Unforeseen Complications

[Lunafox]

You know...if you left the baby and the chicken with the Nexu...that'd be two problems solved. Three actually, cause then it wouldn't be hungry anymore and they could approach it lol.

 

Fun chapter, loved that movie lol.

Edited February 16, 2016 by Lunafox

[alaurin]

@MortuumAmens: Naughty me for leaving you hanging......hope that means you're enjoying this!

 

@Lunafox: I loved that movie as well and feel bad for butchering it. Eh, the baby and the chicken would barely be a snack......the nexu would probably still be hungry.

 

 

Let's just see what happens next.......

 

Chapter 11- The Hangover......SWTOR Style, pt. 2

 

 

“I’m married,” Corso breathed, his bronze skin pale as they left the little chapel.

 

“Eh, look on the bright side,” Jax clapped the shell shocked Mantellian on the shoulder, “She’s pretty cute and at least we know where the baby came from now.”

 

“Speaking of, we should call her,” Zev nodded at the cooing Twi’lek infant currently snuggled in his XO’s arms. “The owner gave you her frequency right?”

 

“He did,” Corso nodded, digging a piece of flimsiplast out of his pocket. “Can I borrow a comlink? Mine’s busted.”

 

“Probably happened during the brawl,” Vik snickered when Jax gave Corso his comlink.

 

“I still can’t believe we got into a cantina brawl,” Aric shook his head, the movement drawing the attention of the baby who started stroking his fur again.

 

“I can,” Torian grunted, glaring at the Devaronian.

 

“Hey now, we don’t know it was my fault,” Gault defended himself.

 

“No, but the odds are pretty good that it was,” Jax snorted.

 

“Well, I’m just glad none of us was seriously injured,” Zev sighed, “But now we have even more unanswered questions and we’re no closer to finding my cousin.”

 

“Well we know Dek was in the fight with us and at the medcenter afterwards,” Gault pointed out.

 

“And the holopics show him at Corso’s wedding,” Aric reminded them as he gently bounced the infant, earning a high pitched squeal of joy from the tiny Twi’lek.

 

“Stars, I still can’t wrap my head around Corso marrying a complete stranger,” Zev snorted, his jade eyes staring at his old buddy in disbelief.

 

“Me either…….but hey, look at the bright side…….my concussion is healed already,” Jax grinned.

 

“Yeah, but we still don’t know where those stitches came from though,” Zev frowned. “According to the medic’s notes on your chart, you didn’t have that cut on your arm.”

 

“At least we know what was in Jax’s system…...and probably ours,” Aric pointed out, “But I have no clue as to how all those drugs got there.”

 

“I’d wager a guess that Dek’s quiet sabacc night turned into one hell of a hardcore party,” Vik chuckled.

 

“Yeah, but I don’t remember there being any spice around,” Zev frowned. “Jax?”

 

“I don’t like that stuff in the house and neither does Dek,” Jax shook his head, “So I have no idea where it came from or how we ended up taking it.”

 

“I don’t remember having anything other than a few drinks and the cigarra,” Gault mused. “You don’t think any of that stuff was tampered with, do you?”

 

“Hey guys,” Corso called out before Jax could answer, “I’m going to take little Ty home to his momma.”

 

“You mean your wife?” Jax snickered.

 

“Yeah,” Corso looked sheepish. “I told her I couldn’t remember that…..or anything else from last night.”

 

“How’d she take it?”

 

“Alright I suppose,” Corso bowed his head, feeling a little guilty for marrying someone he’d just met and divorcing her the next day. “I feel bad though.”

 

“So how did this little one end up with us?” Aric asked as he handed the baby over to Corso.

 

“I guess she spent the night with us after her shift ended.....and yes, Tanno, Nikki is a dancer at Club Paradise.”

 

“Told you,” Vik chuckled, “Thought she looked familiar……”

 

“Anyways, she’d forgotten Ty’s diaper bag and went back for it. Since he was sleeping, she left him in the room with me and by the time she got back, we were already gone. She was about to contact Hutt Security when I called.”

 

A little while later, Corso climbed into a taxi with little Ty while the rest of the group got into another one that would take them home to wait for any word from their missing friend. The weary group filed out of the taxi when it landed at the Sky palace ten minutes later, a few of them intending to raid the medicine cabinet for some painkillers and anti-nausea meds. Instead they all got a surprise when they descended the stairs to find a petite figure clad in black hooded robes waiting for them in the living room. Standing next to what they all assumed was a Force user, was a creature that only the Jedi recognized.

 

“Who are you?!” Jax demanded as he reached for his blasters.

 

“I am Darth Imperius, Lord of the Sith and member of the Dark Council,” she answered as her arms reached out and Jax’s blasters flew through the air to her outstretched hands. “and you will show me the respect I deserve or suffer the consequences.”

 

“I don’t think so, Sith,” Zev shot back as he grabbed his blaster, Aric, Tanno, Torian, and Gault following suit behind him as Ka’van stepped forward. “We’ve got a Jedi with us.”

 

“Trust me, you do not wish to go there right now because I am really not in the mood,” she murmured nonchalantly while holding up a hand to still her snarling companion. “Not just yet, Khem…….but if any are foolish enough to attack, you may devour their darling Jedi.”

 

<Strong Force user Little Sith.> the hulking figure acknowledged. <He will make a fine meal.>

 

“Careful my friend,” Ka’van rested a hand on Jax’s shoulder when the now angry Cathar stepped toward the Sith, “She’s got a Dashade with her.” Then his blue eyes rounded on the Sith Lord and her large companion, “Devouring me would probably be a mistake, could give you indigestion.”

 

“It wouldn’t be the first time he’s eaten someone that didn’t agree with his digestive system,” she waived the Jedi’s concerns off, her ruby lips twitching with amusement.

 

“You break into my home and expect us not to attack?!” Jax roared, incredulous.

 

“Ah, but you broke into my home last night,” the Sith lord shot back, her tone smug as the smirk broadened.

 

“We did?” Zev’s brow furrowed, his jade eyes searching the group to see their reactions to this particular news. All he received were shrugging shoulders and puzzled looks in return.

 

“Yes,” she nodded, “and I do believe you have something that belongs to me.”

 

“Oh frak, stealing from a Sith Lord…….that’s not good,” Gault cringed, holstering his rifle as he gave a weak chuckle and turned on the charm. “Would you believe it if we told you we were insanely drunk last night?”

 

“I figured that much out when I watched the security footage,” she flashed them a wry smile, “Which is why you gentlemen are still alive…….for now.”

 

“That video might give us another clue as to where Dek is,” Zev murmured.

 

“Excuse me, my lord,” Ka’van bowed respectfully, sensing the Dark Council member wasn’t really interested in causing them harm, “Would it be possible for us to see that footage? You see, one of our friends is missing and we honestly can’t remember anything from last night.”

 

“Of course, Master Jedi,” she bowed back sincerely, all serene politeness except for the wicked smile curving her mouth. “It’s back at Strell House and you may watch it all you like when you bring Mishta home.”

 

“Mishta?” Aric frowned.

 

“The Nexu cub you stole. The very same one who happens to be napping in your refresher at the moment.”

 

“Oh,” Gault’s eyes widened as seven heads turned in unison to glance at the fresher door, “So that’s where it came from.”

 

“Indeed it is,” she nodded.

 

“You expect us to take that thing to your house?!” Jax blanched, a shiver running down his spine at the thought.

 

“You took her out of it,” she pointed out, “It’s only right that you bring her back. Now gentlemen, you’ll have to excuse me…….I have business to attend to.” With that, she turned and strode towards the staircase, her scary companion leading the way. She paused at the first step as she called on the Dark side of the Force and lightning sparked from her fingertips as she glanced back over her shoulder, “You have two hours to return Mishta back to Strell House. Don’t make me come back here again because I won’t be so nice the next time.”

 

~*~*~*~*~*~

 

A few minutes later, the duo was getting into a taxi, the driver anxiously eyeing the loincloth clad Dashade who climbed into the front seat. The Sith Lord pulled out her comlink when the taxi took off and lowered her hood before dialing in the frequency she’d been given.

 

“I just left the sky palace,” she told the brown furred Cathar as soon as her image appeared. “I gave them two hours to bring Mishta home.”

 

“Anyone recognize you?”

 

“That blond Mandalorian was there, but I had my hood up so most of my face was hidden. The only thing he might have recognized is my voice, but they all looked a little ill so I doubt he made any connection if he did.”

 

“Please tell me you went all scary Sith on those guys.”

 

“Oh I did,” Rhianna grinned, her whiskey eyes twinkling with amusement, “and the looks on their faces were priceless when they found out what I was and what they did!”

 

“Mako said she’d share the footage from the sky palace’s security cams……I can’t wait to see it!”

 

“You know, I think I’d like a copy of it. It’ll be good for a laugh or two when I need one.”

 

“I’m sure she’d make you copy…...it’s the least we can do for your help with this, especially after what those morons did.”

 

“Well no real harm was done and honestly this scheme has been fairly amusing for me so far, but speaking of footage, I still have to edit mine before I let those guys see it,” Rhianna remembered, “I need to cut it off before it shows me calling Mako.”

 

“I can help if you need,” the Cathar offered, “I’m really good with that sort of thing.”

 

“I may take you up on that when you get there. I’m headed for Strell House right now.”

 

“Well I just landed on the Promenade, so I’ll see you in a bit.”

 

~*~*~*~*~*~

 

“Of all the stupid things we seem to have done last night,” Jax groaned when their uninvited guest left, “Whatever in this galaxy would possess us to break into a Sith’s compound and steal a karking nexu?!”

 

“I wish I knew,” Zev sighed, scrubbing his hands over his face.

 

“I think we need to figure out how we got drugged and Gault could’ve been on to something,” Aric suggested, “Do you have a food scanner here?”

 

“There’s one in the kitchen, should be hanging on the side of the conservator,” Jax told the other Cathar, “and everything we drank came from the main bar next to the Sabacc table.”

 

“So how we gonna get that critter back to its owner?” Tanno asked, eyeing the fresher.

 

“How the frak did we get it here?!” Gault shot back dryly.

 

“Maybe Ka’van worked some mojo on it,” Jax pondered, his questioning gaze meeting the ginger haired Human’s.

 

“It’s possible,” Ka’van shrugged, still unable to recall anything, “But I was obviously quite intoxicated last night so who knows how well it worked.”

 

“Maybe Dek hit it with a tranq dart?”

 

“Would he have had those on him?” Tanno asked as Aric returned from the kitchen with the scanner.

 

“I have no idea,” Zev shook his head, his jade eyes fixed on Aric as he began scanning the liquor bottles in bar.

 

“Well either we’re going to have to tranq that sucker or Ka’van is going to have to try and calm it,” Gault pointed out, “Because somehow I don’t think ‘here kitty, kitty’ is going to work.”

 

“No offense Ka’van, but I think I’d rather tranq it,” Jax decided after seeing how bloodshot Ka’van’s eyes still were.

 

“None taken, my friend,” Ka’van smiled weakly, rubbing his temples in an attempt to ease the throbbing in his head. “I don’t think I have the focus I’d need right now.”

 

“Any luck over there Aric?” Zev called out.

 

“These are all clean,” he answered, gesturing at the liquor bottles before squatting down to open the bar’s conservator, “Going to check the ale now.”

 

“What about the cigarras?” Torian reminded them, “Any of those left?”

 

“I think so,” Ka’van answered, fishing around in his jacket for the pouch. He opened it and saw two inside. He tossed the pouch to Gault since the Devaronian was standing next to the bar, “Will the scanner work on those?”

 

“It should,” Jax nodded.

 

“I don’t think we’re gonna need it,” Gault snorted, holding up the pouch. “Because these aren’t cigarras.”

 

“What?!”

 

“Oh kark,” Jax croaked when he saw the label, his azure eyes narrowing at the Jedi, “Ka’van, where did you get those?”

 

“Found them in my apartment,” he shrugged. “Figured someone left them there, but I honestly don’t know anyone named Jeffrey.”

 

“That’s because they don’t actually belong to someone named Jeffrey,” Tanno chuckled, “They are Jeffrey!”

 

“It’s no wonder we don’t remember a kriffing thing from last night,” Jax grumbled, “We were all tripped out on the Jeffrey!”

 

“What the frak is a Jeffrey?!” Aric growled, crossing his arms as his bright green eyes glared at the laughing Weequay.

 

“This isn’t really a laughing matter, Vik,” Zev told his explosives expert, “and I’d like an answer to Aric’s question as well.”

 

“Sorry boss,” Tanno muttered, his mouth still twitching in a smirk. “And in answer to your question, a Jeffrey is sort of a spice and stim concoction all rolled up into a cigarra wrapper. You know…...bit of this, bit of that…..”

 

“Sort of a drug neapolitan,” Gault simplified, for the confused pair, “A little Glitterstim, a bit of Pixie Dust, a hint of Red Rill spice, a pinch of Techno Bang……..usually a dash of Crazy Monkey Lizard thrown in for an extra kick……”

 

“Pretty sure there’s some Call Yo Momma in these ones as well,” Tanno added.

 

“You know, I think you’re right,” Gault nodded as he studied the cigarra.

 

“All that’s in those cigarras?” Torian frowned, “and we smoked them?!”

 

“Why the f*ck is it called a Jeffrey?!” Aric murmured in disbelief, his face mirroring the blond Mandalorian’s shock as they both sank into the nearest sofa.

 

“Because who could be afraid of a Jeffrey.” Vik grinned.

 

“Jeffrey sounds like some schmuk down the street if you think about it,” Gault agreed. “Stars, I haven’t smoked one in ages.”

 

“Same here,” Tanno chuckled, “Well not until last night at least......”

 

“I smoked one before going off to the Academy,” Jax admitted, “and I still don’t remember everything from that night, but from what I could see in the holopics my buddy took, we all had one hell of a time.”

 

“We are so karked,” Aric shook his head, his face buried in his hands.

 

“Nah, we’ll be fine,” Gault assured him, “In fact, it’s probably all out of our systems by now.”

 

“Yeah, but that still doesn’t help us find my cousin.”

 

“But maybe that Sith’s footage will,” Jax reminded the Zabrak. “I’ll go see if I can find Dek’s tranq darts. Can someone call Corso and let him know what’s going on? He has my comlink.”

 

“I’ll call him,” Zev volunteered. “Maybe his new wife can fill in some of the blanks.”

 

 

Author’s Note:

 

*The Jeffrey and some of those first lines about it is a nod at the movie Get Him to the Greek.

 

*Glitterstim is mentioned in a Pub side Nar Shaddaa planetary mission.

 

*I made up Pixie Dust (for this story), Red Rill Spice, Techno Bang, Crazy Monkey Lizard, and Call Yo Momma, but the last two were influenced by the movie Ted.

 

Edited February 19, 2016 by alaurin

[alaurin]

Hope I haven't offended any fans of the Hangover too much......because here's some more.

 

Chapter 11- The Hangover......SWTOR Style, pt. 3

 

Spoiler Alert: Spoilers for SI storyline through Act 3

 

Half an hour later, the young Sith lord approached the old building housing what was considered her ‘cult.’ In truth, the group stopped being a cult the day she killed Lord Paladius, but Rhianna never bothered to correct her peers on that score. It was more of a halfway house of sorts and any ‘gifts’ she received from her loyal ‘followers’ were put to use to either improve Strell House or sold to help fund their expenses. Her main benefit was in the tech they’d developed, a chip that was key to a superweapon that the Imperial military developed. Rhianna’s military consort, Moff Pyron had made good use of that weapon when Darth Thanaton was trying to rid the galaxy of her, but Strell House also profited from their chip since the initial test of Moff Pyron’s weapon. They currently had an exclusive contract with the Imperial military, a contract that Darth Marr had personally approved after she took over Thanaton’s seat on the Dark Council.

 

I’ve come far since those early days apprenticed to Zash, Rhianna mused, her footsteps slowing when she spotted the brown furred Cathar waiting for her outside Strell House with two Humans, one of which was very familiar.

 

“Roland!” she called out, a smile lighting up her pale face as she ran towards the tall, lanky young man, and a second later, she was being crushed in her twin’s fierce hug. “I didn’t think you would be on planet for another week!”

 

“Last minute change. I was called in on a consult job and just got in late last night,” Roland grinned. “I was planning to call you as soon as I got some sleep, then I found out about what happened here last night so I decided to tag along and surprise you.”

 

“Who’s your other friend?” Rhianna asked, nodding to the handsome dark haired stranger as she gave him a thorough look over.

 

“This is my friend Jonas….he knows Dekkyn as well,” the Cathar answered, “I wasn’t sure if I’d be able to retrieve our boy on my own so I brought some back up.”

 

“And after Nat gave me the run down, I had to see this for myself,” Jonas snickered.

 

“You haven’t even seen the footage yet,” Rhianna snorted as she keyed in the entry code. “Honestly, I think I could sell it to Galaxy’s Funniest HoloVids and make a fortune!”

 

“I definitely can’t wait to see it then,” Jonas replied, then his expression sobered a little as they went inside. “I’ve also been meaning to stop by and check in on a Nautolan girl I brought here a couple weeks ago.”

 

“Ah, so you’re that Jonas. We’ve heard a lot about your heroic rescue since Veryn arrived. She’s still leery of strange men, but has warmed up to the full time occupants. I fear it will be quite some time before she has the courage to venture out alone, but we try to at least get her to walk around the Promenade with an escort.”

 

“I had no idea they had kidnapped children in that warehouse,” Jonas sighed. “Otherwise I’d have sent the team in sooner.”

 

“Don’t be so hard on yourself, Agent Balkar,” Rhianna smiled at him, “From what I heard, only the upper echelon of the gang knew…...there was no way your agent could’ve gotten that intel any faster than he did. I’m just thankful you brought Veryn to us and I have high hopes that she will be able to move past what happened to her with time.”

 

“Jonas please, and I’m glad she’s recovering well.” “Nar Shaddaa is the only home she’s ever known and I didn’t want to take that away from her after she lost her mother. I knew if I took her to the Embassy, they’d send her off to Corescant’s child services and she was terrified. Then one of my people suggested this place and I thought it was a better fit for what she needed.”

 

“You did the right thing, Jonas.” Rhianna assured him, then she turned to the other two, “You know you guys could’ve come in instead of waiting outside. My people were expecting Natasha and the staff knows Roland by now.”

 

“Eh,” Natasha shrugged, “Figured I’d wait. So…….is our guy still out of it?”

 

“He was still asleep when I left, but I instructed my people to blindfold him when he wakes.”

 

“Good,” she nodded as the went into main parlor, “Boy do I hope he’s awake. Even with Jonas, getting him out of there will be harder if he still out.”

 

“I’d keep him here, but their Jedi friend would probably be able to detect him.”

 

“And Ka’van has been around Dek enough that he’d be familiar,” the Cathar agreed. “We’ll be fine, I brought a stim to rouse him just in case and between the three of us, we should be able to get him back to the safehouse without too much trouble.”

 

“My people can help as well if you need,” Rhianna assured her as they entered the old building, “It’ll be fine and chances are that he’s awake by now. You’ve got a note to leave?”

 

“I’ve got it in my backpack,” Natasha nodded, then a wicked grin spread across her pretty features, “I just wish I could be here to see their faces when they find out their buddy was ‘kidnapped.’”

 

~*~*~*~*~*~

 

“Uh……Captain,” Corso called down from the stairwell, “I think we have another problem…..”

 

“Oh kark, what else did we do?!” Jax grumbled as he stood, praying to the Gods it was just a busted vehicle as he followed his Mantellian friend back up the stairs. The rest of the group following as they made their way to the garage.

 

“Ancestors help us,” Zev groaned, jade eyes staring at their latest disaster as his hands along the crown of horns on his bald head. “We are so f*cked!”

 

“I guess that explains how we got Mishta back here,” Gault observed dryly.

 

“I can’t believe we stole a kriffing Cartel paddy wagon….” Aric murmured as he sat on a crate and once again buried his face in his hands.

 

“Yeah……this could be bad,” Tanno nodded, his tone serious for the first time since they woke.

 

“You think?!” Jax croaked.

 

~*~*~*~*~*~

 

“Stars those bozos are lucky you were at Strell house,” Nathasha shook her head, running clawed fingertips through her dark mane as the group watched Jax and Zev laughing as they laid an unconscious Dek in between the twin beds of a dorm room.

 

“Nah, he’d have been fine,” Rhianna giggled, “He was so embarrassed when he woke with those girls standing over him in their pajamas that he couldn’t even get a whole sentence out. By the time I came in, he was really upset, but I’m pretty sure some of that was him tripping out from the drugs. I honestly don’t think I’ve ever seen anyone as messed up as he was last night……and he’s a pretty big guy! He must’ve taken a huge hit of whatever they all had.”

 

“Yeah, Mako’s pretty hot about that and I’m going to do some blood work on our boy when I get him to the safehouse,” Natasha sighed, then a wicked smirk spread across her furred face, “Jax, Gault, and Tanno better start wearing protective cups regularly for a while.”

 

“Oh kark,” Roland pointed, his whiskey eyes narrowing at the HoloVid as it showed half of the drunken group loading a nexu into an armored vehicle, “Is that a Cartel paddy wagon?”

 

“Crap……Mako doesn’t need this on her wedding weekend.” Natasha growled, then turned towards her mentor and friend, “Jonas, do we have people that can smooth this over?”

 

“I’ll check when we’re back at the safe house, but I think as long as we can get it back in one piece it should be alright……”

 

“I hope they wash it first,” Rhianna snickered as Torian vomited on the front hood.

 

~*~*~*~*~*~

 

An hour later, Jax and Gault were ringing the buzzer to the alley entrance to Strell House while the others were trying to coax a groggy nexu out of the paddy wagon.

 

“Do you really think it was a good idea to be driving around in that thing?” the Devaronian gestured at the stolen vehicle.

 

“I wasn’t about to have that thing tear up one of my cargo trucks,” Jax grumbled just as a pale blue Twi’lek answered the door.

 

“My Lord has been expecting you,” she nodded at the tall Cathar. “Where’s Mishta?”

 

“Right here,” Zev answered, holding a thick leather leash that was hooked to the collar of the now docile animal.

 

“Blast it Zev!” Jax cringed, quickly backing away. “A little warning next time!”

 

“Relax Captain, Master Ka’van’s keeping her calm,” Corso assured his anxious friend as they entered the complex.

 

“You gentlemen are prompt, I’ll give you that. Ul’yaa, show Zev the way to Mishta’s enclosure,” Rhianna’s soft voice instructed as the hooded Sith Lord strode towards them. “The rest of you can follow me if you’d like to see the security cam footage we were able to retrieve.”

 

“Your security system was damaged?” Aric asked after that last statement as they followed the petite woman down the hall, hoping they weren’t the ones responsible.

 

“As a matter of fact, it was…….and yes, you were the reason why,” Rhianna answered as she stopped at a doorway. She gestured for them to go in, her ruby lips twitching as she went on, “Well not you personally…..the Jedi took out a couple cameras, your Weequay friend got another….”

 

“We’re really sorry ma’am….err my lord,” Corso stuttered, hoping she wasn’t concealing a vicious streak under that calm facade.

 

“It’s alright,” she assured him, her mouth curving in a genuine smile. “I don’t get addressed as ‘ma’am’ very often…..it’s nice. Please, have a seat and as soon as your Zabrak friend joins us, I’ll play the footage.”

 

~*~*~*~*~*~

 

“I honestly don’t think we can say we’re sorry enough,” Zev shook his head as they watched Ka’van raise a hand towards another camera that went black a moment later.

 

“Luckily we have hidden cameras throughout the house,” Rhianna replied, thankful that the hood concealed her eyes, because they were watering from holding back her laughter.

 

“Gods, what the frak were we thinking?!” Aric murmured, his bright green gaze fixed on the HoloVid as

 

“Kark me!” Jax winced as he watched the nexu take a swipe at his arm and an involuntary shiver ran down his spine.

 

“Considering your past trauma Jaxzin, I’m frankly shocked you were helping us with Mishta,” Ka’van raised a ginger brow at his friend, having picked up on that fear laced adrenaline spike.

 

“The Captain wasn’t exactly in his normal state of mind,” Tanno chuckled.

 

“Well…..now we know how you got cut,” Gault pointed out, as they watched Torian grab a cloth from a nearby shelf and wrap it around the gray Cathar’s bleeding arm, “just not where the stitches came from.”

 

“Maybe Zev patched him up,” Aric suggested, raising a brow at his CO.

 

“It’s possible…...and it would explain the sloppy job,” Zev looked sheepish. “I was never that great at stitches.”

 

“Guess we were right about Dek hitting Mishta with a dart,” Gault nodded at the screen just as the towering Zabrak was shooting a dart at the snarling nexu.

 

“What is that in Vik’s hand?” Corso asked as they watched the Weequay sneaking up on Aric. Corso got his answer moment later when Tanno touched the rod to the tawny Cathar’s neck.

 

“This is mortifying,” Aric muttered while the others laughed, burying his face in his hands after seeing his fur all puffed out when he got a shock from the stun baton. “One of these days Vik, you’re going to have an accident…..”

 

“Come on Aric,” Zev grinned, “You have to admit, that was pretty funny…...and look, you got him back!”

 

“Geez,” Tanno cringed as he saw himself doubled over after Aric shoved the prod into his crotch.

 

“You know, I always thought men avoided doing harm to each other in that particular area,” Rhianna smirked, sounding amused at the fact. “Isn’t that some sort of guy code?”

 

“It is normally, but trust me,” Aric snorted, “that as*hole had it coming! Thanks to him, I have a naked Nautolan shaved into my back.”

 

“We still don’t know Vik was responsible for that,” Zev reminded him.

 

“Thanks boss.”

 

“I didn’t say you were innocent,” Zev snickered at the sheepish Weequay, “Just that there’s no proof.”

 

“Looks like we went out that alley exit,” Corso pointed. “Wait…..we’re not all there. Dek, Jax, and Zev aren't with us.”

 

“I’m glad I wasn’t,” Jax snickered when he saw Torian puking on the hood of the paddy wagon.

 

“Embarrassing,” the blond Mandalorian muttered, bowing his head as his cheeks reddened.

 

“At least you did it outside,” Rhianna shrugged as the screen went black for a second then another room appeared.

 

“I’m not sure I want to know what we’re doing,” Zev sighed as he watched him and Jax pointing at his cousin who was passed out on the sofa.

 

The group was quiet for a few minutes as they continued to watch the debacle unfold. Jax disappeared for a few minutes, then returned and whispered something in Zev’s ear. Then both men were laughing as they bent down and pulled the scarlet Zabrak off the sofa. They carried their unconscious friend towards the doorway Jax had used, both straining under the Dek’s massive frame. The feed switched again and they saw Jax and Zev dragging Dek down the hallway towards a door at the end. Another switch showed them inside a dorm room of sorts, and Dek was unceremoniously laid on the floor in between two of the occupied beds. Zev grabbed a pair of compact cuffs out of his jacket, then he put one end on his cousin’s thick wrist and the other on one of the bedposts. Then the snickering duo left the room, closing the door behind them.

 

“Gods, I don’t even remember any of this,” Jax shook his head, his mouth twitching in a smirk as he exchanged a look with Zev before continuing, “But I can definitely see us locking Dek in a women’s dorm room.”

 

“Stars, he’s going to kick both our asses……this is so much worse than the shower prank we pulled on him and he was pissed over that for weeks,” Zev snickered as the screen went blank. One by one, they began to get up, then the tan Zabrak turned to the Sith lord, “So where is my cousin?”

 

“And why didn’t you tell us he was here during your little visit earlier?” Jax glared at her, “Or better yet, why didn’t you bring him with you?!”

 

“Insurance in case we didn’t bring the nexu back,” Gault snorted.

 

“Why would I need to hold him as collateral?” she argued, a dangerous smile curving those ruby lips as she finally stood. “Obviously I had enough on the tapes to find your place. If I was really worried about getting Mishta back, I could’ve just killed you all and brought her home myself.”

 

“Good point,” the Devaronian swallowed, stepping back behind Jax and Zev.

 

“So……is my cousin here?”

 

“About that,” she sighed as she pulled out an envelope, “He was still sleeping it off in one of the guest rooms when I left, but apparently someone came and got him while I was gone. My staff just assumed it was friends of his…..”

 

“What?!” Jax growled, looking at her accusingly.

 

“Hey now,” she shot back, her hand moving to rest on her saber hilt, “You’d better watch that tone and choose your next words very carefully, Captain. I didn’t say anything earlier because your friend was fine, but really pissed off about what you did……not that I can blame the guy. I figured you all deserved to worry a little more after what you did to this house, my staff, and to him. I was going to wake your friend when you arrived, but he was already gone.”

 

“How could you let that happen?!”

 

“Easy my friend,” Ka’van put a hand on the Cathar’s shoulder to still him after feeling the anger flare up in the sith lord. “She has been more than helpful considering what we did last night.”

 

“Indeed,” Rhianna nodded, “However, don’t be too surprised when I send you the repair bill for my security cameras. As for your friend, he was free to go at any time and as long as there’s no threat to my people, I don’t concern myself with others’ comings and goings. You should consider yourselves lucky I didn’t involve Cartel Security or take matters in my own hands like many of my brethren would and I strongly suggest you keep that in mind before you dare blame me for the results of your idiocy.”

 

“She’s got a point, Captain,” Corso reminded Jax when the Cathar bristled at her last comment, “and we’re probably already in deep bantha fodder with Cartel Security after making off with one of their paddy wagons.”

 

“Plus, Jax and Zev were the ones who left Dek here,” Gault added, his yellow eyes meeting Ka’van’s blue ones when he noticed the Jedi reaching for his saber hilt.

 

“We do appreciate your lenience, my lord,” Zev interjected before Jax could open his mouth again or Ka’van decided to go toe to toe with the Sith. “Is there any way we can take a look at your footage from when my cousin left?”

 

“Normally I would offer it, but the techs are still working on the security cams that were broken during your little raid last night,” Rhianna replied, then handed the Zabrak the envelope, “However, you’re in luck. My staff initially assumed it was some of you and his lady friend that came for Dekkyn since it was two men and a woman that picked him up, but when they went to clean the room he stayed in, they found that on the bed.”

 

“What is it?” Aric asked as Zev took the envelope from her.

 

“I have no idea,” Rhianna shrugged, “and it’s not my concern really. Now if you gentlemen don’t mind, I’d like for you all to leave. Some of my people are still shaken from your little visit last night and I’d like to make sure Mishta is alright.”

 

“Please,” Zev called out as she turned to leave the room, “No one recognized the two men or the woman that came for Dek? Did they give a name? Anything that could ID them?”

 

“I’m afraid not,” she shook her head, her tone softening as she took pity on him. “I’d suggest you continue to retrace your steps from last night. Perhaps you angered more than just me……” a smirk curved her lips as she gestured at the paused HoloVid, “Oh and Cartel Security of course.”

 

[alaurin]

Ummmm.....sorry for the lengthy wait, but I was recently visited by the writers block fairy and she took a while to leave. Hopefully there's still at least one or two readers left after my awful spoof of the Hangover, of which you're about to be inflicted with the next part......

 

Chapter 11- The Hangover......SWTOR Style, pt. 4

 

 

After the group left, Rhianna finally let out the laughter that she’d fought to contain as she took out her comlink and dialed Natasha’s frequency.

 

“Did they buy it?”

 

“They did,” she nodded, “It’s all up to you now. I dropped a hint that they should continue to retrace their steps from last night.”

 

“Nice,” Natasha grinned. “So they’re either going to head to Cartel Security’s HQ, Zara’s Place, or to Club Paradise. I’m banking on it being one of the latter two since they’re probably going to just anonymously drop off that stolen paddy wagon. Jonas has a couple friends at both places that are going to steer them towards the warehouse and put a little fear in those guys before we make contact with the ransom demand. Speaking of the ransom, are you sure you don’t want anything besides the cost of the cleanup and damages?”

 

“Well…….”

 

“I figured you’d change your mind. So how much?”

 

“It’s not much really,” Rhianna admitted, “There’s this society event on Dromund Kaas next week that I’m supposed to attend and I’d like to look nice for it.”

 

“Ah……you need a new dress,” Natasha surmised. “and I’m guessing there happens to be a tall, dark, and delicious man attending this event.”

 

“Maybe,” Rhianna smiled, “and I saw this gown yesterday while out and about on the Promenade…..”

 

“Will it knock his socks off?”

 

“I think it might garner his undivided attention.”

 

“Then you must have it,” Natasha insisted, “I’ll add an extra couple thousand credits to the total….”

 

“Oh I doubt it’ll cost that much.”

 

“Yeah, but you’ll need shoes, a matching clutch, jewelry, not to mention what hairdressers cost these days……why do you think I’m asking for a few credits for myself?! I want to look good for Dek’s wedding…….and trust me, Captain Roark can afford it.”

 

“Okay, you sold me,” Rhianna grinned, already liking the spirited Cathar.

 

~*~*~*~*~*~

 

“Man, I’m not sure if I want to go in there,” Zev sighed when the group waited at the doorway of Club Paradise for the hostess to return to her station, rubbing the back of his neck as he cast a worried look at the others.

 

“I’m pretty sure I don’t,” Aric shook his head, hoping that whatever they did, no one recognized them.

 

“Relax you two, I already spoke with Rose and explained the situation…...well most of it anyways. I didn’t feel the need to tell her about Strell House or the paddy wagon. Anyways, she promised we didn’t do anything too terrible and got us a suite for an hour so we can watch the footage Jake pulled,” Jax assured them.

 

“I just hope it gives us some idea of who might’ve taken my cousin and why because that note didn’t give us much to work with at all.”

 

“I’m assuming they’re going to contact one of us with a time and place for the drop,” Jax muttered, a scowl darkening his features at the thought of paying a ransom to some low life thugs. Sure he had his fingers in some shady cookie jars, but like slavery and spice, this was a low he wasn’t willing to sink to and all that worked for him knew it. Then he started to wonder if Dek’s kidnapping could be someone trying to get to him. “You know, I wonder if this is someone that I pissed off….”

 

“An angry husband perhaps?” Ka’van chuckled, a wicked gleam in his blue eyes.

 

“That doesn’t narrow things much,” Zev snorted, “Probably several of those on every planet he’s been to…….”

 

“I’ll have you know that I did my best to avoid sleeping with any married women and it's not my fault if one or two lied about it,” Jax defended himself, “I didn’t exactly do a background check before taking a chick to bed. I just made sure she wasn’t looking for anything permanent and that she understood it wasn’t an option.”

 

“Sorry my friend, just trying to lighten the mood,” Ka’van patted the gray Cathar on the shoulder.

 

“It’s fine,” Jax waived off the apology. “Actually I was thinking along the lines of people working for me. More than one of my contacts has let it slip that a couple gangs aren’t happy that I don’t allow slave and spice trades at Port Nowhere.”

 

“That’s something worth looking into,” Zev pondered the possibility. “Could be someone I ticked off as well. Havoc did take on a couple side missions back when we were hunting down the traitors and thanks to all the public hoopla during Bradley’s trial, it’s not a secret that Dek and I are cousins.”

 

“I don’t know,” Aric countered, “I agree that this whole thing seems calculated, but there’s no way whoever has Dek could’ve possibly known we’d all be drugged out of our minds.”

 

“Got a point,” Torian agreed, “But could be someone tracking us though. Staying in shadows, waiting for opportunity.”

 

“Waiting for the perfect mark,” Gault added, “But that could either be coincidence or deliberate. I always was on the lookout for an easy mark to sucker out of credits and drunks were the easiest, but I was never trying to actually take anyone…….just con them out of their credits.”

 

“Isn’t this sorta the same thing?” Tanno asked. “Maybe someone at the club saw us all karked up on the Jeffrey and decided to take advantage. I seriously doubt any of us would’ve even noticed if we were being followed.”

 

“As much as it pains me to admit it,” Aric sighed, “Vik’s right…...and even if one of us noticed, we weren’t exactly in any shape to do anything about it.”

 

“Which whoever has Dek was probably banking on,” Gault concurred. “I doubt they would’ve done anything if we had noticed because it would’ve drawn attention…..and that’s the last thing you want when going after your mark.”

 

“Personal experience talking?” Jax remarked dryly.

 

“A mark is a mark whether you’re trying to snatch, swindle, or kill them,” the lanky Devaronian shrugged nonchalantly, his tone unapologetic, “And in all instances, you never want to chance being identified. If any of us noticed we were being followed, the perps would’ve likely backed off and tailed us from a further distance until they could blend in with a crowd.”

 

“Like at the club,” Dek surmised, “I can’t remember if it was peak hours when we were here last night…..”

 

“That wouldn’t necessarily matter…...look at how many guys stopped by our table to during Dek’s fake bachelor party when Naula was dancing for us,” Gault pointed out, “I’ve struck up a conversation with a drunk stranger in a cantina more than once just so I could pinch a wallet…...not that hard to do when you know what you’re looking for.”

 

“Well hopefully we can get some answers from the footage,” Corso nodded as the pink Twi’lek approached.

 

“Heya fellas,” Rose smirked, “You’re looking a little rough. I’m guessing last night’s fun didn’t stop here, did it?”

 

“To be honest, none of us has any idea,” Jax told her.

 

“I’ll admit, Jake and I were pretty shocked to see you guys that messed up,” Rose giggled, then her lavender eyes settled on the Devaronian and the Weequay, “Well maybe not shocked about those two, but seeing Aric and the Major like that was definitely unexpected.”

 

“It certainly wasn’t in our plans for the night,” Zev frowned, shooting a pointed look at the ginger haired Jedi.

 

“How was I supposed to know those weren’t cigarras?!” Ka’van defended himself yet again.

 

“Uh oh,” Rose raised a brow. “So what were you guys smoking then?”

 

“Jeffrey,” Jax, Gault, and Tanno answered at the same time.

 

“Oh geez……well that explains a lot!” Rose snickered as she gestured for them to follow her, “Come on, I’ll take you to the suite. There’s some water bottles and snacks up there as well if you want.”

 

“Thanks Rose,” Jax smiled at the petite young woman as they followed her up the stairs, “We really owe you for this.”

 

“Nah……you’ve done a lot to help me and Jake. Thanks to you and Dek, my Mom’s debt collectors stopped harassing me and I was able to finally able to afford a decent apartment.” She paused outside the door to key in the code, then turned to the tan skinned Zabrak, “and because of Zev getting Jake a spot on a couple military transports, he’s been able to see his brother a lot more these past few months.”

 

“I was glad to help,” Zev nodded, “I remember how much I loved having my family visit while I was in the Academy.”

 

“Speaking of Jake,” Aric looked around for the bouncer, “Where is he?”

 

“You actually just missed him,” Rose sighed, her brow furrowing, “He went home sick……stupid Rodian flu is going around again.”

 

A few minutes later, Rose queued up the footage and left them in the suite to return to her station. On her way down the stairs, she decided to give Jake a call and pulled out her comlink.

 

“Hey Jake,” she smiled at the bouncer when he answered, “Boss said you left sick……you alright?”

 

“Think I got that flu going around, but I’ll be fine as soon as I can crawl into bed,” Jake assured her.

 

“You’re not home yet?” Rose frowned.

 

“Almost…….stopped for some meds on the way.”

 

“I’ll come check in on you after my shift.”

 

“No need,” Jake shook his head before going into a coughing fit. “I’m probably contagious and don’t want you to get it.”

 

“Well I don’t want to get it either, but promise you’ll call if you need anything.”

 

“I promise,” Jake smiled at her, “Did those guys show up yet?”

 

“They did,” Rose nodded, “I left them watching the doctored footage in the suite.”

 

“You got that number Agent Balkar gave us?”

 

“It's in my pocket,” Rose confirmed, patting her short skirt.

 

“Good.”

 

“Hey….I gotta go,” Rose told him when she spotted a couple men waiting at her station, “You get some rest Jake……and I mean it, call if you need anything.”

 

“I will.”

 

~*~*~*~*~*~

 

Jake returned the comlink to his pocket just as he was approaching the warehouse. He really hated lying to Rose, especially after he finally worked up the nerve to ask her out and she accepted, but he knew Jonas was right about her ability to keep a secret. That gave Jake pause and his brow furrowed as he wondered how the SIS agent knew that after only meeting Rose a couple times. Maybe Natalia commented on it at some point before she was killed, he mused, feeling a pang of sadness at the thought of the agent who’d worked as a dancer at the club for a year. Both he and Rose still missed their friend dearly, but were thankful that Agent Balkar had brought them to her memorial. With a heavy sigh, Jake pushed the call button on the keypad and a moment later, entered the warehouse when the door opened.

 

“Glad you could make it, Jake, and thanks for agreeing to this,” Jonas shook the bouncer’s hand before leading them back to the small office.

 

“You made sure Rose and I got to Natalia’s memorial service…..it’s the least we could do,” Jake shrugged, “Besides, I’m curious as to what this is all about.”

 

“It’s about a much needed comeuppance for a couple practical jokers,” a feminine voice called out.

 

Jake’s brown eyes widened at that familiar voice and he turned to see a brown furred Cathar standing in the doorway. Oddly, her facial features resembled his deceased friend, but he knew that was a strange coincidence because Natalia had been Human. Rattled, he ran his large hands through his short brown hair as he tried to stammer out an apology for staring, “I-I-I’m sorry……your voice….you remind me of…..someone.”

 

“Natalia Bryce perhaps……but you knew her as Naula,” she replied, that same knowing look on her face that Naula had frequently wore when insisting he ask Rose out.

 

“No,” he breathed, “You can’t be! That’s not possible……is it?”

 

“You’d be surprised at what is possible,” Natasha grinned, “And your reaction is no different from mine when I first heard of the technology.”

 

“It’s really you?!”

 

“It is, but I’m going by Natasha Roark now and very few people know the truth.”

 

“Roark……a relation to the captain?”

 

“His parents were key to the process and for all intents and purposes, I’m a long lost cousin,” Natasha nodded, then giggled as he pulled her into a bear hug, “But I meant what I said……few people know and it needs to stay that way. I’m telling you because you and Rose were like family to me and I miss you both dearly, but you can’t tell her. I love Rose, but she……”

 

“But she can’t keep a secret,” Jake chuckled when he finally let her go, “I was wondering how Agent Balkar knew that.”

 

“She doesn’t mean it, Rose just gets excited and blurts stuff out…….and I can’t risk that happening.”

 

“I won’t say anything,” Jake sighed, hating to keep that news from her, but understanding why he needed to. “Stars it’s so good to see you!”

 

“I know it’ll be hard to keep this from Rose,” Natasha patted his shoulder, then her mouth curved in a broad grin, “Especially since you’re dating now.”

 

“Heard about that, did ya?” Jake looked sheepish, then took a dig of his own. “Now I know why Aric didn’t seem to be in mourning anymore. So, how pissed are you about his back?”

 

“Oh, those two bozos are going to get it for that one,” Natasha snorted, “I’m going to deal with them personally.”

 

~*~*~*~*~*~

 

“So that’s your wife, eh……good for you Corso!” Tanno chuckled at the blushing Mantellian as they watched the couple in a heated embrace.

 

“Not for long,” he mumbled, bowing his head. “Nikki wasn’t too happy I didn’t remember anything and I feel bad hurting her like that, but she seems like a nice girl and both her and little Ty deserve better than a guy who married her on a whim because he was stoned out of his mind.”

 

“That’s not your fault Corso,” Jax patted his friend on the shoulder, azure eyes full of pity for the young mercenary who’d rather die than ever hurt a woman. “After we figure this all out and get Dek back, go talk to her……explain everything and offer to make it up to her. You never know, maybe there was a reason you married her last night.”

 

“I never thought I’d hear you encouraging marriage,” Ka’van chuckled and even Zev was eying his spacer buddy with suspicion.

 

Jax was spared explaining when a growl erupted from the other Cathar in the group and the three turned their attention back towards the HoloVid in time to see Tanno peeling the shirt off of Aric’s back. The tawny Cathar was passed out in his chair while a young, blue skinned Nautolan was dancing at their table.

 

“I knew you were behind this you karking bastard,” Aric growled when Tanno suggested they shave the dancer’s image into his back and Gault volunteered.

 

“I am really sorry about that,” Gault cringed as they watched him accept a razor from another dancer a couple minutes later and begin shaving away the tawny fur of Aric’s back.

 

“Look Aric,” Zev began, stepping between his two squadmates before things got ugly, “We were messed up and I’m not excusing Vik for what he did, but even you have to admit that we all pulled some pretty stupid crap last night.”

 

“He’s right,” Ka’van nodded, “We stole a paddy wagon, kidnapped a Nexu from a Dark Council member and left Dek at her house, Corso married a stranger, at some point we got into a cantina brawl…….did we ever figure out where that was?”

 

“Not yet,” Jax muttered, “and seeing as none of us remembers a damn thing about last night, we don’t even know if that’s everything we did.”

 

“We can’t remember because someone gave us all the Jeffrey and thought they were cigarras,” Aric snorted.

 

“How was I supposed to know?! I may have a few vices, but I’ve never heard of those before.......oh wow…..”

 

The Jedi trailed off as they watched a gorgeous Zeltron settle into his lap and start dancing. Ka’van recognized the hot pink streaked white hair and grinned, “Oh, I remember her.”

 

“From last night?!”

 

“I wish my friend,” Ka’van replied, shaking his head at the gray Cathar who’d gotten his hopes up for a brief moment, “but no, I don’t remember this. Jilli’s the one I left with that night you, Dek, and Zev brought me here.”

 

“Eh…..from what it looks like, there was nothing to remember between the two of you last night,” Zev observed, his jade eyes flashing with amusement as they watched a frustrated Jilli leave Ka’van’s lap after he essentially ignored her. Then much to their surprise, she moved on to Torian who showed more appreciation.

 

“Wow, Ka’van……never thought I’d see the day you’d ignore guaranteed sex when its wriggling on your lap,” Jax eyed his friend with suspicion.

 

“It had to have been the Jeffrey doing strange things to me,” Ka’van shrugged, a little shocked himself at why he’d make such a decision since she’d been quite the bed partner.

 

“Looks like Torian wasn’t affected in the same way,” Gault observed as the sexy Zeltron led the eager young mandalorian into one of the private rooms. The man himself was blushing from neck to ears, his mouth gaping open but no words came out.

 

“Hey wait a minute…….who’s that guy?” Aric pointed at a Human wearing a brimmed hat typically favored by spacers as he sat down in the seat Torian had vacated next to Vik. “Do you know him?”

 

“I don’t,” Tanno shook his head as they watched the stranger strike up a conversation.

 

“I know that guy,” Rose called out from the doorway.

 

“Who is he?” Zev asked, his voice a little edgy as he pulled her into the room.

 

“Sorry Rose, I didn’t tell you everything about why we wanted to see the footage,” Jax explained when she cast an anxious look at the tan skinned Zabrak, “Dek’s not missing, he’s been kidnapped and we have no idea who has him. They left a note, but haven’t tried to contact us yet, so we’re trying to retrace our steps as best we can…..”

 

“Oh wow…..I’m sorry about Dek,” she patted Jax’s shoulder when he trailed off. Then she turned back towards the monitor, “That guy’s a bigshot in one of the newer gangs that took root in the Red Light district a few weeks back……and they’re definitely the type to snatch a guy off the streets to hold for ransom.”

 

“What can you tell us about this man?”

 

“Not much I’m afraid…....name’s Blake and he’s got some serious connections. He hasn’t caused any problems here, but I’ve heard that gang has targeted other businesses…….actually, now that I’m thinking about it, we have a com frequency for him. Standard procedure whenever someone books a suite and he booked one a month ago, but cancelled at the last minute.”

 

“Can you get that number for us?”

 

“Sure……just don’t tell anyone though. I could get fired for that.”

 

“I swear we won’t tell a soul,” Zev assured her as she hurried past him and out of the room, praying to the ancestors this was the scumbag who had Dek.

 

A breathless Rose returned a couple minutes later with a number written on a scrap of flimsiplast, “This is the number on file……sorry for the rush, but my break is over and the evening crowd is starting to come in.”

 

“We can’t thank you enough for this Rose,” Jax smiled as he handed her a credit chit, “We’re taking off now, but call me if you see this guy come in……we’d like to have a chat with him in person.”

 

“I will, but you guys be careful,” she warned, “No offence, but Dek’s a pretty big guy and strikes me as the type that doesn’t go down easy…….and if they took him, they’re probably prepared for the rest of you.”

 

“Rose has a point,” Aric spoke up after they left the club, “We need to be watching our six while we’re out and about.”

 

Ka’van closed his eyes and reached out with the Force, “I’m not sensing any threats nearby.”

 

“I’m dialing that number,” Jax murmured as he dug out his comlink.

 

“I see you figured out who I am,” a heavily accented voice greeted them as an image appeared that was identical to the stranger talking to Vik at the club. “No matter……I was getting ready to make contact. You give us fifty thousand credits or your friend pays ultimate price.”

 

“I want proof you have my cousin,” Zev demanded.

 

“Not a problem,” the stranger shrugged, then his image disappeared and a second later they were staring at Dek’s image, the giant scarlet skinned Zabrak leaning unconscious against a wall, his feet bound and his hands cuffed to a thick pipe.

 

“Dekkyn!” Zev and Jax shouted in unison, but their friend's image disappeared and the stranger’s returned a second later.

 

“I contact you with location in twenty-four hours.”

 

Edited March 9, 2016 by alaurin

[Lunafox]

Ummmm.....sorry for the lengthy wait, but I was recently visited by the writers block fairy and she took a while to leave.

 

Welcome back! Well worth the wait We need a Hoggle here to spray that nasty fairy! Glad you're back and glad to see the gang in action. I'm eager to see them find Dev! And to see what happens after!

[Kitar]

Welcome back! Well worth the wait We need a Hoggle here to spray that nasty fairy! Glad you're back and glad to see the gang in action. I'm eager to see them find Dev! And to see what happens after!

 

Do you think perhaps you could summon a Hoggle to help me spray mine? I have payment. *holds out a shiny brightly coloured bracelet* It is made out of plastic; complete with dangle-ly pieces. I really could use the help with my pesky writers block.

[Lunafox]

Do you think perhaps you could summon a Hoggle to help me spray mine? I have payment. *holds out a shiny brightly coloured bracelet* It is made out of plastic; complete with dangle-ly pieces. I really could use the help with my pesky writers block.

 

Oooooh! Shiny.... *drools* Hoggle might have to fight me for it...unless Jareth comes along with a glass ball and his special trousers. Oh all right...here Hogwart...oh, it's Hoggle? Here Hoggle. Now spray that ghastly fairy. I'm on the way to the castle to do the magick dance!

[alaurin]

@Lunafox: Glad you're still enjoying and I'll take anything that will keep that nasty writers block fairy away!

 

Alrighty, time to wrap things up....

 

Chapter 11- The Hangover.......SWTOR Style, pt 5

 

 

~roughly 24 galactic standard hours later~

 

“We’re definitely headed to the same place…….there’s where we ditched our speeders after Yuun suggested it,” the tawny Cathar pointed to an empty lot.

 

“You’re right and Natalia’s bolt hole was about one block over and three or four up,” Ka’van nodded as they continued along. “We could see the smoke from here.”

 

“Then I’m guessing the warehouse is the same abandoned one that was next door to that building Natalia had rigged,” Zev surmised.

 

“I took my position on that roof if memory serves,” Gault mused as they passed by one of the buildings bordering the alley where Bradley’s hired goons had trapped Natalia, Aric, Ka’van, Tanno, Qyzen, and Yuun.”

 

“Makes sense that the gang took over here,” Tanno shrugged, “The whole area was abandoned and that’s how Nar Shaddaa works. Buildings don’t stay empty long…….if legit places aren’t opened, gangs will move in.”

 

“Well they’re not staying around long if I have anything to say about it,” Jax muttered darkly as they approached the warehouse.

 

“What are you plotting?” Zev’s jade eyes narrowed at his old friend.

 

“To put these bastards out of business……permanently.”

 

“You’re going to war with a gang we know little about over this?!” Gault challenged.

 

“Do you honestly expect me to just pay them off and forget about it?!” Jax shot back, “Dek’s my best friend and these ******es took him simply because they thought he was an easy mark. They’re going to find out how wrong they were and mark my words, Dek will definitely side with me on this.”

 

“Let’s just focus on getting my cousin back,” Zev sighed, not thrilled with Jax playing avenger at some point, but he’d deal with that later when cooler heads would hopefully prevail. “Besides, we don’t know why they took him……we still have a lot of time we can’t account for. It’s possible we did something to provoke this.”

 

The look on Jax’s face showed he either didn’t believe that or didn’t care, but before his hotheaded buddy could say anything, Zev pressed the red buzzer on the keypad at the main entrance.

 

A few seconds later, they heard a click and the door opened. Jax and Zev exchanged a look, the latter giving a nod to his XO before they went in. At Zev’s signal, Aric and Tanno armed themselves and the group slowly made their way down the hallway towards the main floor. A tall, leatheris clad guard pointed towards the partition where a couple couches had been set up in the far corner. The group had just reached the partition when they spotted two more leatheris clad figures, a man and woman, both of which wore full helmets, and kneeling between them was the massive form of their friend, whose head was covered with a plain sack. They barely got to register the trio when a wizzing sound broke the silence and a second later, Ka’van, Tanno, and Gault dropped to the floor, each with a dart sticking out of their neck.

 

“I knew this was a karking trap,” Jax growled as he reached for his blasters.

 

“Not good idea, Captain. As you see, we have friends waiting to shoot,” the woman warned with a thick accent as she brought her blaster up to rest on the back of Dek’s head. “And I prefer your friends put away weapons as well.”

 

“You attacked first,” he accused, but wisely heeded her warning.

 

“Not an attack……more like precaution, but don’t worry…….just simple nerve toxin,” she told them, “They recover in time. We just wanted to make sure Jedi couldn’t cause trouble.”

 

“What about the other two?” Zev demanded, crossing his arms.

 

“They look shifty to me and I trust my gut about that,” she shrugged before nodding at her partner.

 

“You bring money?” he asked and the group recognized it as the same man they’d been speaking with, Blake.

 

“It’s right here,” Zev answered, holding up a case as Jax helped a wobbly Ka’van to his feet and guided him to one of the couches.

 

“Set it on table and open it,” Blake instructed.

 

“Why are you doing this anyways?” Zev asked as he reluctantly complied.

 

“You gentlemen start fight in cantina,” the woman answered, “Cause damage. Owner is friend.”

 

“We knew there was a brawl at some point, but we caused fifty thousand credits worth of damage?!” Aric questioned dubiously as Corso paled next to him.

 

“No…….some credits for us,” the woman chuckled softly.

 

“Looks like all of it,” Blake stated after looking through the case. “Let their friend go.”

 

“Don’t try anything stupid,” the woman warned as she uncuffed her prisoner and helped him to his feet before giving him a push towards the group.

 

“Thank the stars,” Zev sighed as he helped his cousin remove the sack covering his head, then his jaw dropped when it was off.

 

“What is the meaning of this?!” Both Jax and Aric snarled at the woman, their claws coming out.

 

“That’s not Dek!” Torian shouted, the Mandalorian bristling for a fight.

 

“Is your friend,” the woman insisted, “Blake see you talking with him at strip club.”

 

“Is truth,” Blake asserted, “He sit at your table many times.”

 

“Jake is a friend,” Zev agreed, trying to keep things calm as he helped the haired bouncer get the wrist restraints off, “but where is my cousin?”

 

“I told you,” Jake snapped, his voice hoarse. “You had the wrong guy. They snatched me on my way home yesterday, I wasn’t paying attention because I was on the com with Rose and as soon as I disconnected, they grabbed me.”

 

“You alright?” Aric asked, feeling bad his mate’s friend had been dragged into their problems.

 

“Oh kark me, we’re in deep bantha ****,” Jax began to pace, panic setting in as Corso and Torian tried to help Gaunt and Tanno up.

 

“I think it’s time to call Mako,” Zev swallowed, hating the thought of breaking the news to her.

 

“I’ll do it,” Jax volunteered, digging out his comlink as he stepped away from the group.

 

“We listen,” Blake warned, “You call Cartel Security and we make bloody mess.”

 

Jax glared at the man, but said nothing as he dialed in Mako’s frequency.

 

“Jax!” Mako cried when she appeared, “Where are you guys?! I’m freaking out!”

 

“Yeah listen, Mako,” Jax sighed, pinching the bridge of his nose as he tried to find the words, “Uh…..we ****ed up….”

 

“What are you talking about?!”

 

“The bachelor party…..the whole weekend,” Jax stammered, head bowed, “Things got outta control and uh……we lost Dek.”

 

“What?!”

 

“We can’t find Dek,” Jax sighed, bracing himself for the explosion.

 

“What are you saying, Jax? We’re getting married tomorrow! You guys have to leave Nar Shaddaa in less than an hour to make it on time!”

 

“Yeah……that’s not gonna happen.”

 

~*~*~*~*~*~

 

“What do you mean that’s not going to happen?!” Mako shrieked, then had to bite her lip to keep from laughing when she saw the rest of the women in the room lose it. She hastily hit the mute button so Jax couldn’t hear it.

 

“This is going so much better than I expected,” the yellow furred Cathar snickered, her whole body shaking with laughter as she exchanged a look with her littermate.

 

“I don’t think I’ve ever seen our brother at a loss for words before,” Sienna grinned, her yellow eyes twinkling.

 

“I think it’s time to come clean,” Elara told them, gesturing at the computer monitor as she went on, “Zev looks really upset and I think they’ve learned their lesson.”

 

“Yeah, I don’t see him or Jax pulling any more stupid pranks after this,” Risha agreed. “Although Dek’s probably going to kick both their asses once he gets in the room. Besides, even with Jax’s ship, they need to leave Nar Shaddaa within the next couple of hours.”

 

“Okay Mako, we’re all voting to let them off the hook……but it’s your call.”

 

“Seeing as I actually would like the groom to make it on time, I suppose we might as well end the charade,” she murmured out of the corner of her mouth before hitting the mute button again.

 

~*~*~*~*~*~

 

“Mako, I’m so sorry,” Jax murmured thickly, feeling sick to his stomach as Mako silently glared at him, “I swear we didn’t know what we were smoking, but I won’t rest until we find Dek. Just please don’t blame him!”

 

“Trust me, I don’t,” she replied, a smirk curving her lips as she addressed the two gang leaders, “Okay guys, the game is up…….these clowns have had enough punishment for now.”

 

“Already?” the woman cocked her head, “But I was having so much fun.”

 

"Me too," her partner chuckled as he unhooked the fasteners of his helmet.

 

“Jonas Balkar?” Zev croaked after ‘Blake’ took off his helmet. “What’s going on here?”

 

“Natasha?” Aric murmured when the other mercenary revealed herself, “What are you doing on Nar Shaddaa?!”

 

“I got held up on Hutta, so I decided to just take a shuttle to Nar Shaddaa and figured I’d catch a ride to Cathar with you guys. I was going to com you the morning after the party, but then Mako got an interesting call from Lord Zavala. I believe you recently made her acquaintance.”

 

“Oh I was a bit more formal when we met yesterday, but please, call me Rhianna,” the sith lord called out as she entered the room, both her twin and Dekkyn behind her.

 

“Darth Imperius of the Dark Council,” Jax shook his head, then recognized the resemblance between the pretty sith whose face was no longer hidden by a hood and the tall young man behind her. “You’re Roland’s sister…..the one Dek met on Corellia.”

 

“Dek!” Zev shouted when he spotted his cousin, relief washing over him as he sank onto the sofa with Ka’van.

 

“How much of this was real?” Jax asked, dumbfounded they’d all been duped.

 

“Most of it,” Natasha snickered, then elaborated, “As much as we’ve been able to piece together, you all decided to go out and ended up getting into a fight at a cantina…..”

 

“That’s right, part of the ransom was for damages,” Corso remembered.

 

“Yes,” Natasha nodded, then went back to her accented voice, “Owner is friend. Friend of Jax too.”

 

“Oh gods, tell me we didn’t go to Zara’s place and get into a fight…..”

 

“You sure did, sugar,” a familiar voice drawled from behind them and the group turned to see the buxom, violet haired Zeltron enter the room with another Human. “I was worried about you boys, so I called Jonas after we closed for the cleaning shift.”

 

“We already heard from Mako at that point,” Natasha continued, “So we told Zara what was going on and she agreed to play along if you guys showed up at her place after returning the pilfered Nexu. As for the rest, after you left Zara’s, you visited the med center, then went on to Club Paradise where Corso met his new wife. You guys took the happy couple to a chapel, then Nikki had to go back to work. There’s about an hour we haven’t been able to account for after that, but then you guys popped back up on the radar with a stolen paddy wagon that you took to Strell House.”

 

“Why would we go there?” Jax shook his head, then gave a shudder, “and of all the things, why would we steal a karking Nexu?!”

 

“I’m not sure we’ll ever know,” Zev sighed, “and I feel awful that we left you there, cuz.”

 

“Not as bad as I felt,” Dek grumbled.

 

“I have to admit,” Rhianna smirked, “It was a bit of a shock to arrive at Strell House to find Mishta missing and the Great Hunt Champion cuffed to one of the beds in the women’s dormitory.”

 

“I still don’t remember any of that at all,” Dek shook his head, “But I am so sorry if I scared anyone.” Then he turned to his cousin and Jax, his red rimmed jade eyes glaring at them, “I hope those idiots had the decency to apologize as well.”

 

“They did and like I said before, I believe you were more frightened than any of my residents and there was no lasting harm done,” Rhianna assured him. “You didn’t have a comlink on you, so I had to probe your mind a little to get Mako’s contact info and while I was connected to you through the force, I manipulated your body systems to work the drugs through faster. After that, we put you in a guest room and let you sleep.”

 

“Then she called me,” Mako chimed in as Natasha snatched the comlink from Jax’s hand and plugged it into the Holoprojector.

 

“And we just so happened to be winding down our own celebration,” Sienna grinned, her image joining Mako’s along with Syarra, Elara, and Risha, “Not as exciting as yours I’m afraid, but Rhianna’s call made it interesting.”

 

“At first Mako was really pissed,” Syarra continued.

 

“She wasn’t the only one,” Risha snorted, “But then we started thinking…..”

 

“And Mako came up with this idea,” Elara went on.

 

“Actually I think it was Syarra’s idea to mess with them a little,” Mako admitted, “I just started working on the details and asked Rhianna if she would be willing to help.”

 

“Of course I was…..I found the situation rather amusing and I must admit that haven’t had this much fun in ages,” Rhianna replied, her topaz eyes twinkling at the grey Cathar, “Your sister is surprisingly crafty for a Jedi, Captain Roark.”

 

“That’s one way of putting it,” Jax muttered, remembering all the times Sienna used to tattle on him, “Hey you guys aren’t going to tell Mom and Dad about us boosting a paddy wagon……are you?”

 

“I don’t know,” Syarra shrugged, “Sienna’s the tattletale, but I always got in trouble covering for you when we were kits.”

 

“I’d make it worth your while.”

 

“It’s gonna cost you a couple bottles of my favorite Alderaanian brandy,” then she nodded at the Jedi slumped in the chair next to him, “and you have to stop pouting about me sleeping with Ka’van.”

 

“I know I could use a break from that,” Risha snorted, her eyes rolling skyward.

 

“I’ll do my best,” Jax muttered, frowning when a chuckle emitted from the Jedi.

 

“Wow, he must really be desperate,” Sienna snickered, “I guess I’ll keep my silence for a case of Corellian Red and a box of cigarras for Raul……the good ones.”

 

“Gods, how much are you going to fleece me?!” Jax growled, “I’m already out fifty thousand for kark’s sake!”

 

“Well forty thousand of that is what you owed in damages to Zara’s place and Strell House, and it took another couple thousand as well as Jonas calling in a favor for Cartel Security to conveniently forget about that paddy wagon you stole,” Natasha shot back. “The rest of it is getting split between me, Jonas, Zara, Roland, and Rhianna. Consider it our fee for dealing with your stupidity and by all means, feel free to hit up your partners in crime for the credits, because you all did your fair share of damage.”

 

“We really do appreciate everything you all did for us,” Dek looked sheepish. “I just wish knew what I had that night because I’ve never been that crocked before.”

 

“Yeah, about that…….we sorta smoked the Jeffrey during your party.”

 

“What?!”

 

“’S my fault,” Ka’van slurred, still under the influence of the nerve toxin.

 

“Sorry Master Ka’van,” Jonas muttered as he dug a stim out of his pocket and strode over to the Jedi, “forgot about the tranq darts……this adrenaline stim should counteract it.”

 

“Ka’van found a bag of cigarras at his place,” Jax went on to explain as Jonas gave Ka’van the antidote, “He thought they’d been left behind and figured they were for someone named Jeffrey since it was written on the bag.”

 

“I don’t know anyone named Jeffrey and had no idea who left them,” Ka’van shrugged. “But they smelled pretty good so I brought them with me to the party. I swear I’ve never heard of them before this.”

 

“Oh stars,” Risha snickered as Syarra doubled over with laughter, “That explains a lot. Natasha ran a blood scan, but the drugs had already filtered out of his system too much to get a decent reading so we didn’t know exactly what he was on.”

 

“Hey Sienna……..remember when Jax smoked the Jeffrey before he left for the Military Academy? Didn’t he end up wetting the bed that night?!” Syarra choked out, wiping at her eyes as they both doubled over with laughter again.

 

“He thought I was Mom,” Sienna hiccuped. “He wanted me to read him a story and rock him to sleep!”

 

“Oh come on!” Jax crossed his arms as he glared at his littermates’ laughing images, “There’s no need to bring that up.”

 

“Don’t worry sugar,” Zara giggled, “That’s not the worst I’ve seen from people on the Jeffrey.”

 

“But it’s pretty funny though,” Ka’van chuckled.

 

“Watch it or I’ll snag one of those darts from Roland……”

 

“Speaking of the tranq darts, what about those two,” Zev nodded at Gault and Vik who were both still sitting on the floor looking a little out of it.

 

“Oh, they can stay that way for a bit,” Natasha smirked, a wicked glint in her eye as she held up a sketch of a naked male Twi’lek. “Since they like body art so much, I decided to splurge and get them both some temporary tattoos.” She gestured at the Human who’d come in with Zara, “Alec has done some work for us in the past and agreed to do this favor for me.”

 

“How long are those going to last?” Aric snickered.

 

“About as long as it takes for your fur to grow back,” Natasha grinned.

 

“Hey now,” Gault turned on the charm as best he could while drugged, “it wasn’t my idea…..”

 

“But you went along with it,” Natasha reminded him.

 

“Come on, boss……you gonna let them do that to us?” Tanno protested.

 

“I’d say you both deserve it,” Zev agreed as Roland and Jonas helped them up, then took them back to the office, Alec following with a large case.

 

“Since that’s all settled, you boys better scoot back to the Sky Palace and get ready to leave,” Natasha suggested as she went over to the table where the credit case was.

 

“Aren’t you coming with us?” Aric asked as she began counting out the chits into a small pile.

 

“I’ll be along in a bit,” she nodded as she placed the pile into a small bag, then began to count out another. “I’m going to divvy this up for Zara, Rhianna, Roland, and Jake to take with them, then I have to go pick up my new dress from one of the shops on the Promenade. The proprietress agreed to hold it for me until I could pay her today.”

 

“Can’t wait to see it,” Aric smiled at her.

 

“I’ll bet you can’t since you’re helping pay for it……”

 

“Damn, that’s right,” he sighed, “We hadn’t really thought that out when Jax took out the ransom money since…….err, nevermind. I’ll transfer my portion over to Jax’s account before we leave Nar Shaddaa.”

 

“You guys were going to try and cheat us, weren’t you?” Natasha snickered as she handed Zara her share.

 

“Someone was thinking about it,” Zev snorted at a sheepish Jax.

 

“He wasn’t the only one thinking about it,” Rhianna smiled slyly at the gray Cathar as she tapped her temple. “The good captain was the only one who voiced his intent, but at least three others were in agreement.”

 

“You were poking around in our heads?!”

 

“Not really poking around,” she shrugged, “I was watching you guys as you approached and I might’ve been picking up on your thoughts…...I wasn’t going to just ignore them. I am sith after all…..and I can’t resist good gossip and intrigue. You were the ones scheming.”

 

“That’s okay…..I figured a few of them might try to pull something with the payoff. Now that I have confirmation, I don’t feel so bad about splurging on that dress,” Natasha grinned as she handed a bag to the Sith Lord, “and speaking of dresses, you have to send me a Holo of yours and let me know how things go with mister tall, dark, and yummy at that society thing. Actually, probably better to send a message to Roland and he can fill me in.”

 

“Come on, Nat,” Roland groaned, “I don’t need to hear about my sister hooking up with some dude at a party…..”

 

“Welcome to my world,” Jax snorted, glaring at Ka’van as the Jedi snickered, “at least it’s not with one of your friends.”

 

[Kitar]

Good evening everyone. Sorry for the delay between postings. Even though Alaurin and I have a good portion of this story already planned out and written, there are times that the chapter that is up on deck to be posted, needs a bridge or two to properly connect to the next agreed upon and written chapter. For the last couple weeks I have had been struggling to get one of those sorely needed bridge pieces written.

 

I think I am finally successful so the chapter that has been waiting can now be posted.

 

So without further adieu

 

Contains spoilers for JK Act 1 I believe, as well as Act 1 JC. They are brief so its possible to blink and possibly miss them.

 

Chapter 12

 

 

 

NAR SHADDAA

 

A sharp shuddering of pure unadulterated fear pulled at him. Grinning he reached out grasping the turbulent outpouring of emotion, channeling it. Relishing in the dark smoky warmth he continued to pull from the unseen font; absorbing the power such a pure untapped emotion presented. A muddled thought pushed through the black swirling clouds; why was he feeling this now? He was not at home; he wasn’t due to go home for at least a month. Why was he feeling this? Shaking his head he tried to clear the inky shadows, to find clarity. He was not at home, there was not a temple dedicated to the Dark Side a couple klicks away.

 

Orange eyes snapped open as he fought to shove off the shackles of deep sleep. Rubbing his face with the heel of his palm Ka’van assessed his situation as quickly as he could. The swirling vortex of fear, that had moments ago fueled a heady rush of power, was radiating off his bed partner. Guttural half swallowed cries fought to escape her throat; her fangs were bared as claws were ripping the bedding, fingers firmly wrapped within the pink fabric. He shifted on the mattress next to her; she cried out, clawed fingers instantly disentangling and shooting out towards his bare leg.

 

He hissed a sharp intake of air through pressed lips as the razor sharp tips ran down his thigh. Bright red rivulets appeared on his pale skin, four neatly spaced bleeding lines. He stilled his movements and her hand retreated, returning to the shredded bedding by her side. Another thick wave coursed over him, nearly suffocating him, the fear rolling off of her was so thick. A low feral growl filled the air as she shifted on the bed, he felt a huge surge in the Force that broke and disappeared as quickly as it was created.

 

Slowly Ka’van reached out laying his hand on her bare furred shoulder, the muscles underneath humming with tension. Why was she so scared? Cautiously he applied more pressure to her shoulder, she didn’t move. Closing his eyes he reached out, touching the black cloud that clung over her. The thick blackness was oppressive, almost pitch-like and it was also hiding something. Cracking open an eye he watched her as he shifted on the bed, drawing his body into an upright position as he moved his legs, slowly he sat his bare rump upon his feet. When she didn’t move he closed his eye.

 

Slowly he pushed his way through the pitch, looking for the source of her fears. Carefully he pulled back layer after layer of terror induced shielding. What was she trying to hide... or protect herself from? He had not heard of anything substantial happening to any of the Jedi, but considering the shielding she had created, it was possible he had not been informed. He swallowed the lump in his throat, of course he would not have been told, he was never included in any of the current events. If the Order had not been so desperate for numbers he knew he would have been removed years ago and never allowed to hold the title of Master. What had happened to her?

 

He descended through the tangled quagmire of constructed shielding, searching for its source. A ragged breath sucked into empty lungs as he found a thick snarled concentration of memories. They were convoluted, mere glimpses of larger memories. It was as if someone had painted them upon a thin sheet of glass and then smashed it, the resulting dust and fragments were all that remained. A twisted flash of unknown beings being tortured, dying, some slowly, others quickly and en masse. Shattered fragments of a building; its ancient architecture reaching for a lighting laden sky. His stomach twisted, he recognized the building, he would know the outline of the Dark Temple anywhere. Ka’van continued to search, shifting through the shattered fragments. A glimpse into a room, tall ceilings, crimson banners hanging down the walls, the location unknown but its affiliation undeniable, Imperial. The knot in his stomach grew; he pushed through, searching. A distorted figure appeared, one wearing dark robes. He didn't want to see but he knew he had to, he already knew who it was. A sandy furred hand gripped a crimson bladed saber; blood red eyes stared at him, set within a fine-featured face.

 

His hand unconsciously tightened on her shoulder, gripping her fur. When had she been on Dromund Kaas? He knew it wasn't voluntary, everything was wrong. It felt coerced, twisted. Someone or something had been toying with her. Swallowing, he continued. The figure vanished, replaced with incredibly high angled walls, a chair upon a dais. A low laugh echoed, swirling through the twisted fog. He inhaled, as he waited, but no further laughter came. It was an echo, a broken echo. Ka’van recognized the being on the dais though. His Mother's home had statues erected in his honor within the home and out. The Emperor.

 

She whimpered under his hand. Muscles tensed, humming, as a guttural roar escaped from her throat. “Oh Syarra,” he murmured. He reached out, drawing upon the Force. Opening his eyes he looked up skyward. “Please forgive me,” he whispered. His voice seemed to travel through the eerie stillness. He brought his other hand to rest on her shoulder his thumbs touching as his fingers splayed. Drawing in a deep breath he closed his eyes.

 

Sending out a steady outpouring of the Force Ka’van focused on the rippling memories, especially the splintered fragments that seemed to be associated with the Emperor. He didn't know what had happened, he doubted she would tell him anyway. You don't tell a plaything intimate details about your life. He just hoped she would not discover what he was about to do. Concentrating he pushed the dark energy around the shifting mass, deep in the back of his mind he knew he should be trying to utilize the Light Side for this. He should be, had he been anything that resembled a good Jedi he would have, but this was too important to worry about semantics. The smoky warmth flooded the space, slowly wrapping around the pitch-like mass. As the Dark Sided fueled energy encapsulated the tainted pitch, the overbearing sensation of fear faded, the shattered glimpses disappeared; he knew they were not gone, simply buried until she wanted to deal with them.

 

He shrank the small orb he had constructed, its warm smoky surface pulsing. Slowly he forced it to condense upon itself, growing stronger, strengthening the shielding he was erecting. Suddenly it was easier to breath, the air itself seemed to be liberated. Beneath his hands she sighed, the tightly coiled muscles in her back relaxing. She murmured in her sleep as her hands relinquished the sheets, slipping under her pillow. The fear-fueled fog was gone along with the tingling sensation that someone else was within the room. How had he not felt that before? Had that sensation always been there when she was with him?

 

Ka’van shook his head as he opened his eyes, it didn't matter. He had managed to shield her from that specter of the Emperor that was haunting her. He couldn't ask her about the other fragmented memories he had seen, she would never tell. She didn't need to; he had a rough idea what had happened to her. An idea that just further cemented that he could never really tell her who he was.

 

He shook his head it didn't matter. The shielding should hold, indefinitely. Darkness hiding darkness, he doubted anyone would find it unless they knew what to look for. Which is why no one ever informed him about her situation. He knew there was a story there, and he knew the reason why he was kept in the dark was because of what he was. His presence was tolerated not encouraged. He repressed a sniffle as he slowly ran his hand over her furred back. He bent over kissing her shoulder, a warm trail slipping down his cheek. Warmth dropped onto his hand. “Please take care of yourself Syarra Roark,” he kissed her shoulder again, careful not to linger.

 

Slipping off the bed he collected his cast off clothes, making sure everything was in place and cowl was up before he left the room. He knew what he looked like, it would take time to restore his appearance, time he didn't have. Quietly he moved through the apartment, wanting only to get away without anyone seeing him, the hour was late; if the Force was on his side it was possible. A scr@ping noise up ahead told him that the Force was not with him this evening.

 

Walking towards the door, he saw Jax standing in the threshold. The Cathar looked him over; at this hour they both knew what he was doing here. Ka’van pulled his cowl lower to make sure Jax could not see his face. “Leaving so soon?” Jax asked.

 

Ka’van just nodded; he didn't trust his voice to speak.

 

“Another date waiting for you?” Jax snarled.

 

Another date, geeze what crawled up his backside? He looked him over, the Cathar just radiated anger. He wasn't sure if it was directed towards him or not.

 

“Well?” Jax growled.

 

What? He had spent the last three days with Syarra. Why would Jax even think he was going off to see another person? Another spiking of anger rolled off the Cathar, why was he so angry with him, perhaps it wasn't with him, might be someone else and he just convenient. Ka'van opened his mouth to reply when another wave of anger hit him. He growled, forget about it, why did Jax get an out for having a bad … whatever. He just wanted to get out of there and be left alone. “Sure,” Ka’van snapped, his voice wavering. “Know me everyone gets a ride,” his voice cracked. He barely managed to close his mouth before more warmth dripped down his cheeks and he swallowed a hiccupped sob.

 

Jax stared at him, confused, as he shouldered his way past into the inky darkness. Ka’van was too tired to deal with it, he would just com him in a couple days, be called an a.s.s.hole like always and tell Jax he didn't mean what he said. He needed sleep. He pulled his robe tighter. He was completely drained; performing that damn shielding technique always left him so tired. At least this time, he actually liked the person he used it on.

 

 

 

I do hope it was worth the wait.

[MortuumAmens]

Keeps getting better

[Kitar]

@ MortummAmens I am happy you are enjoying it, and it made my day to read it.

 

I meant to post this yesterday but I kept staring at it trying to figure out what I could change so I would be satisfied with it. I was never able to, so though I am not to thrilled with this one here ya go!

Enjoy.

 

The only spoilers should be the basic ones you have been previously warned about, there is a character referenced from the Smuggler story.

Warnings, I don't really think it needs any but to be safe, adult content sexual situation.

 

 

NAR SHADDAA

 

Growling he pulled the black cowl closer, he had not deserved the attitude the almighty spacer captain threw at him. He didn't have any idea why Jax had been so aggravated, Ka'van doubted he had anything to do with it. At least he didn't really think he did.

 

Frowning he pulled his robe closer, stalking towards his awaiting speeder. Slipping his leg over the sleek black machine he started it's engine, it purred to life under him. Glaring backwards at the closed door, he revved the engine before he slammed his fist shut, gunning the accelerator leaving behind a quickly dissipating violet exhaust plume.

 

Slipping into the ever constant traffic he merged into a quick flowing sky lane. As the sky palace became a quickly diminishing speck he growled pushing the speeder faster. Blaming him for his bad mood. He hadn't even done, anything. Ka'van grinned the corner of his mouth quirking upwards, it actually reached his orange laced eyes. He hadn't, he had actually been behaving, but that was about to change.

 

As he drove he silently fumed. He wasn't that bad, he wasn't. Rolling the accelerator, he peeled off the main traffic artery. If people wanted to see bad he would show them bad. Gritting his teeth in an unseen sneer he moved out of the non-stop current of traffic. Rotating his hand backwards he slowed the bike as he squeezed the brake, sliding to a stop in front of a brightly light, nearly spotless facade of a cantina.

 

A new cantina from the looks of things. Glancing across the spacious street he looked at the bored bouncer leaning up against the front wall of Club Ufora. Briefly he contemplated the front of the establishment, then thought better of it. He highly doubted that things in there had actually improved and though he had to admit the side business they had running out of the back had been rather creative, it thoroughly creeped him out. Suppressing a shudder he let his gaze wander back to the bouncer, he briefly wondered if that side business had been resumed.

 

Returning his attention to the building in front of him he swung his leg off the sleek black speeder. Before he even stood completely upright an immaculately dressed azure Twi'lek appeared out of the building's spacious entrance. The man stopped before him. Ka'van looked down at the smaller man, scrutinizing his attire. The crispy pressed dark blue material professionally cut and tailored. On his left breast there was bright gold aurebesh proudly proclaiming Azul Rapture. Ka'van leaned forward, staring the man in the eye. The Twi'lek didn't flinch. Reaching out through the Force he brushed up against the Twi'lek's mind. The man swallowed a strangled whimper as Ka'van searched; though he managed to maintain eye contact.

 

Ka'van withdrew, his head canting slightly to the side as the Twi'lek continued to look him in the face. Sweat beading on his face the Twi'lek visibly trembled. His mouth opened, jaw working before he finally spoke. “I promise m' Lord no harm will come to your speeder.”

 

Ka'van's lips quirked in a smirk. “I'm holding you to your word.” He gestured with his right hand and the speeder's key left the bike and flew to his hand. Stepping close to the visibly shaken valet Ka'van held out the key. Swallowing, hard, the Twi'lek's hand rose, reaching. Ka'van placed the key into the Twi'lek's outstretched palm, grabbing his hand. “Don't disappoint me.”

 

The Twi'lek shook his head no, his brown eyes staring at Ka'van.

 

Letting go of his hand, Ka'van stepped past the Twi'lek and into the awaiting cantina.

 

Walking through the unfamiliar establishment he paused at the rather spacious entrance of the main floor; lush dark carpeting supported exotic carved wooden pillars, which held up a vaulted ceiling that disappeared into shrouded shadows. Eyes scanning the room, he surveyed the layout. The dancers, in the flesh and holographic, were scattered throughout. The cantina's bars were all carved dark wood; a rather opulent touch. Everything seemed to be awash in varied shades in blue from the nearly black flooring to the light blue fabric d****** the strategically placed privacy panels. Near the rear he found two well marked lifts to usher patrons up to the rooms above.

 

The place was practically bursting, most the chairs and booths were occupied by a varied assortment of sentient. There was even a card game of some sort running in the back corner of the main room. He heard a triumphant roar; a game with Wookiees. Shaking his head he continued looking. He was in the mood to get into some trouble, he didn't want to lose an arm.

 

Finally his eyes settled on a vacant stool at the end of the carved bar. Sitting in the middle of the unoccupied space was a rocks glass. Perspiration was running down the side. Ka'van frowned when he saw the rocks within the glass, ruining perfectly good liquor with ice. Well, if he was foolish enough to water down his drink, he didn't deserve a seat.

 

Walking over to the bar, he slid onto the cantina stool. He caught the Rodian bartender's stare as the blue skinned woman started to move towards him. When she got closer he tilted his head backwards, his black cowl falling off his head. He narrowed his orange eyes and she stopped in her tracks. Picking up a blue bar rag she quickly moved away from him, cleaning imaginary spots.

 

Long fingers reached out grabbing the sweating glass. Smiling to himself, he picked it up and tossed the watery mess back. The harsh bite of rail liquor bit back, burning in an abrasive manner as it slid down his throat. No wonder he had watered it down. It was absolutely horrible.

 

Turning the offending empty glass upside down he stared at the Rodian, she was hiding at the other end of the bar. Reaching out through the Force he nudged her. Her blue head whipped around, black eyes locking onto him. He subtly gestured towards the vast array of the liquor adorning the shelving behind the bar. The bartender nodded, quickly moving down the bar. She paused in front of him, tentatively reaching out to reclaim the glass. When he nodded she snaked her hand out grabbing the vessel.

 

“Bottle of whisky, nothing less than eighteen years,” Ka'van growled. “Leave the bottle.”

 

The bartender nodded, “Yes, of course, I need payment upfront.”

 

Ka'van frowned.

 

The bartender didn't even flinch, “It is standard practice when one orders the bottle, once payment has been tendered I will be happy to serve you.” She patiently waited, while Ka'van glowered.

 

“Fine,” he muttered reaching into his black robe's inner pocket. Reaching out he held up a credit chit. “That sufficient?” Ka'van groused.

 

“Very good, I shall run a tab.” The Rodian turned and stepping onto a stool selected a clear glass bottle sporting a black label and honey wheat coloured liquid within. Setting the bottle on the bar top she set down a new glass, before disappearing down to the other end of the bar.

 

Opening the bottle, he poured a very healthy four fingers into the glass. Bringing the rocks glass to his lips he eagerly tilted his head back. The smooth liquid slid down his throat, pleasantly warming as it hit his stomach. Allowing himself a small smile he refilled the glass, pausing a moment to admire the beauty of the whisky in the glass before he quickly drank the contents.

 

Taking a deep breath through his nose he refilled the glass, the amber liquid licking the rim. Holding it up he considered the potent alcohol; this was taking a bit longer than expected. Perhaps he was mistaken and the fool with horrible taste in liquor was not going to be returning. What a pity. He brought the glass the short distance to his lips and killed it. As the glass was slowly lowered to the bar's surface...

 

“You are in my seat,” a nasally masculine voice groused behind him.

 

Ka'van chuckled, he loved being right. “No. I am in my seat no one was here.”

 

“Wrong. I was here.”

 

“I do recall it was empty.”

 

“It wasn't. I had a glass here, whattcha do with it?” The annoyed nasally voice growled.

 

“Oh I had the bartender take it away. I do think I did you a favor that swill was so bad I know dives on Tattooine that would not serve that garbage.”

 

“What… Get out of my seat.”

 

Ka'van chuckled, slowly he pivoted on the tall cantina stool. “Why don't you make me,” he growled. His face neutral he completed his rotation staring at the massive, bulky, bulbous form of a dark blue skinned Houk. His copper coloured brow twitched as he studied the guy, he was starting to notice a theme.

 

The Houk stared at him, his finger twitching as he glared at Ka'van.

 

Ka'van leaned back against the bar, with a small wave of his right hand the brought the wisky bottle within reach. Picking it up he bottle he poured a couple fingers into his glass, smartly setting the bottle on the bartop he propped his elbows on the edge. Staring him down Ka'van took a slow drink.

 

He continued to stare at Ka'van his brown eyes smoldering.

 

“Well,” Ka'van said between sips. He could feel the anger and apprehension. They circled around the Houk, fighting for control. He wondered which one would finally win.

 

The Houk curled his hands into fists. Knuckles popped as he glowered.

 

Ka'van smirked as he refilled his glass. Smartly setting the bottle back on the bartop he returned his attention to the furious Houk. Leaning back against the wood he took another drink. “I thought you wanted this seat back. Seemed so adamant about it too.” His orange eyes glittered as he watched beefy hands clench and unclench.

 

 

“Nothing to say huh?” Ka'van took another sip staring down his nose at the man. “Go on, then. I thought you were actually going to do something.” He continued to stare at the Houk, secretly he was rather surprised. Normally a Houk would have already swung or at least uttered threats and profanities. This one seemed smarter.

 

Ka'van rotated his back towards the Houk. Refilling his glass he looked at the collection of bottles.

 

“Get otta my seat,” the Houk rumbled behind him.

 

“It is my seat now, why are you so attached to it?” Ka'van took a drink examining the extensive collection, behind him he felt the anger grow.

 

“I always sit here. Move it.” The Houk growled.

 

Ka'van grinned as he took another sip. “Oh go on, find another seat.”

 

“No I want mine back now!”

 

“Go on, what are you going to do? Nothing,” Ka'van grinned, “you would have acted by now, you are just a coward.”

 

“I ain't no coward,” the Houk snarled.

 

Ka'van felt the whispers through the Force, he shifted to the right on his cantina stool and reached out grabbing the huge hand. Stopping it with his left, he took another sip of his whisky before setting it on the wooden bartop.

 

Holding onto the meaty appendage Ka'van started to tighten his grip slowly squeezing; a pained yelp sounded as he felt bones shift under his fingers. Behind him the Houk started pulling backwards, in an awkward and futile attempt to free his hand. “Really,” Ka'van chuckled, low in his throat. “Is that the best you can do?” He refilled his rocks glass, tightening his grip on the squirming Houk's hand. Casually he knocked the glass back, swallowing it's contents in one drink.

 

“That was,” Ka'van sighed, “so sadly predictable.” Shaking his head, he slowly refilled the glass. Picking it up with his right hand he brought it to his lips, closing his eyes he inhaled deeply through his nose relishing the pain clouded fear radiating from the Houk behind him. Knocking his head backwards he swallowed the whisky and set the glass on the counter.

 

Canting his head to the left he studied the abused flesh in his hand; nearly white pale blue skin fought with the darkening, spreading nearly plum color. Squeezing he rotated his body to the right, drawing on the Force he shoved the Houk's hand away from him.

 

The Houk's massive form stumbled backwards trying to regain his balance. Staggering to the side he cradled his crushed hand against his chest. “Ain't nothing but a bully,” the Houk growled glaring at him. The fear surrounding the alien morphed into disgust.

 

Ka'van flinched, frowning. He hadn't expected that, he had thought that he would have responded with the typical brash aggression most Houks used for resolving their conflicts. Glaring at the man he shook his head. “Bully? I think not, I was minding my own business and you threw the first punch.”

 

“No,” he growled, “you are a bully. Nothing but a bully,” the Houk's brown eyes slid over him. “You are nothing… nothing but a power abusing bully. Terrible Jedi.” He hissed as he rubbed his hand.

 

“Terrible Jedi heh, you have no idea. Keep standing there and you will find out how terrible. The security cameras will show you swung the first blow, I can defend myself.” Ka'van reached out, his right fingers outstretched as he grasped the Force surrounding the bottles behind him on the bar.

 

In a blink of an eye he pulled three bottles off the bottom shelf and launched them at the Houk. They crashed in quick succession at his feet; exploding shards of blue and amber, liquid spraying.

 

“Just a bully,” the Houk muttered, his eyes seething as he stared at Ka'van. “Bully who shouldn' do that.”

 

“But I want to, who is going to stop me?” Ka'van growled.

 

“Shouldn' do that. He is gonna find out.” The Houk growled staring at the broken bottles, glittering at his feet. He stared at the glass and made no movement towards Ka'van.

 

Ka'van frowned staring at the Houk, this was not going at all like he wanted. Perhaps he should have joined the Wookiees' card game in the back room.

 

“Who?” Ka'van leaned backwards against the bar. “Who is going to find out?”

 

“Rogan.”

 

“What do I care about Rogan?”

 

“You will care.”

 

“I highly doubt that. What does Rogan have to do with any of this?”

 

“He owns this place,” the Houk grumbled. “He will come after you.”

 

“Oh does he?” Ka'van's lips grew into a wicked smile, “Really? Oh how perfect. Tell me does he still have to kick up his share to the Voidhound?”

 

The Houk nodded. “He will come after you for this.”

 

“Perfect.” Ka'van's grin grew larger. “I hope he does. I have not seen him in a while.”

 

“What?” the Houk whispered. “You have seen him?”

 

Ka'van grinned, “Oh I have and I am not concerned. So if you are so worried about Rogan why don't you get on out of here.”

 

The Houk continued to stand there, wavering on his feet.

 

Ka'van reached out grabbing the whisky bottle and refilled the glass. He frowned when the amber liquid splashed out of the glass dropping on his fingers. Setting the bottle down with more force than he intended, he picked up his glass. His frown deepening when the liquor splashed on his fingers. Swiftly bringing the rocks glass to his lips he tossed back the contents, it dribbled down his chin. Wiping his face off with the sleeve of his black robe he scowled at the Houk.

 

“So Houk who is afraid of Rogan, why do continue to stand there?”

 

“Because it is his job,” a quiet voice said to his side.

 

Ka'van's head snapped around, orange eyes locking onto a pair of azure skinned Twi'leks. He forced his eyes to focus. The Twi'leks' outlines was wavering, closing his eyes he growled. When he opened them the Twi'leks had solidified into a familiar figure. “Dekk'lar?” Ka'van hesitated staring at the smaller man.

 

“Yea,” Dekk'lar nodded, “It is me buddy.”

 

“What are you doing here?” Ka'van muttered. His attention focused on the Twi'lek.

 

“Well,” Dekk'lar smiled, “I work here. Part time really. It is an easy way to show income, keeps the Cartel off my back a bit. They don't sniff around as much lookin' for their cut.”

 

Ka'van snorted, grabbing the whisky bottle, he poured more amber liquid, getting most of it into the glass. Licking the spilled liquor off his hand he swallowed the contents of the glass. He looked from the Houk who was still cradling his hand, to the Rodian bartender before returning his blurry gaze to the Twi'lek. Laughter bubbled out of his throat, “I see a theme here. Blue carpet, blue walls and blue employees.”

 

Dekk'lar nodded, “Yeah buddy, there is a theme. Most of us do not care, it's an easy way to show legit income.”

 

Ka'van growled, “and for the Butcher to make easy money and make his damn kickbacks up to the Voidhound. Why would I want to make anything easier for that smug *** spacer?”

 

“I never said you did. But if you keep on and trash this place. And I know you want to.” Dekk'lar moved closer laying his hand on Ka'van's forearm. “S'plorge and I will be out of work.”

 

“S'plorge heh,” Ka'van snorted. “What is your real job, S'plorge?” Ka'van drew out the word smirking.

 

“Crustacean Miner.” The newly named S'plorge bit. The Houk continued to stare at him.

 

“How exactly does one mine crustaceans? Huh?” Ka'van chuckled.

 

“Carefully.”

 

“Carefully, huh, where do you do that?” Ka'van turned grabbing the whisky, pouring more into the glass, most of it successfully made it into the glass. The rest dribbled onto his hand and down his fingers.

 

“On Mannan.” S'plorge glowered, his brown eyes boring into him.

 

“Really?” Ka'van swallowed the contents. He picked up the bottle, as the bartop moved. Growling he shifted, firmly planting his back up against it. “They don't allow trade.”

 

“That is why it is carefully.” S'plorge muttered.

 

“Very carefully,” Dekk'lar whispered, his hand rubbed Ka'van's arm. “I can tell you are upset, but I can think of better ways to blow off steam. There are other ways, better ways to get under the Voidhound's skin.”

 

“Oh I know of a good one,” Ka'van listed as he swallowed a mouthful of whisky. Amber liquid sloshed over his hand.

 

Dekk'lar reached over gently removing his fingers from the bottle. “Do you now? I know a few, we should compare notes and move forward from there.”

 

Ka'van frowned, a complaint on his lips as the Twi'lek took the bottle away setting on the bartop. “That's mine.”

 

“I know it is I am just setting it here. Not taking it away.” Dekk'lar said, his voice even and low.

 

Ka'van heard S'plorge say something, but it was to quiet to make it out.

 

Fingers reached for his rocks glass. Ka'van pulled his hand away, golden liquid splashing over the side.

“Gimme that,” Ka'van protested. “That is mine.”

 

“I know it is, I am putting it over here.” The Twi'lek gently set the rocks glass down on the bartop next to the bottle. “I am not taking it away.” Dekk'lar gently grabbed his wrist bringing his now empty hand to his lips. “I do have another idea to blow off steam though.” He moved Ka'van's pale wrist to his blue lips. Ka'van's orange eyes latched onto the Twi'leks light blue lips as they parted and licked the whisky off his hand. Ka'van's eyes closed as Dekk'lar kissed his way along, soft lips brushed against a whisky soaked finger. He groaned head rolling backwards as those lips wrapped around his finger, tongue teasing.

 

The warmth of the Twi'lek's mouth left. Ka'van rolled his head forward, looking for him. He was standing really close, Ka'van reached up, running his hand down the side of Dekk'lar's left lekku. He stared at smaller man before him, staring at his open vest, the invitation slowly working though Ka'van's mind. Why not, it is what everyone expected of him anyway. It was what he was good at, besides what did it matter. There were no attachments, right?

 

Eyes dropping off the Twi'lek's exposed chest, Ka'van nodded. Warm breath touched his cheek seconds before Dekk'lar's lips brushed against his. Heartbeats passed before Ka'van convinced his body to respond. His hand moved to the base of Dekk'lar's left lekku, cupping it, thumb caressing as he deepened the kiss. Under his fingers he felt the Twi'lek shudder as a muffled groan escaped his blue lips. Ka'van felt hands run up his chest, touching his neck.

 

Breaking the kiss Ka'van leaned back, Dekk'lar's blue eyes stared into his, the Twi'lek gave him a hesitant smile. Ka'van didn't return it. Orange eyes drifted to the bartop, there was his half-filled rocks glass. Grabbing it, he reached for the bottle; ignoring the feeling of Dekk'lar's hands pulling at him. He picked up his bottle and his face fell. It was nearly empty. Sniffing he poured the remnant of the bottle into the glass and promptly killed it. Taking a deep breath he turned the glass over setting it on the bartop. It shattered upon impact.

 

“Come on,” Dekk'lar whispered, “Let's get out of here.”

 

Numbly Ka'van nodded, as he stood he stumbled as the world violently shifted sending him falling into the glass covered bartop. His hand slid through the glass.

 

“Easy, I have you.” Dekk'lar's hands were on him, pulling him upward.

 

Ka'van let the Twi'lek pull him. When he tried to stand upright the floor shifted again. Stumbling he tried to catch his balance, as he fell Dekk'lar appeared before him holding him upright. He heard a rumbled voice. Dekk'lar answered. “No, I should be alright. He has never hurt me before.”

 

The low rumble responded as Ka'van struggled to stand upright and not fall. “You sure?”

 

Sure about what? Ka'van wondered as he leaned against the Twi'lek.

 

“No, but it is better than letting him stay here. He is capable of leveling this place.”

 

He shifted against the smaller man's shoulders. Who is going to hurt Dekk'lar? He looked around the room, the entire blue establishment seemed to be floating before him, everything had a double, a few were trying to produce a triplicate of themselves.

 

“So you know him?” That rumble questioned.

 

“Yeah, I do,” Dekk'lar whispered. “I should be able to improve his mood. Without having to pay off the Cartel to forget about exploded buildings.” Ka'van felt his body being moved. “I won't be able to work my shift tonight. Can you cover for me find another dancer?”

 

“Yes,” the rumble answered. “How do you know him?”

 

Dekk'lar sighed, Ka'van could feel it as the smaller man's shoulders dipped. “There is a reason why he does not fear the Butcher, he is the Voidhound's best friend.”

 

“You are karking kidding me.” A feminine voice sounded behind him.

 

Ka'van turned to look at the voice, it was the bartender.

 

“No,” Dekk'lar shook his head. Ka'van frowned. “He must have had some fight with him. They are actually pretty close, so it must have been some pretty big fight.”

 

Ka'van opened his mouth to answer and decided against it, he clenched his jaw shut and watched the bartender pick up the red stained glass on the wooden bar.

 

Come on, Dekk'lar gently pulled against Ka'van's waist as he slowly began walking away from the bar and the ever present frowning Houk.

 

Biting his lip, Ka'van allowed the Twi'lek to lead him away.

 

*~*~*~*

 

Groaning Ka'van tried to roll over, instantly regretting the action. Grunting he remained on his right side. His head was killing him. Bringing his hand to his temple he heard a muffled complaint and warm air blow against his bare back. Licking parched lips he tried to remember where he was. He didn't quite remember. He had a sinking feeling that he was no longer in bed in Syarra's room. Ka'van felt warm fingers slowly move across his side. Taking a deep breath he braced for what he might see when he opened his eyes.

 

He instantly wished he hadn't. Before him was an unfamiliar room. It was small, but clean. The furniture was sparse and the window was covered with a thick blanket. He slowly looked down his side, when his eyes locked onto the blue arm draped over his side he grimaced. What did he do last night?

 

Taking another breath through his nose, he briefly closed his eyes. Opening them he shook his head, well he needed to figure out where he was. Slowly he rolled onto his back as the blue hand slipped down to his waist. Eyes latching onto the hand he slowly followed the blue appendage backwards looking to identify its owner.

 

Curled up next to him was the naked azure skinned form of Dekk'lar. Ka'van silently cursed under his breath. By the Force, why was he in bed with Dekk'lar? He looked down at his bare body, he had definitely gone to bed with him. Why? Why was he here? He hadn't planned on going anywhere. Rubbing his hand over his face he sighed. Closing his eyes he sank into the faded sheets, what happened that caused him to come here? He had not planned on visiting Dekk'lar anytime soon. He had been perfectly content to simply see Syarra.

 

To see Syarra. He frowned, he had meant to spend the week with her. He had blown off going home to the family Estate to spend time with her. She actually had some downtime and was free of her cumbersome crew. Well her spunky apprentice was alright, the irritating medic was off saving jax from kath hounds or something.

 

Ka'van sighed, his family Estate. He had woken up in the middle of the night thinking he had been at home. But he hadn't and the huge outpouring of the Dark Side he felt had been flooding off his bed partner. For once he had done the right thing, for once, and he had been accused of leaving to go sleep around.

 

So he left, he was going to go destroy something. He had found some fancy new club. He really didn't remember much after that, a few vague recollections of blue and drinking whisky but nothing else, most of the evening was gone. He opened his eyes, Ka'van looked at Dekk'lar's curled up from. Dark angry purple bruises were growing along his shoulders and against the base of his neck.

 

Frowning he slowly reached out to touch the slumbering Twi'lek. His hand was bandaged. Confused he sat up in the bed, bringing the clumsily bandaged appendage closer. It was not his work; he would simply heal the wound, not bother with bandages. What had he done last night? Dekk'lar had brought him here and tried to patch up his hand. Ka'van frowned he looked at the Twi'lek's abused back.

 

Quickly he unwrapped his hand, the gauze sticking to his palm and the scabbed over slashes there. He squinted, bringing his palm up to his face. He had been cut by something, as hard as he could try he could not remember what. Dropping his hand into his lap he looked over at Dekk'lar, he hadn't meant to hurt him, but the proof of it was darkening the light blue skin of the Twi'lek's back.

 

Ka'van's frown deepened. He needed to get out of here. He didn't want to know what he did last night. Sighing slowly shifted in the bed. Dekk'lar muttered a sleepy protest. “I am sorry,” Ka'van murmured. “I really am, I never meant to hurt you.”

 

He leaned over, his right hand hovering over the bruised flesh. Closing his eyes Ka'van pulled upon the Force. To his surprise it flowed to him readily, bright and clear. Swallowing a strangle sniff he brought his left hand to his face, rubbing it. He didn't understand, the last time he had used the Force it was not the light that did his bidding. What was going on?

 

He needed to get out of here, he needed to. Before he could though, he moved his right hand closer to the still slumbering Twi'lek, he needed to heal Dekk'lar. His hand hovered nearly touching the azure skin beneath it. His eyes closed as Ka'van concentrated, seeking out and funneling the healing Force into the smaller man. He sought out every bump and bruise; every ache and pain Ka'van could find he poured his energy into healing. As he finished Dekk'lar sighed beside him.

 

“I am so sorry,” Ka'van whispered, unsure if he would actually be heard.

 

“It's okay,” Dekk'lar muttered into the pillow. “You were...” the Twi'lek yawned as his right hand slipped under the pillow. “… so angry. I just got you into a better mood.”

 

Ka'van cringed. “You shouldn't have. I could have really hurt you.”

 

Dekk'lar sighed, “a little rough, nothin' I can't handle. Besides,” he murmured around another yawn. “That is what you do for the people you care about.”

 

Ka'van's hand pulled back as if burned, as his eyes widened. “What?” he whispered.

 

“… can't tell him though,” Dekk'lar smiled in his sleep. His hand slipped away from Ka'van's waist moving towards the pillow. “Don't ever tell him…” The Twi'lek yawned again as his head curled into the pillow, “He won't like it.” Dekk'lar sighed, his voice growing thicker with sleep, “… hopeless but I take… what… I … can… ge...” His voice disappeared into a quiet snore, as the Twi'lek gripped the pillow in sleep.

 

Ka'van stared at the slumbering Twi'lek, shaking his head. He couldn't possibly mean it, he was just talking in his sleep. Dekk'lar would do that sometimes, he didn't mean that, he was just dreaming. Bolting off the bed, Ka’van collected his shed clothing. Quickly he managed to find his boots and black robe. Near the bed he found his slacks, dropping to the floor he looked under the bed for his shirt, the damned thing was nowhere to be seen. Dekk'lar moved on the bed, the mattress squeaking. Ka'van looked up at the Twi'lek, he was still asleep.

 

Forget the shirt, he didn't need it, he had others. Pulling on his pants and boots he found his belt and saber hilt on the ground. As quickly as his fingers would work he buckled it on his waist. Standing he pulled his black robe on, as he ran for the door.

 

To his surprise it was unlocked. It slid open at his approach. He ran out into the worn down corridor of a lower end Nar Shaddaa housing complex, he thought it looked like the red light district. Eyes wide, he scanned the area before him. They grew even wider when they rested on his black speeder. Chewing on the inside of his cheek he looked back at the modest apartment door. Reaching out through the Force, he commanded the door to slide shut and the lock slid home.

 

Running to his speeder he flew his leg over the bike. Reaching into his outer robe pocket he found his speeders key. Fumbling he shoved it into the ignition. Glancing once again over his shoulder he looked at the apartment. Closing his eyes he reached out with the Force, Dekk'lar was still peacefully slumbering inside.

 

Hand shaking he started the speeder, gunning the engine he engaged the replusorliftors and headed towards the moon's upper atmosphere. As he flew through the sparse traffic he pulled his holo out of his pocket. Queuing it up he waited for the prompt to leave a message, much to his surprise his Vod's image appeared.

 

“Don't have business on Tython after all, do you?” The Zabrak groused.

 

“No,” Ka'van shook his head. “No I don't but I need to get out of here.”

 

“Do you?”

 

“Yeah, I need to get some space, clear my mind.” A tremor coursed down Ka'van's back.

 

“Hunting trip?”

 

“'lek, that will work.”

 

“Have your ship?”

 

“'lek I do.”

 

“Meet on Dxun, two standard days.”

 

Ka'van nodded, “See you then.” He deactivated the holocom, shoving it into his robe pocket. Bending over the speeder, he slammed the accelerator. He needed to get off of this damn moon.

 

 

 

 

AN

 

 

http://starwars.wikia.com/wiki/Bearded_jax

I loved these guys in SWG so they need to be here too

Mando'a

'lek – yea

Vod-sibling/brother

 

 

Edited June 1, 2016 by Kitar

[alaurin]

Hey there, sorry for the lengthy wait for an update, but writer's block can be a real pain in the posterior sometimes. Things are finally flowing again and I actually have some spare time to take advantage of that......so here's the next part, which picks up immediately where the last story left off.

 

Chapter 14, pt. 1

 

 

A tall figure began to stir in the luxurious bed illuminated by the bright lights of Nar Shaddaa coming in through the large window. Instinctively knowing it was earlier than she’d like to be awake, the Cathar burrowed deeper into the satin bedding, the cool fabric soothing against her naked body. Her lips twitched in a small smile as she reached for her bed partner only to fall when she found his side of the bed empty. Puzzled, Syarra came fully awake, wondering where he’d gone. Then she glanced at the chrono and realized it had been a while since they’d come to her bedroom for the night. Figuring he must’ve gone to the kitchens for a snack or needed to use the fresher, she snuggled back under the covers to wait for him to return when she was hit with a feeling like she had been having nightmares again. She sat up in the bed, trying to remember, but for the first time since she’d begun having them after the Emperor had taken control of her mind, Syarra couldn’t recall her dreams. The more she sat there in the quiet room, the more she was certain she’d been having a nightmare, but it was just out of her grasp.

 

Frustrated now, she sleep would be impossible until she figured it out, Syarra decided to get up and seek Ka'van out to hopefully get some answers. She strode over to the dresser and was grabbing a tank top and a pair of sleep shorts out of the drawer when she noticed Ka’van’s stuff wasn’t there. He always set his comlink, keys, wallet, saber hilt, and bracelet in the small woven basket on her dresser. At a glance, the little basket was sitting empty next to her hairbrush and the little bottle of lavender and mint infused water she used on special occasion as a light fragrance. He wouldn’t take his stuff with him if he was just grabbing a snack or using the fresher, she realized and with a frown, she pulled on the clothing, then was reaching for her hairbrush to tame the wild tangles of her thick mane when she spotted Ka’van’s bracelet caught on the side of the little basket. That’s really odd…...he’d never leave this behind. What in the void is going on?! Feeling even more confused, she quickly brushed her mane, securing it in a hasty ponytail, before grabbing her comlink and after another glance back at the rumpled bed, she left the room to see if she could figure out where Ka’van had gone and why he’d left so suddenly without a word.

 

She tried to ignore the unease creeping up on her, but it grew as each room she checked came up empty. Syarra wasn’t really angry at him, just a bit miffed, but she was more than a little concerned. Over the past few months, they’d fell into a routine of sorts and Ka’van hadn’t said anything to her about leaving when they were drifting off to sleep after some rather intense and very pleasurable lovemaking, so she assumed he intended to stay the night like he usually did. She wasn’t sure if it was the lingering sensation she’d been having nightmares, or waking up to find her lover missing, but a cold feeling began to settle in the bottom of her belly and Syarra decided to call him. Her heart sank when no one answered and much to her annoyance, she felt the sting of tears as she tried a second time and came up empty again. Knock that off, she mentally chided herself, annoyed that she was acting like a jealous girlfriend and she’d just managed to wipe away the tears when a growl coming from the kitchen drew her attention.

 

“Oh I swear to the Gods, I’m going to kill them both if they’re arguing again!” Syarra muttered, pocketing her comlink as she hurried towards her littermate’s voice, grateful that most of the sky palace’s usual occupants were away from the planet since she was about to rip her brother a new one and didn’t feel the need to have an audience.

 

However, instead of finding Jax with Ka’van, she entered the spacious kitchen to see the grey Cathar was the sole occupant of the room. He frowned at the comlink in his hand as he hit the switch to end the call, then tossed it the counter. He glanced up, his chiseled face troubled as their gazes met. Then his azure eyes cast downward and she felt a surge of guilt pouring off of him.

 

“Please tell me that guilt you’re feeling isn’t because you’re the reason I woke up alone.” Syarra crossed her arms as she leaned against the doorway.

 

“I swear I had nothing to do with him leaving your bed,” Jax insisted, looking her square in the eye.

 

“Ha!” Syarra snorted when Jax raked clawed fingertips through his thick black mane, a nervous habit her littermate had when in uncomfortable situations. “Ka’van may have left my bed on his own, but you’re the reason he didn’t come back!”

 

“Okay…...so I might’ve run into him a little while ago…...and he sorta left after…..”

 

“Dammit Jax, what did you say to Ka’van?!” Syarra demanded, her azure eyes flashing accusingly at her brother. “You promised me you’d stop being such an *** about him!”

 

“I’m really trying, Syarra…...honest. It’s just been one of those days and when I saw him sneaking out the way he did…..I just…...I dunno…...” Jax trailed off, frustrated at being in this situation.

 

“I understand you don’t want me to get hurt, Jax,” Syarra sighed, “Especially not by someone you care about so much. Despite your grumblings about all the times he’s dragged you into stuff, Ka’van means just as much to you as Dekkyn and Zevryn. I have no idea how long this thing with Ka’van is going to last, but just like with Zev, I’ll simply move on when it does.”

 

“It really doesn’t bother you that he left your bed in the middle of the night to go off and do void knows what?!”

 

“I have no hold over him, Jax,” Syarra shook her head, not liking the unexpected hurt those words caused and she’d never be sure if her next words were to reassure Jax or a reminder to herself. “And I don’t want to…..with him or anyone for that matter. Don’t get me wrong, I like him, I enjoy spending time with him…..in and out of bed,” Syarra smirked at the pained look on her littermate’s face. “I will always consider him a friend as do you, but we agreed from the getgo that there would be no strings attached. I knew that going in as did he and that suits me at this point in my life. I’m just as free as Ka’van is to go seek out others.”

 

“But you don’t,” Jax snorted.

 

“No, but that’s because I don’t exactly go out looking for sex every chance I get……unless I’m on my cycle, then it’s game on.”

 

“Yeah, but when is the last time you purposely went out looking?” Jax pointed out a truth that hit a little too close to home for her comfort.

 

“You’re right,” she grudgingly admitted, “I haven’t sought out anyone else because I haven’t felt the need. Again, it was the same with Zev…...we had a standing arrangement that suited my needs just fine as does my present one with Ka’van.”

 

“Zev usually didn’t hook up with more than one woman a night…..I can’t say the same for Ka’van.” Jax shot back, hating himself as soon as the words left his mouth. “I’m sorry, sis…..I shouldn’t have said that.”

 

“It’s alright, Jax. You didn’t tell me anything I wasn’t already well aware of, but it isn’t my business because Ka’van and I aren’t in any sort of committed relationship,” Syarra reiterated as a wicked gleam sparked in her eyes. “Besides, you’re hardly one to talk about casual sex and multiple hookups in one night.”

 

“Okay, you got me there,” Jax looked sheepish, “but not since Risha and I got together.”

 

She felt the spike of pain before she saw it in his eyes and she realized Jax was dealing with his own issues in the feelings department. Needing to deflect Jax’s current line of questioning, she gratefully accepted the opening her littermate unwittingly provided.

 

“You might have everyone else fooled, but I know you better than most.” Syarra gave him a sympathetic smile as reached up and mussed his mane, “You’re my brother and my best friend in the whole galaxy, Jax. From the time we’ve been able to walk, we’ve been picking each other up when we fall……Sienna too.”

 

“I know,” Jax sighed, the ghost of a smile crossing his furred features, “Remember when Sienna caught her boyfriend making out with her friend Celia at the prom?”

 

“I found her in the fresher crying,” Syarra nodded, “She just wanted to go home and stay there for the rest of the school year.”

 

“You came and got me so I could bring the speeder to the back entrance.”

 

“But you made a pit stop first.”

 

“That as*hole had it coming.”

 

“I won’t argue with you there,” Syarra grinned. “And so did Celia.”

 

“I still can’t believe you gave her fleas,” Jax snickered. “Wonder what the Order would think of that?”

 

“They’ll never know.”

 

“Does Sienna know it was you?”

 

“Who do you think gave me the jar of fleas?!”

 

“She does have a devious little streak in her, doesn’t she?”

 

“That she does, but yet we still look out for her and each other,” Syarra reminded him, “And while you worry about me getting hurt by Ka’van, Sienna and I worry just as much about you. Like I said, you can’t fool me Jax…….I know Risha is your mate. Question is, does she?”

 

“No,” Jax shook his head, his fingers running through his mane again.

 

“I’ve seen the two of you together and she cares about you a great deal,” Syarra told him, certain she was as much in love with her brother as he was with her. “She needs to know, Jax.”

 

“It’s complicated,” Jax told her, his voice thick as he went on. “She made it perfectly clear that she intended to pursue her birthright…..her future is with Dubrillian, not me. I’m the one who agreed to our current relationship of keeping things casual for whatever time we have, knowing how I felt.”

 

“You knew she was your mate at that point?”

 

“I suspected, but looking back now, I’m pretty sure it was too late to stop the bond from forming at that point.”

 

“You can’t keep it in forever.”

 

“I know, but it’s not fair to put that burden on her after I agreed to keep things on a casual level.”

 

“Why did you even agree to that?”

 

“I dunno…...just wanted whatever I could get and thought I could handle it.”

 

“But?”

 

“But I’m not so sure now.”

 

“That’s why you need to talk to her,” Syarra insisted, her heart aching for her brother who’d already suffered through the loss of a potential mate.

 

“I will…...just not right now,” Jax promised. “I’ve got enough on my plate to worry about without adding my love list to it.”

 

“There’s something else bothering you,” Syarra frowned, “Talk to me.”

 

“Last time I was at Port Nowhere, there were some rumors going around about the Hutts and not the good kind,” Jax told her.

 

Syarra snorted, “Are there any good rumors about the Hutt Cartel?”

 

“Not usually, but the murmurings that got back to me had me concerned.”

 

“Definitely not good,” Syarra’s brow furrowed, her littermate wasn’t one to go off half cocked, especially over random chitchat. Then she remembered something, “Wasn’t Natasha looking into some rumors with Agent Balkar about the Cartel a few months back? If I recall right, it was supposed to be her first ‘official’ assignment.”

 

“She was,” Jax nodded, “Her and Balkar even paid me a visit to see if I’d heard anything about the Cartel having a secret mining operation somewhere in Hutt space. I told them I hadn’t and would keep an ear open, but the last I’d heard they hadn’t found any proof……..kark me! Are you thinking the same thing as I am?”

 

“These rumors could be related to what Nat and Jonas were looking into,” Syarra agreed, “This isn’t good at all, Jax. If it was enough to have the SIS investigating, this is serious. What were these murmurings that got your attention?”

 

“That’s putting it mildly, sis,” Jax warned, his expression grave, “One night I was staying late, uncrating a large shipment of liquor that came in that evening. I’d just finished up and was enjoying a beer at the bar when I heard a some guys talking in one of the corner tables…….one of them was grumbling about being stranded on the Port, but another one started going off about some spacer that overheard something he wasn’t supposed to and disappeared. A different guy laughed it off, saying the captain just decided to ditch his crew and came up with this story. This pissed off the other two and worried they were going to start a fight, I shifted in my seat to get a visual on the group. They didn’t notice me at first, just kept arguing, but one of them, probably not even in his twenties yet, was freaked out and kept insisting his captain was dead. He claimed his captain had proof of what he’d overheard. Curious, I kept listening and a moment later, this kid dropped a real bombshell.”

 

“What did this spacer overhear?”

 

“That the Cartel was quietly taking over Makeb.”

 

“The resort planet? Why?”

 

“That I don’t know, but the Hutts wouldn’t do something like that without a purpose,” Jax pointed out. “Odd rumors are always going around about some gang planning a takeover or a pirate crew planning a raid on the Republic or Empire, but usually it’s some drunken idiot trying to draw attention to himself or get in good with some interested party, but I saw that kid’s face…..he wasn’t telling stories. Something had him scared so I decided to have a chat with the group and find out who this captain was. Two of the guys took off, saying the kid was just being spooked by nothing more than a crooked spacer who decided to kark over his crew. I bought the kid and his buddy a round of drinks, then had them tell me the whole story as well as the name of his captain. The way I saw it…..either this spacer was a real bastard that was I was about to blacklist or he stumbled across something that could have some serious repercussions. They didn’t have much for me to go on because apparently they’d both come down with flu and had to spend a couple days in the Port’s med center. Their captain was on a tight schedule, so he left to go get their next shipment, saying he’d swing by Port Nowhere to pick them up on the way to delivering the cargo.”

 

“I’m assuming you got a name, so did you talk the spacer?”

 

“That’s the part that got me concerned,” Jax replied. “I knew this freighter captain…...Jamison. He was a solid guy.”

 

“Was?”

 

“He’s gone…..disappeared without a trace. He landed on Hutta to pick up the shipment, oversaw his crew loading it, then let them have an hour at the cantina while he went into the warehouse to sign the docket. The crew returned to the freighter, but their captain never did. One of them went to the warehouse, but the manager said Jamison never showed up.”

 

“Could he have just decided to abandon ship so to speak? Like those other guys thought, he just karked over his crew…..”

 

“I’ve talked with the guy a few times and I can’t see him doing that. Even if Jamison did decide he wanted out of the business, that ship was valuable and he could’ve gotten enough credits from selling it to buy a decent place on almost any planet. There’s no way he would’ve ditched it. Plus no one would want to sneak off to start a new life on Hutta…...that planet is a real sh*thole.”

 

“If Jamison disappeared before you could talk to him, how did you find out all this?”

 

“Another one of his crew is a regular in the cantina on Port Nowhere and I had my people keeping an eye out for him, but in the end, he approached me a couple days later. He and the rest of Jamison’s crew left Hutta in the freighter to continue on with the delivery, but decided to pick up the two still at the Port. He found the kid in one of the shops and after talking to him, had a bad feeling that really was the reason Jamison disappeared so he came to me.”

 

“Were you able to trace these rumors about the Hutts and Makeb?”

 

“I couldn’t find a concrete source, but I had enough put out some discrete feelers in the right places and one of them finally got a hit.”

 

“That call you were on when I came in….”

 

“Was my contact,” he nodded. “He’s here on Nar Shaddaa and wants to meet up with me in the Nikto sector…..said he has a very reliable source that can confirm the rumors. I was actually thinking of getting Ka’van to come with me since Dek, Torian, and Corso are not around…..actually I would’ve preferred him to the others, but after the way he left....”

 

“You mean when you pissed him off,” Syarra snorted.

 

“Nah, it wasn’t just that,” Jax shook his head, feeling bad about how he’d snapped at his friend after promising his sister he’d lighten up on that. “He seemed a little odd……can’t really put my finger on it though. Anyways, I don’t think he’ll answer if I call him right now…..he didn’t answer when I tried to com him an hour ago.”

 

“Guilt eating at you?”

 

“A little…..wasn’t Ka’van’s fault I was in a bad mood. I think I’ll feel a lot better after meeting with this contact and getting some real answers…..if the source is legit.”

 

“If you need backup, I’m happy to help,” Syarra offered.

 

“It’s not just backup I’m looking for,” Jax sighed, “I was hoping to get a read on this guy, make sure he’s on the level with me. Ka’van is pretty good for that and he knows how to blend in with the regulars.”

 

“Well I was a soldier before becoming a Jedi, so I’m perfectly capable of blending in,” Syarra grinned, “and I may not be as good at the mind stuff as Ka’van is, but as long as this contact of yours isn’t a Force user, I can get a read on him without his knowing about it. Plus if things go south, I can handle myself in a fight.”

 

“Trust me, I’m well aware of that,” Jax nodded, knowing that Syarra was deadly in combat. “And after what happened with Jamison, there’s definitely a chance there could be trouble.”

 

“Then I won’t wear my party dress.”

 

“Probably for the best,” Jax grinned, “Think you can be ready to go in half an hour?”

 

“Sure.”

 

Edited June 1, 2016 by alaurin

[alaurin]

Finally found the time to finish this next part, so picking up where I left off in the last post.......

 

Chapter 14, pt. 2

 

 

“Just once,” Jax grumbled, clutching his bleeding side as he fired his blaster at the group pursuing them, “Just one karking time I’d like to not be shot, stabbed, or blown up. Is that so much to ask?!”

 

“In your choice of careers……yes,” Syarra gritted as the golden blade of her lightsaber sank into another Cartel goon, her main focus on keeping a force shield over the three of them as they fought their way out of the warehouse.

 

“I’m so sorry,” the young woman murmured, her face pale with shock as she fired alongside the tall grey Cathar. “I have no idea how they found me.”

 

“I’m guessing you have a tracker on you somewhere,” Jax told her, “and we’ll need to deal with that before we take you off planet.”

 

“I don’t think we should take Tamara back to the sky palace until it’s gone,” Syarra advised.

 

“I don’t plan to,” Jax agreed, swearing as two more thugs appeared to block their exit.

 

Not for the first time, Jax wished he’d been able to find more backup but he had no idea things would get this bad. Unfortunately Dek was still away enjoying time alone with his new wife and getting to know his mother’s clan. Torian had gone off on a hunt with some old Mando friends, Gault was off doing void knows what, but whatever it was probably was less than legal. Blizz had accompanied Dek and Mako, the little Jawa having grown attached to his boss. Bowdaar, Akaavi, and Guss were staying at the Port…..the latter practicing medicine in what served as a med center and even Jax had to admit the Mon Cal found a credit making niche. Pirates, gang members, spacers, and mercs preferred medics that didn’t ask many questions. Even Corso was taking advantage of the downtime, having decided to make contact with his cousin back on Coruscant again. Jax felt for the Mantallian, but he understood what was driving Corso……Rona was his last living relative. He just hoped she’d have the decency to refrain from drawing her gullible cousin into yet another scheme. At Syarra’s urging, he’d tried to call Ka’van again, but his Jedi buddy wasn’t answering so he and his littermate set off together to check out this contact, Risha staying behind in case they needed to make a hasty exit in the Lucky Fool.

 

Jax swore again as he felt a bolt pierce Syarra’s shield to graze his arm, then quickly grasped Tamara’s hand, pulling her to his chest as he bent over to shield her from the volley of bolts aimed at them. Syarra threw out her lightsaber, the deadly blade going straight for the enemy and felling three of the four with one arc. Jax took care of the last one with a single shot.

 

“Well I hope you have a plan,” Syarra growled, catching her lightsaber on its return just as three more goons appeared.

 

“I always have a plan,” Jax chuckled coldly as he held up a small cylinder, the tips of his fangs appearing as his mouth curved in a feral smirk.

 

“The insurance policy,” Syarra’s eyes rolled skyward before meeting his, “So what’s in the backpack you ditched?”

 

“A kilo of detonite……and it’s sitting on a crate full of grenades.”

 

“That’ll definitely level the place,” Syarra nodded, “Hit the switch as soon as we get to the door……I’ll keep us shielded through the blast.”

 

~*~*~*~*~

 

“I talked to Natasha,” Risha informed the trio as they climbed into the cargo transport. “So….where am I going?”

 

“Just drive around until we can deal with this tracker,” Jax instructed.

 

“What did Nat say?” Syarra asked as Risha maneuvered the vehicle into the flow of traffic.

 

“She wants us to bring Tamara to Coruscant, but said to com her when I picked you guys up……she’s working on a plan to deal with that tracker.”

 

“I’ll call her,” Syarra volunteered, “You need to keep pressure on that wound Jax…..there’s quite a bit of blood.”

 

“Here, let me,” Tamara offered, grabbing a kolto pack out of the first aid kit Risha had brought and applying copious amounts to the gash on the Cathar’s side. “I was studying to become a medic when I received Uncle Jamison’s message. I’d just finished finals when the Cartel showed up.”

 

“Hey guys,” the brown furred Cathar greeted them when her image popped up. “I heard you found trouble again Jax.”

 

“More like it found us,” he snorted, wincing when Tamera started probing at the deeper part of his wound.

 

“It’s my fault,” Tamera sighed and for the first time, Jax got a really good look at her face, her pale pallor making the freckles across the bridge of her nose stand out even more than he suspected was usual. Combined with the dark circles under her eyes, it told him the young woman hadn’t been sleeping much lately. "I should’ve known they’d find me again…..no matter where I go, those men keep popping up not long after. It’s been like that for the past couple of weeks.”

 

“Risha told me Jax suspects you have a tracker on you,” Natasha replied, “And judging from what you just said, he’s probably right. Luckily Roland and I came up with something that should work……did you grab a slicing kit, Rish?”

 

“I did,” she answered, taking a hand off the wheel to grab the backpack off the front passenger seat and toss it back to the others. “It’s in there.”

 

“Found it,” Syarra announced.

 

“Good,” Roland’s voice called out as his image appeared alongside Natasha’s. “There should be tech scanner and a magnetic spike in there. Get them both out, but don’t activate the spike yet.”

 

“Got them.”

 

“Now we’re working on the good assumption that they’re using a transmitter capsule, which are typically injected just under the skin,” Natasha informed them, then looked at Tamera, “Have you been to a med center for any reason lately?”

 

“Actually, I have……some guy tried to mug me on the way home from class. It was weird because campus security is pretty tight, especially during finals when the stress can make people a bit crazy towards the end. I guess that’s why the guy bolted when I started yelling……he didn’t even try to snatch anything.”

 

“But he injured you,” Natasha surmised.

 

“He shoved me pretty hard when he took off, and I fell onto the duracrete. I was dazed for a few minutes and the next thing I remember was my friend helping me up…..but I couldn’t walk because I twisted my ankle. She took me to the campus med center.”

 

“I’m willing to bet they had a plant there or paid someone off,” Natasha nodded, “Was the medic someone you knew?”

 

“Yes. I didn’t know him well, but I’d seen him in passing quite a bit. Kinda quiet……he was a couple years ahead of me in the medical program and was assigned to the clinic that day.”

 

“Was he acting strange at all?”

 

“Now that you mention it, he seemed like he’d been waiting for me, but I was a little woozy from hitting my head. He took me into an exam room, ran some scans, and told me I had a concussion and a sprained ankle. He told me to take it easy for a few days, asked if I had someone to stay with me that night to wake me periodically, then he gave me an anti-inflammatory injection……”

 

“That’s our spot,” Natasha stopped her. “Show us exactly where he injected you.”

 

Tamera stopped patching Jax up and extended her right leg. She rolled up her pants and turned to point at a spot a few inches up from her ankle, “Right about here……high enough for the meds to circulate properly….”

 

“And for it to be harder to spot a tracker,” Syarra guessed.

 

“Run the scanner around that area,” Natasha instructed, “I doubt it shifted much.”

 

“Here it is,” Syarra announced a moment later when the scanner beeped. “It’s in her calf.”

 

“How are we going to get that out?!” Jax frowned, “I mean we can’t exactly take her to a med center and the back of my cargo transport isn’t exactly a great spot to cut into someone……sorry Tamera, didn’t mean to just blurt it out like that….”

 

“It’s alright, I’m studying to be a medic so that doesn’t really bother me much. Not that I’m looking forward to it either….”

 

“That’s where the spike comes in,” Roland interrupted. “You shouldn’t have to cut into her. Most tracker capsules are a standard plastoid-aluminum mix and since it moved significantly, we know it’s a capsule and not a chip, which are implanted and don’t move from their spot. Turn the spike on, and program it for aluminum, then start running it along that spot. Tamera, you’re going to feel a little series of shocks…..kinda like when you have a lot of static built up and touch something. That’s the electro magnatic field disrupting that tracker……it’s not strong enough to kill it, but it will temporarily shut it down until the spike is turned off. Then it has to reboot before it starts transmitting again.”

 

“Oh…..yes, I felt that,” Tamera nodded as Syarra held the spike to her calf.

 

“Okay Syarra, keep moving the spike back and forth over that spot……you’re going to work that capsule to the surface. Tamera, you’re going to feel it moving and it shouldn’t really hurt, but probably won’t be the most pleasant sensation.”

 

“It’s alright,” she grimaced.

 

“As soon as you can see it just under her skin, just make a small cut and pull it out…..shouldn’t be anything worse that getting an ordinary cut on your leg.”

 

A few minutes later, Syarra had the capsule in her hand and Tamera was putting a small kolto bandage on the back of her leg.

 

“Hand it to me and I’ll smash that sucker,” Jax suggested, grabbing one of his blasters.

 

“Actually, I have a better idea,” Syarra grinned, “Maybe keep those goons busy for a little while so we can get Tamera off Nar Shaddaa without them noticing.”

 

“That would be for the best if you can pull it off,” Natasha agreed, “What do you have in mind?”

 

"Just a little drop off," Syarra answered vaguely, “Risha........head for Club Vertica.”

 

~*~*~*~*~*~

 

“You sure this is a good idea?” Jax questioned as his littermate climbed out of the cargo transport, Tamera right behind her.

 

“We’ll be fine, trust me,” Syarra assured her brother, then turned to the driver, “Just circle around and pick us up back here.”

 

“You have five minutes once that tracker is taken away from the spike,” Roland reminded them over the comlink.

 

“That’s plenty of time,” Syarra nodded, then turned to the young Human. “There should be several security cameras around the entrance, start walking towards the stairs and make a show of looking around before pulling your hood up……I want them to see you entering the casino.”

 

“Okay,” Tamera acknowledged, her face still pale.

 

“I promise you’ll be safe,” Syarra reassured her, “I’ll be a ways behind you but close enough in case. Now go…..head for the main staircase and go up. You’ll go through a hallway, then there will be a bank of slot machines to your right. Go around them and you should see a set of public refreshers. Go in and wait for me there. Got all that?”

 

“Got it,” Tamera nodded, wondering how the Jedi knew the casino so well.

 

A few minutes later, Tamera was waiting on the bench near the sinks when the statuesque yellow Cathar entered the refresher, locking the door behind her.

 

“It’s alright,” she tapped her temple, “I already knew you were alone in here. Now let’s see……ah, here we go,” she held up a bar of soap triumphantly, “This will do nicely. Hand over that tracker.”

 

“You really think this’ll work?” Tamera asked as she dropped the little capsule into Syarra’s hand.

 

“It’ll buy some time at least,” Syarra replied as she extended a claw and proceeded to dig a hole in the bar of soap. When the hole was big enough, she stuck the capsule in and covered it up with the shavings she’d removed, squeezing the bar firmly with both hands to seal it. Then she tossed the bar into the trash.

 

“We’re almost at the five minute mark,” Tamera warned.

 

“That’s fine, we’re done in here,” she smiled, “Now comes the hard part…..getting you out of here without being seen. Since we don’t have a stealth generator, I’m going to use the Force to manipulate the aura around you……basically I’m going to be a stealth generator for you.”

 

“Wow,” Tamera’s brown eyes widened, “You can really do that?!”

 

“Not that well I’m afraid, so we’ll have to move quickly and I need physical contact with you…..but it can’t look like I’m holding a hand or anything like that.”

 

“Can you roll up your sleeves a little?” Tamera suggested, “That way I can hold onto your wrist or forearm.”

 

“That’ll work,” Syarra replied, quickly rolling up her sleeve so Tamara could grab onto her furred arm. “Okay, you need to hang on and keep up……it’s going to take a lot of effort to maintain this illusion once I get it in place.”

 

~*~*~*~*~*~

 

“There’s Syarra,” Jax pointed and Risha pulled out of the traffic lane to head towards the landing pad. “Wait…..where’s Tamera?”

 

“Hurry Risha, get us out of here fast,” Syarra ordered breathlessly as she climbed into the vehicle.

 

“But what about Tamera?!”

 

“Trust me, just drive!”

 

“I’m here,” Tamera’s voice whispered and as soon as Risha eased back into the line of traffic, Syarra retracted the Force manipulation and she appeared in the seat next to the visibly exhausted Jedi.

 

“Did you ditch it?” Jax asked, frowning at how tired his littermate looked. He’d seen Ka’van push himself to that point more than once and it wasn’t pretty.

 

“We did,” Tamera answered as Syarra closed her eyes. “Syarra hid it inside a bar of soap, then threw it in the trash.”

 

“That should make those men think she’s hiding out in the fresher,” Syarra murmured, “Should buy us some time……even more if maintenance empties the trash bin.”

 

“Clever idea,” Risha acknowledged.

 

Syarra smiled weakly, “I saw it in a movie once.”

 

“Still, I’ll feel a whole lot better when we’re off the planet,” Jax sighed.

 

“The Lucky Fool should be fueled by the time we get back to the Sky Palace,” Risha told them, “And I told EnSeven we were heading back to Coruscant to meet up with Zev and Elara. He should have a suitcase packed for us Jax.”

 

“It’ll only take me a few minutes to get some stuff together,” Syarra told them. “If anyone asks, I’ll just say I had unexpected business on Tython and that I decided to get a ride with you since you were leaving.”

 

“What about Ka’van?”

 

“I’ll try him again after we takeoff. If he doesn’t answer, I’ll leave a message letting him know something came up and we went to Coruscant.”

 

 

~*~*~*~*~*~

 

“So, now that we’re safe, maybe you can fill us in on everything since we really didn’t get to talk much before those Cartel goons showed up at the warehouse,” Jax prompted when he entered the rec room after he’d navigated the Lucky Fool into the hyperlane and set the freighter on autopilot.

 

“I’m sorry…..didn’t even think about that,” Tamera sighed, “but since I barely got to introduce myself, I suppose I should start at the beginning.”

 

She went on to explain how she received a package from her Uncle Jamison, who happened to be her only living relative and is the one paying for her schooling. If not for him, she’d have to go into the military to become a medic. She often gets care packages from him, things like her favorite candy, little surprises, and credits, so she assumed that package was a care package to get her through finals week. Wanting something to look forward at the end of that stressful week, she decided to save it for when she was finished with her tests. However, her last day of finals was when she was mugged and she didn’t remember the package until the next day. After her friend left, she opened it and found a datapad with a note in her uncle’s handwriting. It was instructions saying if she didn’t hear from by the end of the week, she needed to take the datapad to a freighter Captain named Jaxzin Roark, who primarily resides on Port Nowhere or Nar Shaddaa.

 

Tamera wasn’t sure what she should do at that point, so she decided to see what was on the datapad and discovered a video recording. It was fuzzy, but there were two men talking about the Cartel mining operations on Makeb and how it was key to the Hutts waging war on the Republic and Empire. Scared, she stopped the video and hid the datapad in her backpack with her uncle’s note. She decided to go out and get some air, put on her backpack, hobbled out the door on her crutches. She went to the campus market place and sat at one fo the cafés there for a little while. She knew her uncle wouldn’t involve her unless he had no choice and she began to fear for his life. That’s when she decided to pack a bag and seek out Captain Roark. When she got back to her apartment, it had been trashed and she had a bad feeling what the perp was looking for.

 

“I’ve been on the run ever since,” Tamera finished.

 

“Well you’re safe now,” Syarra assured her, “and I have no doubt that our cousin and her boss will do whatever it takes to keep you that way. For now you can relax and maybe get some rest.”

 

“You look like you could use some as well, sis,” Jax pointed out.

 

“I do, but first I think I’m going to shut myself in your quarters and meditate for a bit. Between that fight in the warehouse and manipulating the aura around Tamera, I need to recharge,” then her mouth twitched in a smirk, “some food would be good too…...as long as you’re not cooking it.”

 

“I’ll have SeeTwo get on that,” Jax grinned. “I’m heading back to the cockpit as soon as I give Corso a call and fill him in on what’s happening. I think I’ll have him scout the spaceport before we land.”

 

“Probably a good idea and to be on the safe side, Tamera can wear my outer robe,” Syarra offered as she turned towards the young woman. “It’ll be a little long, but you can belt it to compensate and the hood should cover most of your face. Anyone who recognizes me will assume it’s probably Kira with me.”

 

“Good thinking,” Risha acknowledged as the Jedi turned to leave, then she beckoned to Tamera. “I’ll show you where the crew quarters are if you’d like to get some sleep.”

 

Syarra tried Ka’van again as soon as she got to Jax’s room, but he doesn’t answer so she left a message just as her littermate entered his quarters. Jax saw the scowl on her face as she tossed the comlink on the bed.

 

“I came to let you know SeeTwo is fixing up some snack food in the galley. So…..bad news?” he asked, nodding at the discarded device. His gut told him she’d been trying to reach Ka’van again.

 

“No news,” she sighed, then her eyes narrowed at him. “You mentioned Ka’van was acting strange when you saw him….”

 

“Sort of…...it was odd because he never even looked at me really,” Jax elaborated, “I was actually coming up the stairs when I saw him leaving your room. He had his hood over his head and seemed to be in a hurry…...almost like he was sneaking out.” He looked sheepish as he went on, “I’ll admit that pissed me off a little and I called him out on it. That’s when he seemed a little off to me…...like something was bothering him. He didn’t turn around, just muttered something I couldn’t quite catch and left without another word…...took off like a bat outta hell.”

 

“Maybe something going on with his family?” Syarra mused, puzzled at that behavior.

 

“I don’t know,” Jax shook his head, “But whatever it is, he definitely wasn’t acting like himself.”

 

“Well I left a message when he didn’t answer this time,” Syarra replied, “Hopefully he’s alright and one of us will hear from him soon.”

 

“I hope so,” Jax agreed, silently giving a prayer to the Gods that whatever was bugging the ginger didn’t spell heartbreak for his littermate, because despite her insistence to the contrary, Jax was certain Syarra was becoming emotionally involved.

 

 

Author's Note:

 

Syarra wasn't the only one who got that clever idea from a movie......bonus points to anyone who knows where I got the bathroom bait and switch from. I'll give you a hint, it was in book form first.

 

Edited June 2, 2016 by alaurin

[Kitar]

Evening everyone. Hope you are still enjoying the story.

 

Here is the next part It is a bit on the short side though.

 

CHAPTER 15

 

 

 

 

DXUN

 

“You going to tell me what is going on?” Kiernan muttered as he stared at his Vod out of the corner of his eye. The copper haired Human gave an abrupt jerk of his head before looking away.

 

Kiernan sighed shaking his head, somehow he wasn't surprised. Grabbing the leatheris strap of his birgaan he started down the narrow, vegetation choked path towards the campground. He felt his Vod slip in behind him, nearly silently following him down the trail. “Think you owe me an explanation,” Kiernan muttered softly.

 

Behind him Ka'van took a deep breath. Moments passed and still he didn't speak. Kiernan adjusted the strap pretending to watch the ground dip and slip around the thick foliage.

 

“It is nothing,” Ka'van's voice trailed off into a heavy sigh.

 

Kiernan stopped his head from shaking, he knew his Vod's eyes were watching him, closely. “Good, if it is naas, then tell.” He reached out a light blue armored hand, pushing aside a thick branch, ducking around an even larger vine covered tree limb, he stopped before their slightly over grown camp.

 

Kiernan ducked his head, hiding the growing smirk behind the curtain of jet black hair framing his face. The annoyed anger rolling off his Vod was beyond humorous; though he didn't care if the Human was mad or annoyed. He wanted answers.

 

Walking through the brush towards the dormant firepit he nudged the small pile of kindling. Frowning he shook his head, armored finger tips pushing his long locks down his back. He was going to have to replenish the supply; it caused him to briefly wonder why the camp had been left in such a state. The wood should have been restocked and the constantly encroaching vegetation culled back and burned. Well that would give his stubborn Vod something to do. Kiernan grinned as he dropped his birgaan onto a thick tree stump.

 

“So,” Kiernan turned to look at Ka'van. The Human was standing behind him setting his bag down onto another moss covered stump. “This naas spill it.”

 

Ka'van shook his head.

 

“Well, then you get to restock the firewood.”

 

Ka'van sighed, “You serious?”

 

“'lek. Go on get some. Least you can do, waking me up in the middle of the night, causing me to lie to Buir.”

 

Ka'van noticeably flinched, blue eyes looked at him briefly before closing. He nodded, “Fine.” His Vod's eyes opened, “Am I going to have to wear armor?”

 

“Out here? Are you joking?” Kiernan shook his head, “Want another broken arm? This place has things with even larger teeth. That will make for a rough day, getting eaten by that zakkeg.”

 

“Zakkeg?” Ka'van questioned brow bunching as he shot Keirnan a confused look.

 

“'lek the one the Bryces found, took up residence couple clicks north north-west from here.”

 

Ka'van sighed as his black rode slipped off his shoulders.

 

“Do you even have your beskar'gam?” Kiernan muttered. “This was your idea after all.”

 

“'lek,” Ka'van sighed. “I do, spare set in my bunk.” He folded his robe over his arm before he set it on his bag. Grumbling under his breath, the Human bent at the waist pushing off his black slacks. Snatching them he wadded them up into a ball dropping them with rather unnecessary force on top of his robe. Pushing the clothing aside he yanked at his bag, scowling as his clothing slid onto the jungle floor.

 

Kiernan bit his lip as his tattooed brow lifted, watching his normally composed Vod yank open the bag and pull out dark clothing. As the Human bent over, scabbed over claw marks on his thigh became visible. Four evenly spaced claw marks. Kiernan's brow lifted even higher as he stared. “Is that why you are so… unsettled?”

 

Ka'van jumped, his hand flying to his thigh.

 

Kiernan smirked as a deep chuckle escaped his lips. Apparently that naas was more entertaining than he thought. “So,” Kiernan tilted his head studying the distinctive marks through is Vod's splayed fingertips, “get caught up in a lover's quarrel?”

 

Ka'van refused to look at him and simply shook his head, staring at the ground.

 

Kiernan's fiery-ringed emerald eyes narrowed. He reached out, subtly probing through the Force. Aside from the poorly veiled frustration and anger radiating off of him, Ka'van was strangely blocked off. Kiernan frowned. Taking a deep breath in through his nose he closed his eyes. Slowly letting the breath out through parted lips he pushed further, feeling a soundly constructed wall. Keeping his face neutral he opened his eyes, all walls had cracks, he had this entire trip to find them. Probing eyes returned to his Vod's leg.

 

“Are you sure? Perhaps that feisty Jetii you run with, found you in bed with one of your many other lovers. Was bound to happen, you have way to many of them.”

 

“No,” Ka'van snarled, “that is not what happened.” Golden light erupted between the Human's fingers and traveled along the scabbed over scratches, as the light faded so did any evidence of their existence.

 

Kiernan watched the unexpected response and his mouth quirked. Apparently he was treading around the truth. Straightening he slid his fingers through his thigh length locks. Quickly he worked them into a loose braid; as he watched Ka'van disappear into the nearby building. His head shook when he looked at the stump, there still haphazardly sitting was his Vod's discarded clothing and bag. Kiernan briefly chewed on the inside of his cheek, that was out of character too. Even more so than calling him up and telling him he needed to go on a hunt.

 

His eyes scanned the neglected campsite. There were plenty of menial tasks he could guilt his Vod into doing, busy work for his rather out of sorts, discombobulated sibling to do while he mentally sorted out what was bothering him. As to what that something was, Kiernan was confident he would get to the bottom of it. But first he needed to get Ka'van's head on straight. There was no way he was going to take his copper haired Vod out into the jungle in his current state.

 

A chiming ring echoed from the confines of the bag. Kiernan walked over, curious. Quickly he sorted through the hastily packed items, finding the holocom hiding in the bottom. He didn't recognize the com frequency, it appeared to originate from pub space. Brow quirking he silenced the machine sending the unknown caller to the message system.

 

Curious he cycled through the com's recent calls, there had been a few, a couple from the number that had just tried to reach him. Another three from another frequency that appeared to hail from pub space as well as one that he did recognize. The latter had only called once, it was an information broker he had used on several occasions when assisting Clan members who were tracking down a bounty. The broker resided on Nar Shaddaa and knowing his Vod, the call could have been either business or pleasure.

 

Shaking his ivory horned head he glanced over at the unassuming building. Didn't really matter what the broker wanted, what any of them wanted. His Vod desperately needed to get his head straight. Rolling the com over in his head, he briefly considered shorting it out with lightning. It would be quick and easy, guaranteeing that no one could bother him.

 

Kiernan sighed, it would probably really piss Ka'van off though. As amusing as that could be, he really didn't have it in him to deal with it. His thumb moved over the activation switch. Forcefully depressing it, he held it down until it vibrated in his hand, singling that it had been completely deactivated.

 

 

 

 

 

AN

 

 

Mando'a translations

buir = parent

vod = sibling

birgaan = backpack

naas= nothing

'lek = yea

beskar'gam = mandalorian armor made of beskar

 

http://starwars.wikia.com/wiki/Zakkeg/Legends

 

[alaurin]

Sorry for the wait.....I meant to post this part a couple days ago, but then my lovable pooch decided to make nice with a skunk at 4 in the morning Tuesday. Sure enough, doggie got sprayed right in the face and I've been dealing with the aftermath ever since. Things are back to normal now, the dog smells tons better after several baths at home followed by a trip to the groomers yesterday, the house is clean smelling once again, and I got some much needed sleep last night......so I was finally able to focus enough to edit/polish this next part this morning. *sigh* So without further ado.....

 

Chapter 16

 

 

“Ah, Syarra…..so glad you could make it,” the older Cathar beamed in greeting, her smile genuine as she leaned up to kiss Syarra’s cheeks.

 

“Thank you for the invitation, Missus Krasul,” Syarra replied as she entered the lavish apartment. “It’s been a few years since I’ve been here.”

 

“Ondia please,” she insisted, beckoning Syarra to follow her. “We were sorry you couldn’t make it to the dinner party we hosted last year, but plans are already in the works for a ball at our home on Anaxes, so save the date!”

 

“I’ll do my best,” Syarra assured her, hoping she hadn’t made a mistake in accepting the sudden dinner invitation.

 

Neither she nor Jax were surprised when Mrs. Krasul showed up at their family’s posh flat a few days after they arrived on Coruscant. The littermates always contacted their parents whenever one of them was staying in the family flat, especially whenever there would be extra guests…..just as a courtesy in case other family members were due to arrive. With each sibling having their own bedroom, a master bedroom, and two guest rooms, the lavish apartment was spacious with enough rooms to comfortably host several people, but the Roark clan was growing and it was always good to know who was going to be around.

 

Syarra swore she could hear the wheels spinning in her mother’s head over the Holo and was willing to bet that as soon as they’d ended the call, her mother had immediately contacted her best friend Ondia Krasul. Sharon Roark and Ondia Krasul had been trying for the past decade to unite their families and ever since Sienna found her Lifemate a few years ago, Syarra had borne the brunt of it on the Roark end. She’d deterred her mother for a while by citing the Order’s policies against attachments, but unfortunately Sharon Roark wasn’t buying that excuse anymore and had been determined to set her single daughter up with one of the Krasul’s sons for the past several months. Syarra figured her mother would back off after she had Ka’van be her date for their family’s Lifeday ball, but that didn’t happen.

 

“I was sorry to hear your cousin was feeling unwell,” Ondia was saying, a concerned frown on her face as she steered Syarra through the parlor towards the dining room. “It would’ve been nice to see her and Aric again. You know Havoc Squad saved Zorin a couple years ago….”

 

“I remember Mom mentioning that,” Syarra nodded as her azure eyes took in the other occupants, and she found herself also wishing Natasha had been able to come since it appeared she was the only guest at this dinner.

 

Unfortunately Natasha had been spending a lot of quality time in the ‘fresher for the past week and Jax was ready to call a medic until their cousin finally let the cat out of the bag. As it turns out, Natasha and Aric had been busy since their private Lifemate ceremony a few weeks ago and despite having taken precautions, Natasha had conceived during her last cycle. The couple was happy about it though, and other than a rough bout of morning sickness, Natasha was glowing. However, she was under strict orders from her personal medic to take it easy. As soon as Natasha suspected she was expecting, her Mate immediately contacted Elara Dorne since she was one of the few people who knew Natasha Roark was once a Human and even though she was genetically a Cathar now, there was still a concern that complications could arise during the pregnancy. Not wanting to take any chances, especially with how ill Natasha had been since the onset, Elara was keeping a close eye on her patient while she and Zev were on planet and checked in at least once a week.

 

Therefore Natasha had to decline Ondia Krasul’s invitation and Aric understandably didn't want to leave her side, but Syarra was certain her brother had decided to head back to Nar Shaddaa that morning just to put her in a bad spot. At first Syarra had been sorely tempted to turn down the invitation as well, then suddenly she wanted to go, knowing full well she would likely find herself being paired off with one of the sons…….likely Riv since she was pretty sure Valdon was off planet. Then she changed her mind, mostly because she didn’t want to piss her mother off by refusing the invitation when neither Jax nor Natasha could go, but a small part of her wanted to be with another man……..just to prove to her littermate that she too was perfectly capable of changing bed partners. Maybe then Jax would stop worrying that she was going to get hurt by Ka’van. They were friends. They had sex. That’s all it was between them. Nothing more and that was fine. Ka’van slept with other people and so could she anytime she wanted…….and she fully intended to if the opportunity arose this evening. Riv Krasul may be too serious for her tastes and had a tendency to bore her a little, but judging from the heated look in those jade eyes as they traveled down her body, he was definitely interested in more than polite small talk this evening.

 

~*~*~*~*~*~

 

“You didn’t have to escort me home,” Syarra smiled at the tall brown Cathar as they left the Krasul apartment.

 

“Right,” Riv chuckled, returning her smile as he offered her his arm. “Honestly, it’s better if I do…...this way both of our Moms will be happy that we put in an effort and maybe mine will at least stop dropping hints for a week or two.”

 

“Oh stars,” Syarra giggled as she hooked her hand around his thick bicep, pleased that despite her own height and the fact she was wearing heels, she had to incline her head a bit to look into those jade eyes. As tall as his father, but not quite as broad, he cut an impressive figure and an attractive one to boot. “Your mom does that too?! I swear anytime I’m at our flat here at the same time as Mom, she feels the need to bring up your family in conversation and always mentions that you and your brother are still enjoying the single life.”

 

“Despite me repeatedly telling her that I am nowhere near ready to find a Mate right now, my mom never fails to let me know whenever you are on planet at the same as I am and that a beautiful young woman doesn’t stay single long,” Riv sighed, then his eyes smoldered as they met hers, “She’s right though, you are a beautiful woman…...and I don’t think I’ve met a Jedi that wasn’t wearing robes of some sort.”

 

“I’m not like most Jedi. It’s probably because I joined the Order so late, but I fail to see the need to constantly dress in robes and armor and unless I’m on official Order business, I wear what I like,” Syarra’s smile broadened as she stepped back and gave a twirl, the fabric flaring out with her movements, “And I really like this dress.”

 

“So do I,” Riv admitted, appreciating the pink shimmersilk that clung to her curves nicely and how much of those long legs were on display as she moved. He cleared his throat a little as he loosened the collar of his shirt, “So…..what about you?”

 

“What about me?”

 

“What do you do about your Mom…..err both our Moms trying to push us together?”

 

Syarra sighed as she fell into step beside him again, “Well the whole ‘Order frowns on attachments’ thing worked for a while, but then Mom realized I didn’t actually care about the Order’s views on relationships and family. I keep telling her that I have no interest finding a Mate at this point because I am simply too busy. I’m at the Council’s beck and call and spend most of my time travelling all over the galaxy…...not exactly good for a relationship.”

 

“Same here,” Riv nodded as they walked along the park. “While I’m not travelling the galaxy like you, I’m still working my way up the political ladder…..which leaves little time for much else. It was a fluke that I happened to be on Coruscant this week…..my boss was supposed to attend the committee meetings, but was in a minor accident a few days before he was supposed to leave. His colleagues decided it was best to send me since I am being groomed to take over my father’s role when he eventually resigns.”

 

“Good,” Syarra replied genuinely, “We need people like you and your father in the Senate…...seems like more and more are less than trustworthy lately.”

 

“I only met Edwin Bradley a couple times, but something about him always set my fur on edge,” Riv admitted. “Dad never trusted him, but we were all shocked when the truth came out.”

 

“I knew he was covering up for his son, but even I was surprised by everything he’d done to accomplish that.”

 

“I hope he never comes out from whatever hole he crawled under,” Riv growled darkly, then gave her a sheepish look, “Sorry…..probably shouldn’t have said that. It’s just politicians like him make it so much harder for the rest of us.”

 

“Nothing to be sorry about,” Syarra told him, marvelling at how different he was that evening. At every social function she’d ever seen him at, all he seemed to talk about was politics, laws being passed or repealed, and the Republic economy. Syarra kept up with what was going on in the galaxy, but not to that extent and certainly didn’t want to discuss it during a party. This evening she was seeing a whole other side to Riv Krasul and she found herself liking this relaxed version. “As for Bradley……” she shrugged, well aware of the former Senator’s fate, but few people were, “I doubt he will ever surface where anyone could recognize him…...and even if he did, there isn’t much he can do without any credits.”

 

“You’ve got a good point,” Riv nodded, “I felt bad for your brother though…..had to deal with Bradley’s mess, then found out Dodonna was a traitor as well. Stars your family must be pretty leery of politicians right now.”

 

“Nah…...well Jax was for a bit, but we know there are plenty of honorable people like your Dad in the Senate,” Syarra assured him as they approached her building. “So, when do you return to Anaxes?”

 

“In the morning,” Riv sighed, “I have to catch the four a-m shuttle to Carrick to be on time for the transport flight.”

 

“That’s no fun,” Syarra grinned.

 

“Tell me about it, but I didn’t feel like getting a room on the station and it was nice having dinner this evening.”

 

“I had a nice time as well,” Syarra admitted, feeling her body heat up a little as she noticed for the hundredth time how well Riv wore a suit. “Thanks again for seeing me home Riv.”

 

“A moonlit stroll through the park with a lovely woman…...it was my pleasure.”

 

“Mine as well,” Syarra replied as she stepped into the elevator, part of her wishing the evening wasn’t over. Then it hit her, it didn’t have to be…….she’d gotten complacent with just seeking Ka’van out whenever she was ‘in the mood.’ I think it’s high time to break myself of that habit, she decided, a slow smile spreading across her face as she let her gaze travel over her sexy date, because I am definitely in the mood right now.

 

“You know,” she purred, placing a hand over the door to stop it from closing as Riv turned to leave, “Just because neither of us isn’t looking for something permanent, doesn’t mean we can’t have a little fun together…..”

 

“I’m so happy to hear you say that,” Riv murmured huskily, those jade eyes smouldering again as he joined her in the elevator. “Because I have been wanting to kiss you ever since I saw you in that dress.”

 

“Just a kiss?” she raised a brow as she closed the distance between them.

 

“No,” he murmured, dipping his head to lightly tease her lips with his, “But it’s a great way to start.” Then he claimed that lush mouth in a much more thorough kiss that sent white hot desire shooting through her and Syarra’s last coherent thought was that no matter what happened between them, she would never again think of Riv Krasul as boring.

 

~*~*~*~*~*~

 

“Well someone had a really good time last night,” Natasha’s snarky voice called out in greeting as Syarra entered the kitchen and made a beeline for the caffa pot.

 

“Dinner at the Krasuls was nice,” she admitted as she grabbed a cup of the fragrant brew, “It’s been a long time since I’d been to their apartment.”

 

“Uh-huh,” Natasha flashed a knowing smirk, “What about the post dinner activities…..were they ‘nice’ too?”

 

“I have no idea what you’re talking about,” Syarra murmured into her caffa mug, avoiding eye contact.

 

“Right,” Natasha rolled her eyes, “And I suppose I was just seeing things when I got up at three a-m to pee and caught Riv Krasul leaving your bedroom.”

 

“F*ck me.”

 

“Pretty sure Riv already took care of that.”

 

 

Author's Note:

 

Found on Wookiepedia: Senator Krasul’s name is Zorin and his wife is Ondia. Their sons are Valdon and Riv. Based on the letter the Trooper gets if you save Senator Krasul on Port Raga, I always thought the Krasul sons were young, so I did age them a bit for this storyline. Also, Senator Krasul represents the planet Anaxes so I am going to assume (yes I know what that does) they have their main residence there and a luxury apartment on Coruscant for when the Senate is in session.

 

[Kitar]

Greetings. Hope everyone is still enjoying the story and their summer.

 

Chapter 17

 

 

 

 

DXUN

 

 

With a grunt beskar'gam dropped to the ground.

 

Kiernan's eyes narrowed as he shot Ka'van a dirty look. A look that was lost on his Vod.

 

Ka'van's head was down hanging nearly between his knees as his elbows rested on his thighs; sweat soaked hair clinging to his scalp, the bright copper hair a dark brown. Gloved fingers dangled above the unceremoniously dumped helmet. “Sorry,” he muttered, “know better.” He reached down picking up the black helmet, armored fingertips brushed off the mud before gently returning the helm to the ground. “Just tired.”

 

Kiernan snorted, “Never seen you run so fast.”

 

Ka'van shook his head, his sweat soaked locks dripping. “Never had a boma that large chasing me before.” He looked up, grinning. “Have to admit, was fun.”

 

Kiernan laughed, “'lek it was entertaining, watching you flip backwards over his head. Beasty was rather confused.

 

“Elek, until I plunged a saber into the base of his skull.” Ka'van ran his armored fingers over his drenched head. Sighing Ka'van stood, “Where did you hide those ales?”

 

“Nayc don't think you deserve one, challenge was to hunt with blasters. Last I checked a saber is not a blaster.”

 

“Meh,” he shrugged, “plasma is plasma. Where are they?” He motioned with his head towards the cabin.

 

Kiernan nodded, “They are.”

 

Ka'van reached down grabbing his helmet as he stood. Without a word he walked away.

 

Kiernan reached up unlatching and removing his helmet, setting it on his armored thigh he watched his Vod wander off in search of the ale. His manner of moving was much more relaxed than when he first got to their aliit's camp. Kiernan shook his head as he watched the black clad form disappear into the building.

 

Moments later the Human's form emerged. He was free from his black beskar'gam and carrying bottles of ale in each hand. Ka'van came to sit next to him, silently offering him a bottle. Kiernan took it twisting off the cap. “Was a good hunt though,” Kiernan quietly spoke around swallows of ale, “when are we going to be able to go on another one?”

 

Ka'van shook his head, “Don't know.”

 

Kiernan leaned back, casually studying his Vod as he drank. “Should be soon, bring Qyzen next time.”

 

“Like him do you?”

 

“'lek, I do he is a good hunter, I enjoy his stories.” He took another drink. “Should bring him home with you. Would be a great addition; he and Lissk are friends.”

 

Ka'van nodded, staring ahead, taking another drink.

 

“When are you going to be coming home? Would be good to have good news to give to Buir. I can tell her when you will be returning,” Kiernan watched as Ka'van visibly flinched before taking another pull off his ale bottle.

 

Ka'van shook his head, “I do not know when.”

 

“Soon then?” Kiernan pressed.

 

“No,” the Human shook his head. “I do not know when.”

 

“Oh,” Kiernan grunted. Taking a long pull off his bottle he shook his head, standing he moved past the copper haired Human. “I will think of something to tell Buir. Not again though, sick of seeing that hopeful look killed when she hears you are not coming.”

 

Kiernan walked into the modest cabin heading to his bunk situated near his Vod's. He heard Ka'van enter behind him. Ignoring him Kiernan bit the inside of his cheek, he was sick of lying for his Vod and disappointing his Buir. Something was bothering Ka'van but finding out would probably mean yet another lie. Suddenly he didn't want to know what had rattled Ka'van so much.

 

Kiernan placed his bottle and helmet on the small table by his bed, before he pulled off his light blue gloves setting them nearby. Reaching up he began to unbuckle his back and chest pieces, setting them on the floor at his feet.

 

Ka'van came to stand behind him. “Hey, you don't have to do that...”

 

“'lek I do,” Kiernan snarled, “been doing it for years. Sick of it.”

 

“I never asked you to do that.”

 

“No? Who else is there to cheer her up?” Kiernan pulled off his greeves and set them next to his beskar'gam on the cabin's floor. He violently gestured towards Ka'van's bed, “Should check up on those damn pubs you care so much about. Probably think you died. Couple had left you messages when I turned it off.”

 

“What? You turned it off! Damn it you don't have the right to do that!”

 

“I don't! What do you mean I don't?” Kiernan rounded on the Human, violet lightning beginning to spark along his shoulders. “I have every damn right. You upend my plans; force me to lie to Buir! Again! The galaxy does not revolve around you, you damn karking Jetii!”

 

Kiernan spun on his foot storming out of the building. Hands clenching into fists as he paced back and forth, he forced deep breaths through parted lips.

 

A loud crack sounded behind him, a broken branch, and he spun on his foot, saber hilt materializing in his left hand as his right filled with lightning. Snorting he returned the saber to his hip when he identified his brother. “What?” Kiernan growled.

 

“I had messages,” Ka'van whispered. “Something is going on. Sounds pretty big.”

 

“Really?” Kiernan sighed, “probably should not have turned it off. I was trying to help.”

 

“It is okay,” Ka'van shook his head. “I will probably be having to leave in a day or two. I do know what you can tell Buir. It is not what she wants to hear but she will find it very interesting.”

 

“What is it?”

 

Ka'van took a deep breath, “Apparently the Hutts are up to no good. I don't have the full story, yet, but apparently they are mining something that will allow them to fight both the Republic and the Empire.”

 

Kiernan snorted “Those hut'unns? Doubt it.”

 

Ka'van shook his head, “If there is a will there is a way, but if this substance they are mining can help the Hutts…

 

“… then Buir should know about it. She will tell the Council.” Kiernan finished.

 

“Exactly, I will com her when I find out the details.” Ka'van sighed. “I do not know what to say about this trip, shouldn't lie for me though.”

 

“I won't, I will tell her about this development, that you will be calling her soon with more details. That will make her happy.” Kiernan turned walking past Ka'van. “I like her happy.”

 

“So do I,” Ka'van sighed under his breath. “So do I.”

 

 

 

 

AN

 

 

Mando'a translations

beskar'gam - mando armor

vod- sibling/brother

'lek - yeah

elek - yes

nayc - no

aliit - clan

buir- parent

Jetii- Jedi

hut'unns - cowards

 

and an info link for the beastie http://starwars.wikia.com/wiki/Boma

 

 

[Lunafox]

I loved the interaction between Kiernan and Ka'van and you do really have a good grasp on the Mandalorian language. I'm looking forward to seeing Ka'van deal with those pesky hutts, and I'm interested to see what will happen in the future with Syarra and the ginger

 

Keep it up, both of you! Great teamwork!

[alaurin]

@Lunafox: Glad you're still enjoying our story!

 

Hopefully there are others enjoying it as well. I will echo my partner's sentiment and hope everyone is having a fun summer!

 

Chapter 18

 

 

The sunlight was streaming streaming through the large window of the study and basking in it’s comforting warmth, the yellow Cathar sat in one of the armchairs, her long legs stretched out on the ottoman. Her eyes were closed and the book she’d been trying to read sat open in her lap. With a sigh, Syarra finally closed the rare volume knowing her mind wasn’t on her favorite old novel. Instead she was contemplating the rather unusual situation she was in.

 

Syarra didn’t know if it was seeing Natasha and Aric together, both excited about the kits growing in her cousin’s still slender body, or the fact she’d slept with another Cathar who could be a potential Mate…...a union their parents had been hoping for these past few years. Perhaps it was a combination of the two, but for the first time ever, Syarra Roark could picture herself settling down with a Mate and having kits of her own and the image didn’t give her the skivvies.

 

It was enough to give her pause however, because she could see herself developing feelings for Riv Krasul. Which was ironic since part of the reason she slept with him was to prove to her pain in the rear littermate Jax, and more importantly herself, that she wasn’t getting attached to Ka’van and that she could just as easily have casual sex. It wasn’t like she’d never had a ‘friends with benefits’ arrangement before…...she and Zevryn Varlok had been sleeping together off and on for while when Syarra was at the Military Academy and even hooked up a couple times after she’d become a Jedi. She’d never felt anything for the handsome Zabrak other than friendship and was fine when he ended up falling hard for Elara Dorne.

 

For some reason, that didn’t happen with Ka’van and for the past few weeks she’d been beginning to wonder if she was developing feelings for her Jedi lover. She hadn’t really worried about it much until Jax hinted at it, but even then Syarra knew it shouldn’t be too big of an issue and Ka’van’s little disappearing act provided the distance she sorely needed to bring things back to the casual level they’d both agreed upon.

 

Deciding to test the waters, Syarra had agreed to go to the Krasul’s dinner a few evenings ago, knowing full well that the main purpose was to get her together with their son Riv. In fact, Syarra welcomed the distraction of another man, but was pleasantly surprised at just how right it had felt between them when she’d invited Riv up after he walked her back to her parents’ flat. Before that, she’d always thought of Riv Krasul as boring…..always talking politics and policy at parties with their parents. Which was understandable given his political future, but it wasn’t Syarra’s forte. However, she’d seen another side to Riv Krasul that evening, one that she liked quite a bit…….and not just for the mind blowing sex they’d had.

 

Now Syarra found herself poised on the precipice of something life changing and she’d been holed up in the Roark flat these past few days, deep in thought. It was one thing for her to develop feelings for Ka’van, a man who had no desire to be tied down. There was no danger of anything serious happening between them, just a risk of hurt on her end if she wasn’t able to nip them in the bud. That was something she preferred to avoid though because it would definitely put a strain on Jax’s friendship with Ka’van.

 

Getting emotionally attached to Riv Krasul was a whole different matter for a multitude of reasons. He’d openly admitted he wasn’t ready to settle down with a Mate, but only because his career demanded too much of his time right now. Based on their conversation that evening, Syarra knew Riv intended to seek a Mate once he was able to focus his attention on something other than politics. She also sensed a connection between them, one that could easily lead to the bond forming if she allowed it to happen…….and that’s what made having feelings for Riv Krasul much more dangerous for both of their hearts. Plus there were several obstacles to overcome if they even got to the point where they wanted a future together and Syarra wasn’t altogether certain she wanted to put either of them through all that. Either way there was definitely potential for heartbreak if things didn't work out and that could have repercussions that extended to their families.

 

One thing was certain, Syarra knew she couldn’t linger on Coruscant much longer. She really needed to return to Nar Shaddaa and contact Ka’van at some point. She felt bad since he’d left his bracelet on her dresser in his hasty retreat a week ago, but she had left him messages in the first couple of days following and he hadn’t had the courtesy to return her calls. She wasn’t even peeved at him anymore, just concerned about what had driven him from her bed in the middle of the night when he’d fully intended to stay with her. But before she left Coruscant, she really wanted to have arrived at some sort of decision about what she wanted…….which brought her back to her dilemma.

 

“Kark me,” Syarra growled in annoyance, sounding more like her grouchy brother than her normal chipper self. She hated feeling so indecisive but didn’t want to rush into anything either. Sienna was always saying she needed to look before she leapt and this time Syarra was wisely heeding her know it all littermate's advice.

 

“Stars you sounded just like Jax!” came a snort from the doorway that caused the Jedi Knight to jump up from her seat.

 

“Gods Nat!” Syarra hissed, glaring at the light brown Cathar whose pretty face currently wore an evil smirk. “You scared the kriff out of me!”

 

“I didn’t mean to,” she shrugged, showing no remorse at all, “Guess you were lost in thought because I really wasn’t trying to sneak up on you.”

 

“I was,” Syarra sighed.

 

“Wanna talk?” Natasha asked when the yellow Cathar looked up.

 

“About?”

 

“About the fact that you’ve been moping around the apartment these past few days,” Natasha replied, her brow furrowed with concern as she sat. “I thought you had fun the other night.”

 

“I haven’t been moping,” Syarra insisted, “and I did enjoy my evening with Riv…...as you are already aware of.”

 

“Hey, Aric and I were the butt of many ‘get a room’ comments those first few days after he found out I was alive,” Natasha reminded her, “and several of them came from you so I owed you a few digs this week.”

 

“Oh that hasn’t bothered me,” Syarra shrugged.

 

“Then why so glum lately? You’ve been strangely quiet, just sitting around here. In fact, I don’t think you’ve even left the apartment since that night and if I didn’t know better, I’d swear you were pining for a man.” Natasha’s sky blue eyes popped open as something occurred to her, “Oh dear…..you are! You’ve got feelings for Riv, don’t you?!”

 

Syarra sighed, shrugging as she finally looked her cousin in the eye, ”Not yet…...but I could see that happening if I let it.”

 

“So? He seems like a nice guy,” Natasha smiled, a twinkle in her eye as she went on, “and you even admitted he was fantastic in the bedroom.”

 

“That he was,” Syarra gave a dreamy sigh as some very fond memories came to surface. While lacking Ka’van’s more adventurous streak, Riv was a Cathar and could do things her Jedi lover couldn’t. Plus she didn’t have to constantly mind her claws with him since their species’ hides were thicker than a Human and they healed quickly.

 

“Then what’s the problem?”

 

“Oh where to start,” Syarra murmured, “Well for one thing, I’m not ready for something permanent and you know full well if Mom found out I was dating Riv Krasul, she and Riv’s mom would start planning the Lifemate Ceremony. They’ve been wanting this for years.”

 

“Dating someone doesn’t mean you’re heading for the alter,” Natasha snorted, glad she’d already had the bond with Aric before becoming part of the Roark family. “Does Riv know how you feel?”

 

“We talked about our moms plotting when he walked me home,” Syarra nodded. “He admitted he wasn’t anywhere near ready for a long term commitment like that either. He’s busy climbing the political ladder and has little time for anything else.”

 

“Then why not start seeing each other casually like you did the other night? You don’t have to put any official labels on it, just spend a little time together whenever you’re both on planet and see where it goes.”

 

“I thought about that, but what happens if the bond starts forming?”

 

“Is that something you think might happen?”

 

“Yes,” Syarra nodded, “After having dinner with the Krasul family and speaking to Riv one on one, I really do like him and can see us being friends in the very least, but after we…….”

 

“Had smoking hot sex the other night,” Natasha finished, a huge grin spreading across her fine furred face.

 

“Yeah,” Syarra grinned back, “Well after that, I can definitely see the bond forming if I let it and I get the feeling it’s the same for him.”

 

“Then let it!” Natasha beamed, “What’s stopping you?”

 

“Riv is going to take his father’s place in the Senate someday,” Syarra sighed, “and I’m really not suited to be a Senator’s wife. I’m a Jedi for karks sake!”

 

“There are Jedi that get married,” Natasha pointed out.

 

“There are, but the Order doesn’t make it easy,” Syarra shook her head, “You have to jump through a lot of hoops to make it happen and I’m not sure I want to go through all that or put Riv through that process. Plus, I’m barely on one planet for more than a week or two at a time….not exactly the best thing for a relationship, let alone if we decide to have kits, which I’m sure he would want at some point.”

 

“Can’t you take a position at the Temple instead of travelling around the galaxy?”

 

“I’m sure I could if I press the Council, but honestly…….I like what I do and don’t want to be stuck on Coruscant all the time teaching younglings or dealing with military relations…..or relations with the Senate, which is what the Council would probably expect if I am mated to Riv.”

 

“Let me ask you this,” Natasha began, “Do you want a mate someday? Younglings of your own?”

 

“Honestly, if you would’ve asked me that a year ago, I’d have laughed in your face. I swore I never wanted to be tied down like that.”

 

“But now you do,” Natasha surmised, “So what changed?”

 

“I think it’s a combination of things really…...getting older, seeing friends pairing off and starting families. Sienna has made a home with Raul and their boys, Jax is completely head over heels for Risha, you and Aric…...and now you’re going to have kits of your own,” Syarra sighed. “Seeing all of you so happy as you enter the next stage of life has made me rethink things lately.”

 

“So you’re no longer content to just enjoy the single life?”

 

“I wouldn’t say that,” Syarra countered, “I’m still not ready to be tied down just yet…...sure, I can admit that I do want a mate and kits someday, but not right now or even in the immediate future.”

 

“You said so yourself, Riv isn’t ready for those things right now either,” Natasha hugged her cousin, “As long as you’re both up front with each other, I don’t see the problem with taking things slow as I suggested earlier. You don’t have to even say you’re dating and definitely don’t tell your mom or his. Just let things happen if that’s what you want…...although I’d stop seeing Ka’van if you’re considering pursuing something with Riv.”

 

“I thought about that as well,” Syarra frowned. “But the thing is, I’m not sure I want to end things with Ka’van. It’s all so confusing and Ka’van isn’t just my lover, he’s a friend as well and I’ve been happy with that…….well for the most part.”

 

“For the most part eh,” Natasha raised a brow, “Something going on there?”

 

Syarra nodded, deciding to admit everything since it did feel good to get it off her chest and Natasha was a good listener, “I’m not sure how to explain it, but there was a part of me that was starting to get a little jealous…...which is ridiculous since we both agreed that there were no strings attached in our arrangement.”

 

“Were you starting to have feelings for Ka’van?”

 

“On some level I think so, which is part of the reason I agreed to go to the Krasuls for dinner the other night. I knew Riv and I would be thrown together…...and for once I actually I wanted that. Just to see if I could still be just as casual about sex and reassure myself that I wasn’t getting attached to Ka’van.”

 

“Sort of a way to distance yourself,” Natasha nodded, “Probably not a bad idea because honestly…...and please don’t take this the wrong way, but Jax is right about his friend. Judging from what I’ve heard from Jax and what you’ve told me, falling for Ka’van is going to land you with a broken heart.”

 

“I know and that’s the last thing I want because it’ll drive a wedge in their friendship for sure and I’d hate to see that,” Syarra shook her head sadly. “That’s why I decided to stick around here instead of returning to Nar Shaddaa with Jax. I needed some time to think and get myself back into the casual sex mindset.”

 

“Did you accomplish that? I know you enjoyed being with Riv, and you admitted you could possibly see yourself with him long term in the not so near future, but what about the feelings for Ka’van?”

 

“I’m not sure,” Syarra sighed. “I think it’s because I haven’t seen or heard from him…...which kinda ticks me off a little. He just up and takes off in the middle of the night without a word. I know I have no hold on him, but I thought we were friends at least.”

 

“I’d be a bit peeved as well,” Natasha agreed, then her eyes narrowed at her cousin. “Did you sleep with Riv to get back at Ka’van?”

 

“Not really…...okay, maybe a small, petty part of me did,” Syarra looked sheepish. “But mostly I just wanted him…...Gods he looked so sexy in that suit and can he ever kiss!”

 

“You also enjoy Ka’van’s company in the bedroom,” Natasha pointed out, “so let me ask you this…….can you see yourself with Ka’van in a permanent relationship?”

 

“I’ve never considered it because he has no desire for that…….he was pretty adamant from the start that he wasn’t looking to be tied down. Plus I never thought I wanted that before either. It’s just been recently that I’ve started having second thoughts about the whole Lifemate thing.”

 

“But let’s say he was interested in something more long term, can you see yourself with him as your Lifemate?”

 

“I’m not sure,” Syarra admitted, having pondered that remote scenario as well these past few days. “I consider him a friend, but honestly there’s a lot I don’t know about Ka’van. He’s mentioned his adoptive family before, but rarely talks about them. I’ve never met any of them and as far as I know Jax hasn’t either. I don’t even know what planet they live on!”

 

“Want me to do a little digging?”

 

“Thanks Nat, but no,” Syarra shook her head. “In fact, that proves Ka’van isn’t ever going to see me as anything more than just a bed partner…...if he even had the slightest interest, he’d want me to know his family the same way as he knows ours.”

 

“That’s a good point, but what if he doesn’t like his adoptive family?”

 

“No…..I get the feeling that he cares for them just as deeply as you’ve come to care about us.”

 

“You have no idea how wonderful it is to have a family like yours,” Natasha smiled, wiping a tear from her eye. “Growing up in the orphanage, I often dreamed some wonderful couple would adopt me and finally here I am. Part of such a large and loving family that not only welcomed me into the fold, but gave me my life back.”

 

“Your life was in jeopardy because you helped my brother and his friends bring Edwin Bradley to justice. It was the least we could do,” Syarra reminded her, “Not to mention the fact that we like you and Mom is ecstatic about having more kits around.”

 

“Speaking of family and kits,” Natasha mused, “That’s something else to consider about Ka’van. You said you’d like kits of your own someday…...that wouldn’t be possible with Ka’van because he’s Human.”

 

“I know, but if that extremely remote scenario ever came around, we could always adopt,” Syarra replied, smiling at the other Cathar, “I’m sure there are plenty of children out there hoping for a couple to take them in just as much as you did.”

 

“I’m sure there are and they’d be lucky to have you as a Mom,” Natasha smiled, “But it’s not the same as having your own…….just wanted to remind you of that.”

 

“I know,” Syarra sighed wistfully, the more she thought about it, the more she knew she really did want kits of her own someday. “But it’s a moot point because Ka’van is definitely not interested in any sort of permanent relationship with me or anyone for that matter, let alone becoming my Lifemate and starting a family…….and I’m fine with that right now. Like I said, I’ve only started thinking that I’d like to settle down someday. That’s a pretty big step in itself and I need to get used to that before I act on it.”

 

“Then I suppose all that’s left is for you to figure out if you want to keep having casual sex with Ka’van until you’re ready to think more long term, or if you want to go for something a little more concrete with Riv Krasul…...nothing official, but sort of a monogamous understanding until you’re both ready to take that next step.” She gave a snort at the look on Syarra’s face, “Yeah I know, easier said than done, but it’s not like you need to decide right now. Neither man has made mention of wanting a commitment, but I’d be careful with Riv since he doesn’t strike me as the type who normally has casual affairs.”

 

“I don’t think he is either,” Syarra agreed, “and the last thing I want to do is hurt him by stringing him along or getting into a relationship before either of us is really ready.”

 

“Which is why whatever you decide, just be sure it’s what you truly want before doing anything about it.”

 

“I know,” Syarra nodded, knowing she needed to return to Nar Shaddaa and see Ka’van in the flesh before she could make that decision.

 

Edited June 29, 2016 by alaurin

[Lunafox]

Well, it looks like Syarra has quite a dilemma on her hands. Honestly her choice is a difficult one, and one is more sensible than the other, but the heart wants what it wants...I'm curious to see what she'll do and how her conversation with Ka'van will go. Really enjoyed the chapter, thank you Alaurin!

[Kitar]

@Luna It has been fun trying to co-write a story, happy you are enjoying it.

She does have quite the dilemma doesn't she. One is much more sensible... Personally I like the bad boy myself. I can't imagine why

I hope you enjoy the next chapter too.

 

For everyone else, Happy 4th!! I wish you all have an enjoyable and safe holiday weekend.

I will be responsible for the next three installments; barring any unforeseen events they should be posted about once a week.

 

CHAPTER 19

 

 

NAR SHADDAA

 

He sighed running his fingers through his loose hair. Jax had seemed rather happy to finally hear from him. He wondered how long that would last. Hopefully a while, probably until this latest development had been dealt with. Must be nice to have a morally compromised Force user in your pocket. One who will do questionable things without batting an eye, such a useful thing for an underworld kingpin to have. Ka'van stopped walking, pausing on the ramp of his ship. He was being nasty and he knew it. Good Captain Roark was being himself, blunt and stubborn but himself. Must be nice to be able to be so damn honest with people.

 

Taking a deep breath he closed his eyes. He had said he was going to help, it would not do anyone any good if he showed up angry. That is why he was here wasn't it? To help? Of course it was; there are no attachments, and this information will really help.

 

Slowly exhaling he opened his eyes. Reaching out he gently touched the ever constant ebb and flow of the Force, caressing the smoky warmth that competed with the golden light for his attention. Frowning he regretfully rejected the siren call of the Dark instead pulling on the comfort of the Light. It was for the best, sadly. Another moment to calm his nerves and shed any remaining Dark Side energy still flowing through him; his two week stay on Dxun had completely saturated his being with the seductive warmth. Jaxzin would never know but if she was there, she would pick up on it. Now was not the time to raise any suspicions or questions. Telling them he was off hunting on a Dark Sided enveloped moon was not an option.

 

“Master Jedi,” a quiet voice spoke behind him.

 

Ka'van turned before him stood a petite Zabrak woman, clothed in dull brown jumpsuit. “Your speeder has been unloaded, you are cleared to use the main docking bay entrance.” She pointed to the enormous opening reserved for shuttles and spacefaring crafts.

 

A large grin grew on Ka'van's face. “Are you telling me I do not get to drive through the Spaceport again, my dear?”

 

The dockworker's grin grew, “Exactly.” She gave him a slight bow her wispy blonde hair waving through her crown of horns, “Do enjoy your stay and I do encourage you to return to your docking bay in the same manner you leave.”

 

Ka'van laughed, it rolled through the bay, “My friend, I shall try my hardest to comply with your wishes.”

 

She winked a honey coloured eye, “That is all I can ask for.” She gave a slight bow of her head before she turned to leave, “Do enjoy your stay.”

 

Ka'van watched her walk off into the depths of the docking back and out of sight. His eyes scanned the bay for his black speeder. He found the distinctive Aratech parked to the fore of the Ember Fist. His grin remained, he liked that worker, she was a clever thing.

 

His long stride quickly ate the distance to the awaiting speeder. Swinging his leg over the sleek black machine he turned his key in the ignition and it rumbled to life. Looking over his shoulder he spotted the Zabrak intently watching his every move. Flashing her a bright white smile he gunned the accelerator spinning the speeder bike in a tight circle, spitting dark violet exhaust before straightening and tearing through the open door.

 

He easily slid through the sky lanes heading towards Jax's residence. He still didn't have a viable excuse for why he disappeared, hopefully he would be able to steer the conversation away from that line of questioning.

 

The large floating structure loomed before him, growing larger. Taking a deep breath he decelerated, slowing to a smooth stop next to a well known pink and silver bike. Cutting the engine, he pulled the key and stood. Absentmindedly he smoothed the front of his black shirt and slacks.

 

Walking through the door he briefly reached out through the Force; they were in the kitchen. Ka'van grinned as he walked closer; he heard their voices bantering back and forth, both sounded to be in a good mood. As he neared he was able to make out their conversation.

 

“Yeah well you had better spill it, Mom has been bothering me for details. She honestly was surprised that you went.” Jax's voice reached his ears.

 

“She did seem pretty happy that I went, had a good time too.” Syarra giggled.

 

“Did you? All she wants to know is when you are going to go on a second one.”

 

Went? Where did she go? He slowed stopping out of sight, carefully he pulled the Force around him masking his presence.

 

“Geeze, that figures. I finally relent and go out on one of her little arranged dates and she is pushing for me to go on another one.” Syarra sighed. He heard the scrape of a chair moving against the flooring. “I honestly do not know, thought going on one would get her off my back for a while.”

 

A loud snort, followed by laughter. “She is probably picking out Lifemate Ceremony invitations right now. You did it to yourself, she has been pushing for something like this for ages.”

 

Syarra spoke, her voice was nearer. Ka'van carefully pulled the Force around him tighter, shrouding himself more completely. “I probably will, at some point. He was nice.”

 

Ka'van frowned. His frown deepened when he realized he was unconsciously clenching his hands into white knuckled fists. With a forced exhale he made his hands relax, shaking his long fingers. He was being very irrational, who cared if she went out. Everyone went out. He shouldn't even be here, didn't even holo ahead so they knew he was coming. With a sigh he shook his head and turned to leave.

 

“Hey,” Jax's voice followed his retreating form, “I think Ka'van is here, somewhere, just caught his scent.”

 

Ka'van cringed, instantly dropping the Force he had collected around his body.

 

“Really, I don't … oh there he is.” Syarra's voice answered him. She sounded rather happy.

 

Ka'van painted a smile on his face and abruptly turned around, pivoting on the ball of his foot and strode into the kitchen. “Hey, hope you do not mind. I know I didn't holo ahead but the messages sounded urgent.”

 

“It is alright,” Jax pushed off the counter he had been leaning against.

 

“So, where have you been?” Syarra asked as she shifted in her seat.

 

Ka'van looked from Syarra to her brother. “I experienced an unsettling dream, I needed to collect myself. When I was making my way outside, I ran across your brother who made it abundantly clear that he was angry with my presence here. So I left, I wasn't wanted so I left.”

 

Syarra hissed under her breath as Jax began to squirm under Ka'van’s stormy blue gaze. Jax's hand flew to the back of his head as he scratched the nape of his neck. “Ahh yeah about that, I really didn't mean to do that.” Jax stuttered. “I was having a bad night...”

 

“Un huh,” Ka'van grunted. “Sure you were.”

 

“I really was, I didn't mean to chase you out of here.”

 

Ka'van nodded his head, he knew it was possible Jax actually meant it, or that he was simply saying it because his sister was sitting by him at the island.

 

“So” Ka'van looked back at Syarra, “I didn't mean to overhear but you went somewhere? Where did you go?”

 

“I went out on a date.” Syarra nonchalantly answered.

 

“Did you?” Ka'van's eyebrow raised. “Thought you were not looking for something serious.”

 

“I am not, actually. I gave in and humored my Mom.” Syarra shrugged.

 

“Oh, who did you go out with?” Ka'van asked, well aware they were both intently watching him.

 

“Riv Krasul.”

 

“The Senator's son?”

 

Syarra nodded.

 

“I remember him from the ball. Seemed like a nice guy. A bit boring but nice.”

 

“He isn't boring, he was actually very nice.” Syarra frowned, crossing her arms.

 

Ka'van inwardly flinched, she had called him boring that night at the ball. She must have had a good time. Keeping his face neutral Ka'van shrugged, “Are you going to on another?”

 

“Another date?” Syarra echoed, her arms uncrossing.

 

He nodded, turning towards the conservator. Opening it he bent over grabbing a beer bottle, some Corellian brand he had never heard of. Straightening he closed the door before twisting the lid off. Tossing the green bottlecap on the counter he looked at her expectantly.

 

“I don't know, I might.” Syarra stared at him as he took a long pull off the cold bottle.

 

He grimaced slightly, it was was to bitter for his liking. He stared at the bottle's blue label.

 

“I did enjoy myself.” She continued.

 

Making a face he set the offending beer on the counter. “Well,” he returned her attention to Syarra, “I think you should. A good boy from a good house, with a promising career ahead of him. Not exactly a horrible match, when you finally want to finally settle down.”

 

He heard Jax snort.

 

“Just need to be upfront, don't want to inadvertently string anyone along.” Ka'van picked up the cast off bottlecap. “Does this mean that you no longer want to continue with our current arrangement? I would not fault you if you did, I know many disagree with it.” He rolled the cap between his fingers before smashing the green metal.

 

There was a sharp intake of air beside him, he refused to look in Jax's direction. Instead he kept his storm blue eyes locked onto Syarra's azure ones.

 

She held up her hand, cutting off her brother. “No, I had not planned on doing that, ending what we have going on.” she answered. “You are not upset are you?”

 

Ka'van shook his head, “No,” he clenched the bottlecap between his fingers. “What? Why would I be upset? We agreed no strings attached.” He offered her a small smile. “I bet your mother is happy, she kept trying to get you to dance with him, even after I arrived.” He dropped the demolished bottlecap, it landed with a miserable tink on the counter.

 

He stepped back from the counter. “If this is the only beer you have to drink I am going to have get something better. I am not sitting here drinking that bitter sludge while you get me up to speed on the latest crisis.”

 

Pulling his eyes off Syarra, Ka'van turned. He avoided even looking at Jax, completely ignoring him when the huge Cathar called after him.

 

Moving quickly, his long legs consumed the distance to his waiting speeder.

 

“Wait, hold up.”

 

It was Syarra, he stopped moving a meter away from his bike.

 

“What's the matter with you?” She moved standing between him and his bike.

 

“Nothing is the matter.”

 

“I don't believe you,” Her arms crossed.

 

“Well your brother has horrible beer in his conservator, that is a sad state of affairs.”

 

She snorted, “You and I both know that this place is stocked with just about anything you would want.” She crossed her arms as she stared at him, her striped brow bunching in concern. “That is not the only thing bothering you.” Syarra pressed. “Are you sure you're not upset with me?”

 

“Not at all my dear, not at all. You have done nothing upsetting. This agreement was never meant to be permanent. And even though he's a bit boring, he is a nice guy. The two of you will probably have cute kids.”

 

Her hand flew out hitting his shoulder, “Oh stop it, now you sound like my Mother,” her eyes rolled.

 

“Oh, I am quite serious, he's a good boy, you deserve a good boy.” Ka'van made himself smile.

 

She stepped closer, touching his shirt. “You had a nightmare? That what caused you to leave?”

 

“Essentially yes, I needed a moment to myself. I am sure you can understand.”

 

She nodded her head as her blue eyes momentarily closed, “I can definitely understand.” Syarra's hand moved towards his face, hesitating a moment before tucking his loose hair behind his ear. “So is everything okay now?

 

“For the most part, yes.”

 

He stepped around her closing the distance to his bike. Throwing his leg over the speeder he, silently started it. As it rumbled to life he frowned briefly before leaving the landing pad; slipping into the closest skylane, without bothering to look behind.

 

Frowning Syarra watched him leave. Something else was definitely bothering him. Shaking her head she turned and walked back inside.

 

Striding into the kitchen she caught Jax heading across the threshold.

 

“Thought something might be wrong.” He scratched the back of his head as he looked at her.

 

“Gee what ever gave you that idea?” Syarra groused.

 

Jax brought his hands up defensively, “How in the Nine Corellian Hells was I supposed to know he was going to overhear?! I had no idea he was coming over! Much less that he was here!”

 

“Well you are the one who smelled him first,” she shook her head as her shoulders dropped. “How did you not know he was there?”

 

“Hey this is not my fault! He never even let me know he was on his way, just that he was headed back to Nar Shaddaa.” He dropped his hands, walking back to the spacious kitchen’s island. “If I had any idea he was headed over here I wouldn't have brought it up. He doesn’t need to know.”

 

Syarra sighed walking back into the kitchen returning to her seat. She picked up her awaiting wine glass and took a sip. The liquid coated her tongue, the tannins mellow and the zherries prominent. Bringing the glass away from her lips she gave the ruby liquid a halfhearted swirl before returning it to the black granite. “I am honestly wondering if he is going to come back.”

 

“I was wondering why he had to leave, I have just about anything liquor related here that you could possibly want.” Jax walked to the abandoned beer bottle, picking it up he frowned. “This is not that bad.” He set the bottle down. Placing his hands on the stone surface he sighed. “I don’t know why he left, really don’t think he won’t come back?”

 

Syarra nodded her head, “He said he was okay, but I don’t know.” Syarra sighed.

 

“He is probably fine, he can get like that sometimes.” Jax shrugged his shoulders. Walking back to his dark brown bottle of Rodian Ale, patiently waiting on the island, he stood by his sister. “He will come back.”

 

“I hope you are right, we could really use his help with this. I have this feeling this is going to be a huge undertaking and things will go a lot better with him along. The way he has been lately, I could see him completely ignoring the Grand Master if she asked him to help.” She took a drink, emptying the glass. Setting it on the stone island she reached for the nearby open bottle. Her thumbclaw carefully slid over the gilded cream label, tracing the Osk character of the Organa vintage. Pouring the ruby liquid into the glass she looked at her littermate. “Do you think he will help us? You have known him longer than I have.”

 

“Yeah, he will. He might complain and drag his feet a bit, but he will help. I have never not known him to help when I asked him too.” Jax took a long pull off the bottle before setting it down. “He always helps when I ask, has ever since we met on Taris. Think I have only had to remind him once that if it wasn’t for me helping him, he would’a been rakghoul fodder. He will come help, though I am not sure when he will be back.”

 

A muffled knock echoed down the foyer. Syarra turned to look at her brother. “That was amazingly fast. Think he actually went to get more beer?”

 

Jax nodded his head, “Pretty sure he did, I do not want to know how fast he was driving though.” Jax looked at Syarra, “Hope his mood has improved.”

 

Heavy footfalls echoed down the hall, announcing his presence. Moments later the tall, ginger haired Human walked into the kitchen. A smile on his face and carrying a wooden crate. The door to the conservator swung open at his approach and he slid the crate inside and straightened grabbing two bottles. As Ka’van walked away the door swung shut and grinning he handed a bottle to Jax.

 

“Ne’tra gal, much better than that swill you are drinking,” Ka’van’s grin widened. With a frown Jax accepted the bottle. “Now,” Ka’van twisted the cap off his bottle, “you had mentioned the Hutts were up to no good, mining something? Since when do they take an interest in minerals and geology?”

 

“Well,” Jax used his thumbclaw to pop the cap off the bottle, “since now. Have a seat I will fill you in on what we know.”

 

 

[Lunafox]

Interesting reaction for the Ginger. It seems that Syarra's date got under his skin more than he wanted or cared to let on. Good stuff! Looking forward to more.

[Kitar]

@ Lunafox You asked for more and here ya go, some more of the Ginger.

 

CHAPTER 20

 

 

 

NAR SHADDAA

 

Soft lips trailed over his bare chest, teasing him awake. Warm breath blew across his nip.p.le before descending, teeth gently bit as a hot jolt ran through his body. Groaning he cracked open his eye to catch the mischievous glint of her sparkling blue eyes.

 

“Morning,” he mumbled. Blinking he rolled his head towards her offering a sleepy smile.

 

“Morning,” her eyes flashed as her clawed fingertips slid over his bare chest.

 

His grin grew as he disentangled his hands from the pale sheets. He promptly entangled them in her loose locks, fingers enjoying the softness of that thick, rich chestnut mane. Tilting his head upward he kissed her, gently rubbing the fine fur on her cheeks with his thumbs. “You are up early,” he murmured against her mouth.

 

She shook her head as she nipped his lower lip.

 

“No,” his brow furrowed, “What time is it?”

 

“The sun will be rising soon,” her breath warm upon his mouth.

 

“You are awfully chipper this close to daybreak. You haven’t been to bed?”

 

“Oh I have been to bed, just didn’t sleep. It felt good to lay there.”

 

“Did it?” His copper brow arched as his hands left her mane, moving through the sandy fur on her back before grasping her trim waist. Without warning he pulled her properly onto his waist.

 

She grinned fangs flashing in the blossoming light, “Yes, you give off a lot of heat.”

 

“Oh, I can die complete, I have fulfilled my destiny of being a personal space heater,” he joked dryly.

 

She rolled her blue eyes, smiling as she cupped his jaw running her thumbclaw over his cheek. “Yes, it is what I have always wanted.” Tilting her head she brushed her lips against his neck.

 

Closing his eyes he tilted his head out of the way, as he tightened the grip on her waist. “Not that I mind being woken up in such a manner, why are you awake? You and mornings are not really on good terms.”

 

Her teeth nipped causing him to gasp. She chuckled against his skin, her breath warm. “I wanted to spend a little quality time with you before I have to leave. I got a holocall late last night.”

 

“The Grand Master?” he whispered.

 

“Yes,” she murmured, slowly kissing her way along his neck, “we will be meeting on Coruscant. I take it you will not be joining us?”

 

“No,” he tilted his head backwards into the pillow. “I would prefer not to, I will catch up with you afterward.”

 

“Shall I tell them that you will be helping?” Her warm breath nearly tickling.

 

“Yes,” he moaned, “if you wish. Just holo me, fill me in and I will meet you.” His fingertips moved through the soft fur. “Are you sure you want to? If you have to leave in the morning, don’t you want to get some sleep?”

 

“No, I would rather have some quality time with you,” she breathed against his skin.

 

His breath caught momentarily in his throat; forcing an exhaling breath through parted lips he moved his hands along the small of her back. The entire evening had been unusual. He had not expected to actually end up in her bed, especially not tonight, not after what he had overheard. Granted their meetings had become much more frequent and no longer scheduled; but he had been rather surprised she had even suggested it. Not that he would dare complain, he really enjoyed her company, to the extent, that aside from his incredibly stupid drunken night, he had not taken another being into his bed in months.

 

“You don't mind do you?” she questioned, leaving the sensitive junction of his ear and neck where she had been kissing.

 

“Oh, no,” he chuckled, “I have no complaints.” He grabbed her, roughly rolling them over in the bed, reversing their positions, eliciting a giggle. “I am never against quality time, with you.” He slid his hand along the soft fur of her outer thigh. Bracing his weight on his left hand he bent forward as her hands wrapped around his back resting on his shoulders. Grinning he bit the edge of her collarbone, perhaps a bit to hard, she yelped in surprise her clawed fingertips dug into his shoulder blades, slicing downward. Hissing a sharp intake of breath he curled his head forward, grimacing.

 

“Oh frack, your back. I am so sorry,” she moved beneath him sitting upright in the bed. Her hands moved, timidly touching his bleeding back. He could feel the warmth trickling down his shoulder blades. Her hands moved his loose copper locks off his back, a quick hiss followed. “Kriffing hell, I ruined it. I’m sorry,” her clawed fingertips touched a throbbing slash. I'm so sorry. I can get a towel; Jax is out of kolto strips. Kark Ka'van I’m so sorry.”

 

He tilted his right shoulder trying to see; all he saw was the dark red rivulets forming on his skin. Frowning he turned his head left looking over his shoulder to the blood running down his back.

 

“Can you... fix it?” Syarra frowned, pulling bloody fingers away. “I can go get a towel, make it stop bleeding at least.”

 

He looked at his bleeding shoulder blade one last time before he turned his attention to the distraught Cathar, “It's alright. It will stop soon. I will wash it in the shower when I see myself out. My brother will be able to fix it.”

 

“Are you sure? I don't mind. I never meant to hurt you.”

 

He smiled, “If that is the worst that ever happens to us, then the Force is truly smiling on us. I don't want you to move, I like you where you are.” Ka'van leaned forward brushing his lips against hers before pushing her to the mattress.

 

 

 

~*~

DROMUND KAAS / JEN'CHWÛQ ESTATE

 

Swallowing his annoyance Ka'van disembarked off the shuttle, waving the pilot off he turned walking through the expansive outer gate of the Estate. Quickening his step he wanted to take advantage of the break in the rain, to get inside while he was still dry. Soft boots tread upon the moss-covered flagstones as he passed beneath the towering trees. As he approached the gate it swung into the inner wall, the Trandosian guard waving him on. When he passed by the guardhouse he waved to the dark red-scaled man, he should have known Lissk was on duty.

 

Ka'van entered the massive stone doorway, heading immediately to the very person he wanted to see, pleased he was actually home.

 

Walking down the hall his rapid footfalls ate the distance to the waiting door. Taking a deep breath he slowed his pace, knowing he was going to be chastised and refusing to give him any other ammunition.

 

Pushing on the heavy door it swung inward, there sitting in a chair back to the door was the man he sought. His horned head bent over a table working on something small and hidden from this distance. Ka'van strode past countless parked speeders, shelving and weapons racks; approaching the sitting Zabrak. His dyed black hair pulled back in a braid that hung down his back, nearly brushing the waistband of his black leatheris pants. Ka'van kept his eyes trained on the crimson sleeveless shirt, watching muscles move as he worked. The Zabrak's right arm reached out, the flexing bronze skin causing the thin black lines inked across his shoulder, that played around his bicep, encircling it and gracefully terminating at his elbow, to ripple.

 

Taking a deep breath Ka'van paused a respectful distance away.

 

“Ner Vod, not expecting you,” the Zabrak muttered, blowing on something unseen. “Supposed to be off saving the Republic, 'lek?” He snorted setting a thin file on the pristine work surface.

 

“Heh,” Ka'van shook his head, “always doing what I can to support the war effort.”

 

The Zabrak barked a clipped laugh, shaking his head. “Buir is in the city, business in the Citadel.”

 

“I am actually here to see you, Kiernan.”

 

“Oh,” the hands stilled setting tools on the bench. “What is wrong?”

 

“Can't I want to see my big brother?” Ka'van smiled through gritted teeth.

 

Kiernan slowly turned, his tattooed brow arched over his green eyes. Eyes the exact same shade as their Mother's but ringed in fire. “You are masking pain, what happened?”

 

Ka'van stepped closer, shrugging off his black robe, unsuccessfully hiding the pain the movement caused.

 

Kiernan stood walking towards him, eyes widening. Scowling he laid his hand upon Ka'van's blood soaked shoulder. “What happened?”

 

Ka'van silently unbuttoned his shirt, hissing when the fabric pulled against his raw shoulders.

 

“Ka'van,” Kiernan's frown deepened, “Your back, your sky is bleeding.”

 

“'lek,” Ka'van hissed as Kiernan's fingers touched his left shoulder blade.

 

“What caused this...” the Zabrak's fingers moved across his back and down his inked spine. “That Jetii Cathar... the one you have not told Buir about.”

 

“Don't,” Ka'van looked over his shoulder, shaking his head. “Don't tell.”

 

“Nayc, yours to tell. Should tell soon though. Your absences have been noted.” Kiernan touched his right shoulder, causing him to jump. “Why have you not healed? These are deep, couple over a finger long. Easy enough fix once you are healed.”

 

“I want you to ink them.” Ka'van locked his gaze with his brother's.

 

Kiernan's brow arched as his lips twitched. Ka'van silently cursed his brother's ability to mask his emotions. He could not detect a thing.

 

“Things with this Jetii, they are serious.”

 

Ka'van could not tell if he was asking or stating it as fact.

 

He shook his head no. “She believes in the no attachment philosophy, she does not want anything long term, she will move on.” Ka'van bit back a sigh. “Scars make for the best souvenirs, she is one I would like not to forget.”

 

Kiernan stared at him, face unreadable.

 

Ka'van swallowed as the seconds ticked by.

 

“'lek, it will hurt.” His Brother stared at him, his face a damn emotionless tattooed mask.

 

“The pain doesn't bother me.”

 

“Good, hate to think you have gotten soft.” Kiernan prodded on his back directing him to the chair. “What colour Vod?”

 

“Pink,” Ka'van whispered, “she likes pink.”

 

Beside him Kiernan placed a shining durasteel box, flipping open the lid he pulled out thin white gloves stretching them over long bronze fingers. Ka'van sat down careful not to disturb the small metal cylinder and files sitting on the spotless workbench. Resting his elbows on the smooth surface he laid his arms on either side of the neatly placed files. Exhaling he closed his orange-flecked blue eyes, bracing himself. “No outlines.”

 

“I know,” Kiernan snorted. “I won't ruin my work. Leave that to you. Tell that Jetii, mind her claws.”

 

Ka'van bit back a snide remark; quietly relieved his brother was not raising more hell over the state of his back. It had taken Kiernan hours over multiple sittings to complete it. A sharp bite shot through his back as the needle pierced the bleeding skin. Clenching his teeth. He forced his body to relax. Ka'van exhaled channeling the growing sting, drawing upon it, pulling the smoky warmth of the Force to him, letting himself drown in it's embrace as he entered into a meditative state while his brother started repairing his tattoo.

 

 

 

AN

 

 

Jetii- Jedi

Vod- sibling

'lek - yea

nayc- no

Buir- parent

I think i remembered them all.

 

 

[erisjade]

Loving this story, can't wait for more!!

[frauzet]

I am wondering if this relationship will stay as uncomplicated as it still is.

Looking forward to the next part.

[Kitar]

@ Erisjade Happy to hear you are loving the story

 

@ Frauzet Things never really do go as planned, though it would be nice if things stayed nice and uncomplicated... but I have a feeling that they probably won't.

 

Here is the next installment, happy reading.

 

CHAPTER 21

 

 

DROMUND KAAS / JEN'CHWÛQ ESTATE

 

 

Rolling her shoulders she walked across the room, her booted footfalls silent upon the deep pile of the imported rug. She paused next to a heavy wooden table near the large bed; it’s large headboard ornately carved, a carving that was echoed in the dark violet and midnight blue coverlet. Unclasping her saber she gently set it upon the table. Slowly she peeled her black beskar gloves off, with a slight smile she set them next to the gracefully curved hilt. Reaching up she unclasped the simple metal band that restrained her hair. Clasping it in her left hand, porcelain pale fingers loosened her locks. With a slight shake of her head, thick rich dark auburn waves tumbled past her shoulders.

 

A quick knock echoed off the open stone door’s frame. Following it was a rumbling voice. “You are here, been lookin’ for you.”

 

She turned to look at the speaker; a massive mountain of a Human man. She held one finger up to her lips. Winking she pulled her holocommunicator from her inner robe pocket. “Still have some business to conduct. A moment, please.”

 

He walked closer, “Business heh, what have you learned?” He stopped beside her, a smile upon his lips that was reflected in his sienna eyes.

 

“Something that will interest you.”

 

“A lotta things interest me,” he rumbled. “What is so interestin’ about this business?” He reached out, fingers running through her hair as he bent downward, his lips brushing against hers in a welcomed kiss. “Been in that damn Citadel all day, can it wait? Have the house to ourselves for once.”

 

She moaned against his mouth as her left hand ran through the chestnut beard that graced his face, her fingers scratching the coarse hair as she cradled his jaw. “It will only take a moment.” She breathed against his lip, “I promise.” She attempted to back up; when his free arm shot downward. It slipped under her bottom as he effortlessly picked her up, eliciting a surprised squeak.

 

“Put me down,” she tried to keep the grin off her face but failed miserably. “I do need to be professional.” She smiled down at him, her left hand caressed his jaw, slowly moving through his beard before slipping into his his hair, fingers tenderly playing over the circular pattern shaved into his scalp.

 

He curled his head forward under her soft touch, “That feels good,” he groaned, the words muffled in the depths of her chest.

 

“I know,” she whispered as she bent; ruby painted lips briefly trailing over his head before she kissed him. “Let me conduct my business,” she breathed before tenderly pressing her lips against his exposed skin. “How long do we have?”

 

“Till mornin’,” he grunted; she felt his rough voice vibrate through the beskar of her chestpiece. “They are with me mum, she took them into the city. All ‘xcited. She’s takin’ them to a holo, then staying in a hotel.”

 

“Oh, they will all enjoy that. Nice of her to do.”

 

He grunted as his arm tightened. “I don’t want ta waste it.”

 

“All the more reason to let me make my holocall and be finished with my day.”

 

He grunted. “Is it goin’ take awhile?”

 

“Shouldn’t.” She kissed him again.

 

He sighed, acquiescing, as he gently set her on the floor.

 

“Just stand out of view for me.”

 

He sighed, his huge chest heaving as he nodded his head, moving out of view range.

 

She flashed him a large smile, emerald eyes shining. Rotating she turned ensuring that his massive form would be out of view range. Running her fingers through her hair, she adjusted the tousled locks. Taking a deep breath she schooled her features, the smile vanishing in a heartbeat. Her fingers quickly queued up the holocommunicator. The device chimed in her hand, and chimed. Then it was silent as she was prompted to leave a recording. Terminating the call, her brow arched as contemplated the device in her palm. Interesting. Hitting a button she attempted the call again. It seemed to chime endlessly until it was sent to the message prompt.

 

“Are they not there?” He rumbled.

 

“I believe he is,” her painted lips downturned, frowning. Closing her eyes she reached out through the Force. Quickly she attained the signature she was searching for; dark and intense it was also on planet and nearby, in his own private estate. Her lips quirked, there were two strong Force signatures. Apparently he was not alone. She shrugged as she queued up the device yet again. Somethings could not wait.

 

The holo chimed in her hand, predictably it chimed again and again, then deposited her at the prompt. Smiling she obliged. “I do have some very interesting and valuable news I wish to impart to you. It is of the utmost importance that we speak. I shall give you a few moments to make yourself,” she cleared her throat, “presentable. Oh,” the corner of her ruby lips curled upward. “considering the gravity of this news I will be happy to come to your home and relay this information in person. Considering the proximity of your dwelling, I can be there in oh... ten minutes.” She terminated the message and looked up, catching his eyes. His lips were hiding a poorly repressed smile as the corners of his eyes crinkled. She held a finger up to her lips and smiled.

 

“Let’s give him a few moments shall we?” She smoothed her black robe, straightening it over her armor. “Well that is long enough.” She once again dialed the frequency.

 

A blued holo form of a man blinked into existence. She repressed a grin, smothered all amusement, now was not the time. The holo only allowed her to view the Human male from the shoulders, up. “What?” The man growled. His voice sounded so... off without the normal tinny reverberation of his respirator.

 

“So good of you to answer. It is quite a rare moment to catch you outside of your battle armor. It does appear that I might have caught you at a bad time.”

 

“You stated you had news of the utmost importance, stop wasting time.”

 

“Considering the sensitive nature of this information it is best conferred in person or in private. How do I know that your,” she cleared her throat, “acquaintance should be privy to this conversation?”

 

His eyes narrowed as he stared into the holocommunicator. She kept her face neutral, emotionless. The seconds slipped by and still he stared at her. Patiently she waited, she had a very strong inkling who the other Force signature belong too, she simply wanted to see how this ‘situation’ was going to be handled.

 

“Wrath,” his eyes narrowed, “whom my acquaintance is, that is none of your concern.”

 

“Marr,” her brow twitched, “who hears this information is definitely my concern, I was wishing to include you first before I contacted the other important members of the Dark Council. Now that I do know that you are, entertaining... a guest I will know to who else I am speaking to. Or I shall contact Ravage and decline to share with you.”

 

“You would dare to withhold information from me to share with him?” Marr growled.

 

She stared at him, silent.

 

“Who else were you going to contact?”

 

“I was going to keep it amongst those I trust to keep the Empire’s best interest; you, as well as the newest appointee to the Sphere Ancient Knowledge. I have found Imperious to be quite the breath of fresh air.”

 

Marr’s eyes flickered to the left and he frowned.

 

A voice sounded from out of view; a soft-spoken, feminine voice. “Quite the unexpected compliment Lord Wrath.”

 

She feigned surprise, “Darth Imperious, how unexpected. It appears I will not be having to make a second holocall this evening after all. That is rather... convenient.” She turned her emerald gaze to the left, to the Darth’s Force signature, who still lingered out of view. “I had wished to speak with you at the little soiree in Kaas City a couple months ago. You looked quite stunning in that dress. I wanted to ask you where you had procured it, but sadly, you had vanished before I could speak with you.” The corners of her mouth curled up in a knowing grin, “Though next time, I do suggest that the two of you leave at different intervals.”

 

“Surely this gossip is not the reason why you had to disturb me.” Marr groused.

 

“Gossip,” her eyebrow arched, “I am not prone to gossip, the idle banter of mindless busy bodies is not something I dabble in,” her tone grew hard, “do you mistake me for Zash?

 

“Had I been prone to such folly I would not have kept Imperious’ location a secret after she was gracious enough to deal with the insane ghost. There are many who wished to know where she had gone. You insult me Marr, perhaps I was mistaken.” Her finger hovered over the holocommunicator, restraint overriding her anger with the Council Member, she sorely wanted to disconnect the call. “Perhaps you should hear the news at the next Council Meeting, or the Holonet.”

 

“You knew where I was staying?” Darth Imperious ventured, still out of view.

 

She heard the unmistakeable sound of fabric rustling. “Yes I knew, and there is no need to continue. Your state of dress or lack thereof, is of no concern to me.”

 

“Kiiitt’aarrr.” Marr hissed.

 

“Darius, do stop insulting my intelligence. I know, and that knowledge stops with me. I had thought we understood each other. You never uttered a word when I was expecting. Even created excuses for my absences from Council meetings, if you truly think so little of me, perhaps I have grossly overestimated our professional relationship.”

 

“Now,” she stared at Marr, “am I mistaken or should I terminate this call and consult another?”

 

“No Kit’ar,” Marr frowned, “you are not.” His blued form shifted before her, he took a deep breath before speaking. “What is this news?”

 

A grin graced her painted lips, “Apparently the Hutts are getting overly ambitious. They have taken over the resort planet of Makeb in secret and have been mining a rare ore. An ore that will give those slugs the ability to not only challenge the cursed Republic but our Empire.”

 

“You are certain of this?” Marr shifted leaning closer.

 

“Oh that is not a good development,” Imperious added, she was still sitting out of view.

 

“Absolutely, my source was quite certain, the information has been confirmed. I realize you will check it through your sources as well.” She shifted her gaze back to the left looking towards the unseen woman, “I concur that this is a disturbing development and must be addressed and turned to our advantage. I want to meet in person tomorrow. This is an opportunity that should not be squandered.”

 

“I am in complete agreement Wrath.” he nodded.

 

“Good. I knew you would be.” Kit’ar’s grin grew.

 

“Tomorrow at the Citadel.” Marr commanded.

 

“No.” Kit’ar cut him off with a shake of her head, “Tomorrow, here at the Estate, everyone here is loyal. The Citadel has too many prying eyes and overhearing ears. I look forward to seeing both of you. Arrive at noon, we shall converse over lunch.”

 

Marr’s head shook, “That will not be necessary.”

 

“Of course it is, I insist. I look forward to seeing you both. Wrath out.” She terminated the call and Marr’s blued face blinked out of existence.

 

Laughter erupted out of the large man quietly waiting near the bed. She looked at him winking.

 

“He did not seem to happy to hear from you.”

 

“He never does, does he?” She grinned. “I can’t imagine why.” She adjusted her hold on the holocommunicator and turned it off. Walking up to him she set the com on the table by her saber hilt. “Though I bet he will learn to turn it off when he has company over. Pity.”

 

Another chuckle filled the air, “Aye think he would know by now.”

 

“It is a rather new development for him.” She closed the distance setting her hands on his shoulders. Standing up on her tippy-toes she stretched to kiss him, he leaned down meeting her as his arms wrapped around her still armor-clad form. “Think your mother will mind staying on here? I plan on taking both you and my apprentice with on this little venture.”

 

“’course, she loves taking care of them.”

 

“Good, mine are not due back for another two weeks. Now speaking of returning, let’s take advantage of the fact we have the house to ourselves.”

 

Edited September 12, 2016 by Kitar