The Short Fic Weekly Challenge Thread!

[bright_ephemera]

Signed, Sealed, and Delivered: Favors for Inquisitor Jora Mei. No game spoilers. 350 words.

 

"I sense your wife's pain from here. Bring me to her."

 

"Y-yes, my lord." The Moff bowed and led the slender Mirialan to the small cabin where a Human woman lay buried in sheets on a bed too big for her. The woman was only barely conscious, only enough to roll restlessly and moan.

 

The Moff followed the Sith lord in. "I don't know what happened," he said quietly. "It came so suddenly. But if you're here and willing to help, my lord, I would be in your debt."

 

"Yes indeed," said Jora Mei, sparing one disdainful look for the Human woman before she returned her attention to the Moff. "You are fortunate I was here today. I can cure your wife. In return you will promise me one day of service, someday in the future. One satisfactory day of service when the time comes for me to call on you. This is my price."

 

His brow contracted. "Someday. Would it interfere with my duties?"

 

She shook her head reprovingly. "One unconditional day, at a time of my choosing." Still he hesitated. "Weigh it against your wife's life."

 

"My lord, I have responsibilities. I cannot betray my family or the chain of command. Your terms are too vague, things that might happen someday. It's..." The woman on the bed groaned and the Moff grew pale, staring now at his sweat-soaked wife. He took a few labored breaths. "I said I would owe you a debt," he said stiffly, "and I will. I must accept your offer. Just help her."

 

As if prepared for this moment from the start, she produced a small scroll and a stylus. The Moff unrolled to reveal a densely written contract with a large space at the end for his signature.

 

"One day," she said, offering him the stylus. He cast one more look at his wife, then signed his name.

 

"Done." She snatched scroll and stylus away and tucked both into her pocket. She didn't take her eyes off the Moff as she extended one hand to the side. Purple energy burst and roiled toward the bedridden woman, a streak of forcible regeneration.

 

As the subject screamed, Jora Mei smiled.

 

 

One person in that room is the subject; another is the object.

 

Jora Mei has her quirks, written contracts appearing fully prepared at the most convenient times being one of them. The stylus takes biometric data for her records. And oh, does she keep records.

 

While I always intended for the Ruth!verse to have a DS Inquisitor if it's going to have one at all, Jora hasn't taken shape until the past month or so. I'm still not convinced she fills out the full Inquisitor questline, but by temperament she's Inquisitor-y. Inquisitorial. Inquisitoriffic (whether that is a construction from "terrific" or "horrific" I leave as an exercise for the reader.)

 

Edited December 20, 2013 by bright_ephemera

[YoshiRaphElan]

@bright_ephemera, Jora Mei is sufficiently creepy for an Inquisitor. Looking forward to more.

 

Prompt - Dreams and Nightmares

Title - New Camp

Class - Smuggler/Jedi Knight

No spoilers

 

 

He felt like he was in water.

 

Normally he would've panicked. He knew how to swim, but he'd never been that great at it. The fact that he was submerged should have scared him but it didn't, and that oddly reassured him. He noticed several things about the water. It was sticky, and it felt moderately warm–like a comfortable bath, not a river he was drowning in.

 

It also felt good. He didn't know why he hurt, but he did know that the water's touch made that hurt feel better. That sparked recognition in his brain but he couldn't understand it, not in his current state. His mind pushed forward, determined to learn the answers to all its questions, but the warm embrace of the water distracted him, so he contented himself to float.

 

A figure appeared in front of him, which was odd, because his eyes were closed. But he was too busy gaping to notice that–the figure was a stunningly beautiful woman. Clad all in white, and with hair to match, she had an eternal youth about her, and she looked not a day over twenty. Her brilliant blue eyes sparkled.

 

"It's all right," she said, "relax..."

 

She reached out and touched him on the chest. He inhaled deeply, entranced by her touch. He did not know who she was, but he had never seen a more beautiful woman. She was elegant and wonderful. Who was she? He was determined to find out...

 

* * *

 

Dankin looked worriedly at Corso. He had been moved from the ship's kolto tank to the encampment's more advanced one as soon as the buildings had been reassembled. The man had shown no sign of recovery, but he was not getting worse, either. Dankin glanced around the room guiltily. It seemed wrong somehow that Corso was all right, and Havoc Squad was in the base's cantina, mourning the apparent loss of Tanno Vik. But given the opportunity, Dankin would not have switched places with them. He needed his friend.

 

Akaavi placed a hand on his shoulder. "He will be fine. He is a strong man."

 

Dankin nodded. "I know, sweetheart. Thanks."

 

The woman beside the kolto tank, a white-clad Echani Jedi Knight, lowered her hand from where it pressed against the tank. She turned to look at Dankin.

 

"His mind is slowly beginning to become aware of its surroundings. He should awaken soon."

 

Dankin nodded. "Thank you."

 

Jasin, standing at the back of the room, nodded somberly. "I told you Ylenia was the best."

 

"You were right," Dankin agreed. "We'll be back in awhile; Guss will stay here to keep Corso company. I'm going to see if I can cheer Prudii and the others up a bit."

 

"You do that," Jasin said. "And tell them I said thank you for looking after Rusk."

 

"Will do." Dankin turned to Ylenia. "Call me immediately if his condition changes."

 

"I will." She gestured to Jasin and the others. "Now, out. The medics need this room vacated so they can perform surgery. Go. Shoo."

 

Dankin, Akaavi, and Jasin left Corso to his dreams.

 

 

Prompt - Seasons

Title - All Alone

Class - Trooper

No spoilers

 

 

It was raining.

 

This continent was in its monsoon season, and the rain would not stop for quite some time; only the camp's force field had kept it out. Outside the field, there was little shelter from the rain that came constantly after the sun set. Sitting on a wide limb on a tall tree, Tanno Vik pulled an eight-inch vibroblade from his belt and began idly whittling at a small branch he'd pulled off the limb.

 

It had been close to twelve hours since the BT-7 had disappeared on the horizon, leaving Tanno alone to deal with an army of Imperials. It hadn't been easy. He'd stood his ground, and probably killed a full company before he'd had an opening to flee into the forest.

 

Now, he was making his way south–the last direction he'd seen the escape shuttles heading. He did not know where the actual camp had been settled, and his comlink was being jammed by Imperial pursuers. Only by slathering a thick coating of camouflage paint he'd kept in his belt on his armor had he managed to evade them this long. He knew he could not keep it up.

 

Cold, hard eyes stared at the setting sun.

 

"I'm comin', boss," he promised. "Then you and me, we'll pay those Imps back. Promise."

 

Edited December 20, 2013 by YoshiRaphElan

[Adwynyth]

...Inquisitor-y. Inquisitorial. Inquisitoriffic (whether that is a construction from "terrific" or "horrific" I leave as an exercise for the reader.)

Inquisitoresque. It rolls off the tongue like Quinncident or Quinnescient or Quinnificent.

 

(Yes, I'm still reading. Just too busy to breathe otherwise. )

[alaurin]

What's got two thumbs and definitely on Santa's Naughty List? This girl!!! Hell, I've been on Santa's Naughty List since my freshman year of college......but I'll do comments anyways.

 

Comments/Replies: (I'll catch up the Index in the morning)

 

@Xakthul: Oh, that piece with all the classes coming together with the Life Day stuff thrown in gave me the giggles something fierce!

@alaurin: Republic heroes playing WoW? Yes, just yes.

LOL, glad you liked it!

 

 

@DarthSillyMonkey: Awwww, that insight to Kiera and Bro as children was so sweet.....and we got a little teaser at the end!!! Yay for new characters!! It's going to be interesting seeing Kiera under her brother's command.

@Alaurin:

HAHA! Poor Corso. He's right though. One day Val's gonna come across someone that doesn't work on, and that'll be a day to read about!

 

Studmuffinz HAHAHAHA! Niiice. Poor Doc. NOTHING in game is worse than getting trolled in PvP.

Yeah, I figure Val will be in that situation fairly soon......and it will be very interesting, I promise. Hehe, glad you liked Doc's character name......I giggled every time I typed it. I think Vik's comes in a close second. Yes, getting trolled in PVP does suck, but he kinda asks for it.....

 

 

@Yoshi: You've been busy! That was a real nail biter when they were evacuating and I see Rusk played a part, but oh, no......poor Vik. I really like how you potrayed him when he was making his sacrifice. I really hope he makes it to their camp! Also, like the part with Corso in the kolto tank and how you described the sensations.

@alaurin, I imagine my brother would be Doc...never knowing it was his friends he was getting killed by and getting totally enraged by it. I know he wouldn't hit on female characters though; he's run as too many female alts and had guys do it to him.

LOL, back when my husband and I played WOW.....when BG's first came out, he knew some people from work that played Alliance (we were Horde) and he, I, and a couple of friends would always gank them anytime we were in the same instance. After a few times, my husband finally came clean.

 

 

Alaurin, love bringing some depth to Rusk, even in the gaming piece. I only had him for a short time with my own JK so to see him in a different light is awesome. The gaming piece was great I read somewhere lately that female gamers make up a much larger percentage than most think. And I'm fully behind camping Doc!

Yay, glad you liked those pieces. I didn't pay too much attention to Rusk the first time I leveled a JK, but this time, I've been paying more attention to different companions and thought Rusk needed some attention.....and he will have plenty more . As for Doc getting camped......he so deserves it and I'm happy I'm not the only one who feels that way!

 

 

@RatchetGuyClanks: Welcome back! That was a very moving piece and I can definitely see her reasoning of her anger towards the unborn child. It was a very moving, insightful piece and it will be nice to see where you take this character.

 

 

@Bright: Oh, I like this new character......very deliberate, prepared, and deliciously dark.

@alaurin, ha, Corso trying to sound thoughtful instead of 'drifting off thinking about Val'-y. The encounter with Zank was hilarious...play to his vanity! Then, ganking Studmuffinz...I would probably be right there with them. I like seeing Rusk get some time...My Jedi Knights never really inspired my muse but I do like Rusk quite a lot as a character.

Yeah, Corso tends to drift off and think about Val from time to time and it embarrasses him when she catches it. Ah, the dirty kick gag will never get old.....I hope. I'm glad to see so much support for ganking Doc aka Studmuffinz and that people are enjoying Rusk getting some time......both of these things will definitely be happening more. I still haven't decided if Doc is going to find out it's Kira and Ros ganking him or if Mallay and Ros are going to find out that each other plays.

 

 

Now I'll give you a pair of shorter ones to continue Kat, Val, and Tia's storyline.....

 

First one is ~1100 words

 

Title: Trouble with Siblings

Prompt: Good/Bad Memories, family

Character: Katrynka-BH, Mako

Setting: Nar Shaddaa, just after this.

Spoilers: BH Nar Shaddaa, companion spoilers for Mako

 

 

“That was really nice of you, Kat,” Mako told her friend as they left the warehouse.

 

When they’d first met with Gele’ren and Anuli, Mako had told her old friend to keep an eye out for anything suspicious that might indicate their competition was on Eidolon’s trail. When they met with Gele’ren after the shopping excursion, Anuli had some interesting news for them. Some odd purchases going to an old warehouse, the different components were enough to clue Mako, a rabid Great Hunt fan, as to who their competition was. A clan of Ugnaughts were building a wardroid in the Duros Sector. Apparently they tried this during a Great Hunt before and it didn’t quite work out the way they’d intended. They had made several improvements in their design, but Kat found them before it was completed. After a brief dispute, the Ugnaughts were defeated and bowed out gracefully. Kat wished them well and allowed them to leave relatively unscathed.

 

“Well, it just seemed wrong somehow to kill them,” Kat sighed, “It was a bit sad really and they looked so pathetic……so defeated.” Then she smiled, recalling one of the reasons she let them go, “It brought back some memories of my littermates.”

 

“Really?” Mako raised a brow at her friend.

 

“There was an incident…..back before my parents were killed. We were twelve at the time, and Tia had just finished her Science Fair Project,” Kat sighed, “She’d worked so hard on it and was sure she was going to win first place. However, she was a bit of a brat about it and wouldn’t let me or Jakob touch it or even look at it.”

 

“Let me guess,” Mako accused, “You touched it.”

 

“You bet I did!” Kat snorted, “I just wanted to see what the fuss was all about and was pissed she was being so fussy about it. Tia was kinda uptight and nerdy back then……she hadn’t discovered boys yet. I did well in school, but preferred social clubs over academic ones.”

 

“What did you do?”

 

“Well, Jakob caught me sneaking into Tia’s room while she was getting ready for school the next morning. He startled me and I accidently broke one of the dials off. It didn’t look important, so I just quickly popped it back on. Jakob was always the goody-goody one and he kept insisting I had to tell Tia. I knew our sister would flip out and I really didn’t think it was that big a deal…..I’d fixed it after all.”

 

“Did you tell her?”

 

“No way,” Kat replied, “and I told Jakob if he said anything, I’d tell Mom and Dad that I caught him kissing the neighbor girl.”

 

“Kat!” Mako cried, “You blackmailed your brother?! He’s a Jedi!”

 

“Yeah, I kinda feel bad about that now,” Kat snickered, “but hey, it worked and he kept quiet. Unfortunately, that dial was important and Tia’s project…..uh….sorta blew up. Oh, Mako…..she looked so sad and defeated, just like those Ugnaughts.”

 

“Did you ever tell her?”

 

“Yeah, after a week of her moping around, I just couldn’t stand the guilt anymore,” Kat sighed, “I confessed to what happened and told her that I made Jakob keep quiet.”

 

“How’d she react?” Mako wondered, having witnessed an example Tia’s temper earlier. Kat’s sister was definitely not one to mess with.

 

“She was pretty mad, but then she fessed up that she was the one that ruined my favorite shirt the month before and blamed it on the protocol droid,” then a sly grin spread across her face as she continued, “and apparently she also blackmailed Jakob. He saw her wearing the shirt when it got torn and I guess she busted Jakob kissing a different girl and threatened to tell our parents if he said anything to me.”

 

“Wow,” Mako giggled, “Hard to picture a boy that popular with the girls as a Jedi!”

 

“Tell me about it,” Kat snorted, “Jakob was kinda runty, but he was so adorable and such a sweetheart that it just sucked the girls right in.” Then her voice thickened a little, “I can’t even begin to tell you how it felt when Garza said he was alive……I’ve missed him and our parents so much! That’s why I know how important it is for you to find out about Coral.”

 

“I still haven’t been able to crack that datapad yet,” Mako sighed sadly.

 

“Well, as soon as you find anything, let me know,” Kat told her, “and we’ll find her…..whatever it takes!”

 

“I will,” Mako nodded, “Thanks Kat!”

 

“So, are you going to try and spend some time with Anuli while I go find out what Agent Hot Pants and Captain Crank have in mind for my sister?” Kat asked as they approached the taxi station.

 

“You’re terrible, Kat,” Mako giggled, “but no, Gele’ren has Anuli working on some stuff…..more plans to get the Eidolon’s attention I guess, so I’ll come with you.”

 

“That’s fine.”

 

“Speaking of Anuli,” Mako began, anxiously looking at her friend, “Is there any way you’d be willing to take him with us when we leave Nar Shaddaa?”

 

“I can take him wherever he wants to go,” Kat answered after thinking a moment, “but I can’t give him a job……we’ve barely been making enough to cover expenses and there’s nowhere on the ship for him to sleep.” They’d burned the filthy mattresses from the previous owner and had to do a couple of side jobs on Balmorra to earn enough credits to buy two new ones for them to sleep on.

 

“That’s fine,” Mako nodded, “I told him we weren’t looking to hire anyone and he said he just wanted off Nar Shaddaa and would look for work wherever we were headed next.”

 

“Sounds good,” Kat shrugged, “We probably should try and get a spare mattress at some point…..maybe I’ll see if there are any extra bounties before we leave this planet. For now, let’s go see how long it takes for me to annoy that uptight CO of my sister’s.”

 

“He’s not so bad, Kat,” Mako replied, feeling a little bad as she remembered how her, Val, and Elara had caught him that morning, “He did try to give you some advice and he helped you get in and out of the kolto tank. Maybe you can give the poor guy a break.”

 

“Well, he did have to listen to my sister go off about him earlier,” Kat mused, “and I’m pretty sure he has a thing for her whether he’s willing to admit it or not. I suppose I can try being nice, but one wise crack about my little incident yesterday and all bets are off!”

 

 

 

Now a shorter one ~450 words

 

Title: All This Trouble for a Girl

Prompt: Technology, Defenses

Character: Aric Jorgan, Elara Dorne

Setting: Nar Shaddaa

Spoilers: Trooper Nar Shaddaa

 

 

 

“Alright, I’ll need some time…..at least ten minutes,” the pale green Twi’lek told his escort once they’d cleared out the room, “I’m going to shift a couple other things around to hide our tracks.”

 

“Balkar said you were the best,” Aric nodded, “Take your time, we’ve got your back.”

 

Niall worked quickly and quietly, only the occasional muttering of a phrase like ‘that’s it’ and ‘here we go’ telling of his progress. The slicer had been working at the main security terminal for a few minutes when voices could be heard approaching.

 

“I think we have hostiles incoming, sir,” Elara called out, readying her blaster.

 

Aric charged his cannon and headed for the doorway, hoping to keep the mercs from getting too close to Niall. There were only four of them and they were surprised by Aric’s offensive, going down quickly under a barrage of fire from his cannon.

 

“How much longer?” he asked after the mercs were down.

 

“I’ve almost got it……you and Corso Riggs are now on one Tiannya Vleska’s guest list,” Niall told them, “Now I’m just going to hide our tracks and hopefully prevent anyone from knowing the guest list was tampered with……”

 

“Cover him, Dorne,” Aric growled as three more huge mercs filled the doorway. These men were tougher than their predeccssors, but after a few minutes, several grenades, and a nearly overheated assault cannon, the mercs were dead and Aric only had a few minor injuries.

 

“Are you alright, sir?” Elara asked when she saw her CO limping.

 

“I’ll be fine,” Aric nodded as he began dragging the corpses out into the hallway, “You can patch me up back on the ship. How’s it going Niall?”

 

“Just about there,” Niall muttered, then a moment later got up, “That’s it.”

 

“Alright, let’s get out of here before more show up,” Aric ordered and the three of them quickly exited the room.

 

Once they were at the doorway, Niall dug a remote out of his bag and hit a button. A few seconds later, they saw the small red light on the security camera come on, indicating that it was once again recording. Aric grabbed a blaster and a rifle off one of the mercs and shot them both several times at the opposite wall, above four Imperial corpses, then he shot the corpses themselves. He placed the weapons back with their deceased owner and they walked down the short hallway, stopping at the Imperial corpses. Once again, Aric grabbed a blaster and rifle, and repeated the process, making it look like a simple fight between the mercs and Imperials.

 

The Twi’lek slicer regarded the Cathar soldier for a moment, “This seems like an awful lot of trouble just to get on a woman’s guest list……hope she’s worth it.”

 

 

Author's Note:

 

I hope everyone will forgive me with a slight change in the order of the Trooper Nar Shaddaa missions.....It will make sense when I post the next part (hopefully in the morning).

 

Edited December 20, 2013 by alaurin

[YoshiRaphElan]

@alaurin, the Mako and Kat piece was great; I know how bad I'd feel if I broke one of my siblings' science projects. Or anything, for that matter! And I love the way that one little change in the story, with the Trooper going with Tavus instead of fighting, changed events all across the story by just a little bit! It's really great.

 

Prompt - Failure

Title - Down in the Dumps

Class - Trooper

"That Quest" in Act 3 spoilers, and Jorgan companion quest spoilers

 

 

Sweat poured down Prudii's forehead and past his cranial horns. Clad in sweat pants and a tank top, he slammed his fists repeatedly into the punching bag. Images if Vik, seconds after the BT-7 lifted off, replayed in his head over and over again. He hit the bag harder, harder.

 

Failure, spat voices in his head. You're a disgrace, General Garza said. Not worthy of your heritage, his father snarled. I don't know why I ever looked for you, Dha said, it was a waste. Prudii growled.

 

"Shut up!"

 

He punched the bag so hard that it tore open, spilling sand everywhere. Prudii looked down at his now-bloody knuckle. His rage sated, and the voices silent, he walked over to a bench and sat down to bandage his hands. He should've been able to save Vik, he knew. He was the CO of Havoc Squad; Vik had been one of his own and he'd let him down.

 

"There was nothing you could've done, you know," a voice said.

 

Prudii turned to see Jorgan standing behind him. Without waiting for an invitation, the Cathar took several steps forward and sat down beside Prudii.

 

"We couldn't have gotten to Vik," Jorgan said. "There was no way. They were moving in heavy artillery; by the time we'd gotten to Vik they would've shot the ship down. And we all would've died."

 

"But we left him," Prudii said bitterly.

 

"It never gets easier, losing a soldier," Jorgan said. "Remember Jaxo? How did you feel then? Or how about when I found out that some of the Deadeyes had died in the Imperial war camp? Sir, it's not supposed to be easy, because if it was we'd be as bad as the Empire. But I can promise you this–one day, we won't have to lose soldiers anymore, because we're going to win."

 

"I just...feel like I failed him."

 

"You didn't, sir. Kark, we don't even know if Vik is dead for sure. He could still walk into this camp, bloody and carrying an Imperial corpse on each shoulder, any time now."

 

Prudii nodded, and had to admit that he was feeling better.

 

"Thanks, Jorgan."

 

The Cathar patted him on the shoulder. "No problem, sir. Just doing my job."

 

[alaurin]

**The Index is up to date, but I had to shift things around, so please check your names if you have a moment and make sure that nothing got cut off. I'm usually pretty careful when I have to move stuff, but one time someone got cut off. If there is anything missing or your stuff is out of order, feel free to message me and I will fix it as I get the time. I will be out of town for ten days after Christmas and most likely will NOT be updating the Index. That will be a priority when I get back after the New Year.

 

Now, for another story.....

 

Title: A Foolproof Plan?

Prompt: Working Out the Kinks, Allies, Worlds Colliding, and some Advice

Characters: Katrynka-BH, Valaya-Smuggler, Jorgan, Dorne, Corso, Risha, Mako, and Balkar

Setting: XS Freighter

Spoilers: Trooper Nar Shaddaa, BH Act 1

 

 

 

“Okay…..so let me get this straight,” Kat summed up, shaking her head at Jonas and Aric, “You two, along with Val’s boyfriend over there are going to kidnap my sister from her highly secure VIP suite at the Club Vertica?! That has got to be the stupidest thing I’ve ever heard.”

 

“Really?!” Aric retorted, “Remind me again what happened to you yesterday…..”

 

“Look Captain Underpants,” Kat shot back, “That wasn’t entirely my fault!”

 

“Can you two try to get along for a few minutes,” Val snapped, “and Kat, do you mind not telling the whole galaxy about my relationship status……there’s this thing called privacy…..”

 

“If you were so concerned with privacy,” Kat grinned, “I wouldn’t have walked in on the two of you making out when I got here.”

 

“She’s got a point, Val,” Risha agreed.

 

“It’s not like I planned it,” Val muttered, blushing a little at the memory.

 

Kat hugged her friend, “I’m just so happy for you, but I’ll stop teasing if it bothers you that much. He’s a nice guy, even if he’s a little crazy for agreeing to go along with this debacle waiting to happen.”

 

“Hey, it’s not my plan,” Corso shrugged, “and I’m not that thrilled about kidnapping someone, but all things considered, its better that we get her before a real enemy does.”

 

“I have to agree with Corso,” Val nodded, “I don’t like it much either Kat, but I can understand why it’s the best option we’ve got.”

 

“I know, I know,” Kat replied, “It has to look like she was taken by force so they don’t suspect she was working with you all along. So what happens after you snatch her? It’s not going to look very convincing if she’s walking around with you guys the next day.”

 

“We’re going to keep her at an SIS safe house, locked up under guard until Havoc can finish their mission,” Jonas explained, “Then Captain Jorgan and Sergeant Dorne will escort Sergeant Vleska to their ship and appear to take her to Coruscant and she’ll have to lay low for a while and work more behind the scenes.”

 

“Oh, she’s going to just love that,” Kat rolled her eyes, “I still think you should just leave her where she’s at.”

 

“How can you say that?” Aric accused, “You’re her sister!”

 

“Yes I am,” Kat agreed, “and I know what she’s capable of. She’s going to hate being locked up and resent being reduced to a behind the scenes role. Think about it….she’ll be able to communicate with me as an Imperial with no suspicion. No one is going to question an Imperial soldier talking with her sister who is on the Great Hunt……a Mandalorian competition that is based in Kaas City. The two of us will be able to deal with any threat by our family’s enemies while Tia keeps her cover. I really think you guys are jumping the gun a little.”

 

“Well, General Garza made it my call,” Aric snapped, “and I’m going to play it safe and not needlessly risk her life any further. She’s coming out tomorrow evening.”

 

“Alright,” Kat conceded, “I just want it on the record that I’m against this idea. I think you’re making a huge mistake and if you think she’s going to come along quietly, you got another one coming. You better go in ready for a fight because once she sees that Agent Hotstuff brought company, she’s going to be all over your asses and that broken nose she gave you back on Taris is going to be minor in comparison.”

 

“I think the three of us can handle her,” Aric replied in that acerbic tone that had the tendency to rattle both Tia and Kat’s nerves.

 

“Besides,” Jonas added after seeing Kat’s claws coming out, “She’s going to be dressed for a date, not combat, and we’ll have the element of surprise.”

 

“What about the Imperials and Captain Andrik?” Elara asked, “She’s staying in their suite, I’m certain they’ll be monitoring her, Agent Balkar was her assignment after all. They might even be staying at the Casino themselves.”

 

“I’ve thought about that,” Jonas nodded, “and that’s where we might need a couple of you ladies to help create a distraction. I’ve managed to locate their arms holding facility, Marpressa Munitions. Place a couple of signal tracers at key points in the area to make it look like we’re trying to find them, then go in and trash the place. While that’s going on, Jorgan, Corso, and I will be at the casino abducting my date.”

 

“I understand if you don’t want to take the risk……they will have security forces there,” Aric told them, “I’m sure we can send in some of our regular troops stationed here or……”

 

“No need,” Val stopped him, “I may not like this plan, but I agree with getting Tia out of there. I’ll go……Kat?”

 

“You sure you want Kat to trash another arms warehouse after what happened yesterday?” Mako asked, her brown eyes twinkling and even a sheepish Kat had to laugh.

 

“Not to worry,” Jonas assured them, “You won’t be blowing the place up.”

 

“See, Kat,” Val smirked, “Your butt’s safe this time.”

 

“Oh, okay,” Kat rolled her eyes, “but I want to see the footage of Tia kicking their asses!”

 

“I think we’ll all want to see that,” Risha laughed.

 

“Fine,” Aric growled, “I’ll let you ladies watch the footage from our cameras……just so you can watch that little hellcat get what’s coming to her.”

 

“Alright, everything’s a go then,” Balkar stood, “Let’s meet back here at eighteen hundred. That will give us an hour to get ready and finalize any details before I’ll be meeting Tia. Which reminds me, I need to call her and actually make the date.”

 

Jonas left Val’s ship and once outside the hanger, he found a small lounge area and seeing no one around, he pulled out his Holo and called Tia.

 

“Hey there,” he greeted her warmly when her image appeared, “I trust you’re feeling better this evening.”

 

“I am,” Tia told him, “Thank you for seeing me back to my suite safely.”

 

“It was my pleasure and I was hoping you would agree to go out with me again.”

 

“I’d love to.”

 

“How does tomorrow evening…..say seven….sound?”

 

“Sounds wonderful,” Tia smiled, “How should I dress?”

 

“I have tickets to the opera,” Jonas answered, “So evening wear would be best……and you certainly wear it well.”

 

“So do you,” Tia purred, “It’s a date.”

 

“Great……I’ll pick you up at your suite at seven then.”

 

“I’ll be waiting,” Tia winked, “Have a good night, Jonas.”

 

“You too, Tia,” Jonas told her, then signed off and headed for the taxi station.

 

Hidden in the shadows sitting two tables over from where Jonas got up, two figures came out of stealth with a quiet pop. They’d been watching for him, having followed him into the spaceport earlier.

 

After a few minutes, the couple headed for the taxi station themselves and the young woman pulled out her Holo and made a call as soon as they got into a taxi.

 

“Do you have news?” A female Cathar asked when she appeared.

 

“Yes,” Annika nodded, “That Agent that was with her at the ball is taking her out tomorrow evening. He’s picking her up at her suite.”

 

“Hmmmm……I think we can work with that.”

 

“You want us to snatch them on their date?” Davil asked.

 

“No,” Ekaterina answered, “I don’t want to mess with the SIS unless it becomes necessary and Jonas Balkar is one of their top agents. He won’t be taken easily. No, I think we need to try and get her when she’s alone. Let me see who we have working at Club Vertica…......ah, yes. Ivar and Viktor work on the maintenance crew. Davil, return to the warehouse immediately. Annika, I have other plans for you.”

 

“What is it?”

 

“I’ve recently found out that the Great Hunt target list has been leaked,” Ekaterina explained, “The person who has it is going to have an auction on Hutta in a few days. I want you to try and get that list before it’s auctioned, but if you can’t, the family accounts are at your disposal.”

 

“Why the interest in the target list?”

 

“Because it also has what hunters are assigned to each target,” Ekaterina told them, “If we have that, we know where Katrynka will be in case Tiannya refuses to cooperate. Can you handle that, Annika?”

 

“You bet I can!” Annika growled, “I owe that b*tch for slaughtering my mother and leaving her corpse as a trap for my father on Balmorra! I will make her pay for that!”

 

“Just watch yourself,” Ekaterina warned her young niece, “Hutta isn’t the safest place and the Mandalorians are sure to send someone after the list if they find out it’s been leaked.”

 

“I’ll be careful,” Annika assured her aunt.

 

“Good,” Ekaterina nodded, “A ship is being prepped for you right now and I want you to leave as soon as you can.”

 

[bright_ephemera]

Something nice for the holidays…

Week of 12/20/2013

Snatched from the Jaws of Defeat: Our characters get into a lot of scrapes, a lot of desperate situations. Sometimes it may look like there’s no way to win…but a surprise might be in store. Write about a time your character had a success they weren’t expecting.

 

And, as ever,

Night of the Living Prompt: Keep on using any prompt you like! Check out the list at http://www.swtor.com/community/showpost.php?p=5223753&postcount=1675.

This week's featured NotLP:

Brotherhood/Sisterhood – Whether by bonds of blood, adoption, or camaraderie, brothers and sisters can see us through our best and our worst times. Write about sibling relationship your character has.

[alaurin]

@Yoshi: I feel for Prudii and I'm glad Jorgan was there for him, understanding how his CO felt with his own experiences. I get the feeling I'm going to go through a lot of popcorn before this is all over.

 

 

Picking up from where I left off......I'll leave this short bit, ~800 words, for you all to (hopefully) enjoy......

 

 

Title: Date Night on Nar Shaddaa

Prompt: (Un)invited guests

Character: Tiannya-Trooper

Setting: Nar Shaddaa

Spoilers: Trooper Nar Shaddaa

 

 

 

Tia was singing along with the radio as she got ready to go out for what she’d hoped would be a very promising date. Jonas had contacted her late last night and wanted to take her to an opera. He didn’t explain anything, knowing they were probably being monitored, but Tia hoped he had information for her about this new threat from Shange’s clan. She hadn’t heard from her sister since they’d met yesterday afternoon, and Tia was a little concerned about that.

 

She also had some valuable information for him. Captain Andrik had been busy while she was distracting Agent Balkar, something the former Republic soldier was very pleased with. After hearing about Tia being drugged, he kept her fairly close for her safety so Tia had been helping get the charging facility ready, he’s very protective of his people despite being a traitorous bastard. While helping to set up Forex’s charging station, Tia spotted a weakness that could be exploited. Unfortunately, there were too many of Andrik’s people around and she hadn’t been able to get a message out to Val. Andrik was actually thrilled that Agent Balkar had asked her out and insisted she go, saying it was the perfect opportunity for them to move the wardroid without being detected down to the charging facility deep in Shadow Town now that everything was ready. Since she’d already accepted, Tia left Shadow Town a couple of hours ago so she’d have plenty of time to get ready for her date.

 

Tia found herself looking forward to her date with Jonas, a little dismayed that their evening at the ball was cut short. She was hoping the good looking agent would be enough to purge her annoying, cranky, irritating, arrogant, sexy, bedroom voiced CO from her thoughts once and for all.

 

“Why?” she sighed, trying to calm herself as she zipped up her dress, “why, out of all the sentients in the galaxy, why do I have to be attracted to that jerk?!” Because, a small voice inside her answered, he’s a fine male example of your species and you’ve wanted a go at him since that first day on Ord Mantell. She growled in frustration at that and went over to the mirror get a quick look at her appearance.

 

Tia had chosen the short, lavender dress she’d bought that first day on Nar Shaddaa for her date with Jonas and was just fastening the straps on her stiletto heeled sandals when she heard a knock at the door. Checking the chrono, she raised a brow seeing that it was only 6:45, huh, guess he couldn’t wait to see me. She left the small thigh holster with her blaster in it on the bed without a thought, turned the music off, and got up to answer the door.

 

Another knock had Tia hurrying out of the bedroom and across the small living room, laughing as she finally opened the door, “You’re a bit early Jo……” then she saw the three men filling the doorway and the laugh died with her statement to be replaced with a growl as she reached for the blaster strapped to her thigh. She felt the first nagging feelings of worry when she realized it was still on the bed. She was unarmed and knew trying to run out of the room would be futile as the three men advanced.

 

Never one to go down without a fight, Tia extended her claws as she slowly backed up, her mind frantically trying to figure out a way to get out of this predicament. The men spread out when they got inside the room, one of them moving in behind her stopping in the doorway to the bedroom and cutting her off from the weapon on her bed. She spun, landing a kick to a muscular chest, hoping to drop him long enough to get to her blaster. She heard the sound of glass breaking as a floor lamp was knocked over. As another approached, Tia raked her claws across his furred face, then kicked out behind her, connecting her pointed heel with the shin of the third man closing in. She heard a shout and the sounds of a chair being knocked over as he fell. She turned and bolted toward the bedroom, trying to get to that blaster when she felt a strong arm wrap around her waist and she was hauled up against a muscular chest. She knew she was in trouble when she felt a second set of hands grab her leg and struggled harder until she felt the sting of a needle entering her thigh and seconds later, her struggles ceased as everything went black.

 

Edited December 21, 2013 by alaurin

[Lesaberisa]

Apologies for the lack of comments, but I've been really busy with work and have fallen dreadfully behind in taking notes on my reactions I always enjoy the stories in here for the way they show how we each view the same characters, the entertainment value they provide (especially at work) and the passion everyone has for my favorite part(s) of the game - the story and its characters

 

Character: Amurri (BH)

Prompt: Worst Day Ever

Trigger:: Violence, some gore, general unpleasantness

 

Notes: Filling in Amurri's backstory, this is part one. Roughly 2200 words or so.

 

Set years before the game, but after Mandalore has ended the schism (there's no firm year on that so I left it a bit vague). Hat tip to DSM for giving me an idea of something Amurri would consider doing as part of her revenge, plus Tatile for (unintentionally ) giving me some context for why she might do so with her tumblr posts on Mirialans.

 

 

I wasn’t supposed to be this far from the camp, but I knew better. If Mom wanted me to hide behind her like some scared little girl, she would have said so. I was a woman grown. More than a few idiots had learned that lesson the hard way. I could handle myself. I wasn't afraid, even if the rest were.

 

We had been running for almost three years now, ever since Uncle Jicoln had dispersed what was left of our forces after the hut’uun that called himself Mandalore had rained fire on us. I wasn’t raised to run, to hide like one of the outsiders. Mom had tried to hide us in Hutt space. ‘The stink will make it so the hunters can’t smell us,’ she had said.

 

She was wrong. They found us anyway, and we had to run again. We found Orlov Kelborn and what was left of his group a few weeks later. Didn’t think it was smart to stay I such a large group, but Mom said it would help stop the isolated attacks. Not everyone thought so; our enemies would see a more inviting target. I stayed out of it while they argued. I wasn’t here to talk, I was to protect my brothers, my family, my clan.

 

Eventually we had found our way back to Dxun, where my ancestors had once made their home. They had rebuilt from their defeat at the hands of Revan and the Republic, and where the woman that had once been one of our greatest enemies had helped us restore our honor.

 

And then we betrayed him and our honor for the Sith. Me’bana?

 

Worse was still to come, I could tell. There were only a few dozen of us, but it was still too many. Too many voices to argue with Orlov, too many opinions on where to go and what to do. He hadn’t wanted to come to Dxun; too obvious a sanctuary. He was right, and the others were wrong, but Orlov Kelborn was no Uncle Jicoln, and he had bowed his head to the arguments he knew were wrong. Woe had set up camp in a secluded clearing, camo nets hastily thrown over our ships and an indefensibly large perimeter set up. And then, nothing. No plan, no strategy.

 

Mom was right – we were wanderers with no place to go. Most of the survivors had bowed to the man that claimed the title of Mandalore. Of the rest, most were gone, faded into the underworld where ever they could. Only a few di’kuts like us still pretended there was anything else we could do, as if Uncle Jicoln was going to ride to our rescue in some old Basilisk. We had to find a new place for ourselves, build a new future. Orlov and the rest – they had lost the war but wouldn’t admit it. Pride. Stupidity. Honor.

 

I shook my head. No time to sit around daydreaming like some jetii. We needed fresh meat again, and the animals weren’t going to hunt themselves.

 

The jungle was quiet. Too quiet. Should have been plenty of noise from wildlife I couldn’t see, but there was nothing but rustling leaves and the barest hint of wind blowing through the trees. Strange – Dxun only seemed more dangerous when there were no obvious dangers around. Hart had said something about some ancient Sith tomb being in the area, too. ’Course, Hart will say anything to see you outside of your armor. I managed to force a half-smile at that.

 

I slipped my carbine out of its holster as I turned back toward the camp. I could hear the rumble of what sounded like a distant storm in that direction; no sense in being caught in it. The weather reminded me how much I hated this place. Whole lot of **** that we shouldn’t have been poking around in. Dxun might have meant something, once, but that had faded away now. It was shadows and dust, nothing more.

 

I studied the weapon in my hands for a moment. My gun was an older model, but it was as much a part of me as anything else was. Low recoil, easy aiming, lightweight. Heavy enough to do damage to an armored opponent, but not so bulky that it hampered me in close quarters. It had worked wonders when the Mandalore's dogs found us on Klatooine.

 

The rumblings of the storm grew louder the closer I got to camp, echoing through the jungle. I could feel the hairs on the back of my neck standing up. Something isn’t right. Something is –

 

The rumblings suddenly coalesced into a single, massive, roar. A large mushroom cloud began forming, only its head visible above the trees. I began running as fast as I could, throwing the meager amount of food I had secured aside as I raced for the camp. It wasn’t an accident, not even with the ancient equipment we had with us. The only thing pumping faster than my legs was my heart, as I felt it slip into my stomach. I wished like hell that I wasn’t forty minutes away. Stupid to have come so far.

 

They found us again, the pretender’s kyramuds.

 

I found Vosic propped up against a tree a half-mile from camp. They’d taken him by surprise; two shots to the back, a third to the head to finish him. I removed his helmet and inspected the wound for a moment, but there was nothing to be done. I laid him down, gently, then slipped into the underbrush to monitor the situation within the camp itself.

 

When I got within range, I wished I had stayed out on the perimeter. They’d hit us during the morning meal. Bodies everywhere, almost all friendlies. The attackers had moved on, though, left everyone lying where they’d fallen. The osi’yaims cared so little that they would allow our fallen to be dishonored. They weren’t true Mandalorians, they never had been. I closed my eyes as I felt a burning rage flow through me from head to toe. And they beat us anyway. Crushed us underfoot.

 

I didn't bother checking on everyone else; I went straight for the cliffside where the Cin Vhetin was. Where my family was. I sprinted past what was left of Orlov Kelborn, his corpse surrounded by cretins wearing the tainted colors of Clan Lok. I could not understand why was it that those unworthy of the Mandalorian name, armor and clan-membership lived while we ran and hid and died.

 

My brothers had fallen in the clearing before our ship, fighting like a true Mando. Elmin was sprawled over some rocks, his blood pooled under him and across the ground beneath him. His rifle was still in his hand, gripped as firmly as it would have been when he was alive. A good death. But still a death. I blinked away tears that were not meant to come, and gently rubbed what was left of the top of his helmet.

 

Took a lot to leave him, but I had to see Casavir. Say goodbye. I found him fifty feet closer to the ship, where he and Hart had made their last stand. My head had never felt heavier, but it did not match the feeling in my heart and stomach. Cas had just wanted to explore the galaxy, find a place in it. That was over now, it was all over. “Ni su'cuyi, gar kyr'adyc, ni partayli, gar darasuum. Always and forever, Cas.”

 

There wasn’t much of Hart left at all. No armor, must have been the one to warn my family. I put my hand against his cheek, and shuddered as I felt nothing but cold clamminess. Even a Mandalorian needs her comforts, and he had always been mine. His laugh, his smile, the way he let me know he wanted me without saying a word. I went down to one knee, hoping this was all a bad dream.

 

“Amurri?” I heard my mother’s voice from inside the ship.

 

I crawled along the jungle floor until I found the strength to push myself up. She was lying in a pool of her own blood on the ramp, her rifle discarded below her, green eyes half-closed with pain. I put one hand under her, propping her up, then grabbed her left hand in mine. She had no strength, couldn’t even grip my hand back. I hoped I was shaking because the ramp was unstable, took a minute to realize I was crying.

 

“Mom. Can I do something?” She was fading fast. Not long now until I was alone. I hated how scared I felt. “Mom?”

 

She reached up and cupped my cheek in her hand. “Aliit ori'shya tal'din, Amurri. Find Jicoln. Remember this, help the others remember too. Make them pay. For all of this. Oya manda!”

 

The lump in my throat wasn’t gone fast enough to say anything before she was gone. I took off my helmet, stupid with enemies possibly around, but I couldn’t breathe. Couldn’t think. Everyone was gone, every thing. I ran my hands through my hair, like that would do anything. Then, I curled up and lay down next to my mother, like I did as a girl. Had to get a grip. Stop crying, you are a warrior, not a child.

 

They found me there, three of Clan Lok’s thugs.

 

“Look here, boys. Coplika, no?” They shared a laugh, but kept their weapons on me. My carbine was trapped underneath me, the full weight of my body and armor pressed upon it. Pistol was in the holster near my foot. Only one thing to do.

 

I slipped my right hand from underneath me, waved them away. Pretended to be yet another victim. “Let me die in peace.” As they looked at each other, I gripped the grenade in my bell.

 

“You don’t think we’re falling for that, do you?” The lead one’s voice dripped with arrogance like sap drips from a tree. “We’re going to have some fun with you first.”

 

“Don’t think so,” I replied with a smile only I could see. Then I tossed the flash bang at them.

 

They scattered, each throwing themself in a different direction from his partners. Gave me five seconds to act; barely even needed them. I rolled over, pulling the carbine from under me. The first of the bastards fell to a couple of shots to his head, the second to a single burst that penetrated his armor and impaled whatever he had in place of a heart.

 

The last one came at me, roaring. No gun on him; no true warrior. I caught him by the wrist as he tried to punch me, my hands gripping his red armor in a viselike grip. He cried out as my beskar crushed his lower-quality armor, whimpering like a little boy. I ignored him, and swept his legs out from under him before pulling my pistol out and firing a shot into each of his knees. He screamed. Good. I pulled his helmet off and threw him against a nearby tree. Nice, solid, thump when he hit it.

 

“Talk.” I put my boot against his chest, and was rewarded with another loud moan. He didn’t say anything else, so I hit him across the face. “How did you find us?” More silence. “Talk, you bastard!”

 

He smiled at me through broken teeth and a mouth full of blood. “You’ll never get me to talk, you traitorous *****. I serve the true Mandalore, and he gives me strength.”

 

Things would be ugly then. I unsheathed the knife Mom had given me on my tenth birthday. She had clasped my hands around it with hers, telling me how it had belonged to her mother and her mother before that. It was all I had left. That and memories. Not enough, not now…not ever.

 

I leaned in close to him and began working on him, to encourage cooperation. Didn’t like getting the blood all over my armor, didn’t like the smell of him losing control of his bowels, but I needed answers. I cut into him with precision a surgeon would have admired. Except I was going after specific pain receptors instead of performing a medical operation. I didn't dig deep, not at first. Convincing people to give you information required more care than that.

 

It took a while, but I got the information I needed.

 

Turned out he was right – he didn’t talk. He screamed, giving me a name that meant nothing but might to Uncle Jicoln. Andros Vryl. I finished the bastard off by gutting him, and slashing his throat to finish the job. I admired the arterial spray for a moment, then left him there to rot while I checked on his friends. The first one was completely gone, but the second was still moving. Barely.

 

I flipped him over onto his back and pulled his helmet off. Green skin, blond hair. Mirialan. They were usually Republic. This one wasn’t. This one was an enemy, the murderer of my family. I would not give him an honorable death.

 

Once, I had read that the Mirialans used their tattoos to measure accomplishment and rank. This shabuir deserved neither. I knelt over him, trapping his arms under my knees, and carved the markings from his face. He screamed and struggled, but he was no threat. I cut into his face, leaving it a bloody mess and unrecognizable – he would earn no credit for his life into whatever followed. I cut deeper and deeper until there was no more movement and no more noise.

 

When I was finished, I cleaned my blade on his ground, and grunted appreciation of my own work. I hoped he burned in whatever hell Mirialans went to.

 

As I surveyed the scene, I hoped it was worse than the one I was in now.

 

 

Translations (where it isn't clear from context):

 

Me'bana? - What happened?

 

kyramuds - assassins

 

Ni su'cuyi, gar kyr'adyc, ni partayli, gar darasuum - Saying = "I'm still alive, but you are dead. I remember so you are eternal."

 

Aliit ori'shya tal'din - Saying = "family is more than blood"

 

 

 

And since this will be my only SFC post (and possibly last fic post period) before Christmas, some short, lighter/happier stories!

 

Character: Veresia (Inquisitor)

Prompt: Celebrations

Small trigger: Slightly sexually suggestive

 

 

The Nar Shaddaa cantina was a seedy place, filled with the smoke of a dozen different narcotics and reeking of the desperation of its clientele. I had wondered why Quorian would want to meet here – there were easier places to go to leave Khem and the others behind, and it wasn’t as if I didn’t have my own resources on the moon.

 

Then I had looked the place up more closely on the HoloNet, specifically the dress code for guests, and I understood completely. I suppose it was not entirely out of character for a Sith to wear a slinky black satin dress, but I suspected that fitting in was not one of the factors Quorian had considered. I would have to…question…him about it further.

 

I sensed him in the Force well before he ever came close to me, but I pretended otherwise. He seemed to like the idea he could surprise me, and such positivity had its own benefits in other areas. I was loath to risk that simply to get one over on him.

 

He flipped me around and enveloped me in a tight embrace, locking lips with me. We had been apart longer than this before, but every time he was absent felt worse than the one before for me, and it seemed he felt the same way. Normally, I would not have favored such a public display of affection, but consequences be damned, for once. Life was only worth living if you let yourself live.

 

When we finally pulled apart slightly, he pulled a small box from one of the pockets in his deliciously tight pants. “I got his for you. It’s our one year anniversary, after all.”

 

I took the box carefully, and discreetly opened it so that none of the other patrons could see its contents. Inside was a small necklace, modest in its design but glittering with bright blue gems. I could not help but smile as brightly as the stones shone. “One year since we met, not since we…decided to be together.” I did not mind, either way.

 

“The day I met you was more important, anyway.” I replied by lightly kissing his cheek. “Besides, you owned my heart well before that day on Balmorra.”

 

I snorted gently. “You always know how to undermine a romantic moment.”

 

“I do.” Quorian grinned sheepishly. “But I can think of something else I’d rather be doing.”

 

“Truly?” I winked at him, then spun back around so I was facing the same direction as him, then began dancing along with the music, allowing myself to rub up and down him. I heard him sputter, then cough. When I turned back around, I gave him a triumphant smile as I noticed that his leather pants could be as revealing as my dress. I took his hand in mine and led him away.

 

Today truly was a day to celebrate. I would be sure we both enjoyed it.

 

 

Character: Amitia (Knight)

Prompt: Shopapalooza

Note: JK Act III Spoiler (final boss)

 

 

“You want the deluxe model?” The Rodian shopkeeper eyed me with an obvious expression of disbelief. “No one’s ever bought one of these before. You must be crazy about your droid.”

 

“She certainly is crazy,” Kira huffed as she sulked to the side. So maybe I’d taken money meant for our vacation to Alakatha, but we could make up for it.

 

“I certainly am crazy. About T7, that is.” I stuck my tongue out at Kira.

 

The Rodian shrugged. “Okay then. One Mark V Astromech Oil Bath coming up.”

 

I smiled. T7 was more than a droid. More than a friend. We’d faced the Emperor together. By the Force, we’d faced

Doc together. This was nothing as valuable or meaningful as someone that would stand with you through that.

 

 

Character: Ayrs (Trooper)

Prompt: Worlds Colliding (I think?)

Notes: Not sure if he's actually going to do this, since it will be kind of hard to write around the potential consequences, so I'm trying out a small blurb/start to it, so I can see how it feels to see it on screen. We'll see.

 

 

I fingered the ring for about the millionth time since I'd brought it back to the ship. Elara was safely away, at some conference for troopers a lot smarter than I was. The rest of the squad was probably busy making sure she paid for her time off with extra paperwork.

 

Which left me alone with my thoughts, the ring that'd cost me more than I should have paid but infinitely less than I valued Elara's love at. And the stupidest plan in the history of plans, which was now under way.

 

A middle-aged man appeared on my viewscreen, his image distorted by the scrambling I'd had to do to make sure my call wasn't traced. He looked something less than pleased to see me.

 

"Commander Vasil Dorne?" Not for the first time, I asked a question I already knew the answer to.

 

"Yes. Who are you, and why are you contacting me? If I'm not mistaken, you are Repub-."

 

"Republic." I rose to my feet, swallowing hard as I did so. "I'm Major Ayrs Martell, Republic military. I needed to speak with you."

 

He half-coughed, half-laughed. "And why woudl you wish to speak with me? We are enemies, you and I."

 

"I understand that. I also understand that there are certain protocols to be followed socially within the Empire." His eyes shone with suspicion that was rapidly turning into realization. "I hoped to ask your daughter to marry me...and to have your blessing."

 

I'm not sure who choked harder on that, him or me.

 

Edited December 21, 2013 by Lesaberisa

[frauzet]

You are writing faster than I am able to come up with some sensible comments

But I'll try, otherweise I'd have to do some household chores, a really hard choice...

 

Comments and replies

 

@YoshiRaphElan:

Dankin cast a wary eye around the store. "You broadcast that any louder in non-public areas than you do in extremely public ones?"

It's hard not to become paranoid.

I like your view of Vik. He's always been kind of the Republic Skadge to me. And I guess they are both valuable crew members, if you treat them right (which in Skadge's case includes pummeling him once in a while).

I am eager to read about Vik's way back to the Squad.

 

@alaurin: Thank you for the comment. I enjoy how people interpret the stories, too. There often are details I hadn't thought about myself, or that look very different from an other point of view. This encourages me to go on with my Ord Mantell stories.

 

I like your intertwining of the storylines of the different chars in your stories very much.

Doc getting what he deserves in Fantasy Kingdoms of War is always fun to read.

“Why are you killing him?”

“Because we can’t in real life,” Kira quipped

that made me too giggle.

Blackmailing your siblings? Sounds like a real family. "If you don't tell mom, that I x, I won't tell her that you y."

And now you're definitely on Santa's naughty list for leaving us with this cliffhanger.

 

@Magdalane: I may be repeating myself here, but your Miriah and Corso allways make me sigh. Nice how they remember the warmth they felt at the touch of the other in the end.

I am glad that you like my view of Ord Mantell.

 

@DarthSillyMonkey: Thank you for the reassurance. I've read some books in English and watched some movies and TV series, and I play with an English swtor client, but writing something is completely different. I very seldom get the opportunity to speak English, and then there is always the advantage of being able to use gestures.

 

Regarding Zal there is no need to be overly sad. She will be back. I've not decided when and it will take some time to write the stuff that happens in the meantime, but I've already written a part of the story where she returns.

For all that, this was the most important thing he’d ever been awarded.

 

The Most Awesome Brother in the Galaxy Award – Love Shira’Vod + Kiera’Vod.

This is great.

His face reddened a bit, “That’s not what I—“

 

"That exactly what it is", she interrupted.

Some habits are even hard to admit. And it's good when there are people who care enough to make us. Seems the siblings are connected through a very strong bond.

 

@RatchetGuyClanks: As a mother I say, very creepy. Well done.

 

@Xakthul:

‘hey-I’m-gonna-do-it-even-if-you-vainly-attempt-to-stop-me’

guess a lot of parents know what you're talking about

 

@bright_ephemera: Thank you for the encouragement. I hadn't imagined this as I wrote my first story, but I enjoy writing very much, even more so because of this great community. That you think you also benefit from it means very much to me.

"One day," she said, offering him the stylus. He cast one more look at his wife, then signed his name.

I half expected her to make him sign with blood. Very Sith-y, saving somebody without the slightest intention of doing something good.

 

@Lesaberisa: I am already looking forward to the meeting between Amurri and Mandalore.

By the Force, we’d faced

Doc together. This was nothing as valuable or meaningful as someone that would stand with you through that.

lol, guess one of these days I'll have to play a female JK and come up with my own ways to torture Doc.

Calling Elara's father sounds like a very brave thing to do.

 

 

 

Prompt - Disguises

Title - Hating Ord Mantell XIII

Class - Trooper (Nikeo), Smuggler (Giz)

Words - About 1300

Spoilers - Spoilers for Ord Mantell Trooper, Smuggler and general quests

 

 

By the time Nikeo touched ground on the landing pad of the seps’ stronghold most of the fighting there was already done. Giz and Corso had done a good job. What little opposition was left when the shuttles landed had been dealt with quickly. As the troops secured the landing pad Nikeo walked over to them. Both had noticed him by then.

 

“Good job, guys.” He greeted them. “Ever thought about joining the army?”

 

“Do you receive some bonus for recruiting? For a fair share, I might talk Corso into joining.” Giz inquired grinning.

 

“Probably safer than traveling with you.” Corso laughed.

 

“You both ok?” Nikeo hadn’t detected any obvious wounds.

 

“At least physically.” Corso answered. “Although when this is over, I will probably be the one with a heart attack. I swear to you, this guy is absolutely crazy.” He detailed pointing at Giz.

 

“What? I got us here nearly without a fight.” Giz defended himself, grinning even more broadly.

 

Nikeo raised an eyebrow. “How did you get here without fighting?”

 

“Nearly without fighting.” Giz corrected with a raised index finger.“We met this guy from SIS in front of the stronghold. He told us about a meeting of the separatist leaders. So we pick the one most likely not known by the local seps and…”

 

“Most likely?” Corso interrupted him. “Most likely? You threw a coin.”

 

“Yes, I told you I was lucky, didn’t I? And it worked. They let us stroll in through their front door.” Giz defended.

 

“No password required?” Nikeo asked disbelievingly.

 

“Oh, we had one from last week, that the agent provided. Took a bit of persuasion, but they let us pass with that.” Giz answered with a dismissive wave of his hand.

 

Corso only shook his head. “Giz would make a fortune selling ice makers on Hoth. He chatted with every other sep on every intersection. I guess he knows the names of half the seps in there now and has at least five invitations to card or dice games. I could only cross my fingers and pray that he wasn’t talking to anybody who really belonged to the guy we claimed we were here with.”

 

“I had to ask directions.” Giz stated, raising his hands in a gesture of innocence. “We’d never have found our way, if I hadn’t asked. And we were supposed to be unfamiliar with the layout of the compound, we’re only visitors, remember?” Turning to Nikeo he asked “What are you doing here? Weren’t you the one who was supposed to clear a path for us?” He eyed Nikeo curiously.

 

“Long story. Maybe I’ll tell you, when we get to that bottle of whiskey. Guess it’s time for me to move now.” He pointed to the entry to the stronghold. The troops were nearly done with their preparations to enter. Their CO nodded in his direction. They had planned that he’d move in shortly before the main assault. Giving him some time to get away from the main fighting that was supposed to provide enough distraction for him to get to a computer terminal and to find the rest of Havoc Squad.

 

“Wait.” Giz stopped Nikeo before he could take a step toward the entry. “I don’t get it. You want to fight your way in alone?”

 

“Well, if you want to come. Maybe we find your ship in the area I am headed. But I have a mission that’s first priority.”

 

“No. That’s not what I meant. Why are you going in alone, when the rest of your Squad is already in there?” Giz was clearly puzzled.

 

“What?” Nikeo’s attention was immediately focused on Giz. He grabbed his arms. “Did you see them?”

 

“Yes.” Giz answered slightly perplexed by Nikeo’s reaction. “I…”

 

“Sorry.” Nikeo interrupted him, raising his index finger. He tapped the ear piece of his comm unit, his gaze growing distant for a moment. “Lieutenant Jorgan? Do you read me?”

 

Jorgan’s voice answered instantly. “I read you loud and clear, Sergeant. I heard what the captain said. Let him explain what he saw.”

 

Nikeo looked back at Giz. “Sorry. Please tell me what you saw.”

 

“Well…” Giz’s started, a thoughtful look on his face. “I’m not really sure about that anymore, given your reaction and the circumstances.” He hesitated shortly to recollect the event, but continued when he became aware of Nikeo’s impatience. “We were walking through the stronghold, down one of the side corridors, when I saw a group of people pass at the next intersection. I was trying to keep in the shadows, so I think they didn’t see us. But I recognized Fuse, and there were several more wearing the same armor. So I thought that was you and your squad. I didn’t see you, but I thought I had simply missed you. There were some other people in that group. Some separatists and some that looked like Imperials.”

 

“Imperials? Are you sure?” Nikeo interrupted him. “They have been captured by Imperials?” Jorgan and Nikeo had suspected Imperial involvement on Ord Mantell all along.

 

“Captured? No. They had not been captured, at least not that I could tell. They still carried their weapons, they were talking to each other and they were not constrained.” Giz continued. “When I saw them, I thought that some of your men had already infiltrated the stronghold, posing as seps and imps, now escorting you on a safe route through the stronghold. Kind of like me and Corso had been doing, or some kind of double agents.” He looked at Nikeo questioningly.

 

“Kark.” Nikeo swore. “Lieutenant, you got that? You know anything about this?”

 

“Absolutely nothing, Sergeant. If they had planned something like this, I would have been involved. They are violating at least a dozen protocols.” Nikeo could almost hear Jorgan thinking frantically, before he let out a sigh. “This is highly suspicious.” Jorgan said carefully.

 

Nikeo looked at Giz and deliberately stepped a few meters away from him, so that his conversation with Jorgan couldn’t be overheard. Giz nodded. He understood the need for privacy. “Lieutenant, please tell me you’re not thinking what I think your thinking.”

Nikeo felt like somebody just pulled the rug from under his feet. These were the people he had looked up to through all of his training. There was hardly a young soldier who didn’t dream about being part of a Special Forces Squad. Most of the soldiers in Special Forces were anonymous, at best known by their code names. But Commander Tavus, Havoc Squad, those were names every soldier recognized. They were the embodiment of Special Forces. He had been so proud when he had been assigned to Havoc Squad. And now a few days on this bloody planet threatened to shatter all of his dreams.

 

“Steady, Sergeant!” Jorgan told him calmly. “It’s only a suspicion, and I wouldn’t talk about this to anybody without further proof. I wouldn’t talk about this to you, if you were not in the unpleasant situation to provide that proof or to disperse our suspicions. If we take the possibility that they defected into consideration, a lot of things suddenly begin to make sense.”

 

“Like Commander Tavus telling us not to investigate Imperial involvement here on Ord.” Nikeo said.

 

“Or dismissing the possibility of spies leaking information about our operations to the seps.” Jorgan added.

 

“He told us, to investigate the matter after the bomb was secured, that this mission was first priority.” Nikeo felt the urge to sit down. He took a deep breath.

 

“Sergeant, I need you to go in there. First priority is still to neutralize the bomb. After you accomplished that, I need you to find Havoc Squad. We have to find out what is going on here!”

 

“Understood, sir!” So much more than lives was at stake.

 

 

Note

From his own reaction Nikeo can tell that it would be a hard blow to morale if the Squad really had defected and that became public, that's why this is even more important to him than saving lives.

 

[YoshiRaphElan]

@alaurin, unpleasant surprise...bet she wishes she'd strapped on that blaster now!

 

@lesaberisa, carving the tattoos from his face made me cringe. The romance between the Sith and Quorian is sweet. My Knight would do anything for Teeseven, too; an oil bath would be nothing for him! And asking Vasil for permission would be extremely, extremely hard, given the circumstances.

 

@frauzet, a horrible way to find out about the squad, but probably better than walking in on them unsuspecting.

 

Prompt - ...Like No One's Watching

Title - He's Awake

Class - Smuggler

No spoilers

 

 

Corso awoke to find that he wasn't in the liquid anymore. He was lying on his back, tucked under sanitary white sheets, in a medical ward. Thin sheets on either sides of his bed divided him from the patients on either side of him. Groggily, he tried to sit up and winced a little. There was still a little bit of pain in his chest, where...

 

What had happened? Last thing he remembered, he'd been in the surplus store.

 

"He's awake!" a female voice called.

 

Footsteps–running–clanked through the ward and came around to his bed. He beamed as he saw Dankin, Akaavi, and Guss. They all came over to his bed and began speaking at once, asking if he was all right, if he needed anything, if he remembered anything.

 

"Whoa, whoa, slow down!" he said with a laugh. "I'm fine. Bit sore, though. I..."

 

A fourth figure crossed into his field of view. Dressed all in white, female...it was the woman from his dream! Corso stammered around his sudden shock. He returned his attention with difficulty to his friends.

 

"I don't need anything," he finished. "But I would like to know what happened."

 

"We were in the surplus store," Dankin explained, "when the grenade rack went off; it was probably sabotaged. You threw yourself on the clerk to save his life."

 

"Oh...yeah, that's right," Corso grumbled.

 

"After that, the Empire attacked and we had to move base."

 

So he'd missed the fight. Well, fine then. The battle wasn't over and he'd have plenty of time to recover and get back into the fray. But something he saw on Dankin's face...

 

"What's wrong?"

 

"Tanno's gone," Akaavi said.

 

"Gone? What do you mean, 'gone,' Akaavi?"

 

"He missed the evac, Corso," Dankin interrupted. "He's out there, alone...probably dead."

 

"Kark it."

 

Corso tried to stand but winced as a new wave of pain rolled through his chest. The white-haired woman caught sight of it, hurried over, and pushed him gently but firmly back down onto the bed. Corso was too weak to resist.

 

"You must stay there," the woman said.

 

"Who...are you?" Corso asked.

 

"I am Jedi Ylenia," she said.

 

"A Jedi," Corso said under his breath. "Figures."

 

"Excuse me?"

 

"Uh...nothing. Nothing."

 

"He needs to rest," Ylenia announced. "You can come back later. Please leave him for now."

 

Dankin nodded. "All right. Take care, Corso, old buddy."

 

"Will do, boss."

 

Dankin, Akaavi, and Guss filed out. Ylenia stayed seated on Corso's bed, her blue eyes spearing him with a warning. She finally stood and waved her index finger firmly at him.

 

"Now you stay there," she said. "If you need anything, call for me."

 

"Will do," Corso promised.

 

Ylenia favored him with a perky smile and nod, turned, and strolled away. Corso took pleasure and guilt in watching her beautiful, swaying hips until she passed out of sights.

 

"Wow," he whispered.

 

[alaurin]

Comments/Replies: pressed for time so they're quickies!

 

@Lesaberisa: Oh, that was such an intense piece for Amurri and I loved it! It really paints a good picture of where she's coming from and I can't wait to see more! Squee......warm fuzzy Veresia and Quorian moments!!!! LOL, putting up with Doc might be harder than dealing with the Emperor. *sigh* I love Ayrs!!!

 

 

@Frauzet: I can only imagine what's going through Nik's mind as he realizes his heros are not who he thought they were......nicely done!

I like your intertwining of the storylines of the different chars in your stories very much.

Doc getting what he deserves in Fantasy Kingdoms of War is always fun to read. that made me too giggle.

Blackmailing your siblings? Sounds like a real family. "If you don't tell mom, that I x, I won't tell her that you y."

And now you're definitely on Santa's naughty list for leaving us with this cliffhanger.

Glad you liked everything! I had the giggles writing that piece with Doc getting ganked repeatedly! Blackmailing siblings is survival at it's finest......I made quite a bit off my older brothers growing up! As for being on Santa's Naughty list......eh, it's been so long since I haven't been on it, what's one more year? I have another teaser for you next.....

 

 

@Yoshi: Awwww, Corso is smitten with a Jedi......this should be fun!

@alaurin, unpleasant surprise...bet she wishes she'd strapped on that blaster now!

Yes, yes she does!

 

 

Now to further tease you.....cause I wouldn't want to make Santa change his mind about that coal in my stocking.....

 

Title: I Got A Bad Feeling About This…..

Prompt: Working Out the Kinks, Mysteries

Character: Aric Jorgan, Corso Riggs, Jonas Balkar, Katrynka-BH, Valaya-Smuggler, Elara Dorne, and Mako

Setting: Nar Shaddaa

Spoilers: Trooper Nar Shaddaa

 

 

 

Aric, Jonas, and Corso had just stepped into the lobby of the Club Vertica when Aric’s Holo chimed. Attempting to ignore the bright lights and the multitude of noises assaulting his senses, the Cathar answered. All three men winced at the words that came from the small device as soon as Aric pushed the button.

 

“Stars, Val,” Mako was saying, “That’s certainly an effective way to get a man to back off!”

 

“Eh, he deserved it,” Val’s voice replied.

 

“Yeah, I think his balls are permanently lodged in his throat!” Kat laughed, then they heard more blaster fire and a growl, “Oh, I don’t think so buster……look out Elara!”

 

“The project was a success,” Elara told him a moment later over the sounds of fighting in the background, sounding out of breath when she finally appeared, “The party’s in full swing…..” The medic paused, grimacing as they heard a man’s painful screaming in the background, “oh, and sir, you might not want to annoy Kat anymore. Turns out, she’s really good with a flamethrower.”

 

“Well, I’m more concerned with her sanity,” Aric growled, “Does she realize a flamethrower isn’t the most practical tool for a fur covered being?!”

 

“I’m well aware of that,” Kat’s snarky voice called out, “Unlike some people though, I’m not an incredible pu…..”

 

“Anyways,” Elara told them, stifling her laughter, “I think you guys are all set for a little while.”

 

Aric ignored the snickers behind him and replied, “I appreciate it…….have fun and tell that furry menace to watch her a*s.”

 

“I heard that!” Kat yelled as Aric disconnected.

 

“Well, I think we should go pick up my date,” Jonas grinned and Aric and Corso followed the agent to the elevator leading to the casino suites.

 

After being verified by the security guard at the elevator, the three men were inside and headed up to the hotel level.

 

“You think she’s going to put up a fight?” Corso asked, recalling Kat’s warning and wondering if they should be wearing something a little more protective than the casual wear they had on.

 

“Nah,” Aric assured the younger man, “Balkar will knock on the door and while she’s busy with him, you and I will sneak in.”

 

“I’ll go in before she can spot either of you,” Jonas told Aric and Corso as the three of them stepped off the elevator, “You got the stim ready?”

 

“In my pocket,” Aric nodded, “Just get her back to the door as quickly as you can. Once she’s out, Corso and I will go get the speeder and bring it around to the employee’s entrance.”

 

“You got it,” Jonas replied, “As soon as you hear me ask if she likes opera, come in.”

 

They quietly walked down the hall, stopping at the door to Tia’s suite. Aric and Corso stepped to the side, out of sight when Jonas knocked. They waited, Corso mentally preparing himself for a fight, having a feeling it wasn’t going to be as easy as Aric and Jonas thought. Aric checked his pocket, making sure the stim was there readied himself to rush in. After a tense minute, Jonas knocked again, a little surprised that she hadn’t answered right away since he was a few minutes late.

 

After a third knock with no answer, Jonas caught Aric’s eye, “I don’t like this……she’s expecting me and she doesn’t seem like the type to keep someone waiting.”

 

“I agree,” Aric replied, sounding a little anxious as he knelt down to grab a small blaster out of his ankle holster, “Can you get in?”

 

“Yeah,” Jonas nodded, going over to the keypad, “I watched when the clerk let us in that night she was drugged at the ball.”

 

Corso, who had a sick feeling that something was very wrong, armed himself with Hewy, a large vibroknife he had tucked in his boot, as Jonas keyed in the code to open Tia’s door. As soon as the door opened, Jonas grabbed the blaster holstered under his evening jacket and the three men entered the room.

 

Corso’s gut instinct was proven right when they got their first look inside the room. Blasters ready, Aric and Jonas checked the bedroom and refresher while Corso surveyed the living room, the broken glass and knocked over furniture showing signs of a recent struggle.

 

“’Fresher’s empty,” Jonas told them as he returned to the living room.

 

“So’s her bedroom,” Aric confirmed, coming out of the bedroom holding up a small holster, “and I found this on her bed.”

 

Corso spotted something next to the tipped over chair and bent down to pick it up. “This isn’t good, guys,” he said, holding up the used needle, “Looks like she was drugged.”

 

“Kark!” Aric swore, grabbing his Holo and a few seconds later, Elara’s image appeared.

 

“Tia’s been kidnapped,” Aric told his medic.

 

“Well done, sir,” Elara replied and Kat and Val’s images appeared behind her.

 

“Eh, I’m kinda disappointed,” Kat snorted, “I figured it would take them longer and I don’t see any blood…..”

 

“You don’t understand,” Aric interrupted, “She was taken, but not by us!”

 

 

Edited December 22, 2013 by alaurin

[YoshiRaphElan]

@alaurin, I admit I laughed a little at Elara's "Well done, sir," because that's miscommunication at its finest.

 

Prompt - Working out the Kinks

Title - Interference at its Finest

Class - Jedi Knight

No spoilers

 

 

"Jasin!" Kira exclaimed. "Jasin!"

 

She rushed into the command center, grabbed her husband by the bicep, and dragged him into the corner, away from where anyone else could eavesdrop. Jasin looked around in confusion and then ducked his head to confer privately with Kira.

 

"What?" he asked.

 

"You'll never guess," she whispered excitedly.

 

"Never guess what?"

 

"I was walking by the medcenter and I reached out with the Force to feel how Corso was doing...guess what?"

 

"Kira, listen to me." Jasin grabbed her arms and stared her in the eyes. "Spit. It. Out."

 

"Corso likes Ylenia. Like, likes her, likes her."

 

Jasin's eyebrows raised. "Wow. That is big. Too bad she's a Jedi."

 

"So? We are."

 

"Yeah, but we're...not exactly strict. Ylenia might be more by-the-book than we are."

 

"That's where I come in."

 

"Where you what?"

 

"I'm going to make sure those two end up together."

 

"Kira. Don't."

 

"Oh, yes."

 

"No, Kira. Whenever you interfere in someone else's business it turns out badly."

 

Kira pouted. "Come on, Jasin. Pleeeeaase?"

 

Jasin rolled his eyes. "You will anyways. Fine, go ahead. But Corso's hurt, remember. Be careful."

 

Kira nodded, grinning. "Don't worry."

 

* * *

 

Ylenia stripped off her white jacket and laid it neatly over the back of the only chair in her small cubicle. She sighed and flopped down on her bed. She'd had to help the surgeons on six injured soldiers, from using the Force to relax the patients to wiping sweat from the doctors' heads to actually performing the surgery herself. In short, she was exhausted.

 

The most bothersome patient was Corso Riggs. The dreadlocked man just stayed in his bed, quiet but friendly, and never spoke to her unless he needed something. But even when he wasn't speaking to her, she always got the feeling that he was trying to. It disconcerted her, and she got the feeling that there was more to Riggs' lack of speaking than just shyness.

 

There came a knock on her cubicle door and for an alarming moment she feared she'd find Riggs at the door. That was silly, of course. Standing, she walked over to the door and opened it. Fellow Jedi Knight Kira Carsen stood outside the door, a cheery smile splitting her face.

 

"Kira?" Ylenia asked in confusion. "What are you doing here?"

 

"I just wanted to have some girl time!" Kira said, her smile broadening.

 

"Kira, I'm really tired right now, do we have to–?"

 

"Don't be silly," Kira insisted, "there's always time for girl time. Come on. Please?"

 

Ylenia sighed and closed her eyes. "All right, Kira, fine."

 

Kira squeaked happily. "Great!"

 

She walked inside Ylenia's cubicle and stood in the middle of the room, hands clasped in front of her, bouncing on the balls of her feet as if she was trying to restrain something. Ylenia sighed and closed the door.

 

"Now, what do you want to do, Kira?"

 

"Work on your wardrobe, first," Kira said instantly.

 

"What's wrong with my wardrobe?"

 

"Well...look at you." Kira gestured to Ylenia's white pants and boots, and her off-green short-sleeve shirt. "You look like a nurse. And not the sexy kind."

 

Ylenia frowned. "Kira, I am a doctor. A Jedi doctor."

 

"Doesn't mean you can't look good," Kira urged. "Come on, you look..." she appraised Ylenia, "about my size. We can go shopping."

 

"We're on an army base."

 

Kira sighed. "Work with me, Ylenia. Fine, we'll just go through my closet. I'm sure I can find something for you to wear."

 

"Kira, you know I'll have to change back into these clothes anyway, when it's my shift."

 

"Technically, you don't. The Jedi don't have to wear scrubs inside the medical ward as long as their clothes are sterile."

 

Realizing it would be easier to go along with her, Ylenia sighed and gestured to the door. She followed Kira to her cubicle and sat down, just wanting to rest. She didn't get much chance, though, as Kira grabbed her by the arm and pulled her to her feet, holding out some outfit to her body.

 

"Looks like it'll fit," Kira confirmed, "except it may be a little snug. Which could work in your favor."

 

"My favor? Kira, what are you talking about?"

 

"Nothing, nothing. Just try this on."

 

* * *

 

Kira sat eagerly on her bed and waited while Ylenia changed. The white-haired young woman exited the refresher and walked into the center of the living room. The outfit consisted of a white tank top, a deep blue skirt that fell almost to her knees, and a low-cut matching blue jacket.

 

"Perfect!" Kira practically squealed.

 

Ylenia looked down at her chrono. "Blast it, it's time for my shift, and I didn't get any sleep. Sorry, Kira, I have to go. Don't even have time to change..."

 

"Don't worry," Kira said, beaming. "Go to work in that. I guarantee you'll make some patients very happy."

 

[bright_ephemera]

@YoshiRaphElan…oh, dear. A first impression like that would be devastating to Corso. Glad to see Tanno Vik doesn’t let anything get him down. And Jorgan is just the kind of comrade and maybe brother the Trooper may need when times get tough. Poor Ylenia, her troubles don’t seem to end with Corso…

 

@alaurin, oh, Kat, messing with Tia’s project…as an overly curious younger sibling I know what that’s like! The synergy you draw between Bounty Hunter and Trooper events keeps the action running. Ah, then the wrong three men intercept Tia…

 

@lesaberisa, heart-in-the-throat work for Amurri. The name Casavir immediately reminded me of someone else.

a single burst that penetrated his armor and impaled whatever he had in place of a heart.

Love it. I probably should’ve noted the content warning first, but still, good piece. Then Veresia is all d’aww. Amitia has the proper attitude toward T7, who is truly one of my favorite companions. Ayrs’ move is daring as hell, but it’s telling that he’s following Imperial social habits for this. I guess we all know what Elara grew up expecting.

 

@frauzet, nice of Giz to think through possible recruitment bonuses when looking at an offer to turn soldier.

“Most likely?” Corso interrupted him. “Most likely? You threw a coin.”

[theStirge]

I have no comments because I am a bad person. Also I am way behind in my reading. I don't even really have a story, just a snippet that I cut from an earlier thing because it was getting too expository, that I saved and only just found and wanted to post because it's been forever since I posted anything. I wish inspiration would stay with me longer than a few minutes at a time.

 

 

"Not the part where she works for the Empire?"

 

"Nah, she thinks she's doing the right thing. She's big into the Chiss ideal that the strongest and smartest should be in charge because they're better at it."

 

"Sounds like the Sith."

 

"Mmm, sort of, except the Sith's motives are purely selfish. The Chiss think a well-ordered society with everyone in their place, with the strongest protecting everyone and the smartest telling everyone what to do, is genuinely better for everyone involved."

 

"When you put it that way, it almost sounds like they have a point."

 

"Except for the part where there's no room for individuality or freedom or choice. Disagreement with the government is a death sentence. It sort of made sense back when we were living in ice caves and survival was a constant struggle, but we live in the modern galaxy now. Can we talk about something else?"

 

 

 

Notes

 

 

This is Zel, my Sentinel, talking to Kira about Eleeta, my Operative(for those who don't remember because it's been so long since I posted anything). One of these days I have to work out how they ended up where they are, exactly how long it's been since they last saw each other, and...stuff. I have some vague notions in the back of my head, but these are the sorts of details that seem like they would be important. Also when I wrote my earlier bits I had not ever actually been to Makeb on either faction, and now that I have, some of my setup makes a little less sense, although I can still pull it off. If I ever actually write anything again. Damn it.

 

 

As an aside, some people's characters I have no trouble imagining the actors speaking their lines(Wynston, for instance, sounds just like Bertie Carvel in my head), and others I just can't(Ruth, Remi, any lady smuggler). Wrongly or not, I absolutely hear Kari Wahlgren and Jo Wyatt(I still haven't managed to finish Dragon Age II because I keep restarting to take all the different responses with f!Hawke. If I ever win the lottery I'm going to hire Jo Wyatt to call me on the telephone every day and talk to me as snarky Hawke) when Zel and El speak. Is that weird? Normal? How about the rest of you, do you hear your characters with the game voices or something else?

[YoshiRaphElan]

Prompt - Family

Title - To the Rescue

Class - Bounty Hunter/Trooper

No spoilers

 

 

Dha's fists clenched as he took the ship into the landing pad. Being at a Republic base made him nervous, but he had to do it. For his brother, and his sister-in-law. Elara's eyes were still puffy and red since learning about Tanno's sacrifice. Dha, who felt indebted to the Weequay for what he'd done, had agreed to meet up with Prudii, and bring Elara with him.

 

"We're coming in for a landing," he said. He turned to Elara and put a finger in her face. "You stay with Gault and Mako at all times, got it? Prudii wants me to protect you, and protect you I will."

 

Elara nodded. "I understand, Dha." She smiled. "I know how to take orders."

 

"Good."

 

The ship touched down, and Dha led Elara to the landing ramp. Gault and Mako, standing at the foot of the ramp, armed their blasters–they weren't taking any chances, being in a warzone–and opened the airlock. Torian walked out a moment later and pulled his helmet on.

 

"Where are you going?" Elara asked.

 

"Going to find Vik," Torian said.

 

"I'll join you after I make sure Elara gets to Prudii okay," Dha said. "Oya, Torian."

 

Torian grinned. "Oya!"

 

He sprinted off through the Republic camp. Dha whistled and snapped his fingers, and Iviin, the family strill, ran out eagerly, greenish drool dripping from his mouth. Blizz and Treek followed a moment later, and Skadge finally skulked out, standing at the foot of the ramp. Iviin bounced from foot to foot eagerly. Dha leaned down and strapped his wrist grapple cord around Iviin's collar. The strill tried to drag him away, but Dha kept a firm grip on the leash.

 

"Elara! Dha!" exclaimed Prudii.

 

He sprinted up to the ship and threw his arms around his wife. Elara hugged him fiercely. After a moment they stepped apart, and Prudii embraced his brother just as firmly. Then he knelt down and scratched Iviin under the chin. The strill crooned happily.

 

"Hey, Mako, Gault," Prudii said. "Blizz, Treek. Skadge."

 

The others returned his greeting. Skadge just grumbled and moved off to see if he could find some trouble. The rest of Havoc Squad, sans Vik, moved up to the landing pad a moment later and greeted Elara, slapping her on the back and grinning.

 

"All right, now that everyone's reintroduced," said Dha, "Iviin and I are going to go with Torian and hunt down Vik. Don't worry, D'ika, I'll find him."

 

Prudii nodded. "If anyone can...I know you will."

 

Dha jerked on his makeshift leash. "Oya, Iviin. Oya!"

 

[kabeone]

I haven't written a thing, but I can comment! I'm way behind though so I started from last week's prompt.

 

 

 

@Xakthul Lixor is interesting. Funny to be locked in his own prison.

 

@frauzet I'm loving the ord retelling. I also love that Jorgan was trying to root out the leaks.

 

 

@alaurin Zank and his shiny armor. I love that scene. I also enjoy the idea that the heroes of swtor would also play video games.

 

@YoshiRaphElan I am loving the class convergence on un-named Fort-Garnik like base. The short life day snow ball fight made me smile. The All Alone with Tanno was wrenching. D: I love Tanno, once I got past the idea that he'd be on the crew at all he really grew on me. I'm glad Torian and Dha are going after him.

Also, at first I felt sorry for Corso, but now I feel really sorry for Ylenia.

 

@Magdalane I'm glad you're writing here again! Early Corso and Miriah are so sweet.

 

@DarthSillyMonkey "I'm No Hero" was excellent. I especially like the part where pointing out that self-sacrifice to save everyone can be dangerous and arrogant even if that's not the intent.

 

@RatchetGuyClanks Welcome back! I liked the controlled hatred and pragmatic weighing of options that Anaria goes through with her pregnancy. Very Sith-creepy.

 

@bright Jora evokes a very devilish feel with her contracts and vague terms. That Moff can only sign it and hope someone offs her before she can collect.

 

@Lesaberisa

I smiled. T7 was more than a droid. More than a friend. We’d faced the Emperor together. By the Force, we’d faced

Doc together. This was nothing as valuable or meaningful as someone that would stand with you through that.

T7 love is best love. I don't know if you plan to keep the Ayrs piece, but I loved the idea.

 

 

 

[YoshiRaphElan]

Thanks for the comments, bright and kabe!

 

@theStirge, I like the description of Chiss society. One of my favorite EU species!

Edited December 22, 2013 by YoshiRaphElan

[kabeone]

@theStirge I enjoy in-character debates about the structure of the Republic/Empire and their faults. Any kind of analysis of either of the two obviously flawed system is wonderful to me.

 

As an aside, some people's characters I have no trouble imagining the actors speaking their lines(Wynston, for instance, sounds just like Bertie Carvel in my head), and others I just can't(Ruth, Remi, any lady smuggler). Wrongly or not, I absolutely hear Kari Wahlgren and Jo Wyatt(I still haven't managed to finish Dragon Age II because I keep restarting to take all the different responses with f!Hawke. If I ever win the lottery I'm going to hire Jo Wyatt to call me on the telephone every day and talk to me as snarky Hawke) when Zel and El speak. Is that weird? Normal? How about the rest of you, do you hear your characters with the game voices or something else?

 

I do this too, some characters sound like their voices in my head, others do not. I have trouble with Ruth sounding like SW but that may be because Nalenne sounds like the SW in my head and she just occupies that spot.

 

The closest Remi comes to sounding like the fem!JK is some of the JK's few snarky or sarcastic lines. Otherwise it's a little different.

[frauzet]

Comments

 

@alaurin: I liked Kat's misunderstanding. Looking forward to reading what will happen next.

 

@YoshiRaphElan: Kira's interference sounds like it might lead to some complications.

I like animals. Bringing Iviin to search for Vik seems like a great idea to me.

 

@theStirge: nice pointing out of the differences and the problems that are not apparent at first glance.

 

My male Imperial characters sound like their voice actors in my head. The German BH voice actor was the reason why I played Thorns as my main instead of my female Powertech. Then I had to switch to the English client because of a buggy class quest on Voss. The English voice is similar, and I liked it even a little bit better. When I played my male IA I switched back to the German client to hear the German voice and instantly switched back to the English client.

 

 

 

Thank you for your kind comments on my last story. There probably will be at least three more parts of 'Hating Ord Mantell'.

But this wanted to be written first. I have been thinking about this for a while now and it seemed to fit the current prompt.

 

Prompt - Snatched from the Jaws of Defeat

Title - The Red Machine

Class - SI (Rufuro), SW (Ciner)

Words - About 2660

Spoilers - Spoilers for Korriban SI and SW and general quests

 

 

He was so sick of this sh*t. ‘Do not come back here until you’ve gotten the text from Tulak Hord’s tomb.’ Blah blah blah. With all the acolytes that had been trained in this hellhole you’d think there should be no more artifacts left to be recovered. All these oh-so-superior Sith that had been trained here. But no, there were some left especially for him. Some challenge to get the slave killed. Slave. One of these days he would shove the word back down Harkun’s throat.

 

If the text was so important, why was it still inside the tomb? Would this trial end like the last one? If he succeeded he would be blamed for cheating? Only because he had accomplished what countless Sith before him were unable to do? If they didn’t want him to succeed why give him trials at all? Why not simply kill him? Although Harkun would have to be a little more inventive than to let Ffon off the leash. He’d eat Ffon for breakfast given the opportunity. Pureblood. Hmph. One of these days he’d meet him alone in an empty tomb. That would be the day the little sh*t had called him slave for the last time. Without Harkun for backup he was nothing. He’d swat him like the insect that he was.

Lightning crackled between Rufuro’s fingertips at the thought. Patience. He had learned to be patient and he had unlearned to be patient, both at the same time. Impatience could get you killed. Too much patience could also. Or it left you alive with nothing left worth living for. He vaporized a fist-sized stone that lay on the path in front of him with a surge of white lightning. It didn’t do much to get rid of the energy he’d unwittingly gathered. He took a deep breath and exhaled slowly, letting the energy drain away into his surroundings with the breath that left his body. It wouldn’t do to wreak havoc on the ancient remains about him.

 

He’d have to remain inconspicuous to survive Korriban. Well, at least as inconspicuous as a former slave aspiring to become Sith could be. Appear too weak and you’re dead, but appear too strong and you’re dead even faster, Lord Morgon had advised. Everyone of sufficient strength in the Force was called to Korriban nowadays. But that didn’t mean that those not of Sith heritage were welcome. They faced staunch opposition, even or especially from the overseers, as Rufuro had discovered not long after his arrival.

At first there had been no need for him to feign weakness. But meanwhile most of the aftereffects of years of being drugged had worn off. Morgon had been wise to keep him thus under control, or he would have been as dead as his apprentice Eliel. Eliel, the thought brought the lightning back to Rufuro’s fingertips. The next stone ceased to exist. Rufuro still regretted that day. Not because he had killed Eliel, but because Eliel’s death had been too fast. It had happened on impulse. Rufuro hadn’t been aware of his own strength, and Eliel hadn’t been either. But a swift death was not what the apprentice had deserved for years of accumulating Rufuro’s hatred. Another stone was destroyed.

Breathe, dammit! To think that he had been good at meditating once. He would have been a Jedi Master by now. He winced only slightly at the thought. It didn’t cause real physical pain anymore, and he had learned to prevent much of the imagined pain such thoughts caused. But Morgon had been quite thorough in his conditioning.

 

Looking up Rufuro realized that he had already reached the entrance to Tulak Hord’s tomb. It was still early, Horuset, Korriban’s sun, still low above the horizon. The rise in temperature as he entered the passage wasn’t as great as it would have been, had the doors to the ancient complex not been missing. Nothing was left to keep Korriban’s chill winds outside the tomb. The cold was the only thing good about Korriban, as it reminded him of Mirial, his childhood home. The lighting conditions were considerably poorer inside the tomb. Rufuro stopped to give his eyes time to adjust to the gloom.

 

The man, who had been working close to the entrance, seemed to take this as an invitation to approach him. “Come closer, acolyte! The wind outside has torn my ears to tatters, and my eyes grow strained and bloody in the dark. I’ve studied this tomb for years—slept on its stones and dreamed of its depths. Now, I need assistance to solve its final mystery.”

 

Rufuro took a step closer to the human. The aged man was obviously no Force-user, but he was no slave either. He must be one of the researchers that combed the safer parts of the tombs. Rufuro wondered if he could somehow exploit the researcher’s knowledge to his advantage. Maybe the man had some useful information that would help him in his current trial.

“If you have secrets to share, I would…”

 

“If you have secrets to share, you’d be a fool to share them with a slave, Zell!” a mocking voice from the shadows farther inside the passage interrupted him.

 

Rufuro spun to face the speaker, drawing his training blade in a fluid motion and bringing it up while dropping into a guard stance. Slightly squinting his eyes he saw a man casually leaning against the wall a short distance away from him. He was able to feel his presence through the Force now, a Force-user, maybe a bit stronger than the average acolyte he’d met on Korriban until now. There wasn’t enough light to see much else though. He guessed this wasn’t the time to appear weak.

“Whom are you calling a slave?”

Who was he? Rufuro would have recognized any of Ffon’s cronies. He made out the contours of a training blade visible above the other’s shoulder. An acolyte.

 

“Since Zell here isn’t one, your question is superfluous.” The tone was dripping with disdain.

 

Rufuro strained to not let himself be taunted into attacking the snob. Zell would be a witness to a forbidden fight between acolytes. No way he’d be able to dispose of two bodies before somebody took notice. “The only thing superfluous here is your interference.”

 

The other acolyte pushed himself away from the wall and took a few steps in his direction.

“I haven’t even started to interfere. And if I chose to do so, I doubt you’d be able to stop me—slave.”

 

Rufuro could see him more clearly now. He was about the same size as he was. Rufuro guessed that he had a few pounds on the other acolyte. Not much of an advantage or disadvantage for either one. As he stepped out of the shadows, Rufuro could see his grey hair and the metallic glint of an implant on his forehead. He had seen him in the refectory. He always sat alone on the opposite side of the room. The pampered son of a Sith noble house, he had overheard the other acolytes say, too superior to mingle with lesser beings. Favored by the overseer of his class because of his bloodline. The same as Ffon was by Harkun.

 

Lightning began to crackle between the fingertips of his free hand again as he opened himself up to the Force. His opponent hadn’t even drawn his weapon yet. Pretentious, overbearing stuffed-shirt.

“So, who sent you? Ffon? Or was it Harkun himself? You may think I’m a pushover, but in contrast to you, I had to fight to get here. I had to fight to survive my trials. I don’t get everything handed on a silver platter by the overseers.” He directed a charge of lightning in the direction of his adversary.

 

The other acolyte jumped sideways, and when Rufuro’s streak of lightning changed direction to follow him, he did a Force-powered backflip over it to avoid being hit. When he landed he drew his weapon. The next burst of electricity from Rufuro was redirected and sizzled harmlessly through the passage, as the following one was blocked by the blade. Rufuro realized that he wouldn’t beat his opponent this way.

 

A smirk appeared on the other ones face. “Already realizing your mistake?” He asked tauntingly. “So you thought this was going to be child’s play?”

 

He feigned an attack and Rufuro was barely able to block the actual strike that followed. The acolyte was fast.

 

“Acolytes! Stop this! You are not supposed to…” the researcher tried weakly to intervene.

 

“Shut up, Zell!” Rufuro’s opponent snapped. “Pretend you didn’t see or hear anything, and you might survive today—to NEVER tell anybody about this.”

 

Zell crept behind his mine car and kept quiet.

 

They exchanged a bout of harmless strikes, their dance around one another confined to the narrow space the passage provided. It didn’t take Rufuro long to perceive that his opponent was toying with him. His feints were too obvious, his attacks too slow, but sufficient to keep him on the defensive. During the initial attack Rufuro had caught a glimpse of his adversary’s true strength. The scumbag had been cloaking his strength in the Force all along, something nobody had bothered to teach to Rufuro.

 

His foe must have seen something on his face, for his grin grew wider as he moved up a gear.

“You think your lot is worse than mine? Maybe Overseer Harkun doesn’t support you, but what about Lord Zash?” He asked while pressing an attack that had Rufuro stumbling. But his opponent drew back immediately afterwards. He took another step back, and another one. “Me on the other hand, I undoubtedly have the support of Overseer Tremel.” He retreated another step. “But have you ever thought about what it is like, to antagonize a Darth? It seems like I’ll have to make you think again!”

With his last word he took another step away from Rufuro, only to leap at him with a Force-charged jump that made him clash with Rufuro’s hastily erected shield an instant later. The shield shattered under the momentum of the attack.

 

Rufuro wasn’t sure if he hit his opponent with his next Force-attack afterwards, but if he did, it left no lasting effect. They both landed several minor hits in the following exchange of blows, but overall Rufuro was hard pressed to defend himself. In fact he had to concentrate on his defensive forms so much that his attempted Force-attacks were clumsy at best. His opponent seldom even bothered to use a Force-attack, as he could rely on his superior swordplay. His breath became ragged. His opponent also showed first signs of weariness, but was still in a much better shape. After another feint he suddenly felt the other acolyte’s blade connect with his ribs, the strike driving the breath out of his lungs and himself to his knees. With a lightning-fast spin, twist and kick to his chest he was sent sprawling on his back. His blade flew down the passage and deactivated when it hit the ground.

He felt like something inside him, too, had been deactivated. He wasn’t able to breathe, much less to continue the fight. He wouldn’t have been able to yield even if he had wanted to. He heard the humming of his adversary’s weapon next to his ear as he waited for the death blow. He remembered an other fight. ‘There is no death, there is only the Force!’ He had said back then. But all his believes had been shattered, there was nothing left of the boy he had been. He no longer cared what came next. It couldn’t be worse than what he already had endured.

 

The humming stopped. The tip of a boot nudged his ribs. “Are you planning to take a nap, or do you think you’d be able to help me with Zell’s machine?”

 

Rufuro blinked. His opponent was standing beside him, weapon sheathed, looking down at him curiously. “What?” he wheezed.

 

The other acolyte grinned as he held out his hand towards him. “Seems I overdid the kick a little bit.”

 

Rufuro took the offered hand and got up with the additional help. He coughed.

 

“I am Ciner. And for the record: Ffon is an idiot, and you’ll rip him apart with ease.” Ciner let go of Rufuro’s hand.

 

Rufuro eyed Ciner mistrustfully. “Rufuro.” He offered at last. “What was that about? Guess that isn’t your common run to introduce yourself. Calling people names, and nearly killing them afterwards.” There was no point in trying to fight him again, so he might as well listen to what he had to say.

 

“You got me interested when you retrieved the holocron the other day. Everybody was tattling about it. The slave doing the impossible. And when I saw you talking to Zell, I decided to take the opportunity to get acquainted. I admit it was a bit out-of-the-way.” He grinned and indicated a small distance between his thumb and index finger. “I’ve been here before you, and he told me about Tulak Hord’s machine, the one he was going to tell you about when I interrupted you rather rudely. I took a look at the thing and decided I’d need backup. The chamber is crawling with all kinds of unpleasant inhabitants. When I got back here, I recognized you. I am not very good at these evaluations but I can tell that we, you and me, are easily the strongest acolytes in the Force, they are currently trying to kill here.”

 

“So you thought, you’d lend a hand and kill the competition yourself?” Rufuro asked.

 

“You’re still alive, aren’t you? But I wanted to see how much of a competition you are.” Ciner explained.

 

“And you let me live, because the slave is no real threat?” Rufuro balled his hands into fists.

 

“I honestly don’t care what you were before you came here. If you don’t let yourself be killed, you’ll leave the planet as a Sith. You will still be an alien, but there will be very few people left, who will dare to insult you then. Zash is ambitious, she’ll rise, and she’ll take you with her. You won’t have many friends, but don’t think that’d be different if you were a Sith with an impressive bloodline. The longer the history of your house the longer the list of your enemies. Calling you a slave only was a sure bet to get you fighting.”

 

“You don’t know me.” Rufuro went to pick up his weapon.

 

“Believe me, I know enough slaves.”

 

His hand was shaking slightly as he sheathed the blade he had just picked up. “If you are still trying to provoke me, you’re making a good job of it.”

 

“Zell’s machine is fueled by hatred, save some till we’re there.” Ciner said as he walked past him farther into the tomb.

 

“Why would I want to help you?” Rufuro called after him.

 

“You’ll come up with something, you seem to be rather clever. I doubt you’d have survived this long otherwise.”

 

***

 

Ciner watched intently as Rufuro traced the symbols on the tablet, that they had retrieved, with his fingertips. The Mirialan was utterly fascinated by the artifact.

 

“Keep it!” he encouraged him.

 

Rufuro looked up, clearly astonished about the proposal. “What would I do with it?”

 

Ciner shrugged his shoulders. “Don’t know. Decipher it I guess. You’ll come up with something.”

 

A smile spread across Rufuro’s face. “I remember, I seem to be rather clever.”

 

“We tell Zell that his machine doesn’t work. It hasn’t for the last centuries, and it won’t for the coming centuries. Only you and me know about the one time in between that it did.”

 

“Only you and me.” Rufuro repeated. He looked like he was savoring the taste of the strange words in his mouth.

 

 

Edited December 23, 2013 by frauzet

[Kitar]

For all my special snowflakes out there; this was a little something that snuck into my head while enjoying the holiday festivities.

 

Enjoy

 

Prompt: Discoveries

Featuring: SI Talos

Spoilers: Don't think so.

 

 

 

 

Phhift thump.

 

"My Lord,” the Imperial briskly ran his fingers through his black hair, knocking loose white powdery snow. “This is most inappropriate.” Frowning he furiously brushed fluttering snowflakes off his uniform.

 

She repressed a smile, gently rolling the snowball in her fingers, watching the tiny iridescence white snowflakes as they swirled around her hand. Occasionally one would land; a bright pop of colour against a dark green canvas before it melted, dripping off her chilled skin.

 

Without warning she threw the snowball directly at the fussing Imperial. It hit him with another sodden thump, birthing yet another round of complaints. Holding up her hand she grinned as the ball magically returned to her hand, fluttering snowflakes swirling about her fingers.

 

“Absolutely fascinating!” Next to her Talos moved closer, fingers hovering around hers. He smiled when a flake landed on his hand. “And it returns every time?”

 

“Yes, so far without fail.”

 

“Such peculiar behavior for a little snowball.” He bent closer, bringing his hand to his face, poking another visiting snowflake.

 

She leaned over, lowering her voice. “It gets even better my dear.”

 

“Oh?” He tentatively poked the white ball in her palm, never taking his eyes off the swirling snow; completely missing the grin that crept across her lips, echoed through the crinkling corners of her eyes.

 

“Oh yes,” She launched the ball at the still fuming raven haired Imperial. As it landed a large thud echoed. The man was knocked to the ground, stuttering. She held out her hands, the little ball of snow had obediently returned to her hand, in the other was a plainly wrapped nondescript box. She held the box up, grinning at the expression on Talos' face. His green eyes were huge as he stared at the parcel. “Sometimes you get these. I haven’t opened any of them yet... I do wonder what is inside.”

 

She handed him the brown box, he cautiously took it, slowly turning it over in his hands. He brought it up to his ear, listening. She continued rolling the snowball, grinning as she watched him examine the mysteriously summoned box. When he reached to pull out his datapad she stopped him, gently laying her hand on his arm. “I have others.” She gestured to a small stack of oddly shaped boxes of different sizes. “Lets see how many more we can get. Then we can open them, see what is inside.”

 

“Oh right, of course, excellent idea.” He bent over depositing the box with its brethren.

 

When he returned to her side, she slipped her hand into her robe's inner pocket. “Here.” She pulled out another flaking ball, dropping it into his hands.

 

“My Lord, you have two?”

 

She grinned, “It's quite fun, plus we should accumulate those boxes faster if we both have a snowball.”

 

Talos smiled, turning his eyes to the now snow-free Imperial. Taking careful aim he threw the snowball, stifling a small cheer when it hit the man.

 

“Lieutenant was that absolutely necessary!” The black haired man bit, as he brushed more sodden snow off his once pristine uniform.

 

Talos opened his mouth to reply when the ball returned to his hand, causing him to completely forget what he was going to say as he focused his attention back to the snowball. “Absolutely fascinating,” he brought his hand to his face intently staring at the white orb.

 

“And it's fun,” she gently touched his arm, “come now, lets make the most of the good Captain's time with us.” Her grin returned. “We don't want to … waste such a valuable research tool.”

 

“Of course, of course,” he looked up at her grinning, “on the count of three then my Lord?”

 

“Absolutely.” She adjusted her grip on the ball. “One. Two.” She pulled her arm back, “and Three.”

 

Twin snowballs arced, slamming into the protesting Captain.

 

 

Sorry I don't have any comments or replies, I wanted to get this posted before I ran out to finish grabbing last minute things for Christmas. As always I have been thoroughly enjoying everyone's stories

 

oh a little AN

 

And yes the protesting target is Quinn, just in case I didn't describe him very well.

 

Edited December 24, 2013 by Kitar

[YoshiRaphElan]

@frauzet, love how things developed there! I regret not being able to do Ffon in myself; Zash really should've let the player fry him.

 

@kitar, snowballing Quinn is hilarious. Especially when Talos does it too.

 

Prompt - Turning Points

Title - Camp Infiltration

Class - Smuggler/Jedi Knight

 

 

Corso's silent attraction had been bad enough, but ever since Ylenia had come in wearing that blasted tight outfit Kira had supplied her with, the man hadn't stopped gawking. Ylenia could sense it in the Force; even when he couldn't see her he was thinking about her and trying to work up the courage to speak to her.

 

Ylenia did all she could to de-sexualize the outfit, pulling up the flimsy tank top as far over her cleavage as it would go and trying to keep her legs out of Corso's sight whenever possible. There was nothing she could do about the fact that Kira was slightly slimmer than her, though; the skirt clung tightly to Ylenia's butt, showing it off in unfortunate detail.

 

"Jedi Ylenia," said one of the doctors, "can you deliver Riggs his lunch?"

 

"Can't one of the other nurses do it?" Ylenia protested.

 

"They're all busy," the doctor replied easily. He looked at her outfit sympathetically. "Sorry, but you really shouldn't have dressed like that coming into work."

 

Ylenia steamed. "It wasn't exactly by choice!"

 

"Just take him his lunch."

 

* * *

 

It was past midnight and–just her luck–Ylenia was on the night shift. She walked past Corso's bed, trying to avert her gaze as she did. Unfortunately, that was not to be.

 

"Miss," Corso said. "When you get a minute's free time, can we talk?"

 

Ylenia closed her eyes. "I...I'm not so sure that's a good idea, Master Riggs."

 

"Come on, please?" Corso asked. "It's awful lonely in here, with visiting hours over."

 

Ylenia clenched her jaw. Riggs wouldn't give up until she caved. But she had to do something to divert his affections; it really wasn't going to go anywhere since she was a Jedi. But she couldn't be rude, either. Slowly, eyes closed in surrender, she nodded and walked over to his bed.

 

"What do you want to talk about?"

 

"First off," he said, "call me Corso, not 'Master Riggs.'"

 

* * *

 

Corso couldn't stop the words spilling out of his mouth; he was nervous so he just kept yammering to prevent her from walking away. She was raising her hand to interrupt him when there was a sharp crack from the front of the medical ward. Ylenia pulled her lightsaber off her belt and walked out to investigate; a moment later the blue blade snapped to life and deflected blaster bolts from attackers hidden by the privacy sheet around Corso's bed.

 

Corso grabbed Torchy off the small counter and rolled out of bed, unashamed to be clad only in a hospital gown. Staying hidden behind the privacy sheet, he crept over to the edge of the sheet to see who Ylenia was fighting. She lunged forward but her tight skirt restricted her legs. Rolling her eyes in annoyance, Ylenia swept her lightsaber in a neat arc, cutting a slit in the side of the skirt. One of the attackers reached out and grabbed at her; she leapt back and his hand grabbed her skirt and pulled.

 

Corso flushed in embarrassment as the skirt was yanked cleanly from her waist, leaving her clad from the waist down only in her underwear. She grinned fiercely; despite her unfortunate situation she now had complete freedom of movement to fight. Lunging forward on long, bare legs, Ylenia slashed the attacker in half. Another enemy came in from the door and Corso snapped off a shot from Torchy, killing the man.

 

Suddenly, Jasin, Kira, and Dankin sprinted into the room. Dankin's blasters had smoke trailing from the barrels, and Jasin and Kira had their lightsabers ignited.

 

"Camp was infiltrated," Jasin said. "Everyone all right?"

 

Ylenia nodded. "Yes."

 

Kira scanned the scene; saw Corso in his medical gown and Ylenia, bare-legged. "What's going on in here?"

 

"Not what you think," Ylenia said with a stiff snarl. She grabbed an ankle-length white robe and pulled it around her. Corso flushed and put his blaster back on the side table. "Riggs–Corso–helped fight off the attackers."

 

"In any case," Jasin said, "we've cleared out the infiltrators and Havoc Squad is on patrol. This won't happen again." He nodded to Ylenia and Corso. "Good night."

 

 

Edited December 23, 2013 by YoshiRaphElan

[alaurin]

I'll try to update the index this evening or tomorrow morning......hyped up kids home doesn't give me much free time. Most likely this will be my last post for a week or two.....

 

Some quickie comments/replies:

 

@Yoshi: Oh, naughty Kira and then poor Corso......hopelessly in love with a Jedi. Maybe he can convince her to bend the rules a little..... I'm glad Dha is out hunting for Vik......hope he is found, alive and well very soon!

@alaurin, I admit I laughed a little at Elara's "Well done, sir," because that's miscommunication at its finest.

Hehe, I was hoping someone would pick up on that......glad it was good for a laugh!

 

 

@alaurin, oh, Kat, messing with Tia’s project…as an overly curious younger sibling I know what that’s like! The synergy you draw between Bounty Hunter and Trooper events keeps the action running. Ah, then the wrong three men intercept Tia…

I was the youngest of three and yes, I might have inadvertently ruined a project or two......and I definitely blackmailed my older brothers, they were mean sometimes and totally deserved it! Glad you like Kat and Tia's stuff so far!

 

 

@theStirge: Interesting insight to your characters with that short piece. Also, with most of my characters, I hear their game voice and like them. The only big exception really is Zyra......I don't think the in game voice for a SI sounds like a slave.

 

 

@frauzet, nicely done with the SI and SW.....loved the action!! It will be interesting to see how they interact in the future.

@alaurin: I liked Kat's misunderstanding. Looking forward to reading what will happen next.

Thanks! Glad you're enjoying, but I don't know that I will get the next part finished before leaving. Maybe I'll get some time while in the car.....if I'm not too carsick.

 

 

@alaurin Zank and his shiny armor. I love that scene. I also enjoy the idea that the heroes of swtor would also play video games.

Hehe, thanks.....Zank was just asking for that! I'm still trying to decide if Bella and Lissa are going to play Fantasy Kingdoms of War or not.......also not sure when Mallay and Ros are going to get caught playing.

 

 

@Kitar: HAHAHA!!!!! Snowballing Quinn ftw!!!!!

 

 

 

 

I feel bad that I probably won't have time to finish the next part in the Tia/Kat/Val saga, but I have a couple of warm fuzzies from my Tumblr:

 

Title: Warming Up

Prompt: Health, Seasons

Character: Allissya-JC, Felix Iresso

Setting: Belsavis

Spoilers: Belsavis planetary spoilers, who the JC companions are, minor companion spoiler for Iresso

 

 

Lieutenant Felix Iresso sighed, trying not to dwell too deeply on his current situation and failing miserably. He thought back to a few weeks ago when Lissa had visited her family. He’d been a little surprised to see Lieutenant Jorgan there, now a Captain, XO of Havoc squad and married to his CO, Lissa’s sister Mallay. They hadn’t gotten along back on Ord Mantell, but time had changed things and the Cathar had actually given him some advice when he and Corso had noticed him staring at Lissa.

 

 

“Hey man,” Aric snickered after the girls had left, “better start memorizing the BlasTech catalog……you’ll find it helpful.”

 

Corso shook his head, “I think I had two editions of BlasTech and a Czerka line memorized before Bella and I……uh…..”

 

 

Felix took another deep breath, section one…..rifles, he thought, wrapping his arms around the petite Jedi when he felt her shaking, “Still cold?”

 

“A little,” Lissa replied softly, snuggling closer to his warmth, “Getting better though.”

 

Felix looked down, once again feeling a jolt shoot through him at the sight of pale pink lace. Quickly shifting his gaze he noticed that those full lips of her weren’t the alarming shade of blue that they’d been when he first gotten her into their current sanctuary.

 

Night had fallen on the prison planet of Belsavis and they were stranded deep in the cold, snowy regions where the maximum security vaults were located. Lissa and Felix were making their way back to the Republic base for the night when they were attacked by a group of Esh-kha. During the fight, Lissa had been knocked into a nearby icy cold pond. Luckily the water wasn’t deep, but Lissa’s heavy Jedi robes were soaked. They managed to finish off the group, but their speeders had been damaged. Felix could feel the temperature dropping with the sun and the petite Jedi was already shivering uncontrollably. He spotted a small entryway and they carefully approached, finding an abandoned control center. After making sure it was secure, Felix shut the door and called for a pickup. Zenith had answered and confirmed their signal, assuring them they’d get there as soon as they could. Only moments later, the Balmorrian had called back saying Republic security was refusing to allow them to fly the Defender planet side, deeming it too much of a risk. A shuttle was being arranged to pick them up, but it would be at least an hour.

 

At that point, Lissa’s usual golden brown skin was frightfully pale, her lips had a blue tinge, and her movements were beginning to become sluggish. Having been stationed on Hoth, the quiet soldier knew hyperthermia would settle in long before the shuttle would arrive. Felix was a talented soldier and his survivalist skills were sharp, telling him that those wet robes needed to come of now. He said as much to Lissa who nodded her acceptance, but her stiff, near frozen fingers weren’t able to work the fastenings and Felix ended up helping her undress. The disciplined soldier had his rigid control thouroughly tested when he finally got the fasteners undone and helped her slide her wet robes off. His own temperature shot up several degrees when he saw the delicate pale pink lace that passed for her bra and underwear, and one single thought raced across his mind, Jedi should not be allowed to wear stuff like that under their robes!

 

He found a couple of thin blankets in a small supply trunk while her shaky fingers worked at freeing her long, white blond hair from its plait. He handed them to Lissa, trying to avoid looking at her too much and helped her finish getting her hair loose, realizing it would dry faster unbound. Despite the blankets wrapped around her, the chilled Jedi couldn’t stop shivering and knowing her body temperature still needed to come up, Felix removed his plating and cortosis weave, leaving him naked from the waist up. Then he joined her under the blankets, wincing when he pulled her to his chest and wrapped his bare arms around her icy skin. The skin to skin contact worked and within minutes, he could feel her finally warming up a little and her shivering wasn’t so violent.

 

“Just a little while longer,” Felix assured her, trying to distract himself from the way her slender body felt pressed against his, the designers at BlasTech recommend five key points when selecting a rifle. One…..

 

“So….BlasTech, huh….” Lissa murmured, a shy, knowing smile curving her lips when she looked up at him.

 

“Apologies Master Jedi,” he muttered, embarrassed that he’d forgotten to guard his thoughts, “Your underclothing was a bit…..unexpected.”

 

“I take it you approve……Lieutenant,” Lissa raised a brow at him, her usual serene face looking amused and he swore he saw a teasing glint in those silver eyes.

 

“I’m not sure if I should answer that.”

 

“People think that Jedi are cold, emotionless beings,” Lissa sighed, “and they are sorely mistaken. Yes, the Order has restrictions on relationships, and yes some force users allow their feelings and passions lead them down a dark path, but that is the person making those choices.”

 

“What are you trying to say, Lissa?” Felix whispered, hope surging in him for the first time since he realized he was smitten with the beautiful young Jedi.

 

“I’m trying to say that you aren’t the only one affected by our current situation,” Lissa answered shyly, looking into that face and those brown eyes she’d come to care about, “and there is nothing dark about the things I’m feeling right now.”

 

That was enough for Felix and he slowly leaned down, gently brushing her lips with his own, testing at first then deepened the kiss when her full lips parted with a sigh. Lissa opened her mind, linking with his, allowing both of them to feel the intense sensations and moments later, she was no longer feeling cold.

 

 

This next one really isn't a story, more of a glimpse at a future holiday.....again, cross posted from my Tumblr

 

Title: Tis the Season.....

Prompt: Celebrations

Characters: Belladonya-smuggler, Mallayse-Trooper, Allissya-JC, Roslynd-JK, all their companions

Setting: Dantooine........Snowy weather, holiday parties, drinks, and mistletoe (I’d like to think there’s some form of that in SWTOR), so what’s happening during the Life Day celebrations with the Lauren family? These take place after all the class stories are finished.

Spoilers: just for who the Smuggler, Trooper, JC and JK companions are.

 

 

The girls’ mother, Sidra, loves the holidays and her children. She and Derek are having everyone to their large farmhouse for dinner and there is a lot of festive cheer in the house.

 

Bella is the first one caught kissing under the mistletoe and Corso blushes from the various catcalls and whistles coming from several people. However, the Mantellian ignores them for once and keeps kissing his pregnant wife, who isn’t at all bothered by getting caught.

 

Mallay is the second one caught. Thinking they’re safe in the kitchen, her and Aric are getting pretty steamy under the mistletoe when Lissa senses them and points it out to her twin, who opens the door to the kitchen and much to Mallay’s embarrassment, her and Aric are caught in a somewhat compromising position. Sidra shakes her head and ushers out a staring Kit and Zaryn. For the rest of the day, Mallay finds herself getting teased by her sisters about bite marks and wandering hands.

 

Lissa gets busted a short time later, having taken a leaf out of Mallay’s book, her and Felix are sneaking in a few kisses in the kitchen when Mallay comes in to check on the food in the oven. No way is she going to keep quiet after getting caught earlier and a blushing Lissa and Felix come out of the kitchen to a lot of clapping, whistling, and laughter. Aric and Corso later congratulate the quiet soldier and ask how far he got with the BlasTech catalogue. The three men, along with Derek and Fideltin Rusk, end up in a friendly debate over their favorite weapons.

 

Elara and Balic join the party, the newlyweds coming from the vineyard they recently purchased on the other side of the village. They are caught kissing in the doorway by a smirking Mallay.

 

Later on, Tanno and Akaavi arrive and spot the mistletoe over the door. Like Elara and Balic before them, they were in the process of getting in a few kisses when Aric answered it.

 

Ros steps outside to enjoy the breathtaking snowy scenery outside and is later joined by someone special. Spotting the mistletoe hanging over the door, the smiling Jedi soon finds herself being kissed quite thoroughly. Inside, Lissa senses her twin’s emotions and having noticed who went outside just after Ros, points at the door. A grinning Bella throws open the door and several cheers erupt for the happy couple.

 

Also during the festivities, Doc attempts to kiss Risha, Nadia, and Kira……he is later found bound and gagged in the coat closet. Much to Holiday’s dismay, a slightly tipsy Theran is caught kissing someone and she refuses to speak to him for days afterward. Zenith is also caught kissing someone by Guss, and they later disappear to the bunkhouse undetected. Forex and T-7 are found plotting in the guestroom later on, the massive wardroid sneaking pointed looks at the large Sith keeping to himself. Yuun, Qyzen, and Bowdaar bond over hunting stories and later end up putting their skills to the test when everyone realizes Guss is missing.

 

Edited February 4, 2014 by alaurin

[YoshiRaphElan]

@alaurin, memorizing BlasTech catalogues; nice. Also, that's an interesting-sounding holiday, that's for sure! I'm picturing everyone in red wool Christmas sweaters; the awful kind you only wear because your Grammy bought it for you.

 

Prompt - Hide and Seek

Title - Sniffing out the Weequay

Class - Bounty Hunter/Trooper

No spoilers

 

 

Dha had to run to keep up with Iviin as the strill sprinted through the forest; he was just running, now. Once the animal had calmed down a bit, Dha would let him sniff the dress uniform glove from Tanno's locker that Prudii had reluctantly allowed Dha to borrow. Torian was a few clicks ahead of them, scanning the area with his helmet's life sensors as well as his own keen tracking skills.

 

Iviin finally stopped contentedly and looked up expectantly at Dha. He pulled the glove from a pouch on his belt and dangled it over the strill's nose. It took a moment to convince Iviin not to eat it; once that was accomplished, the strill sniffed it eagerly. He howled and started to take off through the forest. He was on the trail.

 

"Oya!" Dha said eagerly. "Oya!"

 

[YoshiRaphElan]

Prompt - Worst Day Ever

Title - Losing Control

Class - Bounty Hunter/Trooper

No spoilers

 

 

Dha had been joined several hours into the hunt by Yuun. The Gand Findsman was using his powers to search "spiritually" for Tanno–something Dha didn't understand but was at least ready to accept, for now. Mako, who had come out with Yuun, since Elara had wanted some private time with Prudii, stood beside Dha.

 

She was clad in an unfettered trenchcoat. Apparently, unfettered had a different meaning than what Dha would've given it–she wore it unbuttoned, and with nothing but a bra underneath. He told her it was an extremely impractical combat wear, but she had explained that it was the fashion rage right now; practically every woman in the galaxy was wearing it.

 

"Yuun does not sense Tanno this way," the Gand said. "He is farther out, at least several clicks."

 

"Read that, Torian?" Dha asked over the comlink.

 

"Got it, alor'ad. I'm beginning a sweep."

 

Iviin suddenly tensed, growling and letting a long skein of drool drop to the soft dirt. Dha, suspicious of the animal's sudden wariness, drew his blaster, and Mako did the same. Yuun pulled out his electrostaff. Suddenly, a dart flew from out of nowhere and stabbed deep into Mako's neck. Dha's eyes widened and he whirled, firing in the direction the dart had come from. An Imperial dropped, dead.

 

"An agent," Dha said, examining the corpse.

 

He turned to Mako and realized with confusion that, even though the dart still protruded from her neck, she was not only on her feet, but in the exact same position as she had been before it had been fired, except he had lowered the blaster to her side. Her eyes stared straight ahead, unseeing.

 

"I live to serve the Empire," Mako droned. "I live to serve the Empire."

 

"The agent was a brainwasher," Yuun said. "He has shot her with a mind control substance."

 

"Mako usually cycles her cybernetics so mind control can't affect her," Dha said. "She must have been too distracted to." He frowned worriedly. "We need to get her back to base; maybe the medics can help."

 

"The Jedi could help better," Yuun explained.

 

Dha was reluctant to accept the help of a Jedi, but he nodded. "All right. You and Torian keep looking for Tanno."

 

"I live to serve the Empire," Mako droned.

 

Dha unstrapped Iviin and handed the "leash" to Yuun. The Findsman nodded grimly and loped off. Dha led Mako by the arm back toward the outpost.

 

"I live to serve the Empire."