@Frauzet- RE: Stubble- *snorts* Hooray for drunken smugglers! I also liked the worries about smelling like whiskey. I imagine shaved Jorgan would look a bit like my friend's dog after mange necessitated a hasty and complete haircut- totally pathetic and ashamed of himself.

RE: Overbooked- No, punching the valet would definitely not help. I feel a little bad for him and everyone else who has to bend over backwards to accommodate the Sith, knowing they'll probably meet a quick and painful death if they don't. It's like The Devil Wears Prada, but worse. Also, I guess however non-psycho Cinar and Ru are compared to the rest of the Sith (at least as far as I've read), they'd still be pretty scary to most normal people.

RE: All Yours- Of course, Kaliyo's mind would go there. Somehow, I don't think this is what Thorns had in mind for the evening.

@Alaurin- RE: Satisfying my Curiosity- Sweetness for Malley I love it, especially the description of Jorgan. I often forget to describe companions and NPCs sufficiently, since everyone already knows what they look like. I

I'm waiting on the Nar Shadda ones until I've got Mallena further.

Mallena looked around nervously as she and Jorgan made their way through the deserted base. Where was everyone? The ensign had said that all the captured troops were to be shipped here. But who would ship prisoners to an abandoned facility? For a moment, she wondered if this was all some sort of elaborate trap, if the ensign had been a plant to throw them off Needles’ tail.

But no, that didn’t make sense. Sgt. Dorne had recognized him. Could she really be-?

Stop it, Mallena. You’ll never get anywhere if you constantly distrust everyone you encounter. Still, Havoc Squad had seemed trustworthy. No, you never trusted Needles. Stay on your guard, but don’t jump to conclusions. Besides, if Ensign Tane had been trying to lead her into a trap, she doubted he would have gone off on the Sgt. like that. It made him look less believable.

“You seeing anything?” said Jorgan over the helmet comm.

“Nope. You?”

“I’ve got a couple of life-forms deeper inside. Want to go check it out?”

“Of course.”

They crept through the dimly-lit corridors. It had all the markings of an Imperial outpost, down to the crest on stacks of crates. Jorgan pulled one of them open and pushed the contents around. “It’s just spare supplies, Lt. They must’ve cleared out of here in a hurry.”

“Maybe our lifeforms are back for one more load.”

“Or they could be scavengers with good timing.”

They finally found them in the base’s speeder garage: a group of Imperial troopers, maybe five or six of them, all embedded in cover behind tool chests and lifts. Fortunately, most of it was easily destructible, and it only took Mallena and Jorgan a few moments to mow down their opposition. Soon, the room fell quiet.

“One more lifeform, Lt.”

“I see it. Try to take him alive. Maybe he can tell us what’s going on here.”

They advanced toward the source of the reading, trying to walk quietly, though Mallena knew it was silly. Unless the man was deaf or in a coma, he had already heard the shooting, and if he was, it didn’t matter how much noise they made on the way there. She pulled out her sidearm, a medium-sized blaster pistol. Jorgan did the same. Pointing a rifle at someone was intimidating, but not very practical for interrogation.

A blur of motion streaked out from behind a pile of crates. Mallena and Jorgan trained their pistols on it. “Stop, or we shoot!” Jorgan shouted. The man stopped. “Hands up. Now, turn around slowly.”

The man obeyed. He was probably in his fifties, with a thick, dark grey mustache, and he wore a well-kept Imperial officer’s uniform. “If you’re looking for Needles, he’s long gone, my friend.”

She steped forward. “I’m not your ‘friend’. Now tell me where he is if you want to live.”

He laughed nervously. “I’ll need more of a guarantee than that, my friend. How about I tell you everything you need to know, and you let me go, no tails, no tracking?”

“Do you think we’re stupid?” says Jorgan. Mallena was more than willing to let him handle this one. She’d never liked interrogation, which it looks like they were headed towards, and he certainly looked more intimidating than she did.

“We’re not so different, you and I. It’s only chance that puts us on opposite sides. I’m sure you’ll do the honorable thing. I’ll tell you everything I know. But if you kill me, you’ll never reach Needles in time.”

“In time for what?” said Mallena, then immediately cursed herself for betraying her interest.

The man crossed his arms. “Promise you’ll let me go first.”

Mallena’s helmet com pinged. “Not now, Dorne. I don’t need you butting in here.”

The defector ignored her. “Lieutenant, do not trust this man! I served in the Empire with him. His name is Thorus. He’s a mass murderer, a war criminal.”

Jorgan stepped closer to the man.

Sgt. Dorne continued. “During my time in Imperial service, he ordered the slaughter of hundreds of civilians, mass bombing of non-combatant towns and villages, and torture of multiple innocents. Furthermore, he did all this in violation of direct orders from Imperial Command.”

“Not that it would have been a stretch for them to ask him.” She switched to exterior voice. “What do you have to say for yourself, Thorus?”

“I haven’t done anything outside of what I’ve been ordered to do. I’m an honorable man, I swear.”

“Oh really?” chimed in Jorgan. “Because I have your ‘friend’ Dorne on the line, and she says you’ve done quite a bit.”

Thorus’ face reddened. “I did what I had to do to secure my objective.” He gave Mallena a hard look. “Just like you, Lieutenant. I told you we were the same. All soldiers are. You, me, Havoc Squad, there’s no difference in the end.”

Mallena leaped forward and grabbed him by the shoulders. “We are nothing alike,” she hissed before throwing him to the floor. “Now tell me about Needles. Why is he here?” She brought her pistol back to focus on his face. Her arm was hurting again, and she had subconsciously dropped it to her side.

The color drained from his face. “He’s doing experiments on the rakghouls.”

“Why?”

“He- he wants to understand the disease.”

Jorgan cocked his pistol. “And?”

“He wants to turn it into a weapon! He left here a few hours ago. He said he was going to meet some friends in the ruins of the old transport system to get more samples. He didn’t say who they were, but they supply him with the creatures.”

“What else?”

“That’s all, that’s all I know. I gave you what you wanted. Now let me go!”

Mallena switched back to the squad channel. “We’re not letting him go.”

“I agree. Your call on what to do with him.”

She thought of the burned-out villages she had seen during her travels, the smoking corpses, the horrific wounds on one of her platoonmates after he had been held by the Empire for a week… “He needs to die.”

“Agreed.”

Thorus must have sensed their decision. He backed slowly away from them. “What? No! This- this isn’t fair!”

Sgt. Dorne’s tone was completely deadpan. “There seems to be some sort of interference with the feed from your armor cams. As per regulations, I am stopping recording to prevent signal interception. I’ll see if I can clear it up, Lieutenant.”

“No,” Thorus whimpered, turning to run. He barely got half a stride before Mallena and Jorgan’s shots both hit him, one in the head and the other square between the shoulder blades.

Sgt. Dorne reconnected as they exited the base. “Good work, Lieutenant. War criminals do not deserve the privilege of negotiation.”

“Yeah.” Mallena knew that the decision would bother her later, killing someone outside of combat always did, but she was still certain she had made the right choice. “What about these friends in the transport station?”

“There has been no report of population in that area, but sensor scans have been cursory at best. The area is infested with rackghouls, with only one known passable route.”

“So what’s the bad news?” said Mallena.

“The good news is that if we are correct, Needles is somewhere along that route. I’m sending you a map of it now. Will you be returning to base before pursuing?”

She checked her map. “No, we’ll lose too much time. Needles could be gone by tomorrow. We have enough supplies to go after him now.”

“Very well, Lieutenet. I apologize for the lack of intelligence. Dorne out.”

“Are you sure this is a good idea, Lt.?” Jorgan said as they started to walk. “We’re going to run out of rations if we stay out here longer than one more night, and we still have to get back. And you still haven’t had a medic look at your arm, have you?”

“It’s fine. I’ll be fine.” She kept walking into the bush, toward the first of the traitors.

Mallena and Jorgan crept around a corner in the ruined transport hub. Needles was close, she could feel it. The night before, they had camped just outside, under a massive slab of permacrete wedged into the ground at an angle. There had been no pazzak, only nervous energy and long watches in the dark.

When she had woken up, Mallena had paniced when she found that she couldn’t move her arm, but a few minutes of stretching had loosened it up. Jorgan hadn’t even noticed, and two perigen patches had gotten the pain down to a manageable level. She just hoped that finishing things up here wouldn’t take too long.

She almost bumped into Jorgan as he stopped suddenly. “Did you hear that?”

“Hear what?” She blushed inside her helmet, realizing that she had let herself get distracted by her injury.

“It sounded like someone talking.” They had their scanners on, but they couldn’t distinguish between human and rakghoul.

Mallena turned up her helmet’s noise sensitivity. “… so congratulations, Ensign Sevren, for your noble sacrifice.”

“That’s Needles, alright,” said Jorgan.

Another male voice. “But sir, I- I don’t- wait-!” The protests broke off into a long scream. On and on it went, hardly pausing for breath, but gradually growing more guttural and finally ending in a snarl.

Mallena shivered. “He’s not… turning his own men into rakghouls, is?”

Needles began to speak as soon as the noise stopped. “Ah, exquisite. I will be requiring more rakghouls for my work, Vorzoth.” More growling and snarling.

Now who’s Vorzoth? “I think it’s time to crash this party,” said Mallena. Making sure her rifle was fully loaded, she stepped forward.

“As soon as the weapon is completed,” said Needles, obviously in response to whatever that noise had meant.

“With it, we will decimate the Republic outpost.” He paused, turned. “Sgt, is that really you?”

Mallena took a few more steps toward him. “It’s Lt, now. Show a little respect.” He looked much more at home in a dark grey Imperial officer’s uniform than he ever had in Havoc Squad white and orange armor, and he had

acquired a few new cybernetics. His dark hair was still well combed, though, and he still had the same dead, grey eye she remembered. A pair of enormous, bipedal rakghouls stood on either side of him.

“Oh, pardon me. And look. I see you brought that pathetic little furball from Ord Mantell. Together even in death, how wonderful.”

“Talk all you want, Dorent. You’re not gonna live through this,” said Jorgan levelly.

Mallena chose to ignore the insinuation that she and Jorgan were a couple. “Even if we go down, we’re taking you with us.”

“Well, your timing is perfect. Just when I ran out of test subjects. It will hurt at first, but that’s merely your organs rupturing and realigning. It’s over quickly, I can assure you.” He grabbed for Mallena’s arm.

“Get away from me!” she shouted, jumping backward.

The rackghouls charged at her and she fired. The room erupted into a hail of blaster bolts, with her and Jorgan doing their best to avoid the rakghoul’s teeth and Needles shouting encouragement and firing a few shots of his own. He seemed confident that his pets would win, but Mallena wasn’t about to let them.

Shooting the nearest one twice, she raced toward the traitor. Her arm throbbed in rhythm with her heart. A blaster bolt caught him in the chest and he stumbled, but stayed up. He must have been wearing a blast-dampening vest under that fancy uniform.

She sprayed a stream of suppressive fire at his head, but it went wide as a blow from behind knocked her off her feet. Trying to get back on her feet, she instead collapsed again as her arm gave way. Swearing, she switched to knees alone, but by then it was too late. Needles was there, casually kicking her rifle away. “Impressive, really.”

She saw the gleam of a syringe in his hand, filled with some sort of pale blue fluid. “You’ll make a fun rakghoul.”

As he stepped toward her, she dove directly at him, throwing him to the ground. He reached up, aiming the syringe at her arm, but she managed to avoid it. Over and over they rolled, Mallena’s head knocking against the inside of her helmet. Desparate, she kicked at his legs and tried in vain to free an arm long enough to pull out her sidearm.

Finally, Needles made his mistake. Pulling her pistol out of its holster, she raised it toward his face-

And fell to the side as he shoved her over. He was on top of her now, syringe posed to infect her with the rakghoul virus. Time seemed to slow as it decended. She managed to grab his wrist, slowing it, but it still continued its path toward her face. Needles grinned dementedly.

Suddenly, his expression froze and he relaxed before collapsing on top of her. Mallena pushed him off and sat up. Jorgan offered her his hand. “Thanks,” she said, accepting the help. “He almost had me there.

“Your arm almost killed you there.”

“I know. I’ll get it looked at as soon as we get back. But first, we have to clear this place out.” Mallena stepped over Needles’ body, toward a large computer console, feeling lightheaded now that the effects of adrenaline were wearing off. As she did, she crushed the syringe with the heel of her boot. The crunching sound felt almost as satisfying as releasing a few blaster bolts into the computer. Black smoke billowed from it.

Jorgan was examining a row of tubes. “This looks like more samples of the completed rakghoul virus. What should we do with them?”

“What do you think?” Mallena wasn’t feeling too good.

“It wouldn’t hurt to take a few samples back to Research. I’m sure they’d appreciate it.”

Mallena blinked. It would certainly be useful, especially if Needles had managed to send his formula back to the Empire. Still… “It doesn’t feel right. We can’t let this ever become a weapon, in any form. Ever.”

“If you say so.” She could almost hear Jorgan frowning as he said it.

“I do. Now let’s destroy the samples and-“ The world began to spin and she felt herself topple forward before everything went dark.

Just when I was running low on inspiration for this piece, I decided to watch Saving Private Ryan for the first time, which gave me a heap of new passion, as well as being a really good, if rather saddening movie. It was the inspiration for the "wrestling around with sharp objects" that nearly kills Mallena. Fortunately for her, her backup has field experience.

@Charmedseed: Hehe, I felt Aric deserved a little fun since he's a lot more uptight in this legacy than with Mallay. Glad you liked it because there's more shenanigans coming up after these comments and we haven't seen the last of Natalia.

@Alaurin: Having the dancer be the informant is perfect. The “Platinum Package” upgrade thanks to Balkar made perfect sense in the context. Beyond that, the reasoning you had Natalia give for her success was entirely reasonable--service personnel are often regarded as little more than furniture.

Mallayse’s story shows Jorgan’s soft spot in a different way. It was touching, with both Mallayse and Jorgan skirting around the edges of their growing feelings for each other. It’s good to see an early glimpse of Mallayse beginning to deal with her demons.

@Mirdthestrill: WooHoo, we get the next part and I really enjoyed it. I liked how you had Mallena defer to Jorgan with regards to the interrogation, it made a lot of sense and gives more of a team feel to the squad. I try to do that with the troopers I write about as well. Then GAH....cliffhanger!!!! So mean.......

@Alaurin- RE: Satisfying my Curiosity- Sweetness for Malley I love it, especially the description of Jorgan. I often forget to describe companions and NPCs sufficiently, since everyone already knows what they look like. I

 

I'm waiting on the Nar Shadda ones until I've got Mallena further.

The two women entered the Rec room, both wrinkling their noses at the smell. The dim glow of the floor lights allowed them to see the two snoring male figures. The enormous grey Cathar had passed out on the couch, an arm and a leg hanging over the side. His other arm was flung across his eyes, a likely attempt to block out any light. The dreadlocked Human lay on his stomach, his face kissing the cool metal floor, and a half empty water bottle clutched in his hand. Both men were still fully dressed in the clothes they’d left the ship wearing the evening prior. The tall beskar clad Zabrak exchanged a knowing look with the curvy brunette before the latter hit the switch to turn on the overhead lights.

“Oh Gods…….just kill me now,” Jax groaned, pulling one of the cushions over his face to block out the offensive brightness.

“Me first,” Corso gritted as he crawled over to the trash bin, barely making it before he threw up.

“Great,” Risha snorted, “SeeTwo’s gonna love this……he just finished cleaning the fresher.”

“What happened to the fresher?” Jax whispered hoarsely, desperately wanting some water for his dry mouth, but afraid to ask one of the girls to get him one and certain he’d be joining Corso if he tried to get up.

“Guss happened,” Risha shook her head, before going into the galley to grab some water for the hangover victims.

“I found him passed out with his head in the toilet,” Akaavi explained, “I don’t think he holds his liquor well at all.”

“He doesn’t,” Corso muttered as he slowly got to his feet, “He puked at least five times on the way back to the ship last night.”

“Thanks, Rish,” Jax managed as he gratefully accepted the cold drink, a weak grin crossing his face despite the waves of nausea that washed over him as he sat up, “and in Guss’s defense, he was a little distracted by our contact and probably wasn’t paying attention to what Tanno was giving him.”

"I think we all were a little distracted by that, Captain,” Corso admitted sheepishly as he staggered over to a chair and sunk into it before gulping down half the bottle of water Risha handed him, "Like Dek, I was expecting a bouncer to be the agent and was floored when it turned out to be our dancer."

“No one more than Aric though,” Jax snickered, “especially after what she did to him…..”

******

A lone towering figure carefully made its way down the stairs, clutching the rail to support his shaky frame. His mouth felt as dry as Tatooine and he was beginning to wonder if someone implanted a turbohammer in his skull. Staggering into the galley, he pulled out a jug of water from the conservator and began chugging it as he headed for the adjoining room, nearly choking on it when he found Mako fast asleep on the couch. Those warm doe eyes fluttered open and she gave him a pitying smile as she sat up.

“Well, good morning sunshine,” she cooed, sounding way too amused at his predicament, “A little hung over, are we?”

“Gee,” Dek winced at his obscenely chipper medic, “How’d you guess?”

“It’s a toss-up between the smell coming from you and the fact that you’re still in your clothes from last night,” Mako smirked, “Oh, wait……I know. I think it might be that you look like you’re about ten seconds away from tossing your cookies.”

“You wouldn’t happen to have anything that can help with that, do you?”

“I might, but its gonna cost you,” Mako raised a brow, “I think dinner out would do nicely.”

“As soon as I’m feeling better, I’ll take you anywhere you want to go,” Dek promised, always happy to give her an excuse to wear that little red dress.

“I’m gonna hold you to that,” Mako called out as she left to grab some supplies from the med bay.

Mako returned a few minutes later, followed by their resident con artist. She directed the lanky Devaronian to sit next to Dek as she began setting out a series of stims on the small table next to the couch, “Luckily Elara had this little concoction in her arsenal and shared it with me and Risha. She figured you guys might need it.”

“So why’d you sleep in here last night?” Dek asked, watching as she arranged the stims into two rows, three different colored vials in each. Then she swabbed his thick forearm with disinfectant, inserted a vial into the injector, then depressed the first stim into his bloodstream. The effect was almost immediate and the pressure in his head dulled. After the second one, his stomach stopped rolling, and then the last one helped hydrate his desert of a mouth.

“You were sorta hogging the bed and I couldn’t get you to budge for anything,” Mako shook her head, “I figured I’d try sleeping in my old bunk, but the noise and stench in the crew quarters was unbearable so I came in here.”

“Sorry about that,” Dek frowned, feeling a little guilty.

“Don’t worry about it,” Mako shrugged, “It was kinda funny actually. Torian had the biggest smile on his face and kept whispering ‘Naula’ and ‘kandosii’la’ over and over.”

“Yeah, he got his first lap dance last night,” Gault chuckled as Mako swabbed a spot on his arm, “and stars was that woman amazing…….”

“I swear, I didn’t get one,” Dek insisted as Mako shot him a frosty look, “I never was into that sort of thing and you’re the only woman I want in my lap.”

“Cripes, the two of you are going to give me cavities,” Gault snorted, “but trust me, Mako, this guy’s got it so bad for you that he gave up the greatest lap dance ever and I had to turn it down because of that little injury you gave me.”

“Hey, you deserved that, bud,” Mako retorted, “You’ll think twice before pulling another stunt like that!”

“Yeah, yeah,” Gault muttered, sighing his relief as the stims began taking effect, lessening the pounding in his head, “I’m regretting it after what I missed out on last night….I still can’t believe she turned out to be our contact…..”

"Wait……the stripper is Balkar’s agent?" Mako choked, shaking her head in disbelief.

"Yup," Gault confirmed, "and if she’s as good at being a spook as she is at dancing, you guys are golden. Stars, I shoulda taken that happy ending instead of letting you pass it on to Aric……it would’ve been worth the pain."

“Hey, you got a dance from her,” Dek reminded him.

“Yes, yes I did,” Gault grinned, “but I’d have liked the one he got…….you did see what she did to him, right?”

“The whole club saw what she did to him,” Dek chuckled, “but I don’t think that was on his mind by the end.”

“Nope,” Gault sighed wistfully, “She’s definitely good at what she does.” Then a sly grin crossed his craggy features as he recalled the trip back to the ship, “What do you think happened when he went back? I know damn well it didn’t take him that long to find his wallet!”

****

“I’m never letting you get me a drink again, Vik,” Zev groaned, his tan face unusually pale, causing the slash across his right eye to stand out more than normal. He gently massaged the crown of cranial horns on his bald head in an effort to counter the pressure within.

“You need to toughen up, boss,” the Weequay chuckled, instantly regretting it as his own head resumed its pounding, “then again, maybe I’ll be a little more careful with my drink choices from now on. That was a nice selection they had in the suite though, and our lovely new friend did insist that we needed to behave like it was a real bachelor party.”

“I think we accomplished the staggering drunk part,” Zev grunted, putting his head down on the table.

“I’ll say,” Elara’s clipped voice called out from the doorway. Zev noticed her stiff posture as she entered the galley, setting down a small case on the table before going over to get some caffa.

Zev exchanged a worried look with Tanno who shrugged. “Is something wrong, Elara?”

“You mean other than the fact that I ended up sleeping in the med bay last night because of the awful racket you guys were making, not to mention the smell…..”

“Hey, wait,” Tanno interrupted, “Weren’t you two going to trade for the night?”

“We did,” Elara told him, “but apparently the Major forgot at some point in the night and climbed into bed with me.”

“Oh, damn, Elara,” Zev grimaced, “I’m really sorry about that…….I didn’t…..uh….do anything, did I?”

“No, sir,” Elara informed him curtly, “Judging from the lipstick on your face and collar, I’d say you’d already had enough female entertainment.”

Elara’s cool demeanor made sense now and Zev worried that he’d ruined his chances with the pretty blonde medic despite having kept his distance from the dancer. The hurt look in those forest green eyes tugged at him and he was quick to assure her nothing happened between him and Natalia, “It wasn’t like that at all, Elara. I handed her a water bottle between songs a couple of times and she gave me a peck on the cheek…….that’s it, I swear. I’d never ask a girl out then chase after another woman.”

“He’s telling the truth,” Tanno confirmed, “Jorgan’s the one who got all touchy feely with her…..”

“Dammit, Vik!” a harsh voice growled out, “I thought we weren’t going to discuss that particular part of the evening with everyone….”

“Awww, you still sore Vik volunteered you for that?” Zev snickered as his second in command entered the galley. A mollified Elara sat down and began setting stims out from the case she’d brought in.

“Well, I wasn’t exactly thrilled with the idea of getting a lap dance in front of the whole club,” Aric snarled as he hobbled over to the caffa pot.

"You looked like you were enjoying yourself,” Tanno shot back, “and if it makes you feel any better, I think she enjoyed that dance almost as much as you did.”

“You still in pain, Aric?” Zev asked, noticing the Cathar was favoring his left side a little more.

“Eh…..just really stiff when I first get up and some mornings are worse than others, ” Aric shrugged, his careful movements belying that nonchalant tone, “but Elara gave me something earlier to help with that……and the blasted hangover I had.”

“I’m sure last night’s action didn’t help that very much,” Tanno chuckled, “come to think of it, you were limping a little on the walk back to the ship last night……..over exert yourself looking for your wallet?”

“Not funny, Vik,” Aric muttered into his caffa, those bright green eyes avoiding contact.

“And speaking of your wallet,” Zev smirked knowingly, “When you going to tell us what happened when you went back for it?”

“When it snows on Tatooine, sir.”

*****

A few hours later, the whole group from the bachelor party, plus Bowdaar, Yuun, Elara, Risha, Mako, and Akaavi were gathered in the Rec room on Jax’s freighter waiting for Jonas Balkar to arrive.

“How well do you know Agent Bryce?” Zev asked his second in command.

“I’d say very well after last night,” Tanno chuckled.

“Shove it, Vik,” Aric growled, turning away before the Weequay saw the smile he was unable to suppress at the memory of her sweet whispers of pleasure that ended with that sultry voice crying out his name.

“Come on Aric, it wasn’t so bad,” Jax grinned, seeing the look on the other Cathar’s face, “and I saw that…….I’m guessing the lovely Natalia didn’t need another cold shower. Come on…….give us a hint at what went down after you went back for your wallet.”

“Not going to happen,” Aric insisted as he crossed his arms, the movement enough to release a trace of her scent from his jacket, bringing to mind soft skin and breathless sighs as more of those surreal images surfaced.

“Do we even want to know?” Mako raised a slender brow at Dek.

“No,” Aric muttered, feeling the tips of his ears heating up, “You don’t.”

“Alright, guys, let’s leave him alone,” Zev finally took pity on his XO when Balkar finally arrived, “Besides, no way is a girl like that going to be into your cranky a*s.” Ignoring Aric’s middle finger salute, Zev went on, “So what do you remember about our lovely contact?”

“Well, she was stationed on Ord about two years before your sorry a** got there,” Aric began, getting up and slowly pacing as he went on to explain that Natalia had been a cautious, intelligent soldier, but wasn’t the best when it came to the physical demands of an infantry unit. Her open, friendly nature made her popular with most of the unit though, and he’d liked her despite him usual reserved self. He felt bad that she’d been assigned to Ord since someone with her skillset didn’t really belong in a combat role and tried to figure out a way to get her transferred off the planet before something happened to her. Until then, he’d done his best to keep her working behind the scenes since she was extraordinary with technology as well as assessing people and situations.

Things were going alright until he busted her breaking curfew one night. He’d intended to let her off with a warning until she got snotty with him. Unable to let that slide, Aric decided to try to help her out while meriting punishment and assigned her to night watch detail for three weeks. He’d put her into a group he knew would be able to help whip her into shape. However, during her second week, Seps assaulted her post. Natalia managed to sound the alarm, but was taken down in the process. A Sep had sliced her open with a vibrosword and another was about to go for the kill when Aric arrived and shot them both.

"I never should’ve assigned her to watch duty. It was too dangerous for someone as unsuited for physical combat as she was," Aric’s voice lowered as he bowed his head, “She nearly died in my arms and it was my fault."

“You were trying to help her though,” Dek argued, “You said so yourself, she didn’t belong on Ord. If anything, the person responsible is the one who deployed her there in the first place. Anyone looking at her records could easily see active infantry wasn’t the best placement for her.”

“And she knew she didn’t belong there,” Jonas told them as he brought up her file on the monitor so they could all see it, “After her recovery, she’d been assigned to the Embassy here on Nar Shaddaa. The SIS also has offices there and it didn’t take long for her sharp mind and tech skills to get noticed. By that time, she’d made a full recovery and the physical therapy had slimmed her down and toned her up. We tested her and she scored off the charts in tech, situational assessment, and observation. She was put through some close combat courses which honed her body further. Then she was assigned to a field agent, me actually, until she was ready to go out on her own.”

“No wonder you didn’t recognize her, Aric,” Zev spoke up when Natalia’s photo from the Academy appeared, “I mean I can see the resemblance now, but if I hadn’t known…..”

The group stayed relatively quiet as they looked over her record, most of the stuff already having been mentioned by Aric, Jonas, and Natalia herself last night. Both Gault and Jax gave a low whistle when they saw the list of names Natalia had helped bring down while undercover at Club Paradise.

“Those are some pretty high profile men,” Jax observed, Gault nodding his agreement, “If any of them find out she’s the one behind it…..”

“That’s why we were pulling her,” Jonas nodded gravely, “Look, you guys got a raw deal and I’d love to help you, but not at the expense of my agent. So she’s got a month and I’m pulling her regardless of your situation.”

“That’s more than reasonable,” Zev replied, “I don’t want to put Agent Bryce in any more danger than she’s already in.”

“She’s always had a good head on her shoulders, so I know she’s watching out for herself,” Jonas sighed, “but there’s a reason we don’t let agents stay undercover for as long as she has and I’ll feel a whole lot better when she’s back with us.”

“Well, she gave us a good start already,” Dek told him and they filled the agent in on what Natalia told them in the suite.

“So what’s next?” Aric asked after they finished.

“I want a copy of those files Natalia gave you last night,” Jonas replied, “I’m going to run these guys through a couple of our databases that don’t allow remote access.”

“She also brought up a good point about that Wilks guy last night,” Gault reminded them, “His name hasn’t come up from these guys, but was a key player in the cover up. He was supposed to get a payout, but apparently didn’t.”

“That’s right,” Dek nodded, “I think she was hoping you could look into that Jonas.”

“I can do that,” Jonas muttered, making a note.

“What about the next visit,” Corso asked, “We’re not going to be around.”

“We got a call from Senator Dodonna just before you guys arrived,” Jax explained, “and we’re heading out later. I can’t say much, but we’ll probably be gone for a few days at least.”

“I don’t know how long we’ll be around,” Zev told them, “Our leave is almost up and I’m sure Garza already has an assignment for Havoc.”

“I can stick around and make the first contact,” Dek agreed, then smiled sheepishly as he saw Mako stiffen, “well, not me, personally…….Torian and Gault will be visiting Club Paradise.”

Gault shook his head, and coughed something that sounded suspiciously like ‘whipped.’

“and we can just go from there,” Jax agreed, snickering at his old buddy, “I’m a bit more flexible than Zev is, so I’ll make the next visit if its needed.”

“I think you guys should stick to using Comlinks to share information,” Mako suggested, “I think Agent Bryce is right about us being traced so we should avoid sending information through messages.”

“That’s probably a wise idea,” Elara agreed as they began getting up to leave.

“Anything else I need to know before I go?” Jonas asked.

“Well I don’t have any proof, but I’d be willing to bet Jorgan had sex with your agent last night,” Tanno grinned, bolting out the door as Aric grabbed a blaster.

I borrowed Elara’s hangover cure from Kitar’s Health story in the SFC AU thread.

Mando’a Translations from Mandoa.org:

kandosii’la=stunning, amazing

@frauzet: I liked the image of Jorgan covered in shaving foam. He’d deserve it after Ord Mantell.

Thorns and the poor valet was really funny as well. You captured Mako and Kaliyo very well, especially in the second story, and there was an interesting dynamic between her and Thorns. I liked how Mako handled Kaliyo.

@alaurin: Poor Mallay, those nightmares are awful. But at least Jorgan’s there! He and Mallay are cute together.

And everyone’s ganging up on him at the bachelor party. I had a feeling the dancer was their contact, but her connection with Jorgan was something I didn’t expect. And a new piece of the puzzle! I liked the morning after, especially Dek and Mako.

@Mirdthestrill: No need to apologize for not reading my stories, they’re not that good. I like your take on the Trooper quests and NPCs, it adds a lot to the story. Like Mallena wondering whether she can trust Dorne, or her arm injury bothering her.

“I will return, agent. Nobody stands against me and survives. I will come for you.”

Nova bolted awake, but the image of Darth Jadus’ masked face lingered before her eyes. She fought to calm her breath and surveyed her surroundings, training taking over.

For one moment, the unfamiliar walls and ceiling visible in the dim light confused her, but then she remembered where she was. Nova slowly eased out of the bunk, tucking her vibroknife in her belt out of habit. Then she left the room and headed for the bridge of the ship. Her brother’s ship. Vector was with his hive on Alderaan and Kaliyo had opted to spend their leave on Nar Shaddaa, so she traveled with Zeirko and his crew to the Imperial fleet.

The bridge was empty at this time of night. Nova leaned against the pilot’s chair and stared out into space. This sight always reminded her that there was so much out there, that the galaxy was filled with stars, planets, people, good and bad. It often helped to calm and focus her.

She couldn’t forget about her last mission. If she’d acted differently, she might have been able to neutralize Jadus completely. But then he could have had the chance to use the Eradicators, a risk Nova wouldn’t accept.

She heard another person enter the bridge, but didn’t turn. “Couldn’t sleep?” her brother asked.

Nova sighed and turned to face him. “Nightmares,” she admitted. “And you?”

The young Sith Pureblood leaned against the wall. He still wore yesterday’s armor. “I was trying to meditate. It seems we both have a lot to think about.”

That was certainly true. “I’d love to talk to you about my last mission, but it’s classified. And you have a lot of responsibility on you.”

The newly promoted Sith Lord brushed through his messy, black hair. “Yeah, that’s true. But it’s more than that. This whole deal with Nomen Karr and Jaesa has shaken some thoughts loose. The conversation with dear old father didn’t help, either.”

They were silent for a while, looking out into space. Nova knew Zeirko would tell her what was troubling him, she didn’t need to rush it.

“All the people I’ve killed. I just can’t forget. I’m a murderer,” he suddenly blurted out. Nova turned to him and saw that he had his head in his hands. “I’m a murderer, and I’ve never really allowed myself to be sorry for it because that would have only made me weak. I’m a warrior, I enjoy the thrill of a fight, but I never wanted to become the killer I am.”

On impulse, she closed the distance between them and hugged her little brother. He buried his head in her hair and Nova felt his slight shaking calm. They stayed like this for a while.

“Zeirko, I know that feeling. But sometimes, we have to give ourselves time to come to terms with our actions. Feeling guilt and sorrow reminds us that we’re still people, don’t ever lose that. In the end, you have to know that you did what you did because you had to and move on. I always remind myself that I’m responsible for many horrible actions, but that I’ve also done good things. Even though I wish there had been another way, every terrorist I’ve killed doesn’t get to kill more innocents. I’m doing what I have to to protect our home, our people. And ultimately, the only one you have to justify your actions to is yourself, your conscience.”

Zeirko pulled away a little, but didn’t break the hug. He attempted a shaky smile and suddenly, Nova remembered he was still very young. Seventeen years, three weeks and two days. “I know. In Intelligence, you get the chance to do good. But what purpose do I have? I let Jaesa look at me with her power, and you know what she saw? Light. It seems I’ve been successful with walking the light path – for now. But she expects a lot from me. I really want to help, to aid the Empire in becoming better, I just don’t know if I can do it. If it’s even possible.”

Nova smiled reassuringly. “You can do it. The fact that you try so hard shows your heart is in the right place. I have faith in you, brother. You will be a Sith I will gladly follow.”

Zeirko took a deep breath. “You’re right. But sometimes, I wonder what could have been. I’m a Sith, everyone just has to take a look at me to know that. I’ve been born and raised for it. Killing and manipulating others was always handled as completely normal, even expected of me. But I never had a choice.”

Nova sighed. “You had to deal with a lot, still do. But I know you can do it, bro. Don’t let others define who you are. You once told me that you don’t want to be twisted by the dark side, and I have faith that you won’t.”

“Thank you, sis, I really appreciate that. You’re right, as always. I can try to follow my own path, to stay true to who I am and fight for our people like you do, regardless of anything else. I do believe in our philosophy, at least in part, and I am still a Sith.” He smiled, obviously with newfound resolve. “I will do my best to live up to this goal.”

Nova pulled away and returned his smile. In moments like these, she felt thankful to have found a brother like him. They, like her and Neyla, shared a bond she had never felt with her biological sister.

After a moment, Nova returned her gaze to the stars. “I just wish there were more Sith like you out there. The Empire needs them.”

“And it needs Imperials like you even more,” Zeirko replied. “I think you should talk with my apprentice some time. She needs to see what you’re fighting for, and if you allow it, she’ll confirm to you that you’re still a good person. And after all, the obsessed idealists should stick together.”

Nova chuckled. “Funny, I don’t hear you complain about my idealism. If you think I should talk to Jaesa, maybe I will.”

They sat in comfortable silence for a while, gazing out at the sea of stars. Eventually, Nova got up and left. She returned to bed, trying to concentrate on good feelings, like thoughts of Zeirko and Vector, instead of visiting her regrets and fears. She felt that this conversation was important. Maybe it took confiding her reasons and motivations to Zeirko to realize she really meant them. With that thought, she let her training kick in and got back to sleep.

“What happened to the fresher?” “Guss happened.”

Okay so this makes me want to tell you the story of MY bachelorette party, or rather once my BFF returned me home QUITE drunk - probably the second most drunk I'd ever been (the first most time occurring at Dragon*Con because... well, D*C.)

So my girl brings me home to my then-fiance, who is required to carry my immobile form to the master bathroom, where I insist I need a shower. I sit in said shower until fiance finally turns it off and throws a towel at me. I state at that point that I am going to sleep in the shower. Fiance says no, you need to go to bed, and bodily hauls me to our bed (with the kind consideration of placing a trash can next to me. He's a smart man). I refuse to relinquish my towel, because, and I quote, "The towel is my friend." I snuggled that towel all night, and well into the next morning.

My husband loves to relate this story to anyone who will listen. I probably should have more of a problem with that, but it's just really damn funny.

Anyway, if you ever write another scene of debauchery like this one, you are more than welcome to use this as fodder for it. XD

Also “When it snows on Tatooine, sir.” is my new favorite line ever.

As a straight up lawful good personality myself, I find it REALLY difficult to empathize with the very inherent cruelty on the Imperial side of the game - I actually couldn't keep playing the Sith Warrior I rolled because it was too... it hurt. It was too reminiscent of the things I see on the news that make me question humanity.

So I really like your Sith questioning himself and what others' expectations of him are. You're doing the same thing I really loved (and struggled with) in the later EU novels; showing that the conflict isn't black and white, and people on both sides of the war are both good and bad. The idea that Sith are using the dark side of the Force, but that they're not inherently bad people - the choices they make aren't as simple as the other side can make it out to be (which periodically pisses me off about the way the Jedi behave - they should be better than that, isn't that the POINT of being a Jedi?). It's a great thing to read, but it's hard as hell to write, and I salute you for doing it.

The first warning I had something was wrong was the blast of heat across my cheek. Before my brain processed that it was a blaster shot, my reflexes took me up and over the rock. Water sprayed around me as I landed heavily. Not the best combat roll, but that wasn't anything new.

Another shot screamed past from across the river. I drew my own gun, pressing my back into the rock. In my suit, my breath echoed loudly, and I could feel the chill from the rapid current. More vitally, it overpowered the sounds around me. I could feel my heart begin to slow, and I took a slow breath. A third blasterbolt buried itself on the far side of the rock. I couldn't see it, but I could hear the whistle and thud, and the boulder vibrated. I stuck my head up for a second, trying to get a look at whoever was shooting me. The sonata of blasters made me rethink that. Obviously multiples, from the thick forest. Wonderful. I watched a few trails smash into the water and felt my rock shake.

The timing made me think three people, one of them with a faster reload time. Probably pistols, judging from the noises and the accuracy at range. Sooner or later, they were going to get lucky if I stayed in the middle of the river, presenting a target. I curled up a bit, keeping my head down. They stopped shooting, waiting for a better chance. Me, I took a deep breath. I could feel an idiot grin spread across my face, right to the mess of scar tissue on my cheek. My throat felt dry. Probably all the running water around me making me thirsty. I tensed my legs, making sure my feet were planted solidly on the gravel bottom.

When everything seemed ready, and I swore I could hear footsteps coming from my assailants' side of the river, I exploded into action. I dug my shoulder into the rock and heaved on the rock, flipping it over. At the same time, I triggered my jetpack. The water roiled around me in a huge flash of steam and a bright, chaotic arc of splash from the boulder. Dimly, I could hear the sound of blasterfire, but if they could hit anything in this mess, they were a hell of a lot better than I was. I spread my arms and fell back into the water.

My armor may be scratched and ugly, but it's in great condition. The dingy grey that makes me look so shabby next to the fancy mando boys and their fancy, shiny colors blends in really well with a lot of things, like grungy river water. The seals are tight, and I check the armor for cracks every night. So I sunk like a woman wearing half her weight in metal, but I didn't get wet. I let the river carry me, scrabbling along to encourage it. It's terrifying, being blind and deaf, at the mercy of the water. Everything was out of control, and I was clinging to a plan, a goal, by the tips of my fingernails. I could feel the river's power around me, and I knew that when I did get out of the water, my blaster'd probably be fried. Same goes for my rockets. The flamethrower'd be all right, though, and the jetpack, most likely.

I heard a whump from upstream. It took me a second to realize that it was probably a detpack. Well, that just made me outright indignant. If you can't find the body, you look harder. You don't just burn out where it could be. That's a waste of ammo. Unless they were planning on going into the river... I squinted, trying to make something out from the meter of water and silt above me. It didn't help that all those antics had pushed a lot of extra mud into the current. I twisted, trying to aim for where I thought shore was, and turned to crawl that way. My limbs felt heavy from the pressing water, and I didn't want to move too abruptly, anyway. The air was starting to feel a bit thin and hot inside the suit.

I decided it was time for another risk. I stood up slowly, fighting the current. When I got to the surface, I flicked the seals open on my helmet, getting a fresh draft of air that went down like a twenty-year-old malt. I came up facing the wrong way, but luckily for me, they were still looking upstream. It looked like locals, probably some of the resistance. They were packing some decent ordinance. One of them even had a carbine, which caught me by surprise. He must have been too far away to use it, and, more worrisome, smart enough to know it. They had pretty good armor, too.

I moved slowly, trying to make as little noise as possible as I waded to the shore. It wasn't enough. One of them heard the splashing and whirled. I saw the carbine come up. Well, to hell with doing things elegantly. Everything happened at once. I heard the yell of alarm. I triggered my jetpack and blasted for the trees. I had a moment to thank my lucky stars for my pack still working, and the bolts came flying. As fast as I was going, I could barely see anything. I just aimed for a gap between two huge, ancient trees. Something hit me heavily in the side, sending me reeling off target. I flung my shoulder out, curling my body up, and hit glancingly off the side of the tree. I could feel a dull heat blossom along my back. I landed on my feet, blaster already in hand. I squeezed off a reply on pure reflex... And gawked at it as nothing happened. Fierfek. The water had gotten to it.

Luckily for me, in the trees, no one was getting clear shots at me and I could move. I belted through the thick undergrowth, ducking and weaving like a scared womp rat. I could hear blasterfire splitting the forest around me, and I could only hope that no one got lucky today. The worst was I could feel air on my side. I hate feeling air on bare skin. It meant my armor had been ripped, and I was vulnerable.

I pressed myself, feeling my legs scream as I sprinted for one of the larger trees. I put my arm out, using it to help me pivot around the trunk. My shoulder stung again, warning me it'd be best not to trust it too far. I crouched against the bark, listening. I could hear footsteps, a spare shot, and the low hum of someone's personal shields.

When the first soldier rounded the tree, I blasted my flamethrower. He was lucky. He was inhaling. He died quickly. Fire's nasty stuff. It kills, sure, but it hurts, it leaves room for all sorts of wound rot, and it panics like nothing else. That's why I like it. I claim to be effective, but I'd have to be seriously drunk to claim to be a nice girl. Out of habit, I started a scan on his ID to confirm a kill, when I was rudely interrupted.

The carbine screamed at me, bolts shredding into the trees around me. I saw a few bright blossoms, and I hoped nothing would catch. I heard someone yell out a name. Probably the soldier smoldering in front of me. They couldn't think he was salvageable. My wrist beeped at me to confirm that the scan had gone off. Which was bad news for me, since it let me be pointed out. I flung myself to the forest floor as a detpack went whumph against my tree. The world dissolved into a white hot scream of sound. Dirt pecked against my back. It felt like my eardrums were still growling as I forced myself up. Somewhere in the back of my head, I noted absently my knees were shaking. And my arms. And possibly my teeth.

When in doubt, keep moving. I've lived my whole life with that motto, and, crucially, the word alive still applies to me. My legs got ahead of my brain, but instincts usually don't let me down. I could see shapes again, though little black dots were still flashing in front of my eyes and everything looked a bit foggy. I knew there was blasterfire somewhere, but I couldn't hear anything, and all I could do was hope not to get hit in anything critical, or enough to overload my shields.

It took me a moment to realize the flickering wasn't my vision. Some of the underbrush had caught fire. It possibly wasn't my fault. My heartbeat sped up, rampaging through my eardrums, and I abandoned my cover and ran for it. I could feel heat through the tear in my suit. Panic flared up in my chest, and I tried to push it back down. I still couldn't hear anything except my blood pounding. I blindly over my shoulder and choked on a curse as nothing happened again. Damn dead piece of desh.

I jumped and wove like a womp rat in a target sight. Sound ebbed back into the world around me, but none of it was comforting. I could hear blasterfire, and the urgent crackling of brush. I risked a look over my shoulder. The fire was spreading between us, and if it was cutting off my vision, it was probably blinding them. Score one for me. The rebels weren't heavily armored, and they couldn't wade through the flames like I could. Then I caught myself. Usually. With my armor ripped, my best plan was to leave revenge for another day and get moving now. I pelted away from the fire, through the trees, and left the cacophony behind me. As soon as it was quiet, I stopped to inspect the tear in my armor. It was a long, nasty scorched mark on the blastfiber over my hip. As soon as I looked at it, it started hurting, a phenomena I'm tragically used to. A slightly longer examination revealed that I probably wouldn't burn myself worse if I triggered my jetpack, so I took off and headed back to civilization, or at least someone who could manage a patch and pay me for the dead rebel.

@Jokad: glad you like Jorgan and Mallay together, they really are my favorite couple of the several I've written. I'll admit, I've had fun writing Jorgan in the guys' story though......I'd feel bad for all the crap Zev and Jax put him through, but he really was a jerk on Ord and I think he enjoyed the lovely agent. I figured most people might suspect she would be the contact but I'm glad their past connection was a surprise. Also, glad you enjoyed the hangover shenanigans.....I had fun writing that!

As for your story, I'll comment separately below for spoilers.

@Charmedseed: LOL, the "when it snows on Tatooine, sir," line was one of my favorites as well! Loved your experience on a rough morning after and I may keep that in mind. I think we've all had those 'what the hell did I do last night?' moments. Glad you're liking the guys' shenanigans!

@AKHadeed: Congrats on the wedding!!! Also, that was a fantastic action sequence there......I was tense the entire time, worried she wouldn't make her escape!! Nicely done!

@Jokad: I loved that opening line! Jadus always spooked me from the start, but my agent refused to bow to him. She deactivated the Eradicators as well. I also liked that Zeirko has regrets and doesn't want to be a murderer. I played my SW as mostly LS after leveling a very DS Inquisitor who was nuttier than squirrel poo.

The ship was quiet save for the gentle humming of the engines as it navigated the hyperspace lanes towards Nar Shaddaa. A lone figure was making her way through the dark freighter, its lights having been dimmed for a sleep cycle. She hesitated just outside the captain’s quarters, having second thoughts as a nervous fluttering stirred in her belly. Risha sighed, it wasn’t that she was having doubts about her captain, quite the opposite in fact. It wasn’t every day that a man was willing to die for her and ever since the wampa cave, she couldn’t deny her feelings for Jax anymore……and that was the crux of her dilemma.

For the first time, Risha wanted to throw caution to the winds and explore those feelings. She wanted to ignore the fact that she had a throne to pursue and a future already mapped out for her. A future that didn’t include a charming, honorable, and very sexy Cathar. Risha would eventually have to settle down and rule a planet. Someday, she’d even have to marry and produce an heir, a role couldn’t see Jax being happy in even if her people would accept a common spacer as a match for their queen.

However, after Jax spilled his guts about he felt, then shocked her by saying he’d leave her alone since she’d made it painfully obvious she wasn’t interested, Risha felt an overwhelming sense of loss. With a heavy heart, she began to wonder if she’d made a huge mistake by ignoring her desires and turning him down for the past year. Then less than an hour after having it out with her, Jax was willing to make the ultimate sacrifice so she could get to safety. That opened her eyes to what a truly remarkable man her captain was and it shamed her that she was too much of a coward to take a risk which was so minor in comparison. She’d done nothing but go over her turbulent thoughts for the past week as Jax healed and they finished up on Hoth. She had a sneaking suspicion that Master Ka’van knew her thoughts during the brief time they’d spent in the med bay watching over an agitated Jax, but the often smug Jedi kept both of those things to himself. Despite the fact that he rubbed her, and sometimes Jax, the wrong way, Risha was eternally grateful they’d run into him after the incident in the wampa cave because she wasn’t sure Jax would’ve survived his injuries if it hadn’t been for the powerful Jedi’s quick action. Even with the Force healing, her captain ended up spending nearly two days in the kolto tank and moved stiffly days after.

It was while Jax was in the tank that Risha decided to stop trying to deny her feelings and worked on figuring out what to do about them. She knew it might be years, even decades before an attempt at the throne of Dubrillion could be made and she saw no reason why she and Jax couldn’t spend that time together. As long as they both knew and accepted the inevitable fact that she’d be leaving one day. They already had a friendship of sorts, they’d just be adding a physical relationship to that. So as long as they left love out of the equation and kept things casual, ideally no one would get hurt when the time came for her to move on. At least that’s what she kept telling herself as she worked up the nerve to take the next step.

He’d been subdued since coming out of the tank, his sole focus being their mission on Hoth, which turned out to be both a success and a failure. They’d found the so called ‘cloaker’ and were horrified to find out it was a force sensitive alien, Trick, who the mindset of a frightened child after the abuse he’d taken. Jax, Risha, and Bowdaar took out Shai Tenna while Corso protected Alilia and Trick. After the fight was over, the backstabbing Weequay was dead and Jax put Alilia in charge of the White Maw, ensuring that no one would ever find out about Trick. Alilia, in turn, made a pact to include him in any dealings the White Maw had in the future as well as any profits they made. Senator Dodonna was furious when Jax told her the cloaker was destroyed, but reluctantly agreed it was worth it since it meant the White Maw no longer had it. They alwo gained another crewmate when Jax, very reluctantly took Guss in after he promised to share the vast storehouse of inside knowledge he had on Rogun’s operations as well as medical training, both points working in the shifty Mon Cal’s favor.

After Hoth, Risha had been looking for an opportunity to get Jax alone so they could talk, but one never presented itself. Finally, she couldn’t stand waiting any longer and decided to seek him out in his quarters while the others were sleeping. She took a deep breath and slid the door open, an appreciative smile curving her generous lips as those brown eyes took in the scenery, the memory of the first day they’d met surfacing.

“Oh, and there’s a couple things you need to keep in mind since you’re going to be around for a while,” Jax warned her, “One- You’re going to be living with two men that might not always remember to put the toilet seat down…..deal with it.”

“After dealing with that pig, Skavak for this past week, I think I can handle that,” Risha shorted, “and two?”

Jax stepped closer, a wicked smile crossing his features as those blue eyes smoldered, “and two- I sleep naked and that’s not going to change just because there’s a woman on board.”

While Jax and Corso eventually got in the habit of putting the toilet seat down, the former never changed his sleeping habits and Risha couldn’t help but admire the sleeping and very nude figure in the large bed. The blanket was on the floor and the sheet was wrapped around his waist and one long, muscular leg. The grey Cathar lay on his stomach, tilted slightly causing him to face the doorway. The pillow his brawny arm was hugging kept her from seeing most of his chest, but she was able to get a good glimpse of the nice expanse of his broad back as it narrowed into a trim waist, and a small portion of his fantastic derrière just before the sheet covered him. She let her gaze travel back up to his face, relaxed in sleep, and she could see the three parallel scars running down the left side of it in the pale glow of the floor lights. She shivered a little when she thought about his revelation of where those scars came from, his callous attitude about sex making a lot more sense now. Then something blue caught her attention and she spotted the stuffed nexu on the nightstand, a giggle escaping before she could help it. She covered her mouth, but it was too late and the figure on the bed groaned a second before those blue eyes fluttered open.

His eyes slowly focused as he came awake, immediately spotting the silk clad apparition in his doorway. He sniffed the air, catching the warm scent of lavender and vanilla that he’d come to associate with her, but this time it was stronger with a hint of a musk that was uniquely hers. His body tightened at that telltale sign of an aroused woman and a low growl escaped his throat. He shook it off, reminding himself that he’d promised to stop pursuing her as he sat up, running his clawed fingers through his thick black mane in an attempt to get himself under control before he did something stupid. But she came to you……

Puzzled at that, he cocked his head at her. “What are you doing in here, Risha?” he whispered gravelly, “Is something wrong? A problem with the ship?”

“No,” she replied, stepping in the room and closing the door behind her, “I just needed to talk to you.”

Jax glanced at the chrono sitting on the nightstand, a little embarrassed by the stuffed toy next to it, and slightly annoyed that the woman he’d been rebuked by several times over decided to come to his quarters clad in a silk robe that left little to the imagination under his keen eyesight, “It’s the middle of the sleep cycle, Rish. What did you need to talk about that couldn’t wait until it was over?”

“Us,” she stated simply, arching a brow at him as she moved closer.

“You’re going to have to explain that one,” Jax growled, as thick arms crossed over his broad chest and those blue eyes narrowed at her, “Because after a year of being turned down, I had the distinct impression that you weren’t interested in an ‘us’ at all.”

“No, Jaxzin,” she admitted, “I was very interested, trust me.”

“Could’ve fooled me,” Jax snorted, his heart beginning to beat faster as saw lush tanned curves through the gape in her robe when she moved closer.

“I was just conflicted,” she sighed, tucking an errant lock of the rich chestnut tresses that tumbled down her back behind her ear, “I didn’t want to be another notch on your bed post, but I didn’t want to get involved in an emotional attachment since I have no idea how long I’ll be around. I do intend to claim the throne someday.”

“and now?”

“I can’t deny what I feel anymore and I don’t want to,” Risha whispered, reaching a hand out and cupping his face up towards her, “and while I can’t promise you a future, Dubrillian has the sole claim on that, but I can promise you all the time I have until that time comes, be it weeks, months, years, or even decades. Is that enough? Is that something you can handle? Because I don’t want to hurt either of us.”

Logically, Jax knew Risha’s plan was flawed. It was wishful thinking to hope no one would get hurt, but he was willing to risk it, logic be dammed, because he simply couldn’t hold himself back any longer. He reached up, grasping her hips in his hands and pulled her into his lap.

“It’ll have to be enough,” he whispered, just before claiming that tempting mouth at last.

“Oh, no you don’t,” Zev chuckled, the tall Zabrak blocking his cursing XO from chasing after the laughing Weequay, “I don’t want to have to explain to Garza how our explosives expert managed to get himself killed by friendly fire on shore leave.”

“It wouldn’t be friendly fire,” Aric growled, “and I wasn’t going to kill him……just severely maim.”

“Hey, Elara,” Jax called out, snickering at Zev trying to keep Aric from going after Tanno with a blaster, “Can you hold up a sec? Guss is still in rough shape, you got any of those hangover stims left?”

“I brought some extras just in case,” Elara nodded, following Jax to his crew quarters.

“Before I go Dek, you got a minute?” Jonas asked as Zev headed for the ship’s exit after suggesting his XO go cool off.

“Sure,” Dek replied, his brow furrowing, “What’s on your mind?”

“Let’s go back in the rec room,” Jonas suggested, fixing the red Zabrak with a pointed look.

“Alright,” Dek agreed, having a suspicion what the agent wanted to talk about.

“Hey, Dek,” Mako called out, “The rest of us are heading out. I didn’t sleep that well last night and these bozos are still recovering.”

“I’ll be there in a bit,” Dek smiled at her, “I could use a nap myself.”

“One of you boys mind carrying that part on your way out for me?” Risha directed at Gault and Torian, pointing at a large crate, “I’ve got a few twerks to make to the ship before we leave Nar Shaddaa.”

Torian and a reluctant Gault picked up the crate and carried it out, followed by Risha, Mako, and a curious Blizz who pleaded with the pretty engineer to allow him to watch.

A few minutes later, after a quick chat with Tanno about lightening up on Aric, Zev was heading back to the ship to see how Elara was faring with Guss when he spotted his cousin walking down the ramp with Balkar. Curious, he decided to speak with Dek before fetching Elara, and went over to the pair just as the agent turned to leave.

“I’ll let you know if I find anything out,” Jonas told them both, “and you do the same. Otherwise, we can talk after you take the first drop next week.”

“So what was that all about?” Zev asked his cousin, nodding at Balkar after the agent got out of earshot.

“He wanted to warn me that I could have some extra trouble incoming,” Dek sighed, “Apparently sh*t’s about to hit the fan with the whole Master Kellian Jarro fiasco.”

“Uh-oh,” Zev’s voice took on a worried tone, “Did the Mandalorians find out he’s……”

“No,” Dek shook his head, “Master Jarro is still under the radar in an SIS safe house. I don’t even know what planet he’s on. However, somehow his padawan managed to regain some of the memories he’d altered and ratted me out. Luckily, she still believes her master is dead, but now some other Jedi Master, Jun Seros is prepping a witch hunt.”

“You’d better watch it, Dek,” Zev warned, “We’ve already got targets on our backs…..”

“I could say the same to you,” Dek retorted sharply, the tension starting to weigh on him, “Sorry, cuz, but General Rakton isn’t exactly one to take lightly. I heard his name a few times while working in Imperial space, and he’s methodical and ruthless.”

“All the same, watch yourself. Maybe you shouldn’t stick around for our next drop. I’m sure Jax can take care of it.”

“Nah,” Dek waved it off, “Me and my crew have been invited to a get together at the Star Cluster in a few days. The former Great Hunt champs want to honor us for taking down those Blacklist targets.”

“Never thought I’d see you mingling with the Mandalorians,” Zev shook his head.

“I never really expected that to be honest,” Dek sighed, “But winning the Great Hunt restored honor to my mother’s clan and while your parents didn’t approve me leaving the military the way I did, nor my choice of careers after, I’m glad I was able to do that at least. And its been nice to learn more about that half of my heritage by being amongst her people.”

“As well as find an excuse to hunt down a certain Senator and his corporate buddy,” Zev added, “I told you, I understand what you and Jax intend to do and in my own way, I’ve been trying to clear our names too, but those recordings have either been hidden extremely well, or destroyed. As for my parents, they’re coming around.”

“Something tells me I won’t be their favorite nephew anytime soon,” Dek snorted, “but I have no regrets. I wish my mom could’ve lived to see her clan’s honor restored though.”

Zev patted his cousin on the back, “I know she’d be proud of you……your dad as well.” A broad grin crossed the tan Zabrak’s features, “He always was crazy about your mom.”

“Broke his heart when she died,” Dek murmured, unable to keep the sorrow out of his voice. Then his sharp green eyes spotted Jax deep in conversation with Bowdaar and Akaavi, “Speaking of broken hearts, what do you think of Jax’s situation with Risha?”

“I’m not so sure about it,” Zev sighed, “It was bad enough when he lost Raney. I just wish I understood more about what mating for life entailed for his kind.”

“Aric might be able to help us with that,” Dek suggested, spotting the tawny Cathar striding down the ramp.

“By the Ancestors,” Zev exclaimed, “Why didn’t I think of that before?!”

“Because you’re not as smart as I am,” Dek grinned.

“Well, at least I’ve never walked naked into a girls’ shower before,” Zev shot back, then motioned for his XO to join them.

“Oh, that can’t be good,” Aric nodded towards Vik and Gault who had their heads together as they walked towards the hanger’s exit.

“Yeah, that could be a disastrous friendship,” Zev agreed, “We’d better keep an eye on those two.”

“So what’s up?”

“Dek and I were wondering about something…….”

“I swear, if this is about last night…..”

“Nah,” Dek grinned, “We were just teasing, that’s all. It’s kind of nice having someone else be their target for once.”

“Hey,” Zev shot back at his cousin, “Jax was usually the one who started it and you gotta admit, you were a bit on the uptight side……not as bad as Jorgan here, but close.”

“If you called me over to take some more cheap shots, I’ll be going now,” Aric growled, “I think you guys had enough fun at my expense last night.”

“Take it from someone who used to be the butt of their pranks,” Dek clapped his shoulder, “They could’ve done much worse and have as Zev so kindly reminded me a few minutes ago.”

“Somehow I don’t see it getting much worse than having everyone watching a stripper……kark, I can’t even say it.” Aric muttered, the tips of his ears burning again.

“Oh, it can,” Dek replied, knowing how the other man felt since he too tended to be a more private individual. “You see, back when we were serving together, Jax decided I was being too antisocial with the ladies.”

Zev started laughing, immediately knowing where his cousin was going, “Well, you were a bit on the introvert side, cuz and it annoyed the crap out of him because your strong, silent demeanor drew women in a lot easier than his charming personality. You were 'mysterious.'”

Dek shook his head and went on, “Anyways, our unit was deployed to a new base in the sector to help defend it while they were finishing construction. I was out running training drills and those idiots decided to pull a prank.”

“For the record, Jax came up with the idea….”

“And you helped him pull it off,” Dek snorted, “So I finish with the drills and you know what it’s like……the first thing you want to do is hit the shower.”

“What did you guys do?” Aric raised a brow at his CO who was laughing so hard tears were in his eyes.

“Have you ever been on a base during construction?” Zev finally managed.

“Once, not long after I graduated.”

“You know what the temp living areas are like then…..showers and barracks.”

“Yeah, little more than large tents, small area where you can shuck your clothes and put them in the laundry bin, shelf for towels, then you walk into the showering area……just a big open space with taps along the wall. You exit on the opposite end and go in the back entrance to the bunk area.”

“Yup,” Dek confirmed, “and the doors are labeled with removable signs, which is exactly what Jax did while this jacka** held me up for a few minutes. He made a wisecrack about me smelling like a bantha, then offered to take my boots to the barracks since he was headed there. I was more than happy to take him up on that and double-timed it to the showers. Keep in mind, we’d only been there a couple of days, so I was still getting used to the layout and when I saw Jax near the door, I assumed I was walking into the men’s showers.”

“Tell me they didn’t…..”

“Oh, they did,” Dek confirmed, cuffing his laughing cousin upside the head, “I went in, stripped, grabbed a towel and entered the shower area only to find out I was surrounded by a room full of naked women.”

“Come on, Dek,” Zev snickered, rubbing the spot where Dek smacked him, “We did you a favor. After all, you did end up going out with one of those girls.”

“Yeah, after weeks of being too embarrassed to even look a woman in the eye,” Dek shot back, “Anytime I walked past female soldiers, all I heard were whispers and giggles for days. So trust me, I know how you feel, Aric, and I did feel kinda bad for pushing Naula off on you last night.”

“I don’t,” Zev grinned, “Your cranky a** needed to let loose and besides, I think she likes you.”

“I actually have to agree with my cousin on that,” Dek waved off Aric’s sputtering protests, “whether it’s from your past or just last night, that girl was definitely interested.”

“And I don’t think I’ve seen you as happy as I did when you caught back up to us after going back inside for your wallet,” Zev added, “So I know something went down between you and our lovely friend and…..”

“And we’re done prying, Aric,” Dek interrupted his cousin, sensing the Cathar’s embarrassment, “It’s your business what happened when you went back into that room. We actually called you over to talk about Jax.”

“We’re a little concerned about him and this ‘casual’ relationship with Risha,” Zev began his jovial features sobering, “and we wanted to ask you about that. I know your species mate for life, but is it that written in stone?”

“Jax was pretty into Raney and it wrecked him when she was killed,” Dek elaborated, “Jax talked to us about this relationship with Risha and that they’re keeping it casual since she’s going to pursue the throne at some point. After what he went through with Raney, I don’t want to see him hurt again when she leaves.”

“So, can you maybe fill us in a little?” Zev asked his XO, “Help us understand what the Lifemate thing is really about. I mean is it a law or formality among your people?”

“Well, first off, it isn’t a law or rule or anything like that,” Aric explained, “It’s more an ingrained part of us, like an instinct. Once a Cathar finds his or her mate, there’s a connection…..a bond so to speak.”

“So what really happens when the other dies or leaves?” Zev asked, “Can the bond be broken?”

“That’s hard for me to answer,” Aric sighed, then shot a wicked smirk at his CO, “Since I’m about as good with ladies as you are, sir, I haven’t found a mate yet so all I can tell you is what I’ve heard second hand.”

“I don’t know Aric,” Zev snickered, “You were doing pretty good last night.”

“Yeah, our new lady friend looked pretty happy,” Dek teased as Aric glared at both of them, “Sorry, couldn’t resist…..like I said, it’s kinda nice not being the target anymore. As for the lifemate stuff, second hand info is fine, we just want to understand.”

“One thing you have to understand is that it’s not an instant thing,” Aric told them, “You don’t just meet someone and know they’re your mate right away. The bond forms over time…..same as any relationship really. I’ve heard of people losing a mate before the connection is fully developed.”

“And what happened?”

“Well, when I was just a kit, one of my uncles lost his mate. They hadn’t had the ceremony yet and had only just begun to realize the bond was there,” Aric answered, “I was really young, but I remember Mom and Dad talking about it. It’s like he shut down emotionally and started seeking out women anywhere he was, never sleeping with one more than once or twice before moving on. It was purely physical for him.”

“That sounds like what Jax was like after Raney was killed,” Dek exchanged a look with his cousin, “At first he was angry, raging at the world, but we figured most of that was mourning for Raney and anger at that karking sham of a trial and our demotions. He became reckless and dangerous even at times.”

“But then he just sort of quit,” Zev shrugged, “He and Dek resigned their commissions and he acquired this freighter. That’s when he started going through women like crazy……and trust me, he had no trouble finding willing ones. Jax has always been an open and friendly sort, especially with girls.”

“I spent a lot of time on this freighter before Braden contacted me,” Dek nodded, “and I never knew what I’d find aboard. His callous attitude was shocking after seeing him with Raney. Jax wasn’t a bad guy about it though…..he always made sure those women understood full well he wasn’t looking for anything permanent and if they couldn’t accept that, he didn’t sleep with them.”

“He probably hadn’t completely bonded with her then,” Aric confirmed.

“So can it happen again? Can a Cathar form this connection a second time?”

“It’s possible I suppose,” Aric contemplated, “My uncle never did, but maybe he would have if he lived longer. That reckless stage was his downfall and after reenlisting in the military, he took on a suicide mission and was KIA.”

“I’m sorry we’re asking these personal questions, Aric,” Zev told his XO, “We’re just worried about Jax, that’s all.”

“It’s alright,” Aric held up his hand, “I just don’t have any firsthand knowledge to give you guys.”

“We appreciate anything you can tell us,” Dek nodded, “So…..any thoughts on what might happen if Jax forms that bond with Risha and she leaves.”

“That’s hard to say,” Aric sighed, “Usually its death that separates Lifemates. Our people don’t have divorce since it isn’t a law. There’s no way to ‘unbond’ that I know of, which is why Cathar are warned about getting involved with people outside our species. There are other species that have Lifemates or some version of that, but many Humanoids don’t, so….”

“So they don’t understand the bond that forms and what it really means,” Dek finished, understanding what the Cathar was getting at.

“I don’t like this, cuz,” Zev frowned, “I don’t know Risha that well, but from what Jax says, she’s determined to pursue Dubrillian’s throne and I don’t think she intends to bring him with her.”

“I don’t like it either, but what can we do?” Dek shook his head, “Jax is a grown man and I’m assuming he knows what’s at stake, especially after Raney.”

“Jorgan?”

“Dek’s right, there’s nothing you can do,” Aric answered, feeling bad for their friend, someone he considered one as well, “You can’t control who you fall in love with, so Jax is making the best of it.”

“But he was going to stop pursuing her,” Zev argued, “He was going to try and move on…….maybe we should just talk to him, make his see reason.”

“And what?” Aric countered, “All that’s going to happen is that you’ll alienate your friend and he’s going to need you when that girl leaves him.”

“Aric’s right, Zev,” Dek sighed, turning towards the hanger exit, “There’s nothing we can do.”

From her position underneath the freighter, a silent Risha watched the three men go their separate ways as the little Jawa kept working. The look on her face showing that she’d heard the entire conversation.

For Dekkyn, I deviated with the ending of BH Act 1 a little, hope everyone’s okay with that. Despite what happened when he served in the military, Dekkyn still supports the Republic and would never knowingly and willingly kill a Jedi.

“I could use a hand,” Mako announced as she presented her bare back to the room’s other occupant, “zipper’s stuck.”

Dekkyn couldn’t resist brushing the nape of her delicate neck with his mouth as he eagerly complied, slowly bringing the zipper of that form fitting burgundy dress up, “Please tell me we don’t have to stay long.”

“I’m beginning to see what Jax meant when he said you were antisocial,” Mako giggled as his thick arm snaked around her waist to pull her in closer, “The party’s in your honor, big guy, so we really should stick around for the duration.”

“You certain?” Dek murmured, letting his mouth drift over that sweet spot at the juncture of her neck and shoulder.

“Yes,” Mako reiterated, the breathless whisper of her voice letting Dek know how much he was affecting her, “and that’s really not fair……”

“Neither is making me go to a party and watch you all night in this dress,” Dek pointed out, “when I’d rather be using the time much more pleasantly.”

“and now I’ll be stuck there thinking about that,” Mako sighed, “Thanks a lot!”

“Well, since I hate to leave you wanting,” Dek chuckled softly as he pulled the zipper back down, kissing the back of her neck, another sweet spot for her, as he did so, “I’d better take advantage of you now.”

“Dekkyn…….we shouldn’t…..” Mako protested weakly, her body immediately reacting as those large hands peeled her dress off.

“Why not? Torian and Gault already left to take the drop at Club Paradise and Blizz is tinkering outside the ship,” Dek whispered huskily in her ear as he hooked his thumbs in the scrap of lace that was her underwear and pulled them down with her dress, “and since you insist we spend our evening at this party…..”

“Which starts in half an hour…..”

“I thought women liked to be fashionably late.”

“Good point,” Mako relented, stepping out of the dress and turning around to unbutton his shirt, smiling in appreciation as she her hands ran over the warm red skin of his broad chest just before he captured her mouth in a scorching kiss that left no doubt that they wouldn’t be making the party on time.

*******

Agent Natalia Bryce was lounging in one of the dressing room’s plush chairs, eyes closed as she rested her head against the soft back. Her break was almost over and she mentally prepared herself for the evening rush. It’d been nearly a week since she’d done the now infamous bachelor party and every day since, she’d been requested for several private dances and parties. As usual, she’d declined the parties, the owner never making his girls do more than one a week, but ended up doing quite a few private dances a day. A couple of times a guy tried to touch her inappropriately, only to earn a hasty exit courtesy of the beefy bouncer, Jake, who also happened to be her friend.

Despite the backlash of attention, Natalia didn’t regret the things she’d done to Aric or the liberties she allowed him during that last dance. She’d been telling the truth when she explained those unusual actions to the group during their time in the private party suite after. She hadn’t been expecting him to be chosen to replace Dek for the erotic lap dance that ended the show downstairs, and felt bad that they did. She saw the shock on his face, followed by unease as he desperately looked to the others for someone to take his place. She felt the tension in his body when she began and he’d openly admitted it had been a while since he’d had sex, something she understood all to well and could sympathize with, so she wanted to take than anxiety away and make it good for him, even if it meant getting a little more personal.

One thing she did omit, however, was the fact that she had a huge crush on Aric Jorgan during her short time on Ord Mantell and that seeing him again brought it to the surface. A part of her enjoyed what she did for the simple reason of satisfying some of those old daydreams she’d had about kissing him……and more, and an even bigger part was hoping to bring closure to it after all these years. While she certainly accomplished the former, the latter failed to happen. Instead of squelching her crush, it intensified and she found herself wondering if she made a similar impression on him. His mood was hard to gage during the time in the suite, but she swore she saw a few heated looks directed at her from those bright green eyes while she finished out the party, not to mention what happened when he came back for his wallet.

A secret smile crossed her features as her body started humming, a normal occurrence whenever she relived that particular part of the evening…..which was once an hour……on a daily basis. He found his wallet quickly and was on his way out when he passed her, catching her scent as he did. She’d never forget the sight of those lips curving upwards as a low growl escaped him, nor the husky whisper that followed, promising she wouldn’t need another cold shower. Never in a million years would she ever have equated the gruff, uptight, and condescending Lieutenant from Ord Mantell with the seductive rogue that locked the door and made good on his word. A throat clearing, followed by a teasing giggle broke into her reverie and Natalia turned towards the door to see Rose leaning against the frame.

“Boy, Naula,” the petite pink Twi’lek smirked, “You were a million miles away there. Dare I guess what you’re thinking about, ’cause the look on your face was totally smacked of woman fantasizing about a man….perhaps a certain Cathar she recently danced for……”

“Oh, shush,” Natalia rolled her eyes, “What’s up?”

“A couple of guys from last week’s bachelor party just requested you for a private,” Rose answered, “I’ll let you wonder if its you know who.”

"Brat," Natalia giggled, “Go ahead and set them up in one of the back rooms with some drinks,” Natalia nodded, unable to keep the giddy feeling that rushed through her, “I’ll be out in a few minutes.”

“Alrighty,” the chipper hostess called out as she left the dressing room.

She knew she was being silly and that it was a long shot that one of the men would be him, but she couldn’t contain her excitement as she sat at the make-up table. She quickly brushed the thick mass of her hair, sweeping it up into a single ponytail that she secured with a jeweled clip. She put a couple of drops in her eyes to alleviate the dryness from the brown contacts that hid her true color, then touched up her make-up. Satisfied with her appearance, she removed her silk robe, donning on a g-string before going over to her personal clothes rack where a variety of costumes hung. She chose her one of her favorites that would also conceal a small data stick in the metal brassier, put it on, secured the data stick, donned on the matching bottoms, slipped her feet in a pair of matching heels, checked her reflection one last time, then headed out to her waiting guests.

“You really need to relax, kid,” Gault chuckled at the young Mandalorian, “It’s not like this your first time……just your second.”

“Not a kid,” Torian muttered, glaring at the Devaronian.

“No offense, but at my age, everyone’s a kid,” Gault sighed, taking pity on his crew mate, “But I meant what I said……we’re supposed to be having a good time and you’re more jittery than a spice addict needing a fix.”

“Sorry,” Torian replied, “Just not my thing.” He grabbed the mug Ne’tra gal and settled back in his chair, trying to still his fidgeting as he took a deep pull.

“Well, I’m sure our lovely dancer could probably change your mind,” Gault told him, “but if you’d rather be a party pooper, I’ll be happy to take your share of her attention.”

Torian’s retort was interrupted by Natalia striding into the room, her warm brown eyes looking both of them over as she did. She knew it was a long shot that Aric would be in the room, but she still felt slightly disappointed at seeing Gault and Torian sitting on opposite sides of the small platform, something that the shrewd Devaronian noted on her face before she flashed them a wicked grin.

“Welcome back, gentlemen,” Natalia purred as she hopped up on the small platform, “I’m glad I made such a good impression that you came back to see me.”

“You remember us then?” Gault grinned as she began dancing.

“I sure do, darlin’,” Naula winked, “You boys were definitely a memorable bunch and so much fun to dance for!” Then she smiled at a blushing Torian, “and it’s not often that I get to be someone’s first lap dance……especially not for such a handsome and sweet young man. That party truly was a pleasure to work at.”

“I’ll bet,” Gault commented dryly, “especially after a certain Cathar returned for his wallet.”

“It’s always nice when a client returns,” Natalia replied nonchalantly, giving nothing away as she felt her body heat up once again at that memory, “Even if it’s just for something left behind.” Forcing herself to focus, she changed the subject, “So what brings you here this evening?”

“There’s a party for Dek, he was the bachelor, at the Star Cluster and we decided to give him and Mako some alone time while they got ready,” Gault shrugged, “Besides, Torian here isn’t all that jazzed to go.”

“Too much noise,” Torian shook his head.

“And I always like to be fashionably late to these things,” Gault admitted, a wicked gleam in those cunning eyes, “easier to sniff out the suckers when they’re drunk.”

“I’m sure it is. Star Cluster, huh?” Natalia whistled, “Pretty swanky place……some of our wealthier clients get suites there regularly for parties. Anyways, I’m sure your buddy and his girl appreciate the quiet time and hopefully you’ll enjoy yourselves with me for the next half an hour.” Then she flashed a seductive smile at Torian, “Maybe I can help you relax a little so the noise won’t bother you so much later.”

“I’m sure we’ll get a lot out of it,” Gault chuckled, taking a swallow out of his rocks glass as Torian’s cheek flushed.

With a sultry laugh, Natalia sauntered off the small platform, hitting a small button on the side to turn up the music, and began dancing for the sly and too observant Devaronian. She was pleased to see him wearing a black leather trench coat that would hide her movements when she made her drop. She’d gathered a lot of information over the past few days, including names of a few employees at Manson Strategies, the so called ‘consulting firm’ working for Bradley and Mills, some of their plans, and an unexpected target.

“Dek needs to be careful,” Natalia whispered a warning in Gault’s ear as she guided her body onto his lap, “Mako’s a target too.” She felt him tense at that and began making her movements a little more provocative to cover for it, “You like that, darlin’?” she murmured huskily as she leaned back, slowly running her hands down her her body, her nimble fingers freeing the data stick from the metal ornamentation of her brassier as she went. It worked free easily and slipped into her palm as her hands traveled down her abdomen to finally shift to her client’s waist. She winked slyly at him as she slid off his lap, slipping the datastick into his pants pocket as she did so.

Gault didn’t miss her subtle cue and forced himself to relax, despite the fear this new revelation caused. He genuinely cared about the slip of a girl that served as the crew’s medic and slicer, and hated the thought of her being a target. It also made him worry about being a target as well, a road he’d already traveled and survived once, and he desperately wanted to ask if the rest of Dek’s crew was on the hit list. He knew that was impossible and fervently hoped she included that in whatever she handed over during their private time. Gault’s chain of thought was broken as soon as he felt those teasing hands caressing his hips, drifting slowly towards his suddenly eager and attentive private area as she shifted off his lap. He felt something slender pushing into his pants’ pocket and realized the drop had been made.

Torian saw Gault tense when Natalia’s lips hovered over the Devaronian’s ear for a second and wondered what she told him to cause that reaction. He immediately shifted anxiously in his seat, the warrior in him hating this charade they were playing. He was used to direct action, not this subtle approach, but he understood the need for it and tried to play along as best he could. He had to admit, the dancer was beautiful and he’d be lying if he said he didn’t enjoy the dance she gave him at Dek’s supposed bachelor party.

“Don’t worry, handsome,” Natalia purred, favoring Torian with a wink as she slid off Gault’s lap and turned toward him, “You’re going to get your turn.”

Torian felt his blood heating up as the temptress settled herself on his lap, stiffening a little with embarrassment when he realized what her movements were doing to him.

“Relax, sweetie, you’re almost as tense as Aric was,” Natalia breathed as her lips brushed his ear, “Gault has the drop, it’s all about enjoying yourself now.”

With a groan, Torian’s eyes drifted shut as his hands went to her hips. “Soft,” he murmured.

“Careful, my dear,” Gault smirked, “He looks like he might swoon.”

Natalia’s tinkling laughter rang out as she smiled at the blushing young man, “Oh, you have no idea how refreshing that is working in a place like this. I’m so happy you guys came today.”

“I’ll bet,” Gault raised his glass to her.

*******

“We’re so late,” Mako muttered, cheeks turning red at the thought of why as she patted her short, dark brown hair that was held back with a silver headband Dek had given her.

“So?” Dek chuckled, unable to resist brushing his lips to her blushing cheek.

“No more of that, mister,” Mako chided, giving him a weak shove as she giggled, “We’re already late enough and do you really want to create a scandal by getting frisky in the casino elevator?”

“Somehow I don’t think that’s a scandal on Nar Shaddaa,” Dek smiled against her cheek before letting his mouth trail down her neck.

“Mmmmm……guess there’s truth to what they say,” Mako murmured, tilting her neck to give him better access, “It’s always those quiet types…….now I know why you let Blizz go up alone and waited for the next elevator.”

“Oh damn,” Dek chuckled, reluctantly pulling away when the elevator began to slow, “My secret’s out.”

They stepped out of the elevator to find an anxious Blizz waiting for them and as soon as Dek looked down the small hallway leading to the suite, he knew the reason the little Jawa was worried. Mako let out a gasp and Dekkyn clapped his hand over her mouth, hugging her tightly as Blizz charged up his blaster. Dek let Mako go and approached the bodies, immediately recognizing Bloodworthy, Jew’la Nightbringer, and the scrapped remains of what was likely the Defenistrator.

Dek handed Mako the hidden blaster he always kept on him, grabbed the rifle off the droid, checking to see that it was intact before charging it up. Using hand signals, he silently directed Mako to stay behind him, and the trio quietly crept to the entrance to the suite, hearing hushed voices that became louder the closer they got. Dek held a hand out to the other two, then carefully took a quick peek inside, assessing the room quickly before ducking back into the hallway. What he saw worried him, three men he recognized as SIS operatives from his military days, a Jedi…..Knight judging from her armor, and another Jedi on the Holoterminal. He was about to suggest they get the hell out of there when he heard the Knight tell someone to go listen for the elevators. Knowing they were caught, Dekkyn gestured for Blizz to follow him and entered the room, hoping to keep Mako safe and away from any fighting.

“Ah, I see the guest of honor has arrived,” the Jedi from the Holo greeted him, “I’m Master Jun Seros. Dekkyn Varlok, you’ve been charged with the death of Master Kellian Jarro. I suggest you surrender yourself to the Order for judgement.”

“It’s time for you to pay for your crimes, hunter,” the Knight spoke up.

“My crimes,” Dek shot back, “I suggest you take a long hard look in a mirror. Crashing a private party, murdering the unarmed guests…..not very Jedi like.”

“All bounty hunters, just like you,” the Jedi countered, “Not exactly innocent. You, however, killed a Jedi Master and need to answer for that, along with the rest of those that died on Master Jarro’s ship.”

“Master Jarro was a Great Hunt target,” Dek told her, “If I hadn’t taken him out, others would’ve tried until someone was successful. I offered him a way out and he was too proud to accept it. He attacked me! Are you trying to say that defending myself was wrong? Should I have just stood there and let him cut me down?”

“You should’ve surrendered!”

“Again, that would’ve accomplished nothing…….the Mandalorians hated Master Jarro and he would still be a target no matter what.”

“Enough, Adaline,” the Jedi on the Holoterminal called out, “This filth has proven he wants no redemption. Take him and his cohorts into custody if you can, otherwise, kill them.”

“Yes, Master Seros,” Adaline bowed, then turned to the operatives as she ignited her saber, “Take them down.”

“With pleasure, Master Marr.”

Blizz charged in first, the Jawa’s shields deflecting the plasma bolts fired from the operatives. Knight Marr ignored the Jawa, leaping for Dekkyn instead, her saber slicing through his jacket. Dekkyn dodged as best he could, but without proper armor and his shield generator, he was as vulnerable as Mako, but years in the military taught him a lot. He waited for the Jedi to strike again, and dodged just in time to avoid losing an arm, swinging his rifle around to catch her in the ribcage as he did. He heard the satisfying crack of the delicate bones and the sound of a metal object hitting the floor.

“She dropped her saber, we got her now, Dek,” Mako yelled, hitting the Jedi with a stun shot before she could recover.

“No kill shots,” Dek ordered, “Not yet.”

“Blizz finish with other men, boss. What now?”

“Leave them,” Dek answered, wincing when he removed his jacket.

“Dekkyn!” Mako blanched, seeing the large angry gash on his side. She hurried over to see what she could do, but Dek stopped her.

“You can patch me up later, Mako,” Dek insisted, putting his jacket back on, “We need to get out of here and back to the ship before these guys come to and call for backup.”

“Blizz go ahead, get ship ready,” the Jawa chirped, hastily retreating out of the room.

“What a mess,” Mako worried as her and Dek followed, the latter favoring his side, “You going to make it alright?”

“I can keep steady long enough to get to the taxi,” Dek nodded as they stepped into the elevator, “As soon as we get in one, I’ll contact Gault so we can get off planet while the getting is good.”

“What about Agent Balkar?”

“I’ll contact him from the ship once we’re in space,” Dek nodded, “Those men were SIS operatives, but I don’t think they were his people and I get the feeling they weren’t there officially. The Jedi on the Holo was the same one Balkar warned me about when we all met on Jax’s ship last week.”

*******

“So, what’s this party for anyways?” Natalia asked, once again dancing for Gault.

“Just some of the other Great Hunt champs throwing Dek a shin dig to celebrate his recent success with the Blacklist,” Gault answered, closing his eyes as Natalia’s moves took an erotic and very pleasurable turn, “You sure you can’t do one of those happy endings dances for me? ‘Cause I got plenty of creds.”

“You’re shameless,” Natalia laughed, swatting playfully at the slick Devaronian, “But no, I don’t do those much at all and they’re only for Platinum Package parties.”

“Can’t blame a guy for trying,” Gault grinned as Torian shook his head before finishing his ale, “Especially after…….”

Gault’s comlink interrupted his statement and with a puzzled look, he dug it out of his coat pocket, frowning at Torian as he answered it, “Hey boss, what’s up?”

“Trouble and lots of it,” Dek answered, “We got to the party to find our hosts dead and an ambush waiting for us. You and Torian need to get back to the ship ASAP!”

“On our way,” Gault nodded, pocketing the com as Torian stood and headed for the door. He dug out a credstick and tossed it to Natalia, “Looks like we have to cut things short, but this ought to cover the time, our drinks, and leave a nice tip for you.”

“Stay safe,” Natalia replied, genuine concern in her voice as the two men rushed out the door and she wondered if Manson Strategies was behind the ambush or if Dek had other trouble after him.

*Mando’a translations/information from Wookiepedia.

Ne’tra gal = Black ale, a traditional Mandalorian alcoholic beverage. Info can be found here: http://starwars.wikia.com/wiki/Black_ale

*I made up Manson Strategies…..thought it sounded like a consulting firm that might be something else.

*Again, I hope no one minds that Dekkyn’s BH story differs slightly from the in game one.

Hail Angie! Always good t see her in action. And I am glad I don't seem to be the only one who is not salivating at a prospect of joining Mando (loved the armor joke/description!) And poor poor rebel.... Good luck to her getting back to the civ.

Aww, SMugler and Risha. Still nowhere near, and inclined to Akaavi, but let's see if you can inspire me otherwise Thiers is an interesting relationship in your fic. I like it. Hope the game is along the same lines.... Interesting bits on the co-existence of the male-female-monster team in the thight quaters. Cheers, and hope to see some of your other boys as well.

@Charmedseed: Thank you for the compliment, that means a lot. This moral dilemma/ambiguity/whatever is actually the reason I prefer playing the Empire, it’s just more interesting, especially with a light side character.

@AKHadeed: Congratulations on your wedding! I liked your story, Angie’s narrative is really funny. She seems to be a natural at attracting trouble.

@alaurin: I’m glad you liked the opening line. I figured Jadus seemed like someone the agent would have nightmares of.

Good to see Risha finally talked with Jax about her feelings. It must be a difficult situation for both of them. And overhearing Dek and Zev talking to Aric about it doesn’t make it any easier for her. I also like your take on the BH story. I remember that I didn’t see it coming and was very surprised at that mission, but for someone with Dek’s backstory, it must be a shock.

Nova looked to the horizon and noted an orange hue was beginning to form, heralding the coming sunset. The sight could have been beautiful, if the sun hadn’t shone on the war-torn landscape surrounding her, littered with debris and craters. However, she couldn’t spare any time for admiring the sunset, the Republic was advancing and the Imperial retreat had to be seen to.

Since the loss of Sobrik, Nova had known that the Republic would eventually drive the Empire off Balmorra completely, and now the time for their offensive had come. Nova had committed herself to aiding the Empire from the shadows, and duty called her to this smoking husk of a planet. She just wished there was more she could do.

Sighing to herself, the agent picked up her binoculars and began scanning the ground for the advancing Republic strike teams that had been reported. Sure enough, her scans picked up three life-forms nearing her position. At this party size, they were probably scouts or Jedi. Nova zoomed in to get a better look at the threat.

Confirming her guess, two of the figures on speeders she made out seemed to be women clad in Jedi robes with armor showing underneath, while the third, a man, wore civilian clothes. When she recognized the blond Jedi in the lead, Nova swore under her breath. The characteristic eye veil marked her as Miraluka, and the rest of her face confirmed her identity. The so-called Hero of Tython. This was getting better and better.

Nova put down the binoculars and ordered her thoughts, trying to assess the situation logically. Under different circumstances, she would have been glad to meet Senis, but this was a war and they were on opposing sides. She knew she couldn’t allow the Jedi to continue and pass on intelligence on the Imperial regrouping. But she also didn’t want to kill them. Nova thought of her brother in the Imperial base, who she knew would jump at the chance to talk to the woman who had supposedly killed the Emperor. But if they met like this, there would be bloodshed, that much was obvious.

It seemed her only real option was to capture Senis. If she was honest with herself, Nova was itching for the chance to test her skills against such an opponent. Now she just had to prepare herself.

As her hand brushed her stealth generator, Nova remembered she had a big problem. Miraluka were even harder to sneak up on than most Jedi, since they didn’t rely on their eyesight at all and were always using the force to perceive their surroundings. Distraction coupled with stealth would do her just as much good here as straight-up shooting at them. In other words, none.

So Nova had to go up against a powerful Jedi without her favorite tech toy. Great. She quickly opened her medical pack and prepared what she would need for her new plan. It paid off to always be ready, and she was glad she had prepared for everything with Lokin’s assistance before the mission.

Nova stood and sprinted back to the Imperial outpost. Luckily, she hadn’t gone farther than a few hundred meters, so she wasn’t too winded when she arrived. She passed several soldiers, but there were mostly civilians gathering their belongings and packing up the outpost in preparation for their retreat to the main base. Families of Imperial collaborators, who had sought protection from the resistance. The whole outpost was a picture of the organized chaos she associated with the Empire.

Nova took cover behind a large boulder at the front of the outpost, readying her rifle. If they were lucky, they’d be able to evacuate before the Jedi came. She breathed deeply in and out to calm herself and waited.

It didn’t take long for the party to arrive. Nova looked at them in greater detail. The files she had read identified her target’s companions as Jedi knight Kira Carsen and doctor Archiban Kimble aka Doc. No surprises there. Nova had to admit she didn’t like her chances against the three of them, especially not under these circumstances. Damned force sight. To top it off, her crew was busy elsewhere, trying to slow the Republic advance, so Nova was on her own.

The three stopped at the edge of shooting range and dismounted, then carefully approached the outpost, which most of the Imperials had evacuated by now. Nova took a deep breath and let them take a few steps before she began firing from behind her cover. As she had expected, the Jedi ignited their lightsabers in an instant and deflected the bolts.

“Stop right there!” Nova called, making certain to put the right amount of anxiety and conviction in her words. “You will not harm these people, Jedi!”

Nova waited for a heartbeat before continuing in a tone of utter astonishment. “Senis?” She stood up and demonstratively sheathed her weapon. “Don’t shoot!”

Nova slowly stepped around the boulders, showing them her open palms. She began walking towards them, shaking her head in wonder. “By the force, it’s really you! I can’t believe it!”

They watched her approach suspiciously. Nova concentrated on her feelings of surprise and happiness at this reunion, closing off everything else. The redhead turned to her companion. “Do you know this woman, boss?”

Nova quickened her pace slightly. “Come on, Senis, it’s me! Don’t you recognize your own sister?”

The look on the Jedi’s face was priceless. “Nova?”

“I’m so glad to see you!” Nova was now only two meters away from them. She broke into a run and enveloped her sister in a hug. “I was so worried about you, it’s great to know you’re alright!”

This had to work or she was totally screwed. But Senis seemed not to notice anything odd, being visibly shaken by this encounter. “I would never have imagined - but how… Nova…” her voice broke.

Nova spun around and placed the vibroknife she had pulled out of her sleeve at the Jedi’s throat, facing her companions. Senis was now unconscious. Even the force apparently didn’t protect the famous Jedi master Senis Leril from a syringe of poison to the neck if she let her guard down.

“Don’t try anything,” Nova warned the two, slowly backing up toward their speeders and pulling Senis with her. “You probably won’t believe me, but I’d prefer to avoid harming her unless you force me to. I’ve injected her with a rare poison from Chiss space, which in this dose will kill even Jedi in a few hours unless the antidote is administered. An antidote I’m positive you don’t have. I don’t have it with me either, so I suggest you don’t try anything if you value your friend’s life at all.”

She paused to glare at them before mounting the speeder and pulling Senis with her, always careful to keep her knife in position and the Jedi knight and doctor in her sight. It was a difficult maneuver, but not the first time she pulled it off. “I only want to talk. You have my word that my sister will not be harmed. If you attack, however, I can’t make any guarantees.”

Nova took off, pushing her sister’s speeder to full speed. She wasn’t stupid enough to take her gaze away from her path and look behind her, though she could guess they would attempt to track her. Let them try.

Nova looked down at her half-sister’s motionless form. The easy part was done, now for the real challenge.

In case you wondered, Senis and Nova are half-sisters whose mother is my Consular (a human). Senis’s father was a Miraluka and she inherited his species’ traits. In this story, Nova is 22 and Senis 24. I made up what happened to Balmorra.

Ah, how can I resist a story taking place on my fav planet? I like the rivalry, and I like it how Nova takes into account the species abilities. It is a terrible pity that the differences are purely cosmetic in the SW verse. I wish it was more like in you story and they counted. Tricky when you have both rivals as your characters... my allegiance is with Senis, sorry, Nova

Thanks, glad you like it! I was hoping the rivalry comes across. I’m not completely sure how this will play out yet, but at least one of them is in for some hard times.

Senis slowly regained consciousness. She felt dizzy and disoriented and couldn’t shake the feeling that something was horribly wrong. Though it didn’t take much to figure that out, since she felt like she’d just survived a severe disease.

The sounds of her breathing seemed too loud in her ears, the familiar weight of her armor much heavier than normal. She was sitting somewhere and her wrists were strangely weighed down – but why was it so hard to concentrate on that? Focus. She had to focus. Senis took a deep breath, and then it hit her. She didn’t feel the force.

Panic rose in her throat at that revelation. Her breath came in short gasps and her hands began to shake. She felt extremely alone and vulnerable. This was what it must be like for other species to be blind. Senis forced herself to stay calm and concentrate on her breathing until it slowed to a more normal level. She was a Jedi, she could deal with it.

“I see you’re awake,” a male voice said. Senis tried to turn her head in his direction. Where was she anyway? And why didn’t she feel more eager to find out what was happening?

“Greetings, Jedi master Senis Leril,” he continued. “It’s a pleasure to make your acquaintance.”

“Who,” Senis had to swallow before she could continue, “what – where am I?”

She heard footsteps. “You are currently sitting in a chair in front of me. More generally speaking, we are in an Imperial base on Balmorra.”

Imperial. She realized he was speaking with an Imperial accent. That seemed wrong. How did she get here? Her

recent memories were a blur.

“I apologize for the way you must feel. Being cut off from the force has to be especially disorienting for you. But it’s a necessary precaution. You have been given a drug that disrupts your ability to concentrate and call on the force. Additionally, you are wearing force-dampening shackles.”

Nice of him to tell her. No, really. So she was a prisoner. Senis supposed she could be glad they hadn’t tortured her for information yet. She had to focus. Deep breaths, focus. It was getting easier to think clearly, though she was still unable to connect with the force. She had to figure out what was happening. “Who are you?”

A moment of silence before his answer. “I’m the Emperor’s Wrath. There’s no need to worry, I’m not on duty. If I was following the Emperor’s will in being here, you’d be dead. But I wish you no harm.”

The Wrath wished her no harm? Did Scourge know about his successor? Senis had been too soft, she should have forced him to tell her everything at the slightest chance he was hiding something.

The Wrath continued to speak with an almost friendly tone, a fact which irritated her. “Hopefully, you are one of the few reasonable Jedi. I will give you the antidote to our sedatives and release you from the shackles if you promise not to try to attack me or escape. Seeing as you’re weakened and unarmed and I’m not, you wouldn’t stand a chance anyway.”

She had to admit he was right about that. In her current state, she couldn’t even fight a forceblind, certainly not a strong Sith. But why did he offer it? The prospect of regaining her senses was too tempting to decline. “You have my word.”

She heard him coming near and felt the sting of a needle on her arm. Then the shackles clicked and the weight was gone from her wrists. Senis carefully flexed her fingers.

It didn’t take long for her to sense a faint sign of the force. The feeling gradually intensified. Senis cleared her mind, then called out to the force and it was there. She felt as if a gaping hole in her soul had been filled.

Senis thought about standing up, but decided it was best to conserve her strength and orient herself. Slowly, the room around her came into focus. It was a small, bare chamber, the chair she was sitting on the only piece of furniture. She could make out several lives in the force nearby, though the man in front of her caught her attention.

The Sith was powerful, there was no denying that. But he didn’t feel like she’d expected. She recognized his force-signature as that of a Red Sith, he had the characteristic mark of the dark side. To her surprise, though, he couldn’t be older than twenty. But what put her off the most was his aura. There was a slight echo of the dark side, but it was fainter than that of any other Sith she had ever met, like an old wound that had long scarred over. From what she could gather, it was obvious that the Wrath was a follower of the light side. Not what she’d expected.

Though Senis reminded herself she couldn’t be certain of anything. It might be a façade, and even if it wasn’t, that didn’t have to change anything. Though it might present an opportunity. He’d have to pay for capturing her. But first she wanted some answers. “What do you want with me, Wrath?”

“I want to talk to you. There is something at work here and I intend to find out what it is. The Emperor’s Hand has been vague and elusive about it, but I know something is wrong. I feel as if the force is sending me a warning against the Emperor. Some things just don’t add up.”

“Go on,” Senis prompted.

“You Jedi publicly declare that the Emperor is evil and must be eliminated for the sake of the entire galaxy, something you personally play a big role in. Now you have the chance to convince me of your side of the story. Surely it can only be in your interest to at the least sew doubt in the mind of the Emperor’s Wrath.”

Senis took her time to consider his words. She was aware of the option that this might be a trap of some kind, a way to get information from her that they could turn against the Jedi. But she didn’t know anything about the Emperor that he himself didn’t know, did she? On the other hand, she might have an opportunity for turning the Wrath, provided it was really him, or at least get some kind of concession from him. She sensed sincerity in him. It was a risk, but one she should take. “The Emperor is trying to destroy all life in the galaxy.”

“That’s quite an accusation. You should start at the beginning.”

Senis recalled everything Scourge had told her and everything she herself had experienced, telling him most of it. She made sure to stay vague concerning the details, though she repeated everything Scourge had said about the shock he felt on the Emperor’s homeworld and tried to emphasize the fact the Emperor had tried it again on two planets. To his credit, if the Wrath found her story absurd, he didn’t show it.

After she finished her story, Senis tried to gauge his reaction. She sensed concern and even a measure of disgust. He was quiet for a moment. “You didn’t kill the Emperor, only his Voice.”

“A Voice? Scourge mentioned that. What does it mean?”

The Wrath began pacing the room, apparently gathering his thoughts. “The Emperor’s spirit taking control of a host body. If the body is killed, the Voice searches a new host. You were lucky that he was weakened before your fight with him. Sel-Makor, the dark presence on Voss, had captured the previous Voice. The Emperor’s Hand sent me to kill the Voice so the Emperor could choose a new one. It seems that was the man you fought. Now the

Emperor is weakened, but he is not dead.”

That was troubling news indeed. They had suspected that he wasn’t really dead, but hearing it confirmed still worried her. Though Senis now had to focus on the man standing opposite her. It was time to see if she was any good at manipulating people.

“The Emperor is an evil that must be purged from this galaxy. If he is allowed to continue his plans, we will all die. But you, Wrath, don’t have to be on his side. It’s not too late for you to seek redemption. I sense the light inside you. We must protect the galaxy against this threat. There is a place for you with the Jedi where you will get a chance at peace, no longer controlled by the evil of the Sith.”

To her surprise, the Sith began laughing. Senis felt her anger rise and quickly calmed herself. She wasn’t used to being laughed at. The Wrath didn’t seem to notice.

“Jedi. Always so predictable. What gives you the idea that I was in need of your redemption? Like the rest of your kind, you suffer from the delusion that only you are the true followers of the light side, that everyone else are “the bad guys” and you are the only hope for the galaxy. It’s pathetic and hypocritical. Even if the Jedi would take me in, which I doubt, I have no desire whatsoever to join your order.”

What an arrogant bastard. As if he knew anything about the Force. “We are not evil like the Sith. It’s no delusion that the Jedi are the servants of the light.”

“Of course, the Jedi are simply perfect, and everywhere you go you bring harmony.” His voice was laced with sarcasm. “You’d never do something evil. I’m sure the two attempted genocides on my people were completely harmless.”

He really started to get under her skin. “If you’re referring to the end of the Great Hyperspace War, that was over a thousand years ago. And if we’d succeeded, a lot of death could have been avoided.”

“That’s your justification? Do you even believe yourself? What about the revered Jedi master building an army of battle droids to kill everyone with even a drop of Sith blood in them, then? Do you condone this?”

“After what your Emperor did to Revan, everyone would be a little unstable.”

He laughed again, bitter this time. “So you just let him get on with it? I was there, Jedi, you can’t lie to me. The Republic and the Jedi order were supporting him in his campaign. You can’t tell me every single Republic soldier and Jedi in the foundry was a psychotherapist.”

She was still trying to formulate her response when he continued. “You would have killed billions upon billions of people. Civilians, children. Innocents like you Jedi are sworn to protect. But of course, they aren’t innocent if they happen to be born in the Empire, are they? How convenient.”

That’s exactly how it was. Senis knew that even though it wasn’t true, the Republic had to believe the Imperials, especially the Sith, to be monsters. At least it made for a good justification. That didn’t make her a hypocrite. Did he want her to say she regretted freeing Revan, knowing what he would have done? She didn’t. It took a great effort of will to reign in her temper and stop herself from continuing this argument. “What do you want, if not the chance to fight against the Emperor?”

“Just because the Jedi are hypocritical bastards doesn’t mean I’m not willing to work with you to stop the Emperor. In comparison to this threat, our war seems petty and insignificant. No, I promised to let you go and I intend to keep that promise, but before that, I’d like to propose an alliance of sorts.”

“You want to join our fight against the Emperor.”

“That’s correct. I’d suggest that we establish a secret method of communication so that when one of us learns something relevant, we can share the information. And when the time comes, we can coordinate our efforts and fight together.”

Senis knew she couldn’t trust him. She’d only agreed to take Scourge on because he’d saved her in the Emperor’s fortress and the Council had agreed to it. It remained to be seen whether she should tell the Council about this new development, however. But agreeing to the Wrath’s proposal could get them valuable information while they were still able to control how much information they were passing on. If it came down to it, she was fairly certain she would be able to kill the Wrath should it prove necessary or desirable.

“I can agree to that. Now let me go.”

“Of course, Jedi. We’re still family, after all.”

“What are you talking about?”

“My name is Zeirko Leril, I’m your aunt’s grandson. Nova told us about you.”

What in the name of the force did he mean by that?! Then Senis remembered how she’d gotten here in the first place. Her long-lost sister had captured her. She didn’t know how to feel about that. Concern, hurt, shame, happiness and anger were all clamoring for attention inside her.

As if he knew what she was thinking, the Wrath – Zeirko - continued. “Don’t worry, Nova is fine. She’s actually in the next room listening in to our conversation. I’ll give the two of you some privacy. She’ll escort you out.”

Leaving her completely stunned, Zeirko turned and left the room, presumably leaving the door open for Nova. Senis had to admit he knew how to make an exit. But her thoughts quickly turned to Nova. She didn’t feel prepared to face her sister.

@Elliotcat: Welcome back and congrats on finishing Basic Training! I look forward to seeing your stuff again when you have the time!

@DommiSotto: I've heard the Akaavi romance is nice and might make another male smuggler at some point to give it a go, but I just saw Jax with Risha and went for it. Glad you're liking my boys and there will be plenty more coming up.

@Jokad: Yeah, Risha is going to have to do some soul searching soon. Glad you're liking my take on the BH storyline for Dek.

RE: Missing Something, pt. 1-Wow, that was a tense and emotional piece. I can't imagine it would be easy being on oppsing factions as your sibling, even a half one. I also like the little details, especially this:

Miraluka were even harder to sneak up on than most Jedi, since they didn’t rely on their eyesight at all and were always using the force to perceive their surroundings. Distraction coupled with stealth would do her just as much good here as straight-up shooting at them. In other words, none.

RE: Part 2-I like that Zeirko wanted to work with Senis and I like his take on the Jedi Order, and how he pointed out that they're less than perfect. It'll be interesting to see where this goes, but boy.....that was definitely a tense family reunion. I can definitely understand her being uncertain about seeing her sister.

“Zev,” a voice called out from behind them, “Is that your big bald head I’m seeing?”

The huge Zabrak grinned, having a good idea whose voice that was, which was confirmed a second later when his old friend caught up to them. “I was wondering how you fared back on Ord,” he clapped the massive grey Cathar on the back, “Did you track down your freighter?”

“No,” Jax growled, “But I’ve got a promising lead on the ****bag who stole it.”

“So where you headed?”

“Coruscant,” Jax replied, “Unfortunately the last shuttle left already so we’re staying at the hotel here tonight.”

“We?”

“Yeah, sorry…..hey, Corso, come here a sec,” Jax hollered and a moment later, a dreadlocked Human approached, “This is Corso Riggs…..he’s after Skavak, too, so he’s joining me in hunting him down.”

“Dirty bastard knocked me out from behind and stole my best blaster,” Corso muttered.

“Corso, this is an old friend from my military days, Sergeant Zevryn Varlok,” Jax told the Mantellian, “and I’m not sure who that other guy is.”

“Actually, it’s Lieutenant now,” Zev told his friend, “and this is Sergeant Aric Jorgan…….”

“Wait,” Jax interrupted, “Jorgan……wasn’t he the one overseeing your ops back on Ord? I thought he was your superior?”

“I was,” Aric growled bitterly.

“Things didn’t go that well in the Seps’ holdout,” Zev sighed, feeling some of the tension returning, “and while I can’t get into any detail with you here, let’s just say that Havoc now consists of me and Jorgan.”

“The others?”

“Not with the Republic anymore,” Zev answered quietly.

Jax shook his head in disgust and turned to the other Cathar, “and they made you burn for it, didn’t they?!”

“You got it,” Aric confirmed.

“Come on,” Jax clapped the shorter Cathar on the shoulder, “I think we could all use a few drinks. First round’s on me.”

“I don’t know, Jax,” Zev protested, “We’re headed to Coruscant too and……”

“Look, there’s nothing you can really do right now. The last shuttle left, so that’s not happening for another twelve hours at least,” Jax countered, “and you can sleep it off on the ride there.”

“He has a point, sir,” Aric nodded, needing something a little stronger than the beer they had on the trip to Carrick.

“He usually does,” Zev grinned, “and I can hardly turn down when he’s buying.”

“I only offered to buy the first round, Zev,” Jax chuckled, “but I’ll make it a really good first round.”

A little while later, the four of them were seated in a quiet corner, a bottle of Corellian whiskey on the table.

“So when did you guys get here?” Jax asked as he refilled their glasses.

“We’d been here for about an hour when you found us,” Zev replied, “We booked passage to Coruscant, got a place to stay for the night when we saw the last shuttle was already full, and I bought a new assault cannon to replace the one that was destroyed on my walker transport a few days ago.”

“You still using that thing?!” Jax shook his head, “Aren’t you getting a little old to be toting one of those beasts around?”

“Twenty-three is hardly old and you’re only a year younger than I am,” Zev shot back, “besides, Jorgan’s older than us and he uses one…….it’s smaller than mine though.”

“It’s not the size of the gun, it’s how well you perform with it,” Aric retorted, a smug look on his tawny face, “and trust me, mine’s plenty big enough.”

“Do you have a lady friend that can verify that, Jorgan?” Jax grinned wickedly.

“Isn’t that sorta personal?” Corso spoke up after taking another small drink, wincing at the burn of the whiskey as it hit his belly.

“Jeez, Corso,” Jax shook his head, “You need to loosen up a little…….and quit sipping that, knock it back like you have a pair!”

Corso blushed as the rest of them laughed, “I’m just not used to hard alcohol…..more of a beer drinker.”

“I prefer a good beer as well,” Zev admitted, signaling the waitress over, “But I enjoy a nice bourbon on occasion, but rarely let myself get too drunk……can’t stand the hangover the next day.”

“I’m not that big a drinker either,” Corso nodded, “Well, maybe a couple of times after my parents were killed…..sorta just needed to dull the pain a little.”

“Sorry, man,” Jax sighed, feeling a little guilty at teasing the younger man, “I didn’t mean to drag up bad memories.”

“It’s alright, Captain,” Corso assured him, “It was a long time ago and you had no way of knowing. I just didn’t have much time to hang out and do stuff with friends…..even before Seps destroyed the family farm. Always busy helping out, then after…..well, I just kept busy so……”

“So you didn’t have to think,” Zev finished, then paused to order a four pints of Alderaanian ale from the waitress, “Jax and I know all about that.”

“You bet your *** we do,” Jax growled, those blue eyes cold and deadly, “and like you, Corso, we have scores to settle.”

“What happened to your old squad,” Aric began, curious about the other Cathar whose career had taken the same beating as Zev’s, “Is that why you left the military?”

“You got it,” Jax told him, “It’s bad enough that little sh*t karked up the mission, but then his rich and powerful daddy covers up his mistake and as the only survivors, me, Dek, and Zev take the fall. We lost good soldiers…..our friends and they blamed us for it instead of that snot nosed punk.”

“It wasn’t entirely Bradley’s fault, Jax,” Zev interrupted, “Those snipers were already en route.”

“They were,” Jax agreed, “but if that little puke had listened to you when you first gave the abort order, we might’ve gotten out of there before they got to our location.”

“We don’t know that for sure.”

“We’ll never agree on that, Zev, but it doesn’t matter now. What’s done is done,” Jax shrugged, “Anyways, to finish answering Jorgan’s question, I had a few months left on my enlistment, so I finished it out and that was it. I had some money saved up, as well as a small inheritance from an aunt that came through on my twenty-first birthday. I used it to acquire a freighter and started making cargo runs. My parents weren’t too thrilled at my career change and dear old Dad barely speaks to me at all anymore because I’m the family embarrassment. He thinks I should’ve toughed it out like you did, but I just couldnt. It’s hard to be a part of an institution after your faith in it is shaken….and don’t even get Dek started on that.”

“Yeah, my cousin’s still pretty angry…….at least he was when I talked to him a few months back,” Zev sighed, then tried to sooth his friend, “Your parents are slowly coming around and your sisters still keep in touch, right?”

“Yeah, they do,” Jax relented, “Sienna not as often, but she’s pretty busy with her mate and their kits. Plus, she recently became a diplomat for one of the new settlements on Cathar. Syarra calls me frequently, but it’s been a few weeks since her last, though…….probably because she’s finishing her trials on Tython.”

“She finally adjusted to the Jedi thing then?” Zev asked.

“It took her a while, but once she fully accepted it as her path, she gave it her all,” Jax nodded, “You know how she is.”

“Still hard to think of her as a Jedi,” Zev shook his head, “She was quite a wild thing and almost as big a flirt as you.”

“Yeah, she really doesn’t think to highly of the Order’s views on relationships,” Jax grinned, “but knowing Syarra, she’ll find a loophole.”

“Sorry guys,” Zev addressed Corso and Aric, “Haven’t talked to this idiot in a while and we didn’t have much time on Ord.”

“Syarra and Sienna are my littermates,” Jax clarified for them.

“Then she’s your age…….isn’t that a little old for trials?” Aric asked, “My cousin began his when he was eighteen.”

“Syarra didn’t start training at the normal age,” Jax explained, “She had no interest in becoming a Jedi despite her strong Force sensitivity so she hid it from most people and finished out her education instead. Mom wanted to take her to the Order, but Syarra begged her not to.”

“Why not?” Corso wondered.

“Like most of our species, Syarra’s a passionate person, but she’s also a born warrior,” Jax began turning to Aric, “She actually went to Cathar and did the Blood Hunt when we were sixteen.”

“Really?” Aric whistled, impressed, “I knew they started that ritual back up a few years ago. That’s no easy feat, especially with a lot of the planet still in ruins.”

“Nope,” Jax confirmed as the waitress returned with their pints, “and Dad was bursting with pride. He even wanted me and Sienna to try it, but she isn’t the fighting type and I’m more the 'take them out from a distance or blow them sky high' type and the Blood Hunt is more a test of physical prowess. Anyways, Syarra didn’t want to be a part of something that saw her passions and warrior instincts as dark sided. So when we finished our schooling, Sienna went on to college to study politics and Syarra went with me to the military academy.”

“What happened to change her mind?”

“A couple of years in, we were starting out advanced training and Syarra was injured during a mock assault op. When her opponent was bearing down on her, she used the Force to throw him back. She didn’t mean to, it just happened. Unfortunately that clued the instructors in on her Force sensitivity and they contacted the Order.”

“So they made her go with the Jedi?”

“Actually, no,” Jax shook his head, “In the end, it was her choice. The Jedi that the Order sent was a good man. He sat us both down in private, contacted our parents, and we talked it out. Then he warned Syarra that the Force isn’t as easily hidden and if she ever got captured by the Imperials, there was a good chance that a Sith would discover her secret. If that happened, they would ship her off to Korriban immediately. That was enough to get her thinking and the next day, she agreed to go with the Jedi to be trained.”

“I’ll bet that was an adjustment,” Aric muttered before taking a healthy swig.

“It was,” Jax nodded, taking a drink, “but she’s happy now.” Then he fished a cigarra case out of his vest pocket and opened it, offering it to the others.

“Shento?” Aric mused, catching the familiar scent.

“Sure are,” Jax nodded, handing him one, “Perdomos.”

“Nice,” Aric whistled, accepting the cigarra from Jax, a look of pleasure on his features as he brought it to his nose to inhale the aroma, “Thanks, man. I haven’t had one of these in a long time. Too expensive for most of the shops on Ord to keep in stock. Anytime I found myself on Coruscant, I’d pick up a box, but I haven’t been there in over a year.”

“No problem,” Jax grinned, as he extended a claw and cut off the end before lighting it, “Nice to be around someone with good taste. I got these as a little extra payment for a delivery I made to the Club Vertica last month. Corso? Zev?”

“No, thanks, Captain,” Corso declined, “never was much of a smoker.”

“Me either,” Zev shook his head, “That was always more Dek’s thing.”

Both Jax and Aric stared at the other two, shaking their heads in clear disbelief that anyone would turn down such a fine cigarra. Aric had to admit though, his new CO did have nice taste in beer. The Alderaanian ale complimented the Corellian whiskey they’d started out with and actually enhanced the flavor and fragrance of the cigarra. Jax said as much a moment later as he ordered them another round.

After a few more rounds, their waitress came over to close out their tab since her shift was over. Jax noticed the cute little blond Human giving his new crewmate the look over when he was digging out a credstick, to pay for that last round.

“Ask for her number,” Jax hissed, elbowing the Mantellian when the waitress was double checking the tab.

“Huh?”

Jax rolled his eyes, then turned to the waitress and poured on the charm, “So, does a pretty girl like you have a name?”

“Lily,” she smiled, “and thank you.”

“A lovely name for a lovely woman,” Jax grinned, “Now, you seem like a smart girl and I noticed you checking out my friend here,” Jax jerked his thumb at Corso, “You’ll have to excuse him, Corso’s a little on the shy side. He’s a good guy and judging from that blush creeping up his neck, I think he noticed how beautiful you are too.”

“I didn’t……I mean you are, but……I don’t…..” Corso stuttered, then swallowed the last of his beer before he embarrassed himself further while the others snickered.

“It’s alright,” Lily smiled at him, “Kinda sweet actually, and I like shy guys.” Then she leaned forward, slipping him a piece of paper just before brushing his lips in a gentle kiss. A moment later, a dazed Corso was watching her go, then hearing the guffaws of the rest of the group, he snapped out of it to look at the paper she handed him.

“Well?” Zev pried, “Did she give you her number?”

“Yeah,” Corso murmured a sheepish smile on his face.

“I knew it!” Jax grinned, clapping his new friend on the back, “When you stood to get your wallet, she was totally checking you out…..and speaking of checking someone out….” Jax trailed off as a tall, leggy Twi’lek walked past the table, “Excuse me a moment, gentlemen, I suddenly have urgent business over there. Order me another if I’m not back in time.”

“Some things never change,” Zev chuckled as his buddy swaggered over to the table where the Twi’lek was sitting, then turned to Corso, “I hope you guys got separate rooms far apart, ‘cause Jax tends to bring out the screamer in most women. Used to drive me crazy when he and Raney got together because his quarters were next to mine. Of course, you might be too busy with a certain young waitress to notice…..”

“I don’t know about that,” Corso sighed, “I mean she’s pretty and seems nice, but I feel bad just…..well…..”

“Not the love ‘em and leave ‘em type, huh?”

“Not at all,” Corso admitted, “I know, that’s probably a bit old fashioned….”

“Nah,” Zev shook his head, “Just means you don’t like to use people and that’s never a bad thing. Being in the military, you tend to develop a casual attitude towards sex since most our age aren’t looking for anything permanent.”

“Really?”

“Yup,” Aric agreed, “A lot of moving around in those early years, always the danger of something happening in the combat areas….”

“The adrenaline after combat,” Zev grinned.

“You got that right,” Aric nodded, a sly smile crossing his features as some fond memories surfaced. He downed the last of the whiskey before continuing, “Plus, most of the careers are pretty focused and don’t want the distraction of trying to maintain a relationship, especially since most usually end up being long distance at some point.”

“I guess I can understand that,” Corso replied as he stood, “I think I’ll head over to the bar and order the next round while Jax is taking care of business.”

“and I gotta hit the head,” Aric muttered, swaying a little when he stood much to Zev’s amusement.

“You alright there, Jorgan?”

“Yeah, whiskey’s starting to hit me a little though,” Aric grinned sheepishly.

“Not surprised,” Zev nodded at the empty bottle, “You and Jax had most of that.”

“That’s ‘cause we’re not pansies.”

“That’s funny, Jorgan,” Zev tossed back, “Especially considering I’m most likely going to have to put your drunk hide to bed and no, I’m not undressing you.”

“I wouldn’t want your ugly a** to undress me anyways,” Aric smirked, “I’ll just have to find some female company to help me out with that.”

“Right,” Zev laughed, “The only thing you’ll be kissing tonight is the floor when you pass out.”

Zev kept laughing as Aric flashed him a middle finger salute, then shook his head as the Cathar staggered towards the men’s fresher. He felt relieved though, the past twenty-four hours had been jarring and Zev worried about how well Jorgan would adjust to both a demotion and reassignment to serve under the command of someone he’d outranked the day before. They’d come to an understanding after Zev shared the truth about what really happened with Operation Landslide. He felt the beginnings of a camaraderie with Aric and hoped he’d be able to move past what top brass did to him. He leaned his broad frame back into the cushy chair, savoring the fragrant ale before tipping the mug back.

The tall Cathar female entered the cantina, choosing a seat at the bar, and ordered a brandy from the bartender before allowing her blue eyed gaze to take in her surroundings. It had been a while since she been in a place like this and she doubted she’d have an opportunity once she reached Coruscant. Setting aside her worry about the unknown danger threatening the Light, she reached for the rocks glass, sniffing the rich aroma of the sweet liquor before taking a sip. She smiled encouragingly at the dreadlocked Human sitting at the other end of the bar. He blushed when he realized she’d caught him staring, and she couldn’t help herself from winking at him.

She was pleased, having taken care with her appearance before leaving her room. The silken sheath she wore hugged her body, it's deep violet color complimenting her pale yellow fur, and the thigh high slits showed off her long legs well. The delicate straps gave way to plunging neckline that was just shy of being scandalous and was guaranteed to catch the male eye. Very few would guess she was a Jedi and that’s exactly what she was striving for since most people were a bit put off by that in these types of places. The only clue to her membership in the Order was the silver light saber hilt hooked into her pale gold ornamental belt. The warrior in her felt naked without a weapon and seldom was without one. It used to be a blaster on her belt and a vibroknife tucked in her boot, but those days were gone now. Oh, hello, her musings were interrupted when she noticed a tawny Cathar coming out of the men’s fresher, my evening just took a nice turn……little shorter than I prefer, but not a bad bod.

Aric stepped out of the fresher and immediately noticed the statuesque Cathar female sitting at the bar. It was hard not to notice her, the purple dress she wore hugged her curves nicely and showed off shapely legs that went on forever, not to mention what that low neckline revealed. Aric always appreciated busty females and while she wasn’t exactly in that category, there was definitely enough to catch his eye. The sultry smile she flashed at him as those blue eyes raked him over told him she was very interested and that was all he needed to know. She looked familiar somehow, but he couldn’t place it. Still buzzed from the alcohol and feeling rather bold as a result, Aric approached stunning amazon.

“You know, you’re the second Cathar I’ve seen in here this evening and you’re a whole lot better looking than the other one,” Aric told her.

“You’re not so bad yourself,” she returned, “Got a name?”

“Aric.”

“So, Aric, what brings you to Carrick? Business ?” her tongue darted out to tease her upper lip as she shot him a heated look, “or pleasure?”

“Yes to the first,” Aric returned smoothly, “and the second depends on where this is going.”

“It’s going nowhere,” a familiar voice growled from behind him, “You seem like a decent sort, Jorgan, but if you continue to hit on my sister, I’ll have to kick your a**.”

“Jaxzin!” Syarra screeched, launching herself off the stool to tackle her brother in a fierce hug, “What are you doing here?!”

“I could say the same to you, Syarra,” Jax chuckled, untangling himself from his littermate’s limbs, “and that hardly looks like Jedi attire.”

“Please,” Syarra snorted, “Even Jedi get some down time once in a while and I decided to take advantage of being stuck here for the night by having a little fun. Tython’s not exactly a hotbed of sexual activity.”

“With Jorgan?!” Zev snickered, having heard the commotion, “I think he might be a bit too uptight for your tastes if I recall correctly.”

“Bite me, sir,” Aric muttered, annoyed that what was a good prospect a moment ago was now out of the question since she was Jax’s sister and a Jedi to boot.

“Zevryn Varlok!” Syarra exclaimed, exchanging a knowing look with him as a wicked smirk curved her lips, “I haven’t seen you in a while. I’ve missed that hunky bod of yours.”

“Easy with that,” Jax growled, “I don’t need the reminder that my best friend hooked up with my sister.”

“Oh, come on, Jax,” Syarra rolled her eyes, “It was just a couple of times and you barely knew each other back then.”

“I know,” Jax sighed in frustration, “but I just don’t like to think about it, alright. It’s a brother thing.”

“Well, it’s a good think I love you, you goof,” Syarra mussed his mane, “So what’s Dek up to? He here?”

“Nope,” Jax shook his head, “I dropped him off on Hutta last week. He’s entering the Great Hunt.”

“Really?” Syarra raised a questioning brow at Zev.

“I know, I know, but he doesn’t intend to affiliate himself with the Mandalorians since they’re loosly allied with the Imperials,” Zev answered, “I think he just plans to use the competition to restore honor to his mother’s clan and get some notoriety so he can freelance.”

“Man, the army really karked you guys over, didn’t they,” Syarra shook her head, “Makes me happy I decided to go with the Order after all. So, how long you all here and since you shot down Aric here, who’s that cutie over there? The one that just stepped away from the bar carrying a tray of pints.”

“That’s my friend, Corso Riggs,” Jax answered as his gaze followed to where Syarra was pointing, “and no, he’s off limits too.”

“Oh, like you never screwed any of my friends,” Syarra snorted, “Do I need to remind you of Arianna? You know, my best friend in high school…..at least she was until she busted you cheating on her with her littermate.”

“Still?”

“Yes, still,” Syarra retorted, a twinkle in those blue eyes that were identical to her brother’s, “and since you’re taking away all my fun prospects for the evening, you’d better start picking up my tab.”

“I hate to break it to you, sis,” Jax snickered, steering her over to their table, “but your version of fun would probably give Corso heart failure….”

“and I don’t think anyone can really accuse Jorgan of being fun,” Zev finished, laughing as those bright green eyes shot daggers at him.

*I found information for Shento cigarra’s here: http://starwars.wikia.com/wiki/Cigar

*I use a cigar brand name from here: http://www.cigarsinternational.com/brands/1413/perdomo/?type=Cigars

*Zev splurged with the Alderaanian Ale, info on it here: http://starwars.wikia.com/wiki/Alderaanian_ale

*The Blood Hunt can be found here: http://starwars.wikia.com/wiki/Cathar

*Many thanks to Lesabear and Rissalf for their assistance on choosing a color/style for Syarra’s dress. I’m really bad with yellow.

It's been a while but I am still here. I finally managed to catch up on reading today.

I got some comments on Thorns and Kaliyo. That one took on a life of its own after the meeting on Hutta. Maybe it is because Kaliyo has a lot in common with Iz, Thorns' first lover. Thorns is older now, though, and there is no danger of him mistaking the relationship for anything else than casual.

He cares for Mako, and Mako seems to like him, but she's keeping him at a distance. Maybe he sees her a bit as a substitute for his brother whom Thorns took care of for a long time. I think at this point they both welcome the distraction Kaliyo provides. It's still some way to level forty-something. (I did the companion quest as soon as Thorns hit 43, because I didn't want to wait any longer for the romance conversations. Taking down that level 48 sister without help was a hell of a fight.)

@alaurin: I enjoy the stories about your boys. It' s great how they stick together. Letting the Jedi in the BH-story live is an interesting twist. I am wondering what the consequences for the rest of the story will be.

@Mirdthestrill: I like this wounded-arm-business. Game mechanics let us forget very often how serious injuries can get without proper treatment, especially in an environment like Taris. I am looking forward to what Elara will have to say on the matter.

@Jokad:

He attempted a shaky smile and suddenly, Nova remembered he was still very young. Seventeen years, three weeks and two days.

I guess Nova would have been a good actress. Nice how she fooled her half-sister. I liked the concentration on certain feelings to supress those that would have betrayed Nova.

It would be interesting to get a glimpse on Zeirko's thoughts in your last piece. Is he planning to exploit the Jedi as she plans to exploit him?

@AKHadeed: Congratulations!

Great action sequence. "It possibly wasn't my fault."

@elliotcat: welcome back

Everybody looked up when Thorns and Mako entered the conference room. Smilo got up from his seat and came forward to the middle of the room in front of the waiting protocol droid that Kaliyo had been talking about.

“Looks like we are complete, NR-02,” the agent stated.

Kaliyo lazed about in a chair, her boots on the table. She grinned with the thrill of anticipation of the show she expected.

The two Sith sat at the other side of the room, the Twi’lek sat next to Gray Hair, and the red monster stood behind the Mirialan. Maybe the lighting was playing tricks on his mind but—how had Kaliyo dubbed him, his special friend?—his special friend’s eyes seemed to be glowing with a faint red glint.

“Ooh, look at him. I think Kaliyo was right. He is pissed. Seems like he is trying to stare holes in my armor.” Thorns grinned.

Mako’s elbow poked his side. His HUD blinked. <Behave yourself. Who do you think lives on Dromund Kaas? We will be meeting more Sith!!!!!>

Mako had hijacked a part of the Black Talon’s communication system and had hooked his helmet up directly to her implants. Unless he chose otherwise only Mako would be able to hear him as long as he was not talking too loud. They had experimented with their equipment back on Vaiken Spacedock. He already loved it.

“Okay. Keep calm and let me do the talking. If I want to build a reputation as a bounty hunter I can’t let myself be bullied around by a mere apprentice, especially if we’ll have to deal with more Sith.”

He walked to the middle of the room, Mako right behind him, and stopped beside Smilo. Time to activate the direct speaker. “Agent!” he greeted the Imperial with a nod.

“Hunter!”

Thorns crossed his arms. “Okay, droid. I don’t know yet why I should care what your master has to say, but I am listening for now.”

“Identity unconfirmed! Please remove your helmet.”

“Not going to happen!”

“I can confirm his identity,” Smilo offered.

“Insufficient! Please remove your helmet.”

“Well, ladies and gentlemen, it has been nice to meet you.” Thorns turned to leave.

Without obvious effort Gray Hair bounded over the table and blocked his way. “I do not think you will be leaving.”

“And how exactly do you intend to stop me?”

<Are you trying to get us killed?>

Mako gasped when the lightsaber hilt sprang to the Sith’ hand. “Take off your helmet!” he commanded as he activated the weapon with a flick of his wrist. “Or I will take it off along with your head!” The red light of the blade emphasized the glow in the man’s eyes. It was reflected by the metal parts of Thorns’ armor and lent the scene a surreal quality, a foretaste of the blood that was to flow.

<Please, Thorns!>

Thorns raised his hands to his helmet. He let them drop again. “Wait! How will that help with the droid not talking without me?”

<KARK KARK KARK you are kriffing trying to get us killed!>

His admiration for Mako grew when she stayed outwardly calm. The inside of his armor felt hotter with every moment he and his opponent stared at each other. The Sith didn’t blink, neither did Thorns even so nobody would have been able to notice.

The Mirialan chuckled. “I think I like him, Ciner. He isn’t afraid of you.”

“He is a fool then,” the human Sith attested.

<HE IS RIGHT YOU ARE A FOOL>

“Maybe he is.” The Mirialan walked around the table to stand beside Gray Hair. He made a waving gesture in front of his body as he addressed Thorns. “You will take off your helmet.”

Yes, Thorns thought, he would take of his helmet. He couldn’t remember what the fuss was all about. He would—he shook his head and blinked his eyes. What was happening? Kark, they were messing with his mind. Kriffing azkanc. Keep cool, he had told Mako. Now he felt drops of sweat running down his back along the spine, soaking his suit beneath the belt. If he drew a weapon this would end in a bloodbath—Mako’s blood most certainly in large amounts, her leatheris suit would do nothing to hold off the lightsabers. He’d be able to sell his life dearly but he’d have to part with it. The numbers didn’t leave much room for interpretation of the situation. The agent’s loyalty was to the Empire. Kaliyo would stay neutral at best. It was Vaiken Spacedock all over again—except they needed him this time. Thorns crossed his arms once more. He would not give in. “I will consider it if HE,” Thorns pointed at Gray Hair, “says please.”

<Sh*t, Thorns, I am too young to die>

The Mirialan broke out in laughter. “Definitely a fool, but a strong-minded one.” Surveying Thorns he walked in a circle around him. “I am impressed.”

<I am not impressed NOT IMPRESSED>

“I can see why,” Gray Hair said and deactivated his weapon. The two Sith shared a glance. A smile played at the corners of the human’s mouth. “My friend here seems to think you might still be useful. We will see, once we know what this is about.” Thorns blinked again. The Sith was actually smiling at him. “Please take off your helmet.”

<If we survive this I’ll kill you myself>

Gray Hair walked past Thorns to the droid, clearing the way to the door. “And maybe we can finally listen to the oh so very urgent message of this useless piece of junk afterward.” The Sith was still pissed but it seemed like the droid had been the reason all along.

Well the a*****e had said please. Thorns turned, walked back in front of the droid, removed his helmet, and took it under his left arm. With his fingers he combed his hair back. Wearing the helmet ruined his mohawk. One of the reasons he hated to take the helmet off once he had decided he needed it. While the droid took a scan of his face he took off his right glove and fished a toothpick out of one of his breast-pockets.

“Identity confirmed!” announced the protocol unit as Thorns put the small piece of wood into the corner of his mouth.

Eventually satisfied the droid immediately started to establish the connection to his master.

Panning his gaze over the rest of the audience Thorns got the impression everybody else was every bit as clueless about what to expect as he was.

Azkanc: Sullustan pejorative term for a Sith.

@AKHadeed- Some tense and minor word errors on this one, but as always, I love your action sequences and pacing. Nice use of the scenery too. It's something you don't see a lot of in-game, but really is ripe for narrative potential, all those cliffs and rivers and rock formations and large trees we're always questing around.

@Alaurin- RE: Worth the Risk- I could defiantly see this being an issue for Risha. One that I don't know exactly how to solve. Dune came up with one idea, but that's not very satisfying. Hopefully they do get something worked out, or I see a lot of pain in everyone's future.

RE: Fancy Meeting You Here- Corso never did seem like a particularly experienced drinker to me. And thank you, thank you for including your sources at the end. I'm always searching for more writing help, especially with vices. I'm a very clean-cut person, so I'm always afraid I'll do something horribly stupid with them

@Frauzet- Perfect timing, I just did Black Talon today! Clever Mako I like her increasingly frantic "texts" to him. Mouthing off to sith is a very good way to get yourself killed.

Mallena came back to consciousness slowly. Her arm her. Actually, both her arms hurt, but the right one hurt more. She blinked a few times, trying to force her eyes to focus. Where was she? What had happened? She remembered defeating Needles, so she was almost certainly not a prisoner. Right? So was she back at the Republic base? She turned her head to look.

“Good, you’re awake,” said an Imperial-accented voice. Imperial! Mallena tried to sit up.

“Hold still!” said the voice. “You’re going to reopen your wound.”

Mallena recognized the voice now. Sgt. Dorne. The blurriness was receding a bit. She lay in a light-colored room, probably a medical facility. A humanoid that she assumed was the Sgt. moved briskly around, checking monitors and leaning over counters. “Where am I?”

“You’re back in Olaris, Lieutenant. Sergeant Jorgan brought you back after you collapsed.”

“Oh.” She would have to say thank you for that, she supposed. That would be an embarrassing conversation.

“Why?”

“I expect he was following regulations, Lieutenant. If an officer is incapacitated in the field, their second-in-command should attempt to bring them to safety, as long as doing so will not hinder the completion of the mission. In this case, the mission was already completed.”

Mallena shook her head, which surprisingly didn’t hurt very much. “No, I mean why did I pass out?” Her tongue felt thick and slow, matching her brain.

“Acute sepsis, Lieutenant. The infection in your shoulder wound spread into your bloodstream. Another day, and you would have been dead. Fortunately, this particular strain responds quite well to antibiotics.”

“How long before I can go back to duty?”

“Not long. You should be able to do light movement- walking, deskwork, perhaps piloting a ship or driving a speeder- tomorrow, and with rest and proper nutrition, full recovery should take less than a week. The arm will take a bit longer, though. You should have had it checked when you first injured it.”

“I was in the field. Then I guess I forgot.” Mallena felt her cheeks redden with embarrassment at the real reason. She realized now that her fears about Dorne were, for the moment anyway, unfounded. That didn’t mean that she trusted her wholeheartedly, but it had been stupid to ignore her arm just because she didn’t like the medic. Her trainers- and her father, for that matter, when she fought with her brothers- had always stressed that however you felt about your mates, you needed them, and they needed you. You couldn’t let little things get in the way of your trust.

Sgt. Dorne gave her a penetrating but slightly tired look, as though she knew what she was thinking, and turned to a small counter. Returning to the bedside, she produced a small syringe. Mallena shrunk away involuntarily. “Don’t worry, Lieutenant. It’s just the next dose of your antibiotics. No rakghoul virus.” She injected the clear fluid and disposed of the needle in a biohazard container. “Now that you’re awake, I can remove your IV as well.”

Mallena watched her as she bustled around, checking vitals, changing bandages, and repacking the injury on her arm with kolto paste. Her bedside manner was actually much better than her normal personality, brisk and no-nonsense, but still reassuring. Not that her insistence on perfect rule-following improved.

“Can I have a holocom in here? General Garza ordered me to contact her as soon as the mission was finished.”

“Regulations clearly state that communications equipment is not to be moved from its proper location.”

“But I have orders from General Garza.”

“They don’t override the regulations for normal base operation. You may go down to the comm room tomorrow. If you don’t try to overdo it today.”

Eventually, Mallena persuaded her to let Jorgan visit long enough to relay a message. The general wouldn’t be happy about it, but it was the best she could do until tomorrow. The Sgt. reappeared with him so quickly that she suspected he had been waiting outside.

He still wore his armor, though it was noticeably cleaner than when she had last seen him and he had removed his helmet. “Hello, Lt,” he said.

“Hello, Sgt.” What exactly should she say? He’d saved her life before, but something done in the heat of combat was one thing, but carrying her out, or dragging her, or whatever he had done until he got to an extraction site, was another.

“I’ll go get you some dinner, Lieutenant.” Sgt. Dorne shut the door behind her.

The silence stretched out for long seconds. “Thanks for getting me out. It was stupid of me to ignore you about my arm.” There, she had said it.

He shrugged. “No problem, Lt. I understand your hesitation about the Sgt.” He paused. “When does she say you’ll be up?”

“Tomorrow, though I can’t go back to duty for close to a week.”

“Garza ‘ll be pissed.”

Mallena sighed. “I know, but there’s nothing she- or I- can do about it now. Can you call her for me? Tell her that the medical officer here won’t let me up, but I’ll let her yell at me in the morning. Not in those words, of course.”

“Yes, sir.”

“You can stop with the ‘sir’ and ‘Lt.’ Between you and Sgt. Dorne, it’s driving me crazy. Call me by my last name at least, please.”

“Alright, Lieut-“ Jorgan cut himself off before he finished.

“Thank you.”

“So, is she a decent medic?”

“Actually, yes. She-“

Before Mallena could continue, Sgt. Dorne herself reappeared, carrying a tray. “Alright, time for dinner. I’m sorry, Sergeant, but I have to ask you to leave. The Lieutenant should return to resting immediately after she eats.”

“Yes, ma’m,” said Jorgan obediently, rolling his eyes at Mallena as he left.

She grinned. “Guess I’d better. The sooner I get healed up, the sooner we can get off this stinking planet. Goodnight, Jorgan”

“Good night… Dayne.”

Mallena sat heavily in a chair in front of the holocom. Despite her not wanting to admit it, Sgt. Dorne was right. She was pretty weak. Still, she already felt stronger than she did yesterday. She punched in General Garza’s frequency and waited for her to answer.

It took less than fifteen seconds. “Greetings, Lt. Sgt. Jorgan has informed me of your… indisposition.”

“I’m sorry, sir. I won’t let it happen again.”

“You had better not. I don’t want to have to rebuild Havoc Squad again because their CO forgot to have a scratch looked at. Now, I understand some congratulations are in order.”

That’s it? No yelling, no punishment? Guess Jorgan spun it pretty well. One more thing she’d have to thank him for later. “Needles has been neutralized, sir.”

“Very good, Lt. Did you find out what he was doing on Taris?”

“Are you familiar with the rakghoul virus?”

“Remind me.”

“One bite will turn you into a mindless monster who likes to snack on sentient flesh. He was trying to weaponize it.”

“He was a brilliant man. Good work taking him out. I haven’t informed Kardin yet, but I doubt he’ll be upset. They never did see eye to eye.”

Mallena paused. “Permission to speak freely, sir?”

“Granted.”

“I doubt anyone saw eye to eye with Needles. The man was insane. Even on Ord Mantel, there was something wrong about him.”

The general stroked her chin meditatively. “Yet Tavus never complained. Maybe that should have been my first warning.” She paused, then hurriedly said “But there is one other thing. What do you think of Sgt. Dorne?”

“I think she’s a competent medic, sir.” Mallena looked around to make sure no one was listening in. “She can be a bit overly committed to doing things by the book, but she’s honest and-“ She wondered if the general could see her face flaming as she said it. “And she appears to be loyal, more so than her superior officer, at least. Which brings me to something I need to tell you. At least the Coronal, and possibly other officers as well, failed to report missing patrols, failed to make sufficient effort to recover them, and lied to me about their whereabouts. I can prepare a full report.”

General Garza frowned. “Do so immediately, Lt. However, I wasn’t finished. I’ve gone over the Sgt.’s service record. It’s quite extraordinary. Are you aware that she served two years with the Imperial military?”

“Yeah, she told me.”

“During that time, she earned more commendations than most soldiers earn in ten. Since her defection, she’s earned two Medals of Valor for rescuing wounded soldiers under fire.”

“Exceptional.”

“Indeed. Which is why I’ve decided that her talents are being wasted in Olaris. Lt, I’m reassigning Sgt. Elara Dorne to Havoc Squad, effective immediately. Congratulations. You’re halfway to a full squad.” Something beeped on the general’s end of the transmission. “I’ll speak with you again when you return to duty, and I’ll expect to see that report. Garza out.”

Mallena leaned back in her chair. Well. Making peace with Sgt. Dorne was one thing, but having her on the ship permanently was another. But there was no arguing with Garza. And she had learned to get along with Jorgan, hadn’t she? Hopefully she wouldn’t get too annoying, and with her and Jorgan both there, they could catch any mischief on the off chance she was just an extremely good lier.

Jorgan and Dorne reappeared. He looked slightly worried, while she was all business. “Good, you’re looking better. Now let’s go back to rest and check your vitals, then we can see about some more activity.”

There didn’t seem to be any good way to set this up. In a perfect galaxy, she would tell Jorgan first, but getting him alone would be tricky, and the general had made it clear that she didn’t want them to waste time. “Sgt. Dorne, you’re being transferred to my squad.”

“What?” said both of them in unison.

“The general is quite impressed with your service record, and Havoc Squad needs a medic, so…”

A smile spread across Dorne’s face and she looked almost like a kid finding out they got a great score on a big test. “M-me? Join Havoc Squad? This is such an honor, I, I don’t know what to say. Thank you.” She recovered some of her poise. “I’ll file the necessary paperwork immediately.”

Mallena laughed. “Forget the stupid paperwork. You can do it in orbit. I want to get out of here ASAP. Grab your kit, say goodbye to anyone you want to, and meet us at the ship. Hammershot, docking bay 15.”

“But, you’re not recovered yet! You need to be under medical supervision for at least another day.”

“You’re coming with us, remember? You can fuss over me on the ship. I’ll also want your help preparing a report on the Colonel’s negligence.”

“Yes, sir.” Dorne saluted and headed for the door. She paused. “Thank you, again, sir.”

“Welcome to Havoc Squad, Sgt. Take as long as you need getting ready.” It hadn’t seemed like she had many friends at the outpost, but you never knew, and not getting to say goodbye was one of the most painful things Mallena could think of.

When the door closed, Jorgan turned to her. “She’s joining us?”

“It was Garza’s idea. I’m not sure I like it, but we do need a medic.”

He grinned a bit, showing pointed white teeth. “Maybe she can get you to take care of yourself.”

She grinned back. “Maybe.”

Another knock sounded on the door. It opened to reveal a dark-skinned human male with a tired look. “Lt. Dayne?”

Mallena stood up. “That’s me.”

“There’s a pair of teenagers looking for you. Something about a homestead?”

“Oh, right. Send them in.” She had completely forgotten about that whole problem.

“Should we say anything about the aliens?” said Jorgan.

“I don’t know. What do you think?”

“I think we should at least say something. Who knows, maybe they’ll miraculously decide to drop this whole thing and we can avoid it entirely.”

“I wouldn’t bet on it.”

“Neither would I.”

The brother and sister entered, looking slightly more ragged and much less upset than they had a few days earlier. “Did you run those scavengers off?” said the brother eagerly.

Mallena shifted uncomfortably, looking at Jorgan for support. “Sort of.”

“They said it was their land,” he added unhelpfully.

“Of course they did!” shouted the brother. “Dirty, stinking, no-good-“

His sister cut him off. “Why did they say that?”

Mallena sighed. “They were aliens, who claimed that the land was stolen from them. They had documents to prove it, but I have no idea if they’re valid or not.”

“This is our land, though.” The brother sounded more confused than upset, which was a good sign.

“I don’t know how much you know about the history of this planet, but the humans who lived here were, well, the only way to describe them is xenophobic. It wasn’t unheard of for them to force out aliens and claim their property.”

“Our ancestors would never do that!”

“Assuming it’s true, they might not have been the ones to do it. It could easily have happened several generations before your ancestors owned the land, or they could have unknowingly bought it from a corrupt developer. But I

don’t know, because I wasn’t there.”

“I feel bad for the now. Can I talk to them?” said the sister.

“I don’t know how to get in contact with them, but they know how to find me. If they do, I’ll point them in your direction.”

“Thank you. I suppose in the meantime we’ll get started moving in.”

The siblings left and Mallena shrugged. She had no idea who really had the best claim on the property, and she knew she couldn’t figure it out either. Not unless she invented a time machine. Still, it felt like she could have done more to smooth things over.

“Let’s head back to the ship, Dayne,” said Jorgan. “I don’t know about you, but I’m craving a hot shower and some real food.”

She smiled. “That sounds like a great idea.”

I feel like I'm kind of inconsistent with Mallena's feelings about Dorne here, but Mallena isn't entirely clear herself yet. She knows that all the evidence points towards her being genuine, but old suspicion dies hard. She'll learn to trust her more over the course of their Nar Shadda adventures. (which I will not subject you to, at least not now)

As for Jorgan, right now they're completely platonic. Very much a comrade/brothers in arms relationship.

For those who weren't around or don't remember, the whole saying goodbye thing is a reference to her first appearance. She doesn't talk about Ketturah, but she still thinks of her a lot. I don't think you can ever really forget those people, especially when they exit your life in such a dramatic/heartbreaking fashion.

Interesting. You truly masterful in making characters alive from the digital blueprints. Riggs drinking though did stand out for me in the Smuggler’s story, he was tipsy, he brought wine… but I guess he can’t compete with the professional crowd there, particularly of a Cathar’s quality constitution. And he got a girl… well, almost. J I liked the relaxed pace of the story and the banter. It did a very nice job of going through backgrounds without forcing it. Enjoyable!

A good take on the topic, a Jedi without the Force. I probably lack some of the background to understand some of the later game developments around the Jedi Knight and the SW to fuly grasp how it fits with the game story, but I liked the connection between the two and the way the Sith plays on every good person’s conscience and easily induces self-doubt and sense of guilt. Well-done!

“There were complications, Master. Please don't deactivate me!” came the plaintive whine from 2V-R8.

Ares looks up from the astrogation charts displayed on the galaxy map, and sighs with irritation. “What did the driod screw up this time?” she wonders as she turns an irritated look on the droid. She is still irritated with the droid's mishap from earlier in the week.

Her indignation fades away when she sees the droid though. It never ceases to amaze her how expressive R8's inanimate face could be. Maybe it was the hunched way he held his shoulders, or the slight stoop and downward cast of his eyes, but she couldn't hold on to her anger. “I'd make a lousy Sith” she thinks to herself.

Ensign Temple was going over the astrogation charts with Ares but after looking at the defeated pose of R8, decides she needs to be somewhere else. “I, uh, I think I hear Kaliyo calling me, Sir. If you need me I'll be in the cargo hold.” Without waiting for a reply, she rushes out and closes the hatch to the bridge, “All the better to contain flying droid parts” she thinks.

As Ares watches Temple leave without comment, 2V-R8 shuffles sideways to clear the hatch for the hastily departing Ensign. When he moves, Ares notices a part he had been holding close to his body, trying to shield it from view.

“Is that...” Ares says as she come out of her seat and takes 3 long strides to R8 and snatches the part from his hand. “It is. Damn it droid. What are you doing with the blast condenser for my rifle?”

Ares' sniper rifle is (or rather was) a masterpiece of precision craftsmanship that was given to her by Pestilence as a gift. It was more of an apology actually, now that she was thinking about it. An I'm-sorry-for-trying-to-double-cross-you-and-sell-you-out-to-the-Chiss-Ascendancy type of apology.

The blast condenser, as the name implies, condenses the plasma generated by the emitter, into a coherent blast. The condenser itself is a meter long series of Isotope-5 super-conducting coils wrapped around mythra and turadium alloy core. Outside of the barrel housing, the condenser was very delicate and had to be handled with care.

This one obviously had not been handled with care.

“It's ruined” Ares says as she shakes the ruined part in front of the droids face. The Isotope-5 coils had been delaminated from the core in several locations. Taking a closer look at the part, she could smell solvent on the coils. No wonder they had become delaminated.

R8 had not said anything yet, he just stood there looking more dejected and defeated than before.

“You tried to clean this didn't you, R8?”

“Yes, Master.”

“What in the great starry night made you think it was OK to even look at my rifle, much less disassemble it and try to 'clean' it.”

“After my mistake a few days ago, I wanted to do something nice for you, Master. To get in your good graces again.”

The “mistake” R8 was referring too happened three days ago.

The love affair between Ares and Vector had become something of a running joke among the crew of the Hammer of War. It was not unusual for one or both of them to end up in the med bay after a night of intense sex, looking for a kolto patch to fix a bruise or sprain.

On one such occasion, 2V-R8 overheard Dr. Lokin warning Vector that they might spontaneously combust if things got any hotter between the two of them. Vector agreed that it was a possibility. Horrified at the possibility that his master may be immolated, 2V-R8 took it upon himself to make sure that would never happen.

The next night, shortly after Ares and Vector retired to the captains cabin, the door flies open and a wave of foam bursts into the passageway.

“R8!” Ares yells as she and Vector stumble into the passageway, covered in foam. “The fire suppression system in my cabin has malfunctioned. Shut it off.”

“The fire suppression system is operating as intended, Master” replies R8 “I reprogrammed it” he says happily.

“You did what? Why?”

“Dr. Lokin observed that there was a possibility that you and Vector might spontaneously combust during one of your sexual encounters. In order to prevent that possibility, I reprogrammed the fire suppression system to monitor your biometrics. If your body temperature rose above at predetermined point, the fire suppression system would trigger to keep you from catching on fire.”

Kaliyo, the only other person on board at the time, had remained silent until now. After the droid finished his explanation, she burst out laughing so hard she had to lean up against the bulkhead in order to keep standing.

“I knew you two were a hot item” she gasps between fits of laughter. “But setting off the fire alarm during sex? That's a new one on me!”

Ares shoots her an irritated glare. “Don't you have somewhere else to be?”

“Nope” Kaliyo replies. “Besides, it's a small ship."

Speaking up for the first time, Vector says “R8, the Doctor was joking. There is very little chance we could spontaneously combust during sex.”

Up till now, R8 had been preening like an Ack dog puppy that had finally learned to go outside to pee. After the revelation from Vector that the Doctor had been joking, he finally realized that he had screwed up.

“I am sorry Master...” he began.

“Stow it, droid.”

By now the foam covering the lovers had mostly evaporated, leaving nothing to the imagination.

“You know, Vector” Kaliyo drawls. “If you ever get tired of Ares...”

“You don't want to finish that sentence, Kaliyo” Ares warns.

“Don't be jealous, Agent. I suppose, you could join us if you wanted” she says with a teasing smile.

“We thank you for the generous offer, Kaliyo” Vector replies as he puts a restraining hand on Ares' shoulder “but we are very much in love with our wife.”

Ares's solid red eyes look up to meet the solid black eyes of her husband. Without another word, she plants her hand squarely in the center of his chest and pushes him back into the foam filled cabin.

“Shall I clean your quarters, Master?” call 2V-R8.

“Tomorrow!” came the muffled reply as the door shut.

Shaking herself back to the present, she waves the condenser in front of the droid and walks over to the hatch, opening it. As expected, Temple is standing on the other side eavesdropping on the conversation. She is caught by surprise and tries to stutter out a response.

Ares waves it away. “Save it, Ensign. Change of plans, we are headed to the Fleet. It seems I need to replace my rifle barrel.”

With a look of sorrow, she heads towards Engineering, maybe she can salvage some of the materials. “This is coming out of your pay, droid” she calls back.

“But Master, you do not pay me!” he says as he rushes to catch up with her.

Temple blocks his way though. “Not a good idea right now, R8. You are going to want to make yourself scarce for the next week or two.

“I was just trying to help” he protests as he shuffles off the bridge.

Since day 1, I've found the ships droids to be annoying, kind of the anti-C3-PO. Where 3-PO was annoying because he had to object to everything, the ships droids are annoying because they are overly eager to please. What kind of effect does this eagerness have on the crew? How does Scorpio feel about 2V-R8 tinkering with the ships engines to get that famed 0.000082% increase in efficiency? Does Ares like having her cabin smelling perpetually like paint (same color of course, only fresher)? This prompt seemed like a good chance to explore that a little.

@frauzet: I remember reading that on Tumblr and that definitely was a tense few moments for Thorns and Ciner. I liked how you had Mako speaking to him through his helmet (made me giggle) and can see why he wasn't keen to remove it, helmet hair being a good reason.

I'm glad you're liking the boys and there will be more on their main story soon. I just have to get those goofy bits out of my head first so I can focus .

@Mirdthestrill: I enjoyed that last bit and thought you did a nice job conveying Mallena's thoughts/feelings about Dorne. I can understand her uncertainty and conflict in regards to trust with the former Imperial, but see that she wants to try and move past it. Also, I like the budding camaraderie between her and Jorgan.

As for Jax and Risha, they'll definitely have a lot to work through relationship wise, but her overhearing Zev and Dek talking with Aric is going to get her thinking. Also, I don't see Corso as an experienced drinker either. I'm glad citing my sources helped you and I usually try to do that whenever I use something specific, or note if I completely make something up.

@DomiSotto: Awww, thanks! You make me blush, but I'm glad you're enjoying my characters and that I'm doing a good job with them. I have to agree with you on Corso trying to keep up with the Cathar metabolism drinking wise.

@Twiget: Again, welcome to the thread! I snickered all the way through it, especially

By now the foam covering the lovers had mostly evaporated, leaving nothing to the imagination.

 

“You know, Vector” Kaliyo drawls. “If you ever get tired of Ares...”

Aric wasn’t sure what woke him, it was a toss-up between the desert his mouth had become and the turbohammers going non-stop inside his skull. One thing he did know was that he absolutely did not want to move, so he lay there, half wishing someone would come and put him out of his misery. It had been a while since he’d had that much to drink and at thirty, it was definitely hitting him harder the next morning. Unable to take the dry mouth any longer, he gingerly sat up and once the room stopped spinning and came into focus, he swung his legs off the bed and attempted to stand. On shaky legs, he managed to cross the room to the small conservator and grabbed a bottle of water, sinking into a nearby chair as he gulped it down.

The icy cold water was a shock to his senses but felt good on his parched throat, so he had some more, sitting back in the chair as he tried to get his bearings. The last thing he remembered clearly was them egging Corso on to call that girl, but he couldn’t remember if the shy Mantellian actually did so or not. He did recall Jax leaving with that Twi’lek, telling them he’d see them in the morning cycle. Things started to get fuzzy after that and he was pretty sure Zev and Syarra helped him back to the room at some point. He assumed Zev put him to bed since he was still fully dressed, but had no recollection of it at all. He rubbed his pounding head for a moment before getting up with a groan. He finished the water then decided to see if his new CO had anything to ease his headache.

*****

Awareness slowly made its way to the large Zabrak, then his green eyes suddenly shot open when he realized that he was completely naked in the bed and wasn’t alone. He felt the warm, velvety soft body stirring against him and she definitely wasn’t wearing anything either. Oh, damn, he thought as those blue eyes drifted open to catch his, a sultry smile curving her full lips seconds before they met his and all his worries vanished.

“Mornin’” she murmured sleepily against his mouth as her wicked hand ran down his broad back, her clawed fingertips gently sc*ping his tan skin as she brought her thigh up to wrap around his waist. With a groan, Zev captured her mouth again, the kiss growing more urgent as he pinned her underneath him, both of them eager for another round just as the door opened.

“Hey, you got any pain meds?” Aric asked as he came in, “because my head feels like a…….oh damn. Uh…sorry, sir……I had no idea….” Aric turned and hastily retreated muttering something about reasons doors have locks.

“Guess we forgot to lock the door last night,” Syarra giggled at her now blushing bed partner, “but then again, we were a little distracted.”

“And the only thing I was thinking about was getting that dress off you without tearing it,” Zev chuckled, then he sobered as the first twinges of guilt started to enter his mind.

Syarra sighed, recognizing the look on Zev’s face and knowing what was on his mind, “I know you hate keeping this from Jax and I won’t make you do it anymore. Just let me talk to him okay?”

“Alright,” Zev replied, knowing this was a deeper issue between the siblings. He was relieved just knowing they wouldn’t be hiding things from Jax anymore.

“Good,” Syarra purred, stroking his cheek before letting her finger trail down his abdomen, “Now, where were we?”

“Right about……..” the rest of Zev’s response was nonverbal as they picked up from where they’d left off when Jorgan had interrupted them.

*****

A little while later, Syarra left for her room as Zev pulled on his pants from last night. He pulled out the small medikit from his duffle and opened it up. He picked up the small metal case of single use injectors, searching through the tiny colored vials until he found the orange ones labeled, Cetamin. He grabbed one and injected it into his arm to ward off the headache that was just beginning to hit him. Then he took out a couple more, then closed the case, placed it back in the medikit and returned it to his duffle. He took the injectors with him, tossing the empty one in the trash, and walked through the common area towards Jorgan’s room. Seeing the door open, Zev figured it was safe to go in, biting back his laughter when he did.

The Cathar lay on his back, an arm slung over his eyes, looking as if he’d gotten out of the shower and fell on to the bed. His tawny fur was still damp, and he was clad in just a towel wrapped around his waist. A soft grunt was the only indication he gave that he was aware someone had entered his room.

"You gonna make it?"

"Not sure yet."

Taking pity on his new subordinate, Zev carefully sat on the edge of the bed and grasped the arm that lay at Aric’s side, depressing both injectors into him.

“That’s the best I’ve got on me, the rest of my medical supplies are in my trunk and that’s probably being loaded on the shuttle by now,” Zev told him quietly, “but it should kick in fast and get you by until we’re on the shuttle. Then you can just sleep it off.”

“Thanks,” Aric mumbled, “and sorry for earlier…..you know….”

“Nothing to be sorry for,” Zev replied, “My fault for forgetting to lock the door. You had no way of knowing I wasn’t alone.”

“Shoulda knocked though. ‘Cause I really didn’t need to see that.”

“Jealous?”

“Nope. To be honest, she really wasn’t my type…..I mean, she’s attractive enough, but I prefer shorter, curvier types,” the ghost of a smile crossed Aric’s face, “Besides, you’re the one who’s going to have Jax to answer to.”

“Tell me about it,” Zev sighed, not looking forward to seeing his friend later.

“So, you and Syarra, are you two….”

“Nah,” Zev answered, having a good idea what Jorgan was going to ask, “We’ve been friends for a while. I actually knew her before Jax. One night we were on leave, Jax and Dek were on a different weekend than we were then, we met up in a cantina and she was on her cycle. I’m sure I don’t have to tell you what happened next.”

“Spent the entire leave in a bedroom?”

“That’s about it,” Zev confirmed, “Neither one of us wanted any romantic ties though and figured we’d leave it at that one time, especially after Jax found out.”

“I’m guessing that’s not the case.”

“It didn’t happen again until her next cycle, but after that, it became a regular thing between us whenever we had a different weekend leave than Dek and Jax. Sort of a friends with benefits thing and that suited us just fine,” Zev elaborated, “However, Syarra didn’t want Jax to know and I was really torn about that. Jax had always been a little closer to Dek, but we were good friends by the second fling and it ate at me not to say anything. On the other hand, Syarra and I were also good friends and I didn’t feel right coming clean to Jax when she was so adamantly against it.”

“Definitely not an easy place to be in,” Aric agreed as he eased himself into a sitting position, the throbbing in his head finally dulling, “You gonna tell him now?”

“I’d planned on it, and even Syarra admitted it was for the best, but she asked to be the one to break it to him. I agreed since it’s her brother and they need to work their differences in opinion. I understand Syarra resenting her brother trying to limit her, but I don’t feel it’s my place to say anything to him.”

“You don’t have sisters, do you?”

“Nope.”

“I do and it’s never easy when someone you’re friends with takes an interest in your sister…..sort of a worlds colliding thing.” Aric admitted as he stood and went over to the dresser where his clothes were setting. He paused a moment as he pulled the shirt over his head, then continued as he finished dressing, “Think about it…..would you want to be having locker room chat with one of your friends knowing he’s talking about your sister?”

“Good point.”

“It’s nothing against you personally, really. You’re a decent guy and I’m sure Jax knows that. He just needs to come to terms with it, that’s all.”

“Thanks, Jorgan,” Zev smiled, feeling a little better talking to someone who wasn’t directly involved, “Now I’d better grab a shower. Our shuttle leaves in little over an hour.”

“I’m packed and ready. Just wake me when it’s time to leave,” Aric yawned as he climbed back in the bed.

“Lightweight,” Zev chuckled as those green eyes drifted shut.

“Just wait till you hit your thirties,” Aric mumbled, dozing off as the fresher door closed.

*****

Syarra hurried down the hall, wanting to get back to her room in time for a long, hot shower before she had to catch the shuttle. She planned to talk to Jax, but didn’t want to rub it in my carrying Zev’s scent all over her. It was a pity, really, because she liked his scent and hated to wash it off so soon. While she had no desire for anything permanent with Zev, or anyone for that matter, she treasured their intimate times. He was safe, someone she knew well, could be herself around, and didn’t make any demands on her for a future. The only issue was Jax, but Syarra knew it was time to tell him as Zev had wanted to do all along. She would shower, dress, pack, then try to meet with Jax before they boarded the shuttle. Unfortunately the Force wasn’t with her and she literally bumped into her littermate at the elevators.

“Looks like I’m not the only one who had a good time last night,” Jax smirked noticing his Syarra’s disheveled state and the fact she was wearing the dress from last night.

“I sure did,” Syarra winked, “and so did he.”

“Does he have a name……..wait a minute,” Jax frowned, recognizing a familiar scent on his sister, “Why do I get the feeling I know the guy you slept with?”

“Because you do.”

“Dammit, Syarra,” Jax growled, “He’s one of my best friends…..”

“And I’m your sister,” Syarra rolled her eyes, “I love you, Jax, but you really need to get it through your head that who I have sex with is my decision. We didn’t exactly set out to sleep together last night, but you and Corso left, and we helped get Jorgan to bed. Then we started talking and things just sorta happened. I’m sorry we didn’t stop to consider your delicate sensibilities in the heat of the moment but it’s really not fair for you to expect that.”

“I know that,” Jax sighed in frustration, “But Zev….”

“Zev is a friend and you have a hard time dealing with it,” Syarra hugged her brother, “Look, it’s not like we’re looking for anything permanent, it was just friendly sex. Would you rather I hook up with some random stranger?”

Jax pondered that as Syarra went on, “Besides, Zev and I slept together off and on several times before I left for the Order. He’s a friend to me as well and don’t you dare get your shorts in a bunch,” Syarra poked her brother in his broad chest when she noticed the sour look on his face, “I’m the one who begged him not to say anything after the way you reacted that first time we got together and you know how Zev is. It really bothered him to keep it from you all this time, but I didn’t want to put a rift in your friendship. So don’t you dare give him crap about it, because you both have enough on your plate right now. If you want to be pissed at anyone, direct it at me.”

“You’re such a pain sometimes, you know that?!” Jax muttered, unable to stay upset at his littermate and when push came to shove, he had to admit he’d rather her have casual relations with a mutual friend than just random strangers like he did. “Aren’t you Jedi supposed to be celibate or something like that?” Jax teased, wanting to take the focus off of who she was with last night as he tried to accept her words and push past it.

“That’s not going to happen, something I’m sure the Order is well aware of at this point,” Syarra crossed her arms, then fixed her brother with a smug look, “and you’re hardly one to talk……do you even remember the name of last night’s conquest?”

“U’laa….wait, O’ona. No that’s not it……”

“Uh-huh,” Syarra patted his head, “Don’t strain yourself too hard. I’m going up to my room and grab a shower.”

“That’d be nice because I really don’t want to smell my best friend all over my sister for the trip to Coruscant.”

“Well you smell like a distillery!”

“Feel like I drank my way through one,” Jax groaned, rubbing his temples to ease the pressure in his head.

“Go take some meds and shower,” Syarra gave her brother a pitying smile, “I’ll see you later.”

Jax waved at his littermate as she stepped onto the elevator, then headed for his room. He was almost there when it opened and much to Jax’s surprise, the waitress from last night came out, looking like she’d spent the night there. She smiled shyly at Jax as she walked past him on her way to the elevators. Chuckling, Jax entered the small suite and spotting Corso’s door open, he went over to investigate. He leaned his broad frame in the doorway, his suspicions confirmed when he spotted a sheepish Corso sitting on the bed, wearing only a sheet.

“Looks like Aric and Zev owe me a hundred credits,” Jax smirked at the blushing young man, “You better hurry up and get ready, loverboy, the shuttle starts boarding in about an hour.”

*I found a page (actually I think I got it from Kitar) that gives some Star Wars terminality for real world objects. I use a few of these as I remember/catch them and keep forgetting to link the source. So, here it is: http://starwars.wikia.com/wiki/List_of_Star_Wars_equivalents_to_real-world_objects.

*I made up the Cetamin injectors, but based it off of Acetaminophen (Tylenol) since that is my drug of choice for hangover headaches.

Welcome to the game, Twiget! I think you did great with a funny story. J I t gave me a few chuckles. Plus, it has Vector, and I do not think I actually read anything Vector yet. Nice! One thing I have noticed is that you sometimes miss punctuation at the end of your quotes. You might keep an eye out for this. J Hope to see more of your stories in the future!

Sounds like you are having a great summer! Ahh, to be young when summer actually meant free time, lol. Ahem.

There was a typo in the very first paragraph, so I figured I’d post it: “her” instead of “hurt”

Now, forget the nit-picks, the story!

I am growing very fond of your Dorn, she seems so earnest and trying so hard! I would have thought Garza would be cross as well, seeing she always got crossed with me in the early game, but then you are conveying the tough but fair very well, and it works! And hey, looks like the relationship between Mallena and Jorgan are becoming cordial. You know, it was really a very satisfying chapter, with all the cohesion happening.

Yay, Thorn and Mako! Missed those two J The hlmet game was superb, I just see Ciner vs Thorn staring contest, and the whole tension even if they cannot see each-other’s eyes. Very well observed! And, he’s go helmet hair! Woo-hoo! FUN!