"You always are, my love." She ran her hand along Shiv's cheek, then sighed and moved to the sink. Kaysa set down her mask and placed her hands beneath the faucet. The sensors were triggered and a stream of cool, crystalline water fell into her cupped palms. "I don't know how I'm going to last the entire evening." She splashed the water onto her blanched face and felt its cold comfort envelop her body completely. "You wouldn't mind it if Zale and I left early, would you?"

"I wouldn't mind," Shiv said, moving behind Kaysa to gently rub her back. "Though, I'd probably worry about you. But, I'd be good without you...mostly." She kissed Kaysa's neck. "How's your head doing?"

"Better now," she replied. She looked into the mirror and watched the droplets of water cascade down her pallid face. "I guess I should have eaten something today. That's probably all it is. When we rejoin the men, I'll be sure and eat something."

"Well, we'll get you to the table that the Hutt hasn't cleared off yet, and let you do some nibbling. Before we go back in, would you like to step out for a cigarra? I haven't had one forever, and I'm dying for a puff."

Kaysa reached aside and pulled the draped cloth from the suspended bar on the wall. "No cigarra for me, thanks," she refused politely before flattening the cloth against her face.

"Did you want to join," Shiv asked as she held Kaysa's hair back while she dried her face. "Or are you just gonna go back to dance with Zale?"

Kaysa pulled the dampened cloth away and looked past her own reflection to Shiv's. "I don't think I'm ready to go back in there just yet. I'll join you outside, but only for a little while. The boys might think we've run off home to feast on our urges."

"Oh, wouldn't that be nice? A quick smoke, and then back to dance with our boys. Are you ready to go, or did you need me to check your panties?"

Kaysa laughed and threw the washcloth down upon the sink. "We can do that outside." She retrieved her mask and linked her free arm with Shiv's. As they started for the door, Kaysa looked upon Shiv's dress, which was far too transparent to conceal anything, and frowned with puzzlement. "What I'd like to know is, where in all hells are you keeping the cigarras?"

Shiv held up a small blue bag mixed in with the folds of her transparent gown. "Isn't it cute? It came with the equadi. There's enough room in there for a pack of cigarras, a credit chip, and my identicard."

"A good thing," Kaysa said with a leering smile. "I thought I was gonna have to dig for them," she added with a glance towards the area between Shiv's slender thighs.

Shiv grinned. "Well, I may have one or two in there if you want to search," she said as she pressed herself against Kaysa. "I bet we could scandalize a lot of people out there."

"I know we could," Kaysa ammended with a grin. "Let's go outside, you and I, where we can devise this little scheme of ours to embarrass Zale and Merrick...and Moril to no end."

"You know," Shiv said with a grin, "I love the way you think. Let's go." With that, they followed a wafting breeze fragranced with apple blossoms that lead them to a courtyard outside where they could plot and plan and scheme.

***

Zale found himself drawn back toward one of the tables after Kaysa had gone. He picked up a drink and started working on it while he watched those around him. As he was looking away, he didn't notice the woman slip up beside him.

"It is an interesting party, isn't it, Mr. Tregat?"

Zale turned, and found himself looking at the Twi'lek who had been speaking to Merrick earlier. "It is," he said. "Oot Kovan, if memory serves."

"It serves you well," she said. "I noticed you without your...wife, and figured I could talk to you without her staring vibroblades through my chest. A man like you, Zale, I am surprised you settled with a woman who gets jealous so easily."

"She has other qualities," Zale said with a smile. "And, I think her jealousy is cute."

"Only because yours aren't the eyes she'd scratch out when she is angered." She looked around, sighed, and then turned back to him. "So, have you made any astounding deals here tonight?"

Zale shook his head. "None so far, though I haven't been here long. Do you have any ideas, Miss Kovan?"

Oot smiled. "I think I have a few, but I think I'd rather discuss them somewhere more...private."

"An intriguing offer," Zale said, "though my wife will return soon."

"She has two other lovers to keep her occupied, while you have to settle for one, except on the rare days when she shares her girlfriend with you."

Zale watched Oot for a moment, intrigued. "You have quite the breadth of knowledge."

"I make it a point to know as much as possible about my competition," she smiled, and then added, "or my partners. Would you care to dance, Zale?"

Zale glanced toward where Kaysa and Shiv had disappeared.

"I promise I won't bite you anywhere that she'll see."

"She sees everywhere."

Oot smiled. "Oh, I don't know about that."

Zale laughed. "You know a few places she doesn't?"

Oot gave him a sultry smile, and stepped closer. "I know many things, Mr. Tregat," she said. "A woman isn't raised on Ryloth and doesn't know about things like that. Dance with me, and maybe you'll learn something new...something not taught in the Shac'Tae."

One of Zale's eyebrows quirked. Without another word, he gestured toward the dancefloor.

***

Kaysa perched herself comfortably upon the edge of the circular, stone fountain elevated above the lush grass and situated at the centre of the large courtyard. She wasn't surprised that the sculpture from which the water was spouting and trickling down was in the form of naked, young nymph dancing amongst a gathering of chippin. The image that formed in Kaysa's mind induced a chuckle. Weibran was most likely more interested in the chippin than he was the young goddess.

She hummed softly as her fingers waded through the pool of pristine water, distorting the perfectly shaped crescent moon reflecting upon it from the darkened sky above. It was a peaceful night, of which she hadn't had many, but with as happy and content as they all were now, she hoped there would be many more.

She sighed wistfully and glanced sideways at Shiv, who had just sparked up her second cigarra. "They're not good for you, you know," Kaysa commented idly. "One of the reasons I decided to quit." And the other is something I'm not ready to divulge to you yet, my love, no matter how much I want to.

"Just nervous, I guess," Shiv said with a grin. "And, I don't smoke very many of them anymore. It's just...with Moril...I guess I'm a little nervous about how the night's gonna go."

"You? Nervous?" Kaysa laughed and shifted around to face Shiv. "When have you ever been nervous, my love? Moril is bordering on worshipping you, and you're nervous? Look...if you're feeling obligated to have sex with him, don't. He'll understand if you wanna wait a while."

"I don't feel obligated," Shiv said with a grin. "It's just...well, that he does worship me almost. I guess I'm a little scared about where it will all lead and what will happen. And, I guess I don't want to disappoint him."

Kaysa laughed abruptly and grabbed Shiv's hand. She pulled her down next to her upon the fountain's edge and said, "How could anyone be disappointed in knowing you love them and are willing to share your body with them? Besides, you're very experienced in bed, and if you need the practice to hone your skills, Merrick and I will oblige gladly."

Shiv giggled. "Do you think we have time to practice now? And, maybe at the set break, I can practice with Merrick. Just so I know I still remember how to be with a man." She grinned and took Kaysa's hand. "You think I'll be okay?"

"Shiv...he's going to be more nervous than you are. You'll be fine, and if you are too anxious or afraid, just tell him you wanna take your time." Kaysa brought Shiv's hand to her lips and kissed the inside of it softly. "My beautiful girl, just being around you is enough to make anyone happy. Don't forget that."

Shiv smiled as she gazed at Kaysa. "I could never forget that," she said. "I see it whenever I look in your eyes. I love seeing you happy, Kaysa. I promise to always do everything I can to make you happy."

"That would be like taking the weight of the world upon your delicate shoulders, Shiv. You do enough. As long as you're safe and content, then I'm happy." She wrapped an arm around Shiv and pulled her closer. "My love, you always were the light in my darkness. Nothing will change that...ever." She kissed Shiv softly and tenderly, with the stars shining down upon them and enhancing the romantic atmosphere of the moment. "You should go back to Moril now," she whispered. "I bet he's missing you."

"You'll be okay out here?" Shiv asked with a concerned look. "Should I send Zale out to find you?"

Kaysa shook her head and smiled. "I'll be fine. I'm just gonna look at the stars for a little while longer, then I'll go back in to him. If he does wonder where I am, just tell him I won't be long."

"Okay," Shiv said, and then kissed Kaysa. "I'll see you soon. If you need me or anything, I'll just be inside."

"Good luck with Moril. Just...be yourself, Shiv, which should worry me. He'll have no trouble falling in love with you that way."

"I'll let you know how it goes," Shiv said as she started back toward the party. She stopped near the door, and turned back to Kaysa. With a grand flourish, she blew her love a kiss and disappeared inside.

***

Zale and Oot Kovan danced close, sharing a third dance. Each successive one had brought the woman closer, and her touch grew more familiar. Her lekku swayed in time with the music, acting as a counterpoint to the motions of their bodies. As the song ended and the next began, Oot made something close to a purring sound.

"You're a good dancer," Zale told her. She only smiled in response.

As the band started into their next number, something more up-tempo, it was suddenly interrupted as the front doors burst open and Stormtroopers started pouring inside. Zale reached inside his jacket and Oot put a hand on his forearm.

"They have blasters," she said. "You'll be cut down before you make it through to your second Trooper. Let them come to you, and take them at point blank where you will have the advantage."

Zale glanced at her again, raising an eyebrow once more.

He heard shouting behind him, Weibran by the sound of it. And, quite panicked. Zale laughed as the obese man struggled to calm the masses. Futile, he thought.

As Zale started to turn away, a loud roar filled his ears. The next thing he knew, he was tossed into the air like a child's plaything. His only thought as the ground suddenly rushed back at him was, "If anyone pulls my hair tonight, they're dead."

---

"Hutt Tribute and Contribute"
By: Vorgoth - Assassin
and Weibran the Hutt

Location: The New Plouton Arms - New Plouton, Tae'Karada
Date: Niothe 7, 4ABY

***

Arriving at the party by foot, he had to frown. There were several people there who actually seemed amused at the party that was undergoing. They disgusted him with their drinking and laughing and dancing. Having fun had no meaning for him whatsoever and he despised those who saw such events as fun.

But this was something he had to do. He had been sent here by his Master, Jadda the Hutt, and he would never even think of leaving before delivering the message that Jadda had for Weibran. So, with no further time to lose he proceeded to the entrance where others were entering.

The guards were scanning people for their weapons. He knew the terms, and yet he carried his dual lightsaber with no intention of letting anyone take it from him. Vorgoth was standing next to a man with a mechanical arm of some sort. He had noticed a blaster in the man's arm but knew the guards had not. To prevent the security from stealing more time and be tighter in its ways of scanning he crushed the microchips of the scanner with his training in the Force.

The man passed clean and so did he. Inside they were playing music, which to Vorgoth sounded just awful. If he had more time he would consider slaughtering the band for leisure. But he paid little attention to them as he had to find Weibran. There were several waiters walking by carrying drinks and tables with exquisite food, but most of the waiters seemed scared or taunted as they looked at Vorgoth's tattooed face.

One drunken man approached Vorgoth and placed his arm around his shoulder, grinning. "Greath parthy huh?!" the man asked. Immediately, the Zabrak twisted the drunken man's arm forcing him to bend over and kicked him in the stomach, making him barf all over his shoes and pants.

Vorgoth was having no fun at all. He then saw Weibran and approached the little fat man who turned around to face him as he got near. Without saying a word, the Zabrak delivered a document from Jadda. It read:

"To Weibran, the fat crime-joke! You have no authority to use the name of the Hutts in your behalf or that of your Crime organization. However, in the spirit of negotiation, we the Hutts are willing to let you keep the title for the modest price of a billion credits monthly plus 20% of all your winnings. Unless this is agreeable you may not continue to use our family name.

In the Hutt's behalf, Jadda."

With a frown and a vicious grin, Vorgoth awaited for Weibran's answer.

Weibran read the document several times before nodding. "Very well," he said. "Have you tried the chippin, by the way? It's very good. So, they're expecting an answer now, are they? That's too bad. I will consider this, and respond to them after the party is over. For now, I have guests to attend to, and a dancing girl to acquire."

Vorgoth knew that Weibran's answer did not meet his master's best interest. But Weibran had said that he'd give an answer soon, so Vorgoth forced himself to restrain from striking the fat party patron... At least directly and in front of everybody's eyes.

Before Weibran could leave, Vorgoth turned around to get a drink. Fast and unnoticeable, he poured a fast and deadly poison into it, which dissolved quickly. He turned around and offered the drink to Weibran with a nod.

Weibran took the glass, smiled at the man while secretly wishing it was chippin rather than a drink, and then raised it in salute to the man's health. As he raised the glass to his lips, he was suddenly jostled by a reveller, and the glass tumbled to the floor to smash on the tiles below. "Oh," the man said with a shake of his portly head, "so clumsy of me."

Weibran reached out towards the table, picked up another drink, saluted again, and downed it. "Thank you, good sir," he said, "and I will have a response to your master tomorrow."

The Zabrak growled to himself as his attempt to kill the fat party patron was put to an end by a clumsy man who intervened. He turned his back and moved away to get back outside. He now had nothing more to do there, and he should report back to Jadda. He was about to get outside when a legion of stormtroopers came in, setting confusion all about. But as they did, there came the news that the Emperor was dead. Palpatine had perished and was no more...

Vorgoth stopped at this news. Could it truly be? The Emperor was dead? Who had killed him? And what of Vader? Would he take on the Empire, or was it its downfall... These questions were also the same for the Stormtroopers, or so it seemed, since they no longer knew what to do. Blaster shots began to scramble all about and without time to lose, Vorgoth made his way outside, tossing a large statuette to break a window and leaped outside.

As soon as he hit the ground he could see that the chaos had also installed itself outside, with people running about. But at least the party was over, and screams and shouts of panic were certainly better than the music that was playing before. As he had come, so was he gone, unseen and unnoticed.

---

"In Slip"
By: Syan Daywalker - Bounty Hunter
and Oot Kovan - Crime Boss

Location: The New Plouton Arms, New Plouton Date: Niothe 7, 4ABY

***

The name Oot Kovan had been sold to him by an informant. A Twi'lek, female, almost two meters tall with pinkish skin and green eyes. Head of the Tarabassic crime family. Information like that usually went for as much as five hundred credits, but Syan's intrinsic charms convinced the snitch to part with it for three.

But the information had proven reliable. Two snitches later, the data bad been indirectly confirmed and he was on his way to her most likely location. He had contemplated returning to Aesir to retrieve his speederbike, but in the end thought better of it. The walk wasn't a hardship, and if necessary, he needed to know his environment. Soon enough he'd arrived on the outskirts of Weibran's property. The laughter and music riding the breeze had long ago hinted at its nearness, but only now, outside the ostentatious dwelling, could he articulate the wealth of the people involved. All the better.

His black clothing and naturally dark skin let him blend in easily in the shadows as he watched the residence. Decorative uplights accenting fountains and expensive, water-hungry trees cast crisscrossing bands of shadow across the yard. A cursory glance was enough to confirm numerous avenues to get close to the house without being seen. There'd be sensors of course, but a smart barve could get around those.

Small chips, microns across, had been surgically implanted in his retinas. They served as tracking sensors for the lenses he wore. They caused no discomfort, but the advantages were numerous. Small, micro-musculature movements of his eyes were interpreted by the small smartchips in the lenses themselves. The scene changed from real light to EM, the background glowed a ghostly orange as the patterns of sensor foci were overlaid in grossly-contrasting, but easily distinguishable colors. The rubber of his boots scuffed softly on the sidewalk as he shouldered off the wall and walked with purpose across the sidestreets and into the grassed yard. He followed the open areas, treading carefully. Ghostly afterimages of bodyheat showed him where the guards had walked previously.

As he approached the building, he relaxed his eyes and the view returned to normal. The sensors here were hidden in the shrubbery and around the windows. He wasn't going through there anyway. Instead, he reached around behind him to gather the tail of his coat and then ran full-tilt at the wall. Two meters out, he launched foot first at the wall and bounced off. The decorative plaster crunched under the assault. The distance between the home and the attached garage were well within his ability and two hops were enough to bring him up on the second-floor ledge.

Syan walked the ledge, and hopped over the rail to land on the upper balcony without a sound. He reached inside his coat to retrieve the phase degausser. The little black box would temporarily short the sensors in the door, reading like static in the line. It wasn't a particularly sophisticated trick, but an effective enough one when applied intelligently. It gained him entrance and moments later he was walking down the palatial staircase to the party level. He'd stashed most of his visible weaponry. Now he mostly looked like one of the hired thugs that were guarding the place.

From the second landing, Syan spotted a tinge of gown and coral skin. Kovan?

Oot Kovan sipped at the crystal goblet filled with green punch. Her gaze swept out over the crowded hall and then turned to the man standing next to her. At one of his comments, she laughed and nodded, the twin lekku draped down her back dancing with the motion. With a large smile, she handed the now empty goblet to her companion and shooed him off to retrieve another drink for her.

Syan Daywalker eyed the male unemotionally, pre-guessing possible responses to Syan's own presence should he return and find the bounty hunter there before Syan was done with her. It wasn't really a problem, but the job would go much easier if he wasn't noticed by too many people. Quiet equals good.

He straightened his coat and stepped off the carpeted staircase and on to the polished marble floor. The pomp and pagentry of the ball wasn't lost on him, but he was more interested in the amount of watching glances being shot around the dancefloor. Everyone was trying very hard to look like they were having a good time, when more than half of them were more involved with seeing who else was there. The mannerisms didn't fit that of partygoers. He didn't get any inkling of being the target of hostility, so he promptly ignored them all.

Slightly spicy perfume tickled his nose as he approached her. He stopped about arm's length behind her, letting his hands stand loose beside him. "You are Oot Kovan?" he said with no hint of question.

Oot turned to the dark-skinned newcomer. She studied him for a moment, and then nodded. "I am Oot Kovan," she said. "Though, I'm afraid I do not recognize you. I also don't recognize you as one of my rivals' errand boys. Independent is my guess."

Syan's eyebrow rose slightly at the 'errand boy' epithet, but he made no more acknowledgement of it. "Independent is the only way to operate. Based on your reputation I would think you know that." Syan shifted slightly in his coat and looked over her shoulder at someone who noticed him. The glance was enough to make the person think otherwise. He returned his hazel eyes to hers. "I require information. On a smuggler that goes by the name of Will 'Crusher' Wessel. It is my understanding that you can provide it."

Oot thought about it for a moment. "I have heard the name, and usually attached to a rather impressive price tag. He's never crossed me, and I haven't added any tags to his already long list, but you're in the right system to find him." She glanced around. "Last I heard, he'd been offending Jadda the Hutt. You'll most likely find him here in New Plouton or in Thanatos. You would want to concentrate your search around Jadda's enclave, and I'm sure you'll turn up more definite leads."

A thin smile, devoid of humor or affection, marred Syan's typical scowl. Behind the lips, smooth capped fangs showed as one of the very few embellishments he added for the benefit of his reputation. Popular rumor had theories about what he used the fangs for. "That is very useful to me, Oot Kovan. When Wessel is caught, I will see to it that a percentage of the bounty is routed to the Tarabassic coffers."

Oot smiled and nodded gratefully. "I thank you," she said. "I hope that, in the future, should I require the services of one of your talents, that I may call upon you. I wish you luck in your hunt."

"Luck is a tool for those without skill, Kovan. Should you require my services, contact the Guild. Ask for Daywalker."

---

"Something Wicked..."
by Dargus Kandran
and Elisia Melouet

with Liam Zaneth
and Oot Kovan

Location: New Plouton, Tae'Karada
Date: Niothe 7, 4ABY

***

Dargus Kandran pressed at the flesh of his face and winced inwardly. If he wasn't aware that he was staring at his own face in the mirror, he wouldn't have recognized himself. But the surgery was necessary to keep himself concealed at the party. Too many enemies would be there, and to show up alive would create too much havoc, spoiling the plans he had devised.

The tuxedo fit perfectly, as he'd expected it would. And he'd even managed to rid himself of the horrendous stench of bacta in which he'd spent the entire previous day submerged. He wondered if Kace would be able to sense him. Tonight would be the true test of that. He turned to find Elisia watching him.

"You are looking very nice," he said. "I'm sure you will have Kace's eyes falling out of his head when he sees you."

Elisia looked down at the low top. The dress fell freely from her breasts to hide her growing abdomen and yet still give her a slim and feminine look. "I guess. It seems a little low." Her pregnancy had increased her breast size and she was a little uncomfortable exposing them so much. "How will I hide from him what we are doing? I mean, we have had a mental connection and he is stronger than I am."

"Then focus your mind on something other than our plans. I seriously doubt that Kace Mordin would delve too deeply in your thoughts without your permission, and therefore you need only occupy your surface thoughts with middling matters, and he will be none the wiser."

Elisia nodded. She was nervous, but she would do as he had suggested. She had planned to make sure she was guarding against such an intrusion but for some reason, the idea of guarding against Kace bothered her. "What reason do you wish me to give him for needing his assistance?" They had planned to stage an attack, but things had changed after finding the invitation. "A version of the truth would be easiest."

"You come to him needing help," Dargus said. "I am sure he will be unable to keep himself from helping one in need. Play on his nurturing instincts, and all will be well."

She nodded. Now that the time had arrived, a plague of doubts swept over her. What if Kylas was right, to seek revenge would lead her to a place she could not return from? "I am ready," she finally said. "I do not even recognize you. I think I liked you better before." He was still handsome, but something was missing that seemed to just be "him".

Dargus smiled. "I don't know," he said with a feral smile. "I happen to like the new me. And, I seriously doubt anyone will recognize me now." He glanced at her and nodded. "Let's go."

With that, they left the apartment they'd been staying in, and ventured off toward the New Plouton Arms.

***

They approached the two large men barring the door, and Dargus stepped ahead of Elisia. As he approached, he smiled.

"We'll need your invitations and a weapons check," one of the guards said.

"You do not need to see our invitations, and a weapons check will be unnecessary." Dargus' voice was measured perfectly to bend the guard's will to his own.

"We don't need to see your invitations," the guard said. "And, I think a weapons check will be unnecessary for you, sir."

"We may enter now," Dargus added. "Welcome to the party."

The guard smiled mechanically. "You may enter now," he said. "Welcome to the party."

With that, Dargus and Elisia stepped through the door, and into Weibran the Hutt's party.

As they moved further into the large area where most of the guests seemed to have congregated, Dargus turned to Elisia. "I told you invitations were unnecessary."

Elisia giggled. "You are incorrigible. You know that, don't you?" She looked around at the gaiety and for a moment forgot her purpose in coming here. She realized immediately her choice of gown had been appropriate. Not used to such a gathering, she stepped closer to Dargus glad of the security he offered her.

Dargus scanned the room, determining which faces he recognized and which he didn't. Finally, he saw both targets he was interested in. "If you are ready," he said. "Liam is there with the Twi'lek woman."

Elisia nodded. "I just have one question: If I am in trouble, what am I doing here all dressed up?" She had just realized that such a thing was going to require an explanation and she had not thought of that till she looked around at the opulence surrounding them.

Dargus shook his head. "Why must I tell you everything? Aren't you able to think on your own, Elisia?" He took a breath and let it out. "You are working for one of the guests here, and you saw him from across the room. You are working for him because you are indebted to him, and he found the best way to pay off that debt was working in his service."

She nodded, flushing at his insult. "I am sorry. I know I should be able to think these things out. I am just nervous." She took a moment to calm her nerves, taking strength from his reprimand. "I will be in touch." She then walked towards Liam, her mind racing with a thousand thoughts.

***

The hoverlimo had dropped Liam and Oot off at the party forty minutes ago, and they both just finished their second drinks.

"Liam," Oot said, slipping a hand in his, "I want to dance now."

Liam looked at her as she gazed up into his eyes and smiled. "That's what I'm here for, just as long as you don't try to get me into a private room."

Oot smiled. "You can read minds, you fiend," she said. "And, I will only try to get you into one if you drink too much and pass out."

"I don't think we'll have to worry about that," Liam said, with a grin.

"Don't try to spoil my fun," Oot said. "Now, let's dance. I want to see how good you are on the dance floor. Yelara was boasting quite a bit, you know."

Liam laughed and took her hand. "That's what I hear," he said. "You'd think she was really trying to sell me to you. Then let's go dance."

Once they were on the dancefloor, Oot pressed herself close to Liam and he couldn't help laughing. It was when he felt her lips brush against his neck that he knew things were getting dangerous. She sighed softly as they moved to the music. "I love this band," she said. "Merrick Braston has always been one of my favourites."

"He's good," Liam said as he fought off the urges she seemed very adept at awakening. He hadn't thought it would be too difficult to fight off Oot's advances...but now he was realizing just how persuasive she could be.

The song seemed to go on for a very long time, and Liam and Oot just swayed in time with it. When it slowly drifted out, he realized that he needed another drink. They started toward the tables with large punch bowls laid out when the band leader announced they'd be taking a break.

"I think I'd like to talk to him," Oot said with a smile. "Come, my dear, let's go speak with a celebrity." She took his hand and led the way to where Merrick was standing.

Merrick looked up at the two people approaching him and smiled.

"Your music is truly beautiful," Oot said. "I've been a fan as long as you've been recording music, and it just keeps getting better. And, I must say your new album is fabulous. And, I love the portrait of you on the cover. The likeness is amazing, and the artist truly captured your essence."

"Thank you," Merrick said with a smile. "She'll be here tonight actually. She's--" He paused for a moment to figure out how to describe exactly who Shiv was, and wasn't sure if there was an easy way to not confuse anyone. "She's my girlfriend, and she's good at capturing essences in her art. You should see the one she's working on now."

"I would love to," Oot said. "I'd like to meet her, I think."

They talked for a little while longer and Oot and Liam moved off to let another fan in to speak with Merrick. As they moved out onto the dancefloor again, Oot gazed up into Liam's eyes. Without warning, she pressed her lips to his.

When the kiss finally broke, Liam shook his head. "You're going to be very bad for my marriage, you know."

Oot laughed. "I know I am," she said. "But, I'll try not to be too bad. Would you be wonderful and get us some drinks? I'm quite thirsty again."

"Of course," Liam said, and with a kiss to her cheek went off in search of drinks.

***

Liam stood at a table with two glasses, one of them he was in the process of filling, the other rested, already full, on the table's surface. He heard footsteps behind him, but decided he wanted to fill the glasses before Weibran decided he wanted to fill his own cup from this punchbowl. He'd watched the crimelord drain one of the bowls earlier...it was truly remarkable.

"Kace?" Elisia whispered behind him. She was surprised she had been able to get this close without him knowing she was there. But then, there were a lot of people here.

Once the glass was full, Liam set it down and turned. He wasn't sure, but he thought his heart may have stopped beating for a moment. The muscles in his jaw tightened, and he nodded. Slowly, his lips turned up into a smile. "Elisia," he said. "You're looking well."

She moved close to him with wide and fearful eyes. The fear didn't have to be mimicked for she truly was frightened of what she was doing. "I need your help," she whispered urgently. "Please?!"

Liam quickly looked around searching for whatever danger loomed, whatever had forced such a panic into his former student. "What's wrong, Elisia?"

"I am in trouble and I don't know what to do." She looked up at him, beseeching him to help her. "I am in way over my head and..." Her eyes filled with tears as she realized her words were much more truth than fiction.

He filled a glass with some punch and handed it to her. "Drink," he said. "It'll help calm you." His eyes roamed the room once more before they returned to her. "Tell me what's happening, Elisia. What sort of trouble are you in?"

"I ended up owing a man a lot of money. He is making me work it off, by" -- she swallowed hard -- "by doing things I don't want to do." She stopped to sip the drink and shivered slightly. "I...I couldn't prove I didn't really owe it to him."

"I'll help you get out of here tonight," Liam said. He felt a nagging sense of doubt about Elisia's story, but told himself she probably had reasons for hiding things from him. It wasn't as if their last parting had been on good terms. "If your...patron has any problems with that, he can talk to me. I have a place for you to stay if you're interested. Have you been keeping up with your training?"

"Yes, or...at least I was till I ended up in this predicament. Should I just leave with you? I think if I tell him, he would just have his men remove me," she said as she looked up at him. "He is some kind of leading underworld lord or something."

Liam took the now empty cup and moved back to the punchbowl. As he started to refill the cup, another hand reached in to do the same. Liam glanced at the woman attached to the hand and recognized her immediately. Oh this will be very fun, he said to himself when he realized the hand belonged to Shrezade Anoran, the administrator who had made getting Dani off the Drogen Shipyards so difficult.

After a short exchange that sent Mrs. Anoran and her friend scurrying away, Liam turned back to Elisia with the offered cup of punch.

"You can leave with me," he said as she took the cup from him. "Though, I'm here as a favour to one of the crimelords. She helped Yelara and I destroy Dargus Kandran, and she needed someone with her here tonight. So, here I am."

Elisia flinched at his words. She started to tell him her sister was on the ship but now was not the time nor place. She could feel Dargus watching her, even though she could see him nowhere in the room. She suddenly felt a sense of fear sweep over her and then chaos broke loose. Her saber was on her thigh but she realized immediately to use it would be death. She moved close to Kace as stormtroopers seemed to appear everywhere.

Liam slipped an arm around Elisia's shoulder and stepped back away from the onrushing Imperials. "We need to stay out of this," he said.

Before they could get completely away, one of the men rushing past was shouting something about the Empire collapse and Palpatine's decaying corpse. Soon, the words were on everyone's lips: the Empire had fallen, and Palpatine was dead.

Elisia huddled close to Liam or Kace as she recalled him... She was content to follow his directions. She couldn't see Dargus anywhere. This was definitely an unexpected development, but in actuality it might work to their advantage.

Liam looked around until he found Oot, and spotted her moving through the crowd with a man he knew he should have recognized. "I have to talk to someone," he said. "I'm here protecting her, and I can't leave without her. She's right over--"

Before he could get another word out, an explosion ripped apart the dais in the centre of the room. The concussion pushed Liam and Elisia back a few steps, pelting them with debris.

Elisia without thinking pushed larger items around her, taking only a dusting from the explosion. Things were quickly getting out of hand as those not injured in the explosion were fighting back against the Stormtroopers swarming into the room.

"Impressive," Liam said as they backed further away. "Let's get out of the way." He noticed that Oot was being cared for by the man she'd been dancing with and he didn't have to worry too deeply. Though, he was concerned that she had been injured. He should have been there protecting her.

Elisia followed Liam's lead. For now, it was in her best interest to appear willing to follow his lead. She wasn't sure how she would handle seeing him with Yelara. She thought of the incident where they had shared a mental connection and blushed.

For a few minutes, the fighting had gotten much worse, but it now appeared that the Stormtroopers were starting to pull back. "The whole planet will be in chaos soon, if it isn't already. We should go get Oot and get out of here."

Elisia nodded and started moving towards the woman Liam had indicated. She, strangely, now felt quite calm. Her mind was focused on her surroundings and she moved deftly through the sea of confusion.

Liam started after Elisia, but then stopped abruptly. A tremor rumbled through the Force, and pulled his attention back around. "Go to Oot and you'll be safe," Liam called to her. "And, stay put." With that, he rushed forward to face the sudden sense of danger he felt ahead of him.

---

"Party Crashers, Part 1"
by Shrezade Anoran
and Rilanna Kir

Location: Drogen Shipyards, Tae'Remok System
Date: Niothe 7, 4ABY

***

Silent laughter had enthralled Shrezade for a good ten minutes as she read, and re-read the plastisheet invitation resting upon her desk. The man was an idiot to even fathom that Shrezade Anoran, administrator of the Drogen Shipyards and notoriously staid and merciless champion of justice and propriety, would even think about attending a masquerade ball rife with lowlifes from throughout Tae'Karada. The mere fact that it required her to leave her station unattended in the hands of her no longer trustworthy head of security was reason enough to refuse. Besides, it would take her away from her duties and there was still much work to do to cleanse her station, leaving her with little idle time for attending such paltry affairs.

"Mrs. Anoran," Hajne's nasally voice rang through the intercom. "You have a-- Hey, wait! You can't just--"

Shrezade looked up from the intercom as her door slid open and the one person on the entire station she enjoyed seeing slinked into the room.

"Oh, Mrs. Anoran," Hajne said in a fear-stricken whisper as she came up beside the tall, lithe woman. "I tried to--"

Shrezade silenced and dismissed her with an imperious wave of her hand. Hajne was gone without hesitation and only pausing for an instant, Shrezade smiled and motioned Rilanna to the chair across from her desk. "I hope your impromptu visit is to bring me good news, Ms. Kir."

"I think it's good news," Rilanna said with a smile. "It appears that the scum in the lower decks is starting to thin. I thought you might like to hear it personally. I brought in three more. They were in the process of mugging one of the citizens of the station when I caught them. I've already turned in their dockets."

Reza nodded thoughtfully as she gazed one last time at the invitation, then tossed it languorously into the trash bin. "Very good, Ms. Kir. You are doing exceptionally well." Reza smiled and leaned forward with her hands folded atop the desk. "Are you busy this evening? I received a shipment of those shrimp you like. If you are free, you may join me for dinner again."

Rilanna smiled. "Dinner would be very nice," she said. "Especially after today. What time should I be there?"

"19:00 hours sounds like a good time. You don't require attire this time, do you?"

Ril stifled a laugh. "Well, I'm certain I'll require some, but I think I can manage to provide it for myself," she said with a smile. "And, I'll try to wear something less...risqué this time. I'll be at your quarters at 19:00. Would you like for me to bring anything? Drinks, additional food?"

Reza laughed, a sound that always sounded unpleasant coming from her. "Just be on time, that is all, Ms. Kir." Reza sat back in her chair and grinned at Rilanna knowingly. "You came here to get paid, didn't you?"

Rilanna smiled. "If you have the time for it," she said. "Otherwise, I can pick it up tomorrow. Or, I could just get it from Hajne out front."

"With how little she thinks of you, I believe she would attempt to short-change you." Reza smiled tightly. Her hand disappeared from atop the desk and disengaged the lock on her drawer. Within lay Reza's personal petty cash, most of which would now belong to Rilanna. "This should cover it, I believe," Reza said as she slid the credit slip across the desk. "Plus a little extra, of course. I think for all the good work you've done me, a little treat once in a while couldn't hurt."

Rilanna glanced at the credit chip and smiled. "Thank you very much," she said. "Perhaps I should go get something nice to wear tonight."

"Perhaps," Reza replied with a tilt of her head. "I don't require anything too formal, Ms. Kir. But please," she said with a smile, "not so much flesh this time."

Rilanna laughed softly. "I will keep as much of myself covered as I can," she said. She glanced at her chronometer. "I should probably get moving if I'm going to find something to wear."

"Very well," Reza replied with a nod. "19:00 hours, Ms. Kir. If you are going to be late, please let me know. I would hate for your shrimp to get cold."

Rilanna smiled. "I'll be there a little early, if that's alright," she said as she stood. As she moved away from the desk, she noticed the plastisheet resting atop the waste bin. "A party," she said with a grin.

Reza sighed wearily and rolled her eyes. "Yes...but one I've chosen not to attend. The man hosting is a rather...nefarious creature I would rather not associate with."

"I understand," Rilanna said. "Though, it would be a good opportunity to assess the threats elsewhere in the system, before they show up here."

"Would it?" Reza flexed her fingers together and rocked in her chair lazily. She sat up abruptly and motioned Rilanna back into the chair. "Tell me more."

"The party," Rilanna said as she returned to the seat, "is going to be the largest collection of scum in the entire system, and if we're there we can ID all of them. They seem to have little regard for any authority other than their own, and would probably have no qualms about moving operations here to escape some of the more stringent programs of the Empire on the surface. Little do they know that we've got tighter controls here than down there. But, this would give us a good intelligence gathering opportunity to seek out some of the other scum who might work their way here. And besides, these types have no loyalty, and the whole party is likely to find scum killing scum. That's a show I would like to see."

A feral grin formed on Reza's face as she gazed intently at Rilanna. "A cunning scheme, Ms. Kir. But...who would you suggest I bring to this gala event to perform surveillance for me?"

Rilanna smiled. "Well, I do believe I'm fairly accomplished at surveillance activities," she said. "It's a necessity in this line of work. If you'd be willing, I could accompany you."

Reza beat her fingers lightly atop the desk's surface in silent deliberation, until the mischievous smile returned and she glanced up at Rilanna. "There would most likely be no Mon Calamari shrimp, you know."

"That's true," Rilanna said with a frown. "Perhaps we could have it as a treat after the party. Or if it would keep, perhaps tomorrow while we compare notes over what we saw at the party."

"With dessert, of course, and perhaps some calduin if this endeavour is successful." Reza pushed back her chair and straightened out her suit as she rose. With poised movements, she stepped over to the trash bin and reached inside to retrieve the invitation. "The party begins at 19:00 hours." Reza shot Rilanna a wry grin and added, "Just in time for dinner."

Rilanna grinned. "Perfect timing," she said. "Should we use my ship to get down to the planet, or would you prefer a shuttle?"

"I would prefer to be as inconspicuous as possible, for reasons you can probably deduce. I'm a very wealthy and powerful woman, as well as someone disliked by fellow members of the Tae'Karadan aristocracy." Reza shrugged. "At any rate, your ship would be fine. As for your clothing, Ms. Kir...I expect you to use your best judgment but..." She laughed softly. "I think by now you know what I consider appropriate."

"I will wear something suitable," Rilanna said. "Though, I think it will also be something serviceable. You never know with a party full of scum. I don't want us to be undefended."

"If you can get weapons past the check, of course." Reza tossed the invitation towards Rilanna to allow her to see for herself.

Ril read over the document and shrugged. "I have a few I should be able to get past most weapons checks. And, they'll do for self-defence if it comes to that."

"A woman of many abilities, I see." Reza was growing more and more pleased with her employee. At least she had profited somewhat from the hordes of criminals who flocked to her station; it had placed Rilanna Kir into her hands. "Well, Ms. Kir, perhaps you should go find a gown and a mask. It is a masquerade ball, you know. As for myself, I shall go prepare for the event and meet you in the docking bay at half past 18:00."

"That'll give us plenty of time," Rilanna said. "I'll see you soon, Mrs. Anoran."

"Reza," she corrected quickly as Rilanna headed towards the door. "Tonight, it is Reza, Ms. Kir."

Rilanna smiled. "Only if you call me either Rilanna or Ril, Reza."

"It is something to strive for, I suppose," Reza replied. "As for the present, we need to make ourselves look presentable. If you require anything, contact me and it shall be yours."

"Thank you," Rilanna said, and then she disappeared from the office and left in search of decent attire for the evening.

***

Shrezade always found gowns uncomfortable and unnecessary. The only purpose they served was to draw attention to a woman and, with that, remind her that she truly was merely an ornament hanging from a man's arm, there to increase his status among other men. She hadn't worn one since her wedding day ages ago and then, only for her husband. Thoughts of him always put her in a dour temperament, not solely because she missed the man she loved specifically, but because it was a reminder of his absence from her life and the fact that she only had memories of him for companionship.

Instead of pulling out her old wedding dress, Reza opted to wear a newly purchased gown this evening. She wanted to make herself inconspicuous and would only do so if she wore apparel expected of a woman. So, a long, blue gown was what she chose, one bereft of decoration and frills, and also revealing only a scant amount of flesh. The mask chosen - a ridiculous adornment, she thought - was a half-faced one covered entirely by a layer of dull silver acrylic and lined on the interior with a high friction material to keep it securely upon her face.

Walking through the corridors, she wore the mask to keep her identity a secret. She found it preferable not to be harassed on her way to the docking bay because of who she was, and the masked helped in that respect, but if she had not been wearing a dress, she would have gone otherwise unnoticed. The men of the station were disgusting creatures, hollering and whistling as if they were herding a nerf as she passed. Reza, however, remained composed and marched haughtily into the bay to seek out Rilanna.

Rilanna was in the docking bay, standing at the foot of the entry hatch waiting for Shrezade. The pre-flight checks had already completed and now they just needed to get away and down to the planet. She'd found a gown of deep blue, nearly black, and when the light hit it, there were hints of purple as well. It showed more skin than she would have liked, but the colour was perfect and the dress otherwise was decent. Though, since it was the back that was left open, she hoped that Reza wouldn't mind too much. She'd found a mask of matching material, and it was affixed to her face using a remarkable high friction material on the inside.

When she saw Reza enter the docking bay, she smiled. "I feel like such a...a girl," she said with a laugh once they were within speaking distance. "I can't remember the last time I wore one of these things. You want to ride up in the cockpit with me?"

"Of course," Reza replied. "An appropriate dress," she commented as they started for the ramp, but one she amended quickly upon seeing the large patch of flesh exposed on Rilanna's back. "Well...at least it's nothing too provocative."

Rilanna laughed. "I figured backless was better than large expanses of exposure elsewhere." Once they were inside, she closed the ramp and sealed all the hatches. "This way," she said as she led them both into the cockpit. As she slid into the pilot's chair, she motioned for Reza to take the co-pilot's. "Strap in, and we'll be off."

Reza did as directed while surveying the interior with a cocked brow. "An...interesting ship. How long have you owned it?"

"It's been about four years now," Rilanna said. "She's never let me down. I've got holding cells in the back, and quite the arsenal in the aft cabin. Though, I don't get her out much since I'm on the station, but this is nice...to at least go out and about for a little bit."

"I only leave the station on business matters. Although, this is somewhat of a work-related affair as well. We're surveilling criminals--" Reza pursed her lips and furrowed her brow pensively at Rilanna. "Rilanna, where do you plan on hiding weapons? I'm more than certain there is no room beneath the dress."

Rilanna grinned. "I have a holster attached to my inner thigh," she said. "It's small and attaches using the same technology as the masks. It won't hold up in a big fire fight, but it's enough to get us to safety if need be. The holster is made of a special material that works wonders at getting around weapons sniffers. The chain around my wrist and the one around my ankle are also weapons. The one on my wrist can act as an explosive, and the one on my ankle extends into a monofilament whip."

Reza's brows arched and she nodded her utmost approval. "So you believe there may be trouble at the party?"

"There could be," Rilanna said. "But, I'm not certain. However, I do like to be certain that if there is trouble, we'll be able to get out of it alive. The weapons I'm able to carry on my person tonight are here to keep us both alive through the party, and back to the station. If there is trouble, I'll be ready for it. If there isn't, then everything is fine."

"And if you carry out your plan in stealth and with great caution, there will be no need for weapons. Do be careful tonight, Rilanna. I don't mean only because an employee of mine caught with weapons would harm my reputation, but because--" Reza smiled as if biting back the sudden affliction of sentimentality. "Just watch your step, Rilanna."

Rilanna smiled in the middle of the silence, and then nodded. "Thanks," she finally said. "I'll be careful, and I'll keep us both safe. No unnecessary risks tonight. We surveil and then we come home for some Mon Calamari shrimp and calduin."

"Plus a delectable Corellian chocolate mousse," Reza added with a laugh. "After spending a night with those intolerable creatures, we'll deserve a treat."

"I agree," Rilanna said with a laugh. "Now, let's go to that party." She activated the thrusters, and only a few moments later they were blasting off toward the planet's surface and into New Plouton.

---

"Party Crashers, Part 2"
by Shrezade Anoran
and Rilanna Kir

with a special guest appearance by Merrick Braston and Liam Zaneth

Location: New Plouton, Tae'Karada
Date: Niothe 7, 4ABY

***

Once on the planet, they caught a cab to the location of the party. As they were waiting for the vehicle to arrive, they each were getting long looks from the people passing on the street. Ril shook her head. "You'd think they've never seen two women dressed up for a party before. Though, maybe they're shocked because we're two women wearing dresses you can't see through."

"I think that's precisely it. They're filled with utter disdain at being unable to view our bare parts. I would have thought the Admiral wanted to do away with that demeaning tradition, but he too is a man, after all..."

Rilanna wrinkled her nose and made a sour face at the thought of the whole situation. No wonder she lived on the station. The cab finally arrived and they slipped inside. The driver started off at once toward the hotel/mansion once they'd given him the address they wished to be taken to.

"You will never catch me in one of those things," Rilanna said. "There are things that I wish to remain private between myself and a lover that will not be displayed for all to see. Not that I've been displaying much to anyone but the inside of my shower lately."

Talk of relationships always darkened Reza's mood, just as it had now. "You're better off without a man, Rilanna. Just focus on your career. That's all that matters."

"I don't want a relationship," Rilanna said. "And, my career does get my complete focus. Though, sometimes when not working, it would be nice to roll through the sheets again. Though, it's definitely not a necessity."

Reza cleared her throat and shifted uncomfortably in her seat. "I...do not blame you for having female desires, but after a time, you learn to control them and eventually banish them. It would not do in my line of work to be engrossed with such...lustful thoughts."

"Lustful thoughts occupy a very small percentage of my day and life," Rilanna said. "It's not like I'm some Karadan pervert who can think of nothing less. Sometimes it's just nice to act on those urges. Though, I think it's been about a year and a half since I last did."

"Busy women such as ourselves have other things to fill our time with...and better things as far as I'm concerned." Reza tucked a loose strand of golden hair behind her ear and smoothed out the skirt of her gown. After a time, the cab halted before the New Plouton Arms and Reza reached into her purse, retrieved a credit chip from within and handed it to the driver. "Thank you very much, sir," Reza said in a less than sincere tone. She nodded at Rilanna to push open the door, but smiled to make it appear as less of a condescending gesture.

Rilanna opened the door and led the way out. She waited for Reza on the curb, and once they were set, headed together up toward the large front doors. Rilanna appraised the guards and figured that, despite their bulk and obvious hardware, they'd be fairly easy to subdue. Though, she could see a few others inside, and they looked to be a little more competent. "His security is actually decent," she told Reza. "That is if you discount these two at the door."

"You won't do anything rash now, will you, Rilanna? The evening has barely begun," Reza said in jest.

Ril laughed. "Nothing rash," she said. "They may be working for a crimelord, but their job here tonight is to keep the peace."

"A goal I hope you share with them, Rilanna." Reza and Rilanna reached the top of the stairs and shooting them both her most glamorous smile, Reza handed the one guard her invitation. The plastisheet card was scanned and of course passed inspection. The other guard had already begun the process of checking them both for weapons, and as he passed the device over Rilanna, Reza forbade even the slightest worry line to wrinkle her brow. "Not too close, if you would," Reza said imperiously. "That would be highly inappropriate."

The guard completed his scan without even a grumble and the two were allowed passage within. "Decent security," Reza mentioned softly to Rilanna, "but inadequate."

"As I said," Ril said as they stepped inside. "Those two are the weak links in their security. Though, it could be a ploy to lull any troublemakers into a sense of complacency. At least, that's the way I would do it if I were going to have those two watching my front door. Though, security should be secure. You don't want to set a trap that has the chance of backfiring. I would guess that most of the people here tonight are still carrying their weapons, or a weapon of some sort. Though, as long as we keep clear of arguments, we should be fine. And, I will gladly act as a peacekeeper tonight."

"My dear, I really think I should hire you as my head of security." Reza was rarely impressed by anyone, but Rilanna Kir had done so on more than one occasion, making her one of her most valued employees, as well as the most dangerous. She was unpredictable and far too clever. Reza would have to watch her closely, and making her head of security would be the one way to do it. That, however, would take her away from her duties down below, and Rilanna's abilities were best put to use there...for now.

"You need not stay with me the entire evening, Rilanna," Reza said, leaning towards Rilanna to keep her voice low. "In fact, it would be best if you mingled."

Rilanna grinned. "Then I'll do that," she said. "Though, I'll stay close enough to keep an eye on things. I don't want anything to get out of hand, and for you to be caught in the middle of it."

"I should be able to keep myself relatively safe. If anything happens, I shall use that enormous creature sitting on the throne to deflect whatever threats might harm me."

Rilanna glanced toward the throne and frowned. "Oh gods," she whispered. "He's huge. I didn't realize that people...came in that size. I'm surprised he isn't crushed by his own weight." She glanced toward Reza. "If you get near him, be careful. He's large enough to produce a gravity well."

Reza gnawed on her lip to suppress a laugh, but it was no use. She lightly placed a hand on Rilanna's arm and emitted a full, throaty laugh that she hadn't heard from herself in a long time. "Oh, Rilanna, I think you may be right." Reza swallowed back the rest of her laughter, allowing only a few errant chuckles to run loose. "I will stay a safe distance from him, and not stray too far from you. If I run into trouble, you will know it."

"If there's trouble, I think everyone will know it." She glanced around. "But, for now, I think I need something to drink. I just hope they have something that's not intended to intoxicate. I can't make observations if my faculties are impaired. Would you like something?"

"Punch," Reza said succinctly. She glanced at Rilanna and elaborated. "They always have punch at events like this."

"I'll get the stuff that isn't filled with alcohol," Rilanna said. "Unless you're in the mood for something with a little more kick."

Reza grinned slyly at Rilanna. "Why, my dear, I'm beginning to think you insisted upon coming so you could get me inebriated enough to give you a raise."

Rilanna laughed. "Is it working?" she asked. "One non-spiked punch coming up." With that, she strode off toward one of the tables filled with punch bowls and other assorted beverages. It took a little bit of time to figure them all out, but she finally found one that the caterer behind the table insisted contained no alcohol.

"Oh, thank you, Ril," Reza said as she accepted the punch glass filled with blood-red liquid from her associate. "An odd colour for punch, but perhaps a suitable one, considering the nature of profession those in the room this evening practice."

"Well, the man behind the table assured me that there was no alcohol or...actual blood in there. It's all dyes and colourings." She took a sip and smiled. "Fruity. Not bad for punch. It actually beats much of the bars in the lower levels of the station as far as taste goes."

Reza grimaced involuntarily and replied vigorously, "I would know nothing about that." She brought the glass to her nose and smelled the punch compulsively. Once she was assured it truly was consumable, she brought the brim to her lips and took a sip. She tasted no trace of alcohol and made a brief sound of surprised approval. She allowed herself another taste of the punch, then smiled at Rilanna. "Acceptable."

Ril smiled. "That's what I thought too," she said. "And, believe me, you're not missing out on those bars. Most of the drinks are watered down, and those that aren't would kill you if you drank them. If you don't have to go there, it's best to avoid." She drained her glass and set it on the tray of one of the caterers walking by. She glanced toward the front of the room. "The band's pretty good."

Reza was in the process of refilling her glass, dipping into the green punch instead of the red, as she replied, "Yes, but if only they would play something other than that jizz drivel. At a party such as this, I thought the host would demand more tasteful music."

"Jizz is the big thing," Rilanna said. "And, everyone wants to be the next Figrin D'an and the Modal Nodes or Max Rebo. I've heard a few of this guy's other stuff, and he's good. But, you're right. It definitely detracts from the mood." Rilanna picked up another punch glass and sighed. "Hopefully they're only doing a little of the Jizz. You can't even really dance to this stuff, though there are quite a few out there trying."

Reza absently drained her glass of the green punch, and filled it anew as she watched the band perform. The number they were playing ended and Reza took it as her opportunity to end the horrific torment afflicting her ears. She placed down her now empty glass upon the table and clutched Rilanna's hand. "Come. We are going to end this travesty immediately."

Rilanna let herself be led along, quickly grabbing another glass of punch from a passing tray as she wended her way through the crowd behind Reza. "Anything but jizz," she said. "I'd even take an out of tune baitar."

"Well, if that's what you want, that is precisely what you shall have." Marching with determination and purpose, Reza moved towards the stage and stopped abruptly before it. As the man on stage began starting in on another jizz number, Reza reached out and tugged on the hem of his pants. "You there! Come down here this instant."

From the stage, Merrick Braston looked back at the band and motioned for them to keep playing. With a shake of his leg to dislodge the woman like she was some small, noisy, overzealous pet, he stepped to the side of the platform and came down to where she and her friend were standing. "Hi there," he said. "How can I help you?"

Reza shook the stray strands of hair from her face and gazed up at the man sternly. "You can help me by ceasing that horrible cacophony, that's what you can do. I don't care what that rotund being asked you to play, I as a guest and a member of the general public am asking you to play something else." Reza looked back at Rilanna and urged her forward. "Tell the man what you'd like to hear, Ril."

"One of the songs off of your last album," Rilanna said. "'Hearts Aflame.' It has a very nice melody." Of course, the song was about two women falling in love, and the man would think that there was something between she and Reza, but Ril just wanted to hear the song. She glanced at Reza and almost laughed. She liked Shrezade, but definitely not in that way. She didn't need anyone in her life to make her a complete being. She was content with herself as she was, and only the occasional companion in her bed was all she required. And, that companion would be a male with the equipment to provide her with the satisfaction she required. And, she could still hold out for some time before her urges got the better of her. "And, it's got as different an arrangement as you can get from jizz."

"Then that's what we'll play," he said. "Can I go back now? 'Hearts Aflame' and no more jizz."

"Very well," Reza replied with an imperious brushing motion of her hand. She turned her back on the man and grinned at Rilanna. "Perhaps you can find someone to dance with...for surveillance purposes, of course."

Rilanna laughed. "Well, I imagine I just need to go stand over there and one of the men here will approach me to dance," she said. "Unless you wanted to dance. We could go out there and eavesdrop on all the conversations."

"Dance?" Reza asked with utter shock and disbelief. "I really think not, Ms. Kir. I do not participate in such lewd behaviour. I believe you should find another dance partner."

"Don't worry, Mrs. Anoran," Rilanna said. "You're not my type, and my suggestion to dance was in no way intended to be a pick-up. And, I really don't feel like dancing. There are too many people out there, and this place is filled with scum. I don't mind standing near them, but to have to touch them to dance? No thank you."

Reza felt immense relief fill her, but her implacable visage showed no trace of it. "Well then, Rilanna, shall we mingle? I grow weary of this party already, and I want our mission completed in due time."

Rilanna nodded. "Let's move over there," Ril said, pointing toward a table near where a large group of men were standing. "I think we might be able to pick up some information there."

Reza moved with her associate towards the gathering of men and whispered furtively to her. "How are you possibly going to carry out this plan without being noticed? You are hardly inconspicuous, my dear, even with that dress covering most of your flesh."

"There is a large plate of food at the end of that table," Rilanna said. "I'm going to eat some of those treats, while standing next to them. The earring in my left ear is actually a sound amplification and recording device. Makes it easier to eavesdrop on people. I never thought I'd actually have an opportunity to use it."

"I'm glad the money I'm paying you is being put to good use," Reza remarked. Approaching the large table, Reza noticed first the green punch bowl acting as focal point and veered towards it. "You go spy," she whispered to Rilanna. "I need a refill."

Rilanna walked over to the table and picked up one of the small treats resting on the large silver platter. She popped one of them into her mouth and fought back a wince. Chippin, she thought. Figures the fat bastard would serve chippin. Should have guessed it since the band was playing jizz. With a sigh, she continued eating, not letting on the displeasure the food gave her. Only the thought of Mon Cal shrimp later kept her from retching.

With her glass filled to the brim with bright, green liquid, Reza rejoined Rilanna, but not without making her presence known by accidentally bumping into her associate and sloshing the green liquid onto Rilanna's arm. "Oh dear me..." she said, steadying her suddenly disequilibrated body. "Oh, forgive me, Ril. There must be something slippery on this floor."

Rilanna looked down at the damp blue fabric of her sleeve and quickly shook the droplets free. "It's alright," she said. "Hopefully one of the caterers will come by to clear it up. We wouldn't want Weibran to slip there. That could end this little party real quick."

Reza frowned in concern for a moment, then said, "But then wherever will I find more of this green punch? It is absolutely wonderful. Have you tried any?"

Rilanna shook her head. "I haven't tried it yet, but it sounds like it's very good. Maybe we should just stay here and make sure no one else slips either. We don't want the party ending before it's time." She took another sip of her punch and swallowed hard before popping in another bite of chippin. "Do you like chippin? If you do, you might like these things. If not...well, there are some chips over there."

"Chippin?" Reza grimaced and took a large sip of her drink to wash away the taste even mention of the disgusting food item produced. Once the green liquid trickled down her throat, her face softened into a smile and she sighed. "No chippin, thank you. Now, please hurry and do what I brought you along to do so we may return and eat something that will not rot away our intestines."

"I'm doing it," Rilanna said with a smile. "One of them is actually talking about bringing some business to the station. I think we'll just have to cut him off before he gets there."

"My station? I seriously hope not!" Reza drained the glass quickly and shot a collective seething glare at the men. "If they think they're even stepping foot on my station, they will be pleasantly surprised and utterly remorseful." She moved closer to Rilanna and squinted her eyes as if it would better facilitate her eavesdropping. "What else are they saying? You are recording this I hope."

"Every word," Rilanna said. "Most of it is disgusting things about how much they like it here on the planet and the women here. And, they're also making some very lewd jokes about a merger with one of the female crimelords...someone named Oot Kovan."

"Yes, yes, yes. But anything useful, Ril? I don't care who they plan on taking to their beds. I want to know how I can do away with this scum."

"The one who plans to move his operations to the station thinks he's going to set up in the lower decks near the docking bay. He plans on setting up a smuggling operation from there. I'm also getting image captures to check through the Imperial database. We should be able to have security escort them directly to cells as soon as they step on board."

Reza clenched her hand into a fist and grinned. "Very good... Perhaps they will all learn through example that my station is not a place they should even think about conducting business in."

Reza brought the glass to her lips again, but it delivered none of the sweet green liquid she craved now. She whimpered quietly and reached out for the handle of the ladle partially submerged in the large bowl before her. Before her fingers closed around it, those of another grasped the handle and pulled up the ladle spilling over with the precious, green fluid.

She scowled impatiently at the thief and looked up to give him her most fear-inducing stare...until she saw them. Like two balls of pure ice that chilled her to the very bone, his eyes locked with hers and brought back the terror she felt upon first seeing them. Her empty glass slipped from her hand and shattered before her feet. She could not gasp or move. She simply stared helplessly at the man, incapacitated by those hypnotic blue eyes yet internally pleading with herself to run before they enveloped her.

"Mrs. Anoran," the man said with a disarming smile. "I didn't expect to see you here. I hope your station is doing well. I'm sure you'll be happy to know that Dani is doing fine."

Reza could not remember the last time anyone had rendered her speechless-- In fact, she did remember, and it was the man standing before her who had managed it. She forced one of her feet to cooperate and take a step back, but her legs almost gave out beneath her and she gripped Rilanna's arm to keep her standing. "You," she breathed. "Stay... Stay away from me."

Rilanna stepped forward to block the man from Reza. "I think you should go somewhere else, sir."

The man smiled. "I was just saying hello to my old friend, Shrezade Anoran," he said. "I'm not going to hurt you, Mrs. Anoran. Though, you do look like you've seen a ghost. Perhaps you should have a drink."

Reza's breathing came rapid and unsteady as she stared at the man over Rilanna's shoulder. "Don't you tell me what I need, Mr. Zaneth. You're a menace and a fiend. As far as I'm concerned, you belong in a room full of criminals, such as these."

"Two years ago, I would have agreed with you," Liam said. "But, now. I'm trying to walk the right path. But, a friend wanted me to come to this with her tonight. So here I am. I hope you're enjoying yourselves. This punch is good, don't you think?"

"It's disgusting," Reza spat. "Just as you are. Selling young girls to men for sex... Pathetic creature!"

"Selling--? I don't sell anyone for sex, Mrs. Anoran. I'm not what you think I am."

"You're most likely worse than I could ever imagine." Reza regained her backbone long enough to lean forward towards Liam and give him one of her most sinister smiles. "It would do me great pleasure if you would return to my station some day soon. If so, I would see to it that you were locked away for a very long time, Mr. Zaneth. Perhaps then, your vile and disgusting tendencies would be corrected." Reza straightened up abruptly and squeezed Rilanna's arm. "Come, Ril. I think it was time we left this party. The filth of the creatures in this room is making me sick to my stomach."

Rilanna gave him a glare as both she and Shrezade turned away and started toward the door. Before they could get five meters there were suddenly Stormtroopers bursting through the door with their weapons drawn and pointed at the scum within.

Reza emitted a short, dry laugh and grinned smugly at the white-clad officers. "Don't worry, Rilanna. Once I identify myself to them, we'll be free to go. I have an understanding with Tarkin that gives us a sort of immunity." She laughed again and nearly applauded at the Stormtroopers. "Right now, my opinion of him has become elevated! It's about time he did something about these parasites."

"I have a feeling the parasites are going to fight back," Rilanna said as they moved toward the door. "We should get out before we're stuck in a cross fire." As she pushed through the crowd toward one of the side exits, the air was suddenly split with a deafening explosion. Near the throne, bodies were tossed into the air. As she looked, Ril swore she saw Weibran the Hutt consumed by the flames on the opposite side of the throne. She steadied herself and Reza before the crowd could topple them.

"It's over," a man beside them shouted. "Palpatine's dead. The Empire is over!"

"No more tyranny!" "Long live the Republic!" "Get them! Kill them!" "Hey! Free food!"

Rilanna wove her way toward the edge, trying to get herself and Reza clear of the mob before things truly got ugly.

"What is going on here!" Reza hollered. She stumbled alongside Rilanna, tripping over the hem of her gown. It also didn't help that the punch she'd been dipping into had contained a sizeable concentration of Arulian rum. "This is madness. I am truly appalled! How dare they--" A hiccup rudely interrupted Reza's tirade, but it would have made no difference, for the sounds of conflict and blaster fire within the hall overpowered her shrill and voluminous voice.

"This is crazy," Rilanna said as she led the way toward one of the exits. A fight up ahead cut them off and she growled in frustration. With fluid motions, she reached down and took hold of a hidden seam running around the skirt of her dress and tugged. The fabric, held together by a microfilament band of high friction material came away easily, essentially shortening the skirt to just the other side of lewdness. However, the now shortened skirt gave Ril easy access to the small blaster strapped to her thigh. She quickly pulled it free and aimed it at one of the men ahead -- the one planning on moving his business to Drogen -- and fired. He went down in a heap. As she passed, Rilanna stooped to pick up his blaster, slipping hers into the holster and then attaching it to her forearm. "We're going out the side."

Reza emitted a sharp cry as she was flung away from her initial course and redirected towards an empty corridor. "A perfect example!" Reza shouted. "This is what happens when there is no established government to maintain order!"

"We can discuss politics later," Rilanna said as she fired a couple shots into a crimelord blocking their path. "Out here. Run."

Run? Reza was momentarily appalled at being commanded, but upon looking back down the corridor and seeing the orange blaster fire leaping from the hall, she thought it prudent to obey and did so. She tore off her mask and flung it over her arm. Once her vision was no longer obstructed, she found running much less difficult. "We'll need to find transportation!" she cried out to Rilanna. "But the streets will be in utter chaos after hearing of the Empire's defeat!"

Rilanna nodded as she blasted a thug who'd appeared out of nowhere. One of the crimelords obviously had his minions waiting outside and had them storm the place when things went sour. "We'll commandeer something on the street," she called back as she flipped her blaster to her other hand and shot one rushing out of a side room. "Through that trellis." She pointed and veered in that direction, but let Reza move ahead. "The street should be just through that garden."

"If I didn't know any better--" Reza let out a surprised gasp as they leapt over a tall shrub, clearing it just barely. A long slit tore through the side of her dress, but it allowed for more freedom of movement, and considering the urgency of their flight, she didn't mind revealing more leg. "As I was saying... Did you look at a layout of this place beforehand? You seem to know where you're going."

Rilanna grinned as she ran. "I took a peek," she said. "I didn't want to get in here, and not know how to get out if something like this happened. I try to never go into a place without three escape plans."

"And I'm assuming all three failed, and this is the last one." Reza dodged the overhanging branches of a tree, and when she came up, she found herself laughing. Excitement bubbled within her and their escape had all at once become more of a game than a strive for their safety. Once again, she owed an eventful evening to Rilanna Kir. "How much further, Ril?"

"Twenty meters and then to the left," Rilanna called out. "Then we should be out on the street. We just find a speeder, and get to the spaceport." She didn't want to say anything about the problems they might find there, but she knew Justice could make it out of whatever they threw up in front of her to stop their escape. "We may have to borrow a vehicle to get us there though."

"So you keep saying!" Strands of Reza's dishevelled hair framed her face and crept into her eyes. The hem of her dress was completely tattered, but she'd had little expectation of ever wearing it again so the fact that it was completely wrecked made no difference to her.

She was quickly nearing the escape route Rilanna had pointed out, and had begun crossing the garden towards it when a shrill whine travelled past her ear, followed by a spray of dispersed energy particles on the wall ahead of her. She turned back and saw another stray spear of orange blaster fire hurtling towards her. "Rilanna!"

Rilanna spun back at Reza's warning and in a heartbeat noticed the danger. She swung around, lunged forward, and knocked Reza out of the way. If she'd been a second later it would have ended their friendship right there, for now it would only be a little bruised. She brought up the blaster and sent a rapid volley off toward the person shooting at them. He disappeared, and she reached out a hand to Reza. "Come on," she said. "We have to hurry or we'll never make it."

They rushed out into the street where speeders were hurrying to get to the relative safety of their homes. Rilanna found one that was not in use by the side of the road. "This one," she said and easily shot off the lock. "Get in."

"Gladly," Reza replied with a sharp sigh. She bounded into the speeder and closed the hatch, catching her torn dress in it. She fired up the speeder's engines while awaiting Rilanna's entry, then looked through the canopy as floods of people gathered onto the streets. Reza figured rioting was next, but she didn't plan on being around long enough to see it.

Someone had taken an aversion to their leaving and had followed out to try shooting at them some more. Either that or it was the person who'd been trying to shoot them and hadn't liked it when Ril had shot back. In either case, Rilanna Kir wasn't going to let anyone shoot at her without returning the favour, and turned the man's left knee into mush with a well placed shot. Once he was down, she hopped into the other side of the speeder and pulled the second hatch closed. "Go!"

Reza studied the instruments frantically for the control that would set the speeder forward. She eyed the throttle uncertainly, but took a chance and wrapped her fingers around it. One of the revellers that had spilled out onto the street with the rest of the citizens celebrating the Empire's fall flattened himself across the speeder's canopy and banged upon it with a triumphant shout. Reza gave a startled cry and reflexively jammed the throttle forward. The speeder lurched headlong, shedding their unwelcome guest and sending the street dwellers running, conveniently carving a path for them upon the road. "Take the controls, Ril!" Reza cried as the speeder swerved erratically off course.

"Slide over," Rilanna said as she tried moving over to the seat where Reza was sitting.

Reza shifted a few inches, but her dress was still snagged in the door and prevented her from moving any further. "I'm stuck!" she shrieked. She released her hold on the throttle, sending the speeder askew again as she attempted to pull her dress free.

Rilanna reached across Reza and grabbed the throttle and steering mechanism. She tried to steady the speeder, but only managed to just miss a pedestrian trying to get out of the way. She couldn't help laughing as she tried to straighten their course and nearly ran into another speeder in the process. "No more dresses for us."

Reza finally extracted her dress from the hatch with a grunt and sat back against her seat with a relieved sigh. "No more masquerade balls either, and only Mon Calamari shrimp from now on."

"Oh, I could really use some calduin and Mon Cal shrimp right now," Rilanna said with a sigh. "And maybe a bath. I think a bath would be really nice." She looked at Reza and laughed. "Let's get the hell off this cess pool."

"And never to return again," she added with a grimace. She finally traded seats with Rilanna and allowed her to man the controls completely. That was the first and last time she would steer a speeder, but it was a surprisingly enjoyable experience, and one she would not have had the opportunity to engage in if it were not for Rilanna. She glanced over at her employee and smiled slightly at her. Rilanna Kir was turning out to be more than just an employee. Quickly enough, she was becoming Reza's first, clear friend.

"Let's go home," Rilanna said, and punched the speeder off toward the spaceport, and their ride back to the safety of the Drogen Shipyards.

---

"On the Edge of Eternity"
By: Maeren "Shiv" Shivral
Kaysa Zenarr-Tregat
Zale Tregat
Merrick Braston
Moril Astren [NPC]

With: Dargus Kandran and Liam Zaneth

Location: The New Plouton Arms, New Plouton
Date: Niothe 7, 4 ABY

***

Singing one of Merrick's songs as she walked, Shiv worked her way back toward the main hall where Moril was waiting for her. She'd also have to tell Zale that Kaysa would be there soon. She turned a corner, and nearly ran into a tall man with dark features. She couldn't help the creepy-crawlie feeling he gave her as she passed.

Pushing the feeling aside, Shiv continued on.

"It's a nice party, isn't it, Maeren," a voice behind her said.

The voice was very familiar, and it filled her with an ice cold panic. She stopped, unable to move.

"You look beautiful in that dress," the voice said again. "Quite exquisite. And, that tattoo is beautiful. I'm glad to see you're not hiding it. Though, I am disappointed that you've covered your beautiful throat. You should take that off and not hide it."

Shiv's body trembled and she could feel him drawing nearer.

"I've missed you, Maeren," he said. "My bed has been almost cold without you, and very few of my other slaves are as...voracious as you are in bed." He moved closer and brushed a hand across her shoulder blades. "Now, you know that your freedom was bought by the deal I made with Kaysa, but she swindled me. Now, you should convince her for me, to either give me you or my spaceport." He moved his lips close to her throat and kissed the spot where he'd had her branded. "If I don't get what I want, someone's going to get hurt. I'm afraid that you'll be the one, my sweet child. If I hurt Kaysa, she just gets more defiant. If I hurt you, she'll be more pliable." He reached hands around her body. One cupped a breast, the other disappeared between her thighs. "Perhaps I could mark you again. Another tattoo maybe, or pierce you. They would make nice leashes, don't you think?" He kissed her throat again, nipping roughly at her flesh. "Convince her for me, my slave girl, or you'll pay a dear price."

Shiv screamed and burst out of his arms, running as fast as she could toward the main hall. Behind her, she could still hear Dargus' laughter.

***

Shiv found Moril by one of the large punch bowls. He was startled when she flung herself into his arms and buried her face in his shoulder, but quickly recovered by slipping his arms around her and soothing her worries with gentle words.

"He's here," she finally whispered.

Moril only knew of one person who could frighten Shiv to the point she was at now. "Let's talk to Zale. He'll know what to do about the man. Here, have a little punch. It should help calm you a little."

Shiv sipped at the fruity drink and let it have its effect on her. "Nice," she whispered and handed him back the glass.

Moril kissed her softly. "I love you, Maeren," he said. "I know you have Merrick, and Kaysa, but I just wanted you to know."

Shiv grinned and kissed him back. "I didn't want to because of Merrick and Kaysa...but...but I love you too, Moril. You're such a good man, and so gentle. How could I not?"

They kissed again and he held her close for a moment. "Come on, let's go find Zale."

"Oh gods," Shiv said softly. "What about Kaysa? He's out there. He'd want to-- Oh gods, Moril."

Before he could say another word, the doors burst open and Stormtroopers started filing inside. Chaos erupted as Moril and Shiv pushed their way toward where they'd seen Zale with that Twi'lek woman. The crowd was blocking the way, and they decided to skirt the edge to reach Zale without having to plow through the sea of bodies. As they neared the edge, an explosion ripped apart the dais and sent people flying. Shiv was knocked off balance, but Moril caught her. The chaos that had been there a moment ago grew much worse.

Zale and the woman he'd been dancing with were thrown, and Shiv saw Merrick nearly knocked from the band platform. Rushing to Zale's side, they found him helping the Twi'lek woman who'd banged her head. Shiv quickly told him about Dargus as Merrick approached.

"It's crazy in here," Merrick said. "We have to get out of here."

Moril nodded, and Zale looked up at Shiv. "You two go find Kaysa. Merrick and I will help Oot. We'll be over on the far side of the band platform. We don't have long before this gets really ugly."

Shiv slipped a hand into Moril's and they rushed off without another word. With a shake of his head, Zale took one side as Merrick took the other, and they helped a very groggy Oot Kovan to her feet.

***

The way her body trembled still burned in his mind, the fear she seemed to send out in waves lingered. And, now for his next prize, Dargus started out toward the garden. She was seated on the edge of the fountain, one hand dipped lazily into the water while her thoughts travelled elsewhere. This will be too easy, Dargus thought.

He approached, confident that Kaysa would not recognize him. His footsteps were silent across the path toward her, until she finally looked up and saw him there. He smiled, a nice smile. Lull her in, and then let the terror begin.

Kaysa peered up at the man with a tentative smile and nodded a gesture of greeting. She really hoped he wasn't here to flirt or seduce her, for her head was still mildly sensitive and she wasn't in the mood to insult him into dissuasion. Instead, she thought it more effective to ignore him completely, and intended to return her gaze to the sparkling water of the pond, until a puzzled frown turned down her lips as some vague sense of recognition clicked into place. "Do I know you?" She laughed softly and shook her head. "I didn't intend for that to sound like a pick-up line. I just...I thought I knew you from somewhere."

He smiled. "I think we might have crossed paths once or twice," he said. "You do seem vaguely familiar as well, Kaysa Zenarr. And, so does that pretty little starlet of yours. She was happy to see me as well."

The shock and anger within rippled through her body and manifested themselves physically as spastic quivers. His face itself was a mask, a foreign guise to alter his identity, but his eyes peering from the mask were the same, and the malicious smile seemed even more sinister. The voice, however, made it all too clear who was standing before her.

Kaysa gasped as her mind screamed at her to run. Her hand splashed down into the water as she attempted to push herself off the fountain's edge and scramble away, anywhere but alone with Dargus Kandran. A botched attempt to flee was made even worse by the long gown she wore. She barely got two steps before the material tangled around her ankles and sent her stumbling to the ground. Above her loomed the figure of the man she'd dared to cross, and who now had the perfect opportunity to do away with her. "You wouldn't, Dargus," she whispered. "You wouldn't dare."

From inside his jacket, Dargus pulled out a vibroblade. "I could, and if I do not hear what I want from you, I very well may." He took a step closer. "Now, get to your feet." Once he had helped Kaysa to her feet, he gave her a withering glance. "You screwed me over, and now you're going to set everything right. You don't know the power you're dealing with, Kaysa. Do not make this difficult for you and your loved ones. I want my share of the spaceport, or I will take Maeren back and all you will ever see of her again are holographs."

Kaysa's fear reverted to simmering rage at hearing Dargus even say Shiv's name. "You can't touch her, Dargus," Kaysa shot back, regaining the composure she had moments ago lost. "You'll have to go through Zale Tregat if you want her, and believe me, Dargus, you're nowhere near ready for that." She smiled at him smugly and looked at the hilt of the vibroblade aimed at her stomach with disinterest. "You're weak. You've got nothing, Kandran. That's why the spaceport was so important to you. You're broke. If you want the spaceport, go bargain with Zale, but leave me and Shiv out of it."

"You're the one who screwed me over," Dargus growled, "and you're the one who will set things right." He activated the vibroblade. "Perhaps I should carve the initials of each of your lovers across your flesh. Or perhaps I can remove one finger for each time you deny my demands. Or start removing the skin from your body until you relent and give me what I want. Or, I will go, take Maeren from that ineffectual child she's dancing with and leave this place. I think you would regret not giving me the spaceport then. Give me what I want, and you only lose part of the spaceport. Defy me, and the price will go quite a bit higher."

Keeping her expression neutral and unaffected by his threats was proving difficult. Her mind kept returning to the vibroblade now dangerously close to cauterizing her flesh and doing some internal damage in the process. But, men hadn't intimidated her before, and she refused to let Dargus Kandran be any different.

A laugh rose deep in Kaysa's throat as she studied his features, which had been changed dramatically since they last met. "You can't fool me, Kandran. You're scared. That's what this disguise is about, isn't it? You're afraid the moment a fellow crimelord recognizes you, it's over. You're in no position to fight a war and you know it. All your threats...idle and mere posturing. You know if you hurt me or Shiv, Zale will take you down barehanded."

She took a step back and let loose with a derisive peal of laughter. "It's over, Kandran! You're nothing! Your day has come and passed. Just let the true crimelords take care of things around here. If you even try and play with them, you'll only end up getting hurt."

Dargus took a step forward, closing the distance again. "My agent is inside right now working at Zale," he said. "I am sure with her charms it won't be long until she's able to convince your husband that she's a much better option than you. Twi'leks are naturally more sensuous than humans. How long do you think Zale Tregat will be able to hold out against a very exotic woman who exudes sexuality? Zale may have strength in numbers, but I now possess a different kind of strength he will never be able to match. And, in a fight, I assure you he will lose."

Kaysa's rage pushed her a step forward and drew her precariously closer to the tip of the vibrodagger. "You lie," she snarled. "And I don't care who my husband sleeps with besides me, but rest assured, I will make him very aware of this informant you've got trying to seduce her way into his syndicate." A smug grin curled Kaysa's lips again and her hands went haughtily to her hips. "You know what your problem is, Dargus? Do you know why you'll never make it in this business? You talk far too much. It's no wonder they attempted to assassinate you. It was the only way to shut you up."

Dargus kept the smile from his face as Kaysa moved exactly into the direction he wanted. She would keep Oot Kovan away from Zale, and thwart any alliances that could form. Alliances that would set them against him. He almost felt disappointed that it was so easy.

He opened his mouth to fling back a retort, but the words never came. From behind, a vast explosion rocked the building, and sent a shockwave rippling out from the blast's center. Dargus fought to retain his balance, but found himself helpless as the concussion pushed him forward into Kaysa with a grunt.

Together, they stumbled backwards until Kaysa's footing finally gave and she fell back onto the grass below. It was only then, after the earth ceased tremoring and her stunned confusion dissipated, that the strange, searing pain radiating from her abdomen registered. A quizzical gaze fell to her hand clamped tightly over her side. Even then, she could see the blood seeping through the slits between her fingers, but only when she looked up again at the crimson-stained blade of the vibrodagger in Dargus' hand did she truly comprehend what had happened.

The look in his eyes clearly indicated he hadn't expected to injure her, but despite the pain from her wound, as well as her fading consciousness, Kaysa could do nothing but laugh wildly. Each lungful of air progressively forced a distinct taste of metal into her mouth, yet still she laughed. "Your face," she managed between the laughter. "Priceless, Kandran."

A choked, hacking cough, however, prevented any further mocking laughter. Her stare turned cold and unrelenting, and before her airway could fill completely with blood, she said in a menacingly calm whisper, "You wanted a war, Kandran? Well...congratulations. You've...got one now."

Dargus looked at the crimson stain growing on the front of Kaysa's dress. "You shouldn't have screwed with me, Kaysa," Dargus said. "You shouldn't have tried to swindle me out of what's mine. And, now you pay the price. I will accept the war, but first I will go claim my prize. I will take...good care of your girl for you. I will send you the holophotos of us in bed together...so you can remember how beautiful and filled with life she is."

Kaysa attempted to hurl a curse in his direction, but a spurt of blood filled her mouth and a choking gag cut off any retort she may have had. She grunted and swallowed back the tangy, viscous fluid drowning her airway as she crawled feebly towards the fountain. She used the edge to pull herself to her feet with the last iota of strength she had-- Not the last, for with that, she faced Dargus and stained his tuxedo with a volley of red liquid from her mouth.

"Go," she muttered, the sound muffled by the thick fluid spilling down the side of her mouth. Anger and helplessness filled her, and she swung at Dargus without the expectation of actually hitting him. Once her body, off balance and frail, hit the ground she emitted a howling cry. "Leave me in peace! Go!"

"Have a nice death, Kaysa," Dargus said with a smile. He glanced at the vibroblade still in his hand and shook his head. He laughed, and tossed the weapon to the ground near Kaysa. "A memento, to remember me by." With that, he turned and strode off toward the chaos filling the main hall. Maeren would be there; he'd just grab her and Elisia, and the three of them would vanish. At least Kaysa would be out of his way, and he'd use Maeren to bargain with Tregat. He would have what he wanted, and soon.

***

Shiv was still shaken from her encounter with Dargus, and then the explosion. Moril held her hand tight, but it did little to remove those eyes from her mind. The malevolent lust with which he gazed at her still sent shivers through her body.

"Which way was she?" Moril asked.

"Out this way," Shiv said, pointing. "We were by the fountain. I don't know if she's still there."

"We have to make sure she's safe. Zale'll probably be out this way soon, as soon as he's made sure that woman is safe. It looked like she banged her head good."

"I'm sure she'll be fine," Shiv said. "The medics will be here quickly. Kaysa was just out this--" She saw the crumpled pile of white fabric, stained red and her knees nearly gave out beneath her. She screamed, and rushed forward. Tears spilled down her cheeks as she ran, and then dropped next to Kaysa on the low-cut grass. "Oh gods! Oh Kaysa. Moril, she's hurt. It's bad. Get help. Please, gods, Moril, get her some help!" She reached down and took Kaysa into her arms, cradling her. "Oh gods, Kaysa. It was him, wasn't it? It was Dargus. Oh gods. It's all my fault. I should have-- Oh gods, Kaysa. Moril's getting help. Oh, Kaysa--"

The blood draining from her opened wound was tangible now as it drew out the warmth from her body along with her very essence. Her eyes flickered open, and in her bleary gaze she saw her beautiful star. She actively curled her lips into a smile, but even that was too much for her quickly waning strength to maintain. "Shiv..." She groaned as her head lolled against Shiv's arm. "It's...it's cold."

Shiv quickly put her arms around Kaysa and held her tight. "I'll keep you warm until help arrives, Kaysa," she said. "I'll keep you warm."

No matter how closely Shiv held her, the warmth simply drained away before her blood could absorb it. A part of her knew this was death approaching, but even in the limnal state of life and nonexistance, Kaysa's concern was for Shiv. "I'll be fine," she whispered raggedly. "Just... I love you. And Mer--" Kaysa groaned in pain and her body tensed. A violent coughing fit ravaged her and she clung to the thin fabric of Shiv's equadi tightly. "Tell them," she said desperately, gasping for air. "I love them. I love you... Oh gods...Keeve." Kaysa sobbed weakly as the coughing subsided. "He'll never know... And you," she whispered as her gaze fell to her abdomen. Her hands came up around herself and she cradled her bleeding stomach, the one that housed the little soul who would never have a chance at life. "I'm sorry, little one. Forgive me..."

Shiv looked down at Kaysa's hands, and sobbed. The words took a moment to sink in, but then she realized. "Oh gods, Kaysa," she whispered. "Oh gods, no. You'll be safe. We'll get you to a doctor. We'll save you both, Kaysa. You're not gonna die. You're not! You can't!" She looked around frantically. "Moril! Gods, Moril! Hurry!" She turned back to Kaysa, her tears falling freely. "You're going to make it, Kaysa. I promise you'll make it. Please, just hang on. Please, Kaysa. Don't leave me; please don't leave me."

"I'm trying..." Kaysa's eyelids trembled and threatened to close over her eyes forever, but she pushed back the urge to give in to the release death was offering her. She gritted her teeth and muttered a curse. She wasn't going to let Dargus win. She wasn't going to leave Shiv so he could close his hands around her again and destroy her precious star. But her body was betraying her and seeking out the liberating embrace of the darkness.

"Shiv... Take care...of Keeve. Let him know..." Kaysa's body arched off the ground as her wailing cry filled the courtyard. She choked on the fresh surge of blood filling her throat and fell limp against Shiv as the last breath of air in her lungs rushed out. Her body was numb, but her mind was still generating thoughts, and her ears processing Shiv's piteous sobs in that minute span of time where the blood in her body still coursed, yet was soon to be unable to sustain her.

A cloaking darkness veiled her eyes and slowly, everything ceased to exist as her body simply wilted. All that remained was the lingering thoughts in her mind, thoughts of Keeve and what he looked like now. Did he resemble her or his father? Would Zale enjoy being his guardian, and would Shiv be a good big sister to him? And Merrick... If only they'd had more time, she could have expressed to him how truly deep her love for him went.

There was no time, though, not for anything anymore, not even for last thoughts, for they too abandoned her, leaving behind only silence and a dense, ominous darkness in her mind. It was better this way, though. At last, in her life, she'd experienced a small piece of happiness that she could remember wherever she was to go to now, and although Shiv and Merrick and Zale would be sad, even they would have the happy memories to cling to.

Shiv's sobs increased in volume as she clung even tighter to Kaysa. Her words were incoherent, and her thoughts were just a senseless ramble. After what seemed like forever, the sound of heavy footsteps running toward her reached Shiv's ears. When she looked up, Merrick, Moril, and Zale all loomed above, fear and panic on their faces.

"It was Dargus," Shiv sobbed. "He did this to her. Oh gods. Help her. Please, help her!"

"Medics are on the way," Moril said as Merrick and Zale dropped to the ground next to Kaysa. Tears shone in each of their eyes, and Shiv could see in Zale's a rage greater than any she'd seen from him before.

Zale brushed his hands gently over Kaysa's cheeks and forehead while Merrick held her hands and wept bitterly into them.

The sound of booted feet echoed through the courtyard, and a moment later two men dressed in New Plouton Emergency Services uniforms appeared. As one of them opened their large medical kit, the other started firing off rapid questions that Shiv tried to answer.

"We'll need you to step back," said the one with the medical kit. He helped Shiv extricate herself from where she was, and the two of them quickly worked to save Kaysa's life.

The front of Shiv's equadi was covered with blood, but that didn't stop Merrick from taking her into his arms. Once there, Shiv's sobs grew in intensity until her whole body trembled despite the firm embrace she was held in.

It seemed like they stood there for hours while the men treated Kaysa for her injuries. Finally one of them looked up, his face grim. A slight smile twitched at his mouth. "We've stabilized her," he said. "We'll need to take her to the emergency room. She's lost a lot of blood, and she'll need surgery. But, I think she's out of the woods for now."

The small group that stood nearby, huddling together, breathed out a collective sigh. They all took a step forward as the medics lifted Kaysa onto an anti-grav stretcher.

***

They all hurried along as the medics pushed Kaysa's stretcher out toward the waiting airspeeder. Shiv clung to Moril while Zale and Merrick walked as close to the stretcher as the medics would allow.

Shiv couldn't stop crying, but at least Moril was comforting her. His voice was soft and gentle, and exactly what she needed to ease her pain...pain that resurfaced every time she thought of Kaysa. She couldn't look at Kaysa anymore, and turned her head away. And, he was there.

Dargus Kandran, with his new face and dark looks, stood across the room watching with a smug smile on his face.

Shiv screamed.

Zale spun around at the sound. His gaze found Shiv, and he followed where she stared off through the lobby. A lone man stood, nearly laughing as he watched them. Kandran, Zale thought.

With a growl, Zale surged forward. Time seemed to slow as he closed the distance between them. His hand disappeared inside his jacket and pulled out a small cylinder. He was almost on top of Kandran. He snapped a switch on the cylinder and it sprang outward to make a two meter staff. He lunged, aiming to drive the staff into Kandran's chest.

With reflexes like Zale Tregat had never seen before, Kandran's hand disappeared into his own jacket and pulled out a long, metallic cylinder of his own. He swung it upward as if to parry Zale's attack. As it cut through the air, a sudden spear of crimson boiled from the hilt until it was a meter long.

Zale cried out as the energy blade hit his forearm, slicing clean through. Hand and staff clattered to the ground. He dropped to his knees, body and mind going into shock as he slid to a stop in front of Dargus.

"No!" Shiv screamed and tried to surge forward, but Moril's arms looped around her waist and pulled her back.

Dargus Kandran gave Zale a menacing smile as he lifted his blade up over his head and then swiftly brought it down to cleave the crimelord in two.

Centimeters before Zale's face, a blade of cobalt suddenly manifested, stopping Dargus' before it could connect.

Dargus growled out his frustration and looked up into the eyes of the interloper. He should have known without looking, but he needed to see to be certain. His old enemy stood there, recognition dawning. "Hello, Kace," he said. "You look like you've seen a ghost."

"No, but I'm about to make one." With that, Liam Zaneth used his lightsaber to push Dargus back and away from Zale. "And, this time, I'll make sure you stay dead."

"What makes you think you'll get out of this alive," Dargus said, as he sent a series of thrusts and slashes at Liam, testing his adversary's defenses. "You've not been training very hard, have you? You're slow."

Liam parried away each of Dargus' attacks, and blocked the banter from his mind. Dargus knew how to handle the lightsaber. It was as if he concentrated all his energy on that, for just this very moment.

"Yes," Dargus said with a smile. "Exactly this very moment. It would have been too easy to have my men cut you down under a hail of blaster fire, but where's the fun in that? No, I wanted to kill you myself, and this is the best way. So, I have spent every waking hour when I wasn't having sex with some beautiful lovely -- oh, how is Yelara by the way? Does she still call out my name in bed? -- becoming a master of this weapon."

"Get out of my head," Liam rasped as he drove Dargus back with a volley of attacks. He had him against a wall, and lunged forward to have his lightsaber disappear into the wall. Liam looked up. Dargus moved swiftly across one of the ledges above. Without wasting time, Liam looked above and followed him upward.

"I do miss Yelara," Dargus taunted. "She was damn good in bed. One of the best I've ever had. Oh, congratulations on your baby. Now, does it have your eyes or mine?" With another lunge, Dargus leapt out onto one of the chandeliers hanging from the ceiling.

"I'm going to kill you, Dargus," Liam growled. "And, this time, I'm going to make sure you're dead." Then, he too jumped out to meet Dargus on the chandelier.

Dargus had another plan however, and backflipped off the swinging lighting fixture. As soon as he touched the ground, he hurled his lightsaber at the chain holding the thing in place. Liam let out a startled yell as the chain was severed, sending him crashing to the floor.

He struggled to free himself from the tangle. As he did so, Dargus sent a signal to Elisia, and then rushed toward the exit. By the time Liam was freed of the chandelier, Dargus was gone. He cursed in every language he knew, and made up a few that sounded good.

One of the medics was attending to the man whose arm Dargus severed. And, the woman they'd been taking outside was gone, along with most of the crowd that had been with her. The young blonde girl and the scarred man were with the injured man, and then Liam recognized him: Zale Tregat, the man Oot had been spying on.

He could see that he was attracting attention, and he didn't like that. He glanced around and found Oot. After his display, he'd need to get out of here, but not before talking with her first.

***

Merrick held Kaysa's hand as they were all led into the airspeeder. He took a position on one side of the gurney while the medic took the other. He wouldn't leave her side, not for anything, until she was awake again. He felt the tears spilling down his cheeks again as he brushed fingers over her cheek. "I love you, Kaysa," he whispered. "And, you can't leave me. You promised you wouldn't, and I won't let you. You can't leave, Kaysa. You promised to stay." He kissed her gently. "And, I promise I'll never leave you for anything."

Merrick wasn't aware of the speeder as it lifted into the air and sped off toward the hospital. The only thing that registered in his world was Kaysa, and she was all that mattered.

---

"New Rules - Part II"
by Admiral Tarkin - Imperial Sector General

Location: Imperial Outpost, former Royal Palace, Arcadia
Date: Niothe 7, 4 ABY

***

The news had come as a huge bomb. The Empire was no more, and with it the Emperor. Tarkin sat on what was the former throne room and rubbed his forehead. There was no longer a Galactic Empire. And as if that was not enough his plan to end all crimelords at once had utterly failed. The troops had fallen back confused at the news of Palpatine's death.

He wondered what else could fail... No more Emperor, no more Empire, no more Death Star. And if those were so he was no longer an official Imperial Officer. He had no more someone to answer to. And then it finally struck him! He had no more someone to answer to! If he could get this right he could have more power than he ever did before! But he had to act fast.

He opened his direct Imperial Communication link. Most of the information there should be gone or accessed now by Alliance members. But he could still read the most recent news... The Rebels were entering Coruscant and soon a new Republic should be formed, and with it the formal end of the Empire. But many Imperials had managed to escape imprisonment, many were at large.

With no time to lose, Tarkin called upon his liaison, who came in fast to attend. "Have all the legions get ready. I will address them soon... And call upon all Red Guards at once in here! Also, have the planetary shields brought and the shields to the palace as well! And have SSD Nemesis brought up on a direct commlink to hear what I have to say to all the troops later on! Dismissed!"

***

A few minutes later he was standing in front of the Red Guards. Each of them bowed respectfully to Tarkin, one at a time and waited to hear whatever he had to say to them. Tarkin nodded to them all.

"As you have heard the Empire has fallen, and with it our Emperor. But his dream was ours too and I for one would rather die than surrender to the Rebels! In my family we always supported the Imperial cause better than anyone else. We created the Death Star project, we conquered systems, we ruled over sectors, we ended the Republic, we fought the Rebels. But all this was done with your aid as well... Now, I want to give you a choice. A choice of serving me as Grand Admiral and winning power, destroying all who oppose us! What say you?!"

The Red Guards kneeled down and said in unison. "We shall serve you, great one!"

Tarkin grinned. He could not care less for the Emperor's death but it was good politics that he said he did. He already had support from the Red Guards. Now for the remaining troops.

***

A few seconds later he had in front of him the whole of the troops. They filled all of the courtyards to a great extent. A podium was set up for Tarkin to speak and the commlink to the Nemesis was set up as well. Tarkin stood.

"Comrades in arms we were for the Empire. But that can no longer be... Our great Emperor has perished and the Rebels have taken control of Coruscant. But have we truly lost? Will we surrender? The very thought of it disgusts me! That is no way to meet the expectations that were once set upon us all! We have been hurt, but we may yet arise once more! I am proud for the way you served the Galactic Empire. Now I ask you to serve me as Grand Admiral! Together we are strong and will win over the Rebels who believe we are finished. We are not finished, and I say we show them thus! Serve me and it shall be so!"

The legions shouted in both rage and festivity as they heard Tarkin's words. It was obvious that they were ready to now serve him, and that they felt invigorated to fight for Tarkin and to know that someone still had enough vision to lead them to power and glory. Once more, after the Red Guard, Tarkin had managed to get cooperation and full support from his men. This left him glad enough.

***

Back inside the palace, Tarkin spoke to the Nemesis CO. He had support but he needed more. "I want you to gather all the Imperial starships and have them come to rendezvous here at Chimaeria. Also, send a fleet to Kuat Drive Yards and have them secure it, as well as the Sienar Fleet Systems. I want no mistakes General!" Tarkin said.

"Yes, sir!" the General replied before cutting off the communications. Tarkin grinned and rubbed his hands.

---