The Chronicle of Palleus

[Jace Keller]

I don't know what it was in me that made me do what I did next, I barely remembered it. I watched in agony the pain my twin once again had to live through and without hesitation, pressed past Agros and tackled my Dodya. "You will not kill my brother!" My mind was spiralling as we landed on the ground. "Let my brother go!" I screamed.

[Argos Ewan]

As Jace tackled my Dodya I quickly went to Jace and pulled on him to get him off our Dodya.. “Jace don’t do this! Jericho isn’t worth this! Let him up!”

[Ceres Ewan]

I looked up at Jace and angrily spoke to him. “I'm not going to have your brother killed. He will stand trial for his actions but you had better listen to your brother’s advice. Release me and do it now or your fate will be no better than Jericho’s. So think carefully of what you are going to do next.”

Still he didn't let go of me and I tried for one last time for him. “Release me now! This is no request!”

[Jace Keller]

The words haunted me as I let go of my Dodya. Argos helped me to my feet and I jerked from his grasp. "I'm out of here!" I spat as I turned and stormed off the balcony. I didn't say another word to my Dodya or my brother. Right now, I had other issues to pursue, ones that would hopefully free my twin from the charges that Dodya was no doubtedly going to bring against him.

[Ceres Ewan]

As Jace walked away Argos helped me to my feet. As I stood up I brushed myself off as I watched Jace. I stood up and yelled to Jace, “by the way , happy birthday son!”

I looked back at Argos and smiled at him, “and don’t you say another word. I’ve heard enough garbage for one day already.” I put my hand onto his shoulder and continued. “Go on, I’m sure Palleus is waiting on you.” I slightly pushed on his shoulder, “go on. I’ll be fine.”

[Argos Ewan]

I took Dodya’s advice and left. I soon found Palleus just outside the Ballroom doors standing alone. “I’m sorry to have kept you waiting. I think it is best that we leave now. Jace has gone so there is no reason for us to be here any longer.” I put my arm around her, “I am really sorry if this has ruined your evening. Honestly, if I knew this was going to happen I wouldn’t have brought you here. It’s just no situation for a beautiful lady such as yourself to be in.”

[Palleus]

I had watched Jace come back into the ballroom with a look of exasperation on his face. Avalon quietly went with him, the two were talking of something and Jace no doubtedly looked very aggrivated.

I waited for Argos to appear and he did in time, not too far behind his brother. I smiled gently. "Oh, it's fine. The night that we've shared has been utterly exhilerating nonetheless."

The situation I had experienced with Ceres was unimportant now and I would no longer hold it against him, it was due to the effects of alcohol and no harm was done. It would only bring unnecessary questions and no need for that.

[Argos Ewan]

“Well personally, I don’t see how you could view a family feuding as being exhilarating, but then if you do then who am I to argue.”

I so much wanted to take her away from all of this and just enjoy the time with her that I had. I couldn’t help but to feel that this was one person I wanted to share my time with.

I reached up with my hand and softly stroked her cheek. “Your much to beautiful to share with anyone. Especially those who are here. I’ll tell you what. Let’s not make this evening a total waste.” I looked over her shoulder and saw our carriage just outside the Ballroom doors. As I spoke to her I nodded toward the carriage. “We still have our carriage here. Why don’t we make use of it and go out for an evening ride? I know of a beautiful place that is quite breath taking to see.”

Thinking that maybe she might wish to simply retire I quickly made her the offer so she wouldn’t feel obligated. “If you would rather retire for the evening then I can take you back to the Inn if you wish. That is up to you. Not that I want you to leave or anything. Actually, I’d rather spend more time with you because I enjoy being with you. But then, I don’t want you to feel put upon in what ever you’d like to do.”

I suddenly realized I had now began sounding like some babbling idiot. “How about if I just shut up and you can tell me what you would like to do.”

[Jace Keller]

I held onto Avalon's hand while we proceeded out of the ballroom and through the corridor. A few people that were still lingering wished me a Happy Birthday and I thanked them for attending.

A few carriages were still waiting, but I chose to walk. I was quiet for a few moments and then I blew out a sigh. "Av, I'm really sorry this ruined your evening." I stopped and looked at her.

"I know it's not late, but I've got some really important things to look into tonight and it all has to do with this." I dug into my pocket and pulled out the jumpdrive.

[Jericho Ewan]

They could not bound my arms due to my cane, so they did the next best thing...bound my ankles with some heavy chain. "It's not like I can run..." I said.

"Shut-up!" was the reply.

I didn't care that I was in chains, I didn't care that I'd be spending the night in jail and I didn't care that I tasted blood in my mouth and that it was sore. I didn't want revenge, I wanted justice. I was falsely accused of a crime I did not commit and very soon everyone would know.

I was taken to the lock up and was tossed in, with all the other riff-raff. The jail here was partially outside. I felt like a wild animal in a cage as I was told that I was not allowed any visitors. It was getting dark and the moon was rising over the tall surrounding walls of the perimeter. Tomorrow, I would see my Dodya behind bars as they drug him off for conspiracy with the Empire. Now, that was worse than embezzlement, I smiled at the thought as I lay down on the cold cement bench that was fastened to the floor.

Tomorrow was a new day, and tomorrow would be the start of my life again...

[Ceres Ewan]

After everyone had left the balcony I walked over to the wet bar and pushed the bartender out of my way. “Move, I’ll make my own drink!” As I poured my drink I thought aloud while I poured it. “If anything has to be done around here I have to do it myself. Even my sons have turned against me. Children, stupid children. They’ll be the death of me if I’m not careful.”

As I took a drink of the swill I had just poured I thought to my self as I thought about what had been said tonight. I quickly thought about what Jace had said to me. "You will not kill my brother! Let my brother go!"

I thought in depth about this. “Why did he actually believe I was going to kill Jericho? Who even gave him that idea?”

As I took another drink I thought even further back of what was said. I scowled with my eyebrows as I thought about what Jericho had said. “That's right these people will know just how corrupt a man you are!”

I thought to myself, “how could anyone know of anything?”

I thought even deeper of what was said by him. "You know what to do. This is in your power, bro and yours alone. Don't let me down, bro."

Suddenly it hit me like a ton of bricks and I let my drink slip out of my hand and it crashed upon the balcony floor. “Oh my Gods, they know something,” I thought to myself. “They have information about me.” I put my hands upon the bar and looked down at he surface of the bar. “If they have information then where is it?” I quickly mediated in thought when it suddenly struck me as I slammed my fists upon the bar. “Yes, why didn’t I think of this? Jericho was supposed to stay off-planet and he is here. How did he get here? He must have....................a ship!”

I looked up and saw one of the security guards walking by and yelled to him. “You there, bring me the Captain of security. Do it now!”

Quickly the officer got the Captain and he came back to me. “Yes Sir. You called?”

I put my arm over his shoulder and pulled him close to whisper to him. “Jericho was never to return to this planet, but yet he did. I want that ship destroyed and I want it done within the hour. You will find it and destroy it.” I shoved the man away from me. “Go now and get it done and capture anyone who is there with the ship.”

The Captain bowed to me, “it’ll be done Sir, immediately.”

I nodded as the man ran off to do his duty. “Yes it will and that will be the end of it.”

[Avalon Aquilo]

Quote:

I held onto Avalon's hand while we proceeded out of the ballroom and through the corridor. A few people that were still lingering wished me a Happy Birthday and I thanked them for attending.

A few carriages were still waiting, but I chose to walk. I was quiet for a few moments and then I blew out a sigh. "Av, I'm really sorry this ruined your evening." I stopped and looked at her.

"I know it's not late, but I've got some really important things to look into tonight and it all has to do with this." I dug into my pocket and pulled out the jumpdrive.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------


As Jace and I walked together I looked over and saw something in his hand. "What is that? What's it.......wait, isn't that a jump drive?"

[Jace Keller]

"Yes," I nodded as we continued walking. As I walked her home in the pale moonlight I explained what was supposed to be on the drive and that it was more than just a 'bit' of information. "The information on this drive will free my brother from the embezzlement charge...and put my Dodya...in prison." I wasn't proud of that fact. I hated it in fact, I hated this whole thing and yet, here I was in the middle of it all.

I felt somewhat ashamed and gave a mournful sigh as I sat down on the edge of a curb.

[Avalon Aquilo]

I felt my heart sink as Jace spoke to me about the jumpdrive and I sat down at the curb next to him. I put my hand in his and put my head on his shoulder. “Your going to implicate your father? Are you sure you want to do that?” A thought suddenly crossed my mind. "If he did this to Jericho, then what is to stop him from doing this to you? Just the thought of that scares me."

[Jace Keller]

"I don't have a choice. If in fact this information is on this jumpdrive, my twin has suffered needlessly and my Dodya will stop at nothing to keep it from coming out." I took her hand and squeezed it. "I will be the only link to keep my brother from another sentence to prison."

I stood. "I'm going to take you home and go back to the Eclipse and see just what is on this drive and if it is the truth, I'm taking it to Argos and we can take it to the authorities together." I gently kissed Avalon on the cheek.

"I have to do this for Jericho."

[Palleus]

I laughed lightly as I touched his hand. "It's been a long night for all of us. I think, it's time for me to call it a day and say good night."

I stopped him and faced him. "I've had a wonderful night, and I'm sorry things turned out as they did. But, I can assure you that I won't be leaving anytime soon and I hope that we can spend some more time together." I leaned up and gently kissed his lips.

[Avalon Aquilo]

"I understand Jace. Do you want me to go with you or do you want me to leave?" At this point I didn't want Jacce to get hurt and he might need someone to look out for him while he looked over the jumpdrive.

[Jace Keller]

"I don't want you anymore involved with this. If my Dodya is responsible for this, who knows what he is capable of. I'll take it to Argos if its true." I told her and kissed her.

"Stay at the dorms, you'll be safe there." I instructed. "Promise me you'll do that."

[Argos Ewan]

Palleus was leaving sooner than I expected, but then she did the one thing that I didn’t expect. She kissed me and my reflexes kicked in as I embraced her and held her kiss to me. I didn’t know why I did that but I couldn't resist. After our lips parted and looked deep into her eyes. “I am glad your going to be here for a while. I’d hate to think of not seeing you again.”

[Avalon Aquilo]

He kissed me but I knew this was not the time for my emotions to go playing around. I stood up as I held onto his hand. “Alright, I’ll promise you that if you’ll promise me to come to me when you are done so I’ll know you’re okay. Will you do that for me? I'm worried about you.”

[Jace Keller]

I looked at her. "I will as soon as Argos and I get that information to the authorities. We have to do that as soon as possible." I told her. "Once everything is done, I'll come straight here, I promise."

[Palleus]

"I will be around." I told him with a smile, I took his hand and climbed into the carriage to be taken home.

[Avalon Aquilo]

"Alright," I replied as I pointed my finger at him. "I'll hold you to that. Be careful." I turned and headed toward the dorm as he also walked away.

[Argos Ewan]

I got into the carriage and we went back to the Inn where she was staying at. I helped her down and walked her to her door at the Inn and opened the door for her and peered inside as to check the quarters out for her. “Well it looks like your in good hands here. Actually I’d rather that you stayed at the mansion with us. We have much better security there. One can’t be to safe these days.”

[Ceres Ewan]

With everything that had finally come to mind, I decided that finding Jace would have to be my next move to stop Jericho with what ever information Jace may have on me for Jericho. It was now obvious to me that he had something that Jericho wanted him to expose.

I quickly ordered the guards to search Jace’s room in the mansion for him. They quickly returned with information that he wasn’t here in the mansion. This left only one place he could be, at the Eclipse. He often went there to get away from things and stay in solitude. I quickly ordered twelve of my security guards to join me in going to the Eclipse to find him.

As the guards surrounded the Eclipse within the cargo hanger, I went up to the Eclipse and banged on the hatch. “Jace! Open up! I want to speak with you!”

[Jace Keller]

I hurried back to the Eclipse and went into the building through another secret passage. I closed the hatch once I was inside and turned on the security system. I made my way to the bridge and plugged the jumpdrive into the main computer.

It only took a couple of seconds for me to find what Jericho had been telling me all this time...the truth. My heart sank as I saw the information that had been hidden from us for the past five years. I saw the transaction information from my Dodya's accounts straight to Jace's account with my Dodya's delivery codes.

The next file I saw was the transactions between my Dodya and...the Empire ship, Elexus. Millions of credits had been dropped into my Dodya's accounts under the name of Lexus. This was what my twin had discovered, he never committed a crime. But, Dodya had found out about it and did everything in his power to keep my twin quiet and to dishonor his word.

Jericho went to prison for nothing and if I didn't get this information to Argos, he'd go again and I was damned if I'd let him do that.

I took out the jumpdrive as I looked through the front port to see my Dodya coming through the main door, with a group of guards. I had to think quickly and there was no way that he was going to get this jumpdrive as I quickly ran to the opening that went to the engine room. Throwing it open, I quickly climbed down the ladder and over to one of the four generators. I quickly took out the bolts and screws and placed the jumpdrive deeply into the casing and fastened it back. With a sigh, I made my way back up to the bridge and could hear my Dodya's voice coming over the intercom system.

I grabbed a blaster and put it in between my back and my belt. After hitting the hatch button, I walked down to greet him.

"Dodya, what brings you here?" I asked as I leaned against one of the hatches hydralics and crossed my arms casually. "I would have thought that you would be accompaning my brother to the lockdown."

[Ceres Ewan]

I looked at my son as he tried to speak to me casually. “I think you know good and well why I am here,” I replied. “There is something that bastich son of mine has given you and I want what ever it is. It is nothing but garbage and is intended to do nothing but ruin our family’s good name. After what he has done to us, he now wants to blame us for the crime he committed himself. I will not allow this to happen to you, Argos, your Momya and I. So let’s have it and I want it now.”

[Jace Keller]

My eyes narrowed as I looked at my Dodya. "I have nothing to give you, Dodya and frankly, I don't understand what you are so worried about...if you've done nothing to incriminate yourself." I said coolily as I remained against the hydrallic.

[Ceres Ewan]

"Do you really play me for a fool Jace or is it that you just suddenly went deaf," I asked as I looked at his body language. I now reached into my pocket and got prepared for his answer and hoped he answered correctly.

[Jace Keller]

I saw him move and before he had a chance, my blaster was on him. "I don't think so, Dodya. You're not going to pull me into your little game. I know what you did." I moved a step away from him.

"He was your son and you had him thrown in lockdown for four years! Four years! How could you?!?!"

[Ceres Ewan]

I was shocked to see my own son drawing on me like this but it was something that he was going to regret. Just as quickly as he drew on me, three of the guards drew on him at blank range.

“I think you had better put that down son. These guys aren’t going to mess with you. One bad move and your going to regret it and so will I.”

I raised my free hand toward him with my hand open. “Hand me that gun and do it now. You’ve been played a pawn in a very dirty game and your going to lose one way or the other if you proceed with this gambit. So hand it here and quit this right now and quit being the fool.”

[Jace Keller]

I shook my head. "I don't think so." I held my weapon right at his head.

With a quick flick of my com I contacted Argos. "Come to the hangar bay immediately. We have some work to do."

I didn't give him a chance to argue before I closed it off, my eyes never leaving my Dodya.

"I suggest you advise your disiples to put down their weapons, you won't get out of this that easily and by the Gods, you aren't going to destroy anymore of my family."

[Argos Ewan]

As I spoke to Palleus I heard Jace's incoming message on my comm and quickly responded. "Right now?" I didn't get a responce and I spoke to him again. "Alright, I'll be right there."

I took Palleus's hand in mine and kissed it. "I am sorry but I guess I must go. Jace needs me for something. Family business I suppose. He always seems to need me for something." I looked into her eyes and smiled. "If you need anything, please don't be afraid to contact me." I bowed to her as I spoke, "until the next time we meet."

I turned and went to the carriage and headed for the main offices.

[Ceres Ewan]

Knowing that Argos was on his way, I now knew something had to be done and done fast. There was no way I wanted Argos involved with any of this. At least he would be something I could salvage from this mess.

I looked over at the guards and looked their way with horror in my eyes. “What are you doing you fool!”

It was the perfect distraction I needed. Jace’s eyes were drawn to the guards and I went to my knees as I reached up with my right hand to knock his gun away as I also pulled my hand from my pocket which held an aerosol can and I pointed it in his face. The can contained a knock-out fluid which I sprayed into his face. Almost immediately his eyes rolled back into his head and he began to collapse toward the floor. As he did, the guards caught him and kept him from hitting the floor.

I pointed at one of the guards, “you, go over there and get his gun. I don’t want any signs of him ever having been here.”

I looked at he other two guards that now held Jace in their arms. “You two, follow me.” I began to walk out of the Eclipse with the guards in tow and walked by the one that picked up Jace’s gun. “Get out of here. I don’t want you seen here when Argos arrives. Shut the hatch behind us too.”

I walked out of the Eclipse with the guards and Jace behind me and went into the lower section of the business building and took him into the basement of the building. Once there I had Jace strapped to a chair that we had used before for interrogations. I sat down and waited for the spray to wear off of Jace so I could get the information I needed from him.

[Jace Keller]

I turned just a bit, and that was enough. The next second, I was falling into darkness.

I didn't know how long I was out, but had a pounding headache when I came to. I blinked slightly as I noticed I was strapped to a chair in a strange room.

I saw my Dodya leaning against a table nearby. "I should have known, is this what you did to my brother? What are you going to pin against me? It won't work, Dodya. Not this time."

[Ceres Ewan]

“Will you shut up,” I replied as I looked around to see if anyone was entering the room. “I want you to listen to me and listen carefully.”

I pulled a chair close to him and sat down on it and looked around once more. "I didn’t want what happened to Jericho to happen, but I had no choice. I know you don’t believe me when I say this but know, I had no choice in this. Right now it is everything I can do to just have them spare your life. With what influence I have left you are going to be brainwashed. Everything you have come to know will be wiped from your memory. It is the only thing I can do to save you. For Jericho, nothing sad to say. I can’t do everything for both of you.”

I walked over and placed my hands on either side of his head onto the back of the chair. “Listen to me and answer me truthfully. What does Avalon know of any of this?”

[Jace Keller]

"Leave her out of this!" I spat. "I'm not telling you anything."

[Ceres Ewan]

“I didn’t ask you that.” I stepped back from him and hit him with my right fist onto his left jaw. I reacherd over and took a hold of his hair and pulled his head back and looked him directly in the eye. “You fool! Don’t you understand, they’ll kill both of you if we don’t get this cleared up!”

[Jace Keller]

I spat blood from my mouth, glared at him and cursed. "I'd rather rot. I would die for Jericho or Argos...but, not for you. You lied about Jericho, you had your own son sent to the prisons of Kessel to keep your greedy secret! I HATE YOU AND I HOPE YOU ROT IN HELL FOR THIS!!!!"

[Ceres Ewan]

I reached down and grabbed Jace’s collar and pulled him toward my face. “You stupid fool. Don’t you understand? You and Avalon both may die if I can’t find out what I need to know!” I shoved him away from me and pointed at him. “If you value her life at all you’ll tell me now! You’ve got to trust me. This is out of my hands. There are other forces empowered here!”

[Jace Keller]

I didn't flinch. "Then kill me."

[Ceres Ewan]

“You fool!” I held onto his collar with one hand and beat him in the face with my other fist. Once I had hit him I turned away from him and then quickly faced him again. “There is no way your going to die. But Avalon is going to pay the price with you, I promise you this.”

I turned away from him and yelled, “Guards!”

The guards immediately walked in. “Yes Sir?”

“Go and get this woman....this Avalon. Bring her here and do not harm her. Am I understood?”

Both of the guards bowed, “as you order Sir.” The guards turned and walked out.

I turned back and looked at Jace, “I hope you regret what your forcing on her. Her fate will be the same as your own, and all of your stubbornness to cooperate. I hope she’ll forgive you.”

[Jace Keller]

"What goes around...comes around and one day, this will all fall back on you. The demons will come you and the pain and agony you push on others will fall back on you. Time will justify your actions, it will. So, do what you will to me, God knows you did it to my twin, my fate will be no different, at least I will know that I did right by it and Avalon, one day you will deeply regret that. That is a promise not a threat."

[Ceres Ewan]

I looked at Jace and pointed my finger at him. "Then so be it. But until then I will do as I must to save you my fool. When I die, my blood will be on your hands, but I won't die by your hands. It will be by the hands of another. This I do know."

[Jace Keller]

My face ached as I looked at him and I could taste blood in my mouth. "Do you really think that matters now? I would have died to save you, but now? My brother suffered needlessly, why? Because of your dirty little secret and you're going to have him sent back to Kessel again." I looked away from him as I thought of my brother, a tear fell down my cheek.

"Now, you're going to wipe this memory from me, but it won't last. Love and compassion will break your spell, I can never hate my twin. You of all people should know that, you're wasting your time."

[Avalon Aquilo]

I had gotten back to my dorm room and took a shower and gotten dressed in my night gown and went to bed after shutting off the lights. Sleep wasn’t coming easy for I was worried about Jace and what he maybe doing right now. After thinking about this I finally decided I would go and see him first thing in the morning. Once having decided to do that sleep came much easier for me.

In the middle of the night I heard something stir within the dorm that awoke me. I opened my eyes and and listened to what sounded like someone had broken into my quarters. I looked up from the bed and two dark sinister figures stood over me and reached toward me. I quickly sat up to defend myself, but it was to late. They overtook me and sprayed something in my face and I quickly slipped into darkness again.

[Ceres Ewan]

"Well you may retrieve your memeory in time, but by then it won't matter. I've convinced them to not allow a full mind wipe and for that you should be thankful for."

[Jace Keller]

"Go to hell!" I said.

[Ceres Ewan]

“I’m sorry son, but someone else has already placed me there,” I replied. I live it....”

As I was about to finish speaking the guards came in with Avalon. They carried her seemingly lifeless body toward me as one of them sat a chair next to Jace and the guards placed her in it and strapped her in.

As I saw them place Avalon in the chair I became furious. “I just ordered her to be taken just moments ago and your back with her already!”

“We were given orders to get her long before you gave your orders sir. We’ve done what was asked of us. Your not the only one we obey. Our orders come from a higher source than you.”

I went to the guard and grabbed him. “You will do as I asked. They are not to be given full mind wipes!”

“Those were your orders and those will be followed. They saw no need to do further harm to them,” the guard replied as they proceeded to set up the devices needed.

I turned and looked at Jace, “you see, I wasn’t lying to you!”

[Jace Keller]

"Forgive me, Jericho...I have failed you..." I said as my boots were taken off and they brought over some kind of strange suit and began putting it on me. I wanted to struggle but my arms couldn't seem to find the strength, even when they released me to pull the suit on. Fear overtook me as the helmet was fastened over my head, leaving me in darkness and silence. The only sound I heard was the sound of my own breathing. I knew what this was, it was a sensory-deprivation suit, used in years long ago to 'break' a person.

My arms were strapped back down and I was trapped! But, just being in the suit was not the worst of it, the lecturing that came next was the far worse.

I couldn't believe this was happening!

One moment it was silent the next I heard over and over again how perfect the ways of the empire was through padded headphones on the sides of the helmet! It seemed that the next part was made especially for me, it droned on about Jericho and how he was the enemy and how I should not trust him! Jericho divided our family! He was the enemy!

It seened like forever this droned on...would it ever stop?

[Argos Ewan]

I walked toward the building and found all the doors locked as I pulled on the last door. “Where in the worlds in he,” I thought to myself. Suddenly it hit me that I was not where Jace had asked me to go. “The hanger bay, the Eclipse, of coarse.”

I felt like such an idiot going to the wrong place and quickly ran to the hanger bay and went to the Eclipse. As I approached I found the hatch door open and stepped inside. “Jace what was it you wanted,” I asked as I looked for Jace but didn’t see him. I walked through the Eclipse looking for him as I called out for him. Jace! Jace, where in the worlds are you!”

Having looked in every compartment and still getting now response from him I finally gave up and headed back toward the mansion to go to bed.

[Jace Keller]

I wanted to scream as the voice droned on. "Trust your elders..."

Trust my Dodya, Jericho lied...

When I opened my eyes, I was in my bed at my Dodya's mansion. The sun was shining in the glass doors that opened to the balcony and I could hear the seagulls cooing. I sat up and squeezed my eyes shut for a moment to try and get my bearings.

[Avalon Aquilo]

I awoke in bed and stretched as the sunlight shone through my window. I rubbed my eyes and then stretched as I sat up in bed. I couldn’t remember the last time I ever slept this good. When I quit stretching I looked around my bed and saw the blankets upon the floor next to my bed. “Strange, I’ve never thrown my covers off before,” I thought to myself.

I dismissed this and went into the dorm fresher and turned on the shower. I walked over to the sink and turned on the water to splash water on my face. As I looked in the mirror over the sink I saw something strange about my hair. Something had happened to my hair. I took my fingers through it and closely noticed my hair near my face had lightened slightly. “I wonder what caused this,” I thought to myself. With my hands now wet, I ran them though my hair once more and the lightness of my hair disappeared.

I reached down and cupped some water in my hands and threw it onto my face and everything looked normal.“Must have been the light I guess. Playing tricks on me.”

I turned away from the mirror and get into the shower and get ready for another normal day of classes.

[Jace Keller]

I scratched my head and yawned. I actually felt very well rested for a change. I shoved the covers back and was clad in my black, silk sleep pants and no shirt. The day was beautiful as I stepped out for a moment and looked at the ocean rolling in on the beach and took in the salty sea air.

I loved the sea and smiled, only wincing at the sudden pain it caused. "What the..." I felt my jaw, it was very tender and ached.

Making my way across the room, I went into the 'fresher and turned on the light. I was shocked to see a rather nasty bruise and part of my face was swollen.

"What the hell?" I asked aloud and shook my head. There was no hiding this and the bad thing was I had no clue how I got it. I sighed as I grabbed my robe and fastened it around myself then headed downstairs.

[Ceres Ewan]

I sat down for breakfast and had just begun to eat when my comlink alerted me of an incoming message. I sat my fork down and pulled the unit up and answered. “Ceres here, go,” I answered.

“We found your son’s ship and it has been destroyed during the evening. We have done as you asked.”

“Very well,” I replied and turned the comlink off as Jace came into the dinning hall.

“Well look what the Marnocks drug in. It is good to see you join us. I’m surprised you are even alive after the type of evening you had last night after your birthday ball. You know, you really should stay out of those bars and fights. It’s really not good for you and I’d like to get some sleep instead of chasing after you when you get like that.”

I looked at Jace as he stood there looking at me. I motioned with my hand to him. “Come, sit down and have some breakfast before you fall down.”

[Jace Keller]

I took a seat as one of our servants poured me some coffee. "I'm afraid I don't remember a thing and I was utterly surprised to see the marks on my face, Dodya. Sorry, if I kept you up last night." I told him as I helped myself to some bacon.

[Ceres Ewan]

I pushed my plate aside and leaned back into my chair and reached into my vest. I pulled out a cigar and one of the servant lit it for me and I took a long smoke from it. The servant sat an ashtray in front of me and I curled the cigar with my hand as I looked at Jace. “Well you didn’t keep me up that long. You were pretty much gone once you hit the mattress. So I was able to get right to bed myself.”

[Avalon Aquilo]

I walked toward the Ewan Mansion and decided to to stop in and see Jace. I walked into the dinning hall and saw Jace and Mr. Ewan having breakfast.

I walked up to Mr. Ewan and lightly kissed him on the cheek as I reached down and took up a piece of uneaten bacon from his plate. "Hello Mr. Ewan. It's a wonderful day out there. You should be eating on the balcony."

I looked up at Jace and saw the damage done to him. "Been going to the pub again I see. When are you going to learn to stay way from that place?" I walked over to Jace and lightly kissed him on the cheek. "You know, if you would go out with me more often than you do, you wouldn't come home looking like this."

I flopped myself down in the chair next to Jace and put my feet up on the edge of the table as I looked at Mr. Ewan. "Honestly I don't know how you two can drink so much. I'd definitly do my drinking at home." I looked around the great hall. "Especially if I lived in a place like this."

[Jace Keller]

I rubbed my temples slightly as I looked at my Dodya. "I don't think I'll be going in today, I'm not feeling too great."

[Avalon Aquilo]

"I don't blame you myself. I don't know what was in that wine last night but that was enough for me. I have classes to attend and even I don't want to go but I must," I added.

I got up and went to Jace and gave him a kiss. "I hope to see you again soon."

I looked at Mr. Ewan and smiled, "have a great day sir. Goodbye," I said as I turned and left for class.

[Ceres Ewan]

I watched as she kissed my son and bid farewell to us. "Have a good day Avalon and don't be such a stranger."

[Argos Ewan]

I walked in for breakfast just as Avalon was leaving and I waved to her as she returned my farewell. "Goodbye Avi!"

I walked over to the table and sat down for breakfast. As I sat down one of the servents served my meal. I took my napkin and placed it in my lap as I looked at Jace. "What in the world happened to you?"

I looked over toward my Dodya and frowned at him. "What did you do to him?"

[Jace Keller]

My head hurt as I looked at my brother. "What did he do to me? He didn't do anything, he probably saved my hide I suppose." I took a drink of my coffee and winced.

I wondered if I were coming down with the flu or something as I rubbed my neck, my body ached with a vengence.

"I guess I got drunk and in a fight, I don't really remember." I told my brother.

[Argos Ewan]

I took a bite of bacon and ate it and looked at Jace. "I don't understand. You called me to go to the Eclipse last night, but when I got there you weren't. What was up with that?"

[Jace Keller]

"I called you?" I asked as I sliced into the eggs that were sat in front of me. "Are you sure?" I didn't remember calling him.

[Ceres Ewan]

I knew this situation was going to get out of hand if I didn't say something quickly. "Well, it is no surprise he doesn't remember. He was pretty drunk when I found him last night. Especially after he had been fighting."

I looked down at my hands and saw the marks on them and quickly placed my cigar in the ashtray and picked my napkin up and drapped my hands as I wiped my mouth. I stood up and threw the napkin onto the table and put my hands into my pockets. "Well if your not going in today Jace, I had better get going. We've got many shipments to make today."

I turned away and walked out of the dinning hall.

[Jace Keller]

I had a sick feeling in the pit of my stomach as I turned my nose up at the rest of my breakfast and pushed it away.

"Well, I must've been drunk when I called and I'm very sorry to have called you." I apologized.

[Argos Ewan]

"Well you do look like a Bantha sat on you. I hope your going to be alright," I replied with concern.

I took a drink of my coffee and sat my cup down. "Oh, by the way, have you heard anything about Jericho?"

[Jace Keller]

I smirked at the name. "Jericho? After his little show at my party? He can rot as far as I'm concerned." I told him flatly. My stomach began to roil as I spoke. I leaned my head onto my hand and closed my eyes for a moment. What was wrong with me?

[Argos Ewan]

I took a bite of my eggs and swallowed. "Well t hat has been pretty much my feelings too. I was surprised he even dared to show up like he did. And to show up at the ball; well that was pretty uncalled for. I'm just glad that Dodya took things in hand and got him out of here. To bad he ruined the evening for you though. Me must be quite messed up from prison I suppose."

I watched Jace and he didn't look well at all. "Jace, are you going to be alright?"

[Jace Keller]

I sighed. "I'm feeling rather ill, Argos. Could you help me to my room?" I asked as I looked at him. "Jericho should have never come to that party, but he couldn't keep quiet and now he's going back to prison...serves him right."

[Argos Ewan]

It was strange for me to hear him speak of Jericho the way he was, but I knew better than to question it. I quickly went to my brothers side to help him. “You know I will Jace.” I put my arm under his arm and reached across his back to grip him and helped him up. “Come on, I’ll help you to bed.”

We ascended the long stairs to his room and I lay him in the bed and took his boots back off of him. “Well you get some rest. I’ve got some things to do and I’ll check back on you in a couple of hours to see how your doing. Meanwhile, you might give it some thought as to not be going to that pub again. You don’t need to be getting beat up like this. However I do have one question for you. How did the other guys fair in the fight?”

[Jace Keller]

My head was killing me as my brother helped me to my bed chambers. "Thanks, bro." I sighed as I laid down. "I have no idea what is wrong with me."

[Argos Ewan]

I looked surprised at Jace, “well I’ve seen you look worse. I think your pretty lucky this time compared the other times I’ve seen you after a drunk spree. Your lucky Dodya pulled you out when he did I suppose,” I said as I held up the covers. “Do you need these?”

[Jace Keller]

"Just one." I replied as I closed my eyes and put my hand over them to block out the light. "It just bothers me that I don't remember it, I've never done that before." I added.

[Argos Ewan]

I seperated the covers and threw one of them over him and then walked toward the windows to close the shades for him. "Well it is no wonder," I said as I pulled the curtains. "You must have drunk the entire pub dry as much as it takes for you to get this loaded."

After finishing pulling the shades I walked toward the door and opened it. "Well you get some rest and I'll check on you when lunch is ready."

[Ceres Ewan]

I walked into the detention center and went to Jericho’s cell and found him there. “Hello Jericho. Well it looks like your going to be going anyway for a long time this time. I just spoke with the Magistrate and it looks like your going away for 35 years to be exact, if not more. It’ll be nice getting you out of my hair.”

I walked closer to the cell bars as I looked at him. “What in the worlds were you thinking? Did you think you could just waltz into my home and strip me of everything I’ve worked for and get away with it? Do you really think me that stupid?”

[Jericho Ewan]

I didn't move from the cold cement bench as I saw him approach. I heard an explosion just hours ago and knew all too well what it was. My ship...

Things weren't going as I had hoped, but at least I still had Jace and the information he had on that jumpdrive.

His voice was sarcastic as I thought it would be. I looked up from my bench. "Do you ever tire of being that thick-skulled tyrant?" I asked as I folded my arms behind my head and yawned.

[Ceres Ewan]

“Well if you are thinking about Jace coming to help you, you might as well get that out of your mind.” I reached up and rubbed my chin. “It seems that Jace suddenly had a loss of memory and has forgotten about anything connected to you. Other than the fact that you’ve been nothing but a lot of trouble for this family and doesn’t want anything to do with you. So I don’t think it is wise to be making any comments on something you have no control over like you did last night. Oh, and by the way, if there was something on that ship of yours of any value, it is gone now too.”

[Jace Keller]

It didn't take me long to get to sleep.

[Jericho Ewan]

Hatred burned through me as I was up in a flash and stormed over to him. If looks could kill, he'd be dead. "What did you do to my brother?!?" I demanded as I went for him, but be stepped back from my cage.

I glared at him. "I swear, I will kill you myself...one day, the wraith of the God's will help me place the right of Canli on your soul. Those associates that you think you now control will own you, they will claim your pitiful life like that of a beggar and throw you to the wolves as you have done to me and once your life is gone...the God's will take over and you'll feel the real wraith of pain and agony from those you've earned it from. I'll be the one, there watching over you...and making you pay for the tribulations you have brought on yourself." I seethed.

[Ceres Ewan]

“Since when did you ever get religion? Canli......Ha. You wouldn’t know it if it bit you on the nose. Those old rituals went out ages ago. Besides, from where I’m sitting I have nothing to worry about. Especially after your gone, which won’t be long now.”

I began to turn away as I laughed. “Well I hope you enjoy yourself where your going. I won’t be seeing you soon, I’m sure of it; my son.”

[Jericho Ewan]

I did not react to him. One day I would return and I would kill him with my own hands.

I watched him leave, then sat down again. My blonde locks fell into my face as I sighed bitterly. If what he said was true...I was in trouble...

[Argos Ewan]

Hours had passed and lunch time was coming and I had to go and check on Jace. I entered his room and awoke him. “Jace? Jace, are you up to eating anything yet? Lunch is about ready,” I said as I lightly shook his shoulder.

[Jace Keller]

Lunch? I thought as I rolled over. I slept that long?

My head didn't hurt anymore and I think I slept enough for days. I slowly sat up and yawned. "Yeah, I think I'll be alright now. I guess, I just needed sleep." I pulled back the cover and grabbed my robe. A nice hot bath will feel good too. I thought as I stood up and stretched.

[Argos Ewan]

As Jace awoke I could see him looking much better dispite his condition or appearance. "Good, well why don't you take a shower and I'll meet you in the dining hall for lunch. I'm sure there is enough time for that before it is served."

I turned away and headed toward the door. "I'll see you there is about one half an hour." I opened the door and proceeded toward the dinning hall. As I proceeded I thought of Palleus. I had actually come to think of her quite a bit. She seemed such a nice person and someone I wanted to get to know even better. Something about her though. Something I couldn’t quite put my finger on.

[Jace Keller]

The shower brought me back to life, my body went through its changes as the water made contact. I felt refreshed after I got out and towelled dry, my body changed again and I dressed in black dress pants and a white tunic. I might as well go in since I felt better. After tying my dress shoes, I made way downstairs and walked into the dining hall.

[Argos Ewan]

I walked into the dinning hall as Jace descended the stair case. “Well now your looking pretty dapper today. What is the occasion? You got something planned,” I asked as we approached the dinning table together.

[Jace Keller]

I looked at him strangely. "Ummm, I always dress like this to go to work."

[Argos Ewan]

I looked at Jace with a surprised look. “Well you told Dodya you weren’t working today. So he’s doing things in your place. Why worry about it?”

[Ceres Ewan]

I walked into the dinning hall for lunch just as Argos made his comment to Jace. “Well maybe I have some things he could be doing. He really needs to get out a little after last night.”

[Argos Ewan]

I looked at Dodya with as I heard him unexpectedly. “I’m sorry Dodya, I meant no disrespect.”

[Ceres Ewan]

I looked at Argos as I thought about the beautiful lady he had with him last night. “That is ok son. Oh by the way, where is that beautiful woman you had here last night? She was quite a prize to be had to be sure. You would do well to have her around. Just don’t let that one go.”

[Argos Ewan]

“Well she's not going to be around much longer. She is only here for a short stay,” I replied.

[Ceres Ewan]

Ahhhhhhhhhh there is still time then, I thought to myself.

“Well feel free to invite her in anytime.”

[Argos Ewan]

"Thank you Dodya. I'll keep that in mind. Right now I'm just showing her around so she may not come here very much."

[Ceres Ewan]

“Oh okay,” I replied as I took up the salad that the servants were now serving. I took my napkin and lay it in my lap. "Well take your time. The work will still be there for you."

That is to bad. I can think of many pleasures with this girl.

I looked at Jace as I was about to take my first bite of the salad. “Why don’t you just take the entire day off. This is turning out to be a pretty slow day anyway.”

[Jace Keller]

I raised an eyebrow. "Really? I could stand to take it easy the rest of the day, if you're sure. Hmmm, maybe I'll see if Avalon wants to go to that new dinner theatre that is opening tonight." I looked at my brother. "Why don't you ask Palleus to join us and Dodya, you could come too if you want."

[Argos Ewan]

“I think that would be a great idea Jace. I’ll go and ask her right after dinner,” I replied.

My Dodya nodded his head in agreement while he ate.

“So why don’t we meet you there, say around 6,” I suggested.

[Jace Keller]

"Sounds like a plan, bro." I smiled and tasted the soup that was placed before me.

[Argos Ewan]

Not feeling like eating lunch, I pushed my lunch away and got up to leave. “Well I’ll see you after while,“ I said just as I went out the door. I ascended the stairs and got dressed for the evening.

After getting dressed I went to Palleus’s room at the Inn and knocked upon her door and waited for her answer to the door.

Somehow I just knew this was going to be a pleasant evening for the two of us. To go with Jace and Avalon was even going to be even nicer.

[Palleus]

It started in the early morning hours, first just a light sniffle and by noon, I was dreadfully ill. My head hurt, my body hurt, I was feverish and was sneezing and blowing my nose like crazy. So much that I called the front desk to call me a doctor. He came and checked me out the prognosis I did not like. Inleshat flu.

I must've picked it up from someone at the party the night before. I was not happy and to know that I would be ill for a few weeks had me less than thrilled. I was given some herbal stuff that would help, but was told that I had to allow it to run it's course and to take it easy or it would get into my lungs.

I had accumulated a nice pile of tissue in the over flowing wastebasket by my bed and didn't even care. I was awoken by a knock on the door.

"Doe away!" I said as I couldn't breath through my nose anymore. I lifted my head for a second and then flopped it back onto the pillows. Hoping whoever it was would take the hint.

[Argos Ewan]

I heard something coming from her room but didn't understand her. I knocked on the door once more. "Palleus, it's me; Argos. Are you alright?"

[Palleus]

I was about to answer, but sneezed instead. I threw back my covers and shivered as my bare feet hit the floor. Taking a tissue, I went to the door and opened it a crack.

"I'm sorry, Argos...I'm..." I sneezed. "Sick." I was finally able to finish.

[Argos Ewan]

Seeing Palleus as she was kind of disappointed me but I knew she couldn't help it. "I'm sorry your not feeling well. How about if I send a doctor to check you out? I'm sure they could help you. As a matter of fact, maybe Avalon can help. She is taking classes for that now. Would you mind that?"

[Palleus]

"I've had a doctor check me out, says I have the Inleshat flu and that I'm supposed to drink plenty of fluids and get rest...other than that, there's not mu..." I sneezed again and blew my nose. "Oh, gods...I'm so sorry..." I apologized. "I hope you don't get this after all we kissed last night."

[Argos Ewan]

"Well, I'm sure I'll be fine, but thanks for letting me know. Is there anything I can do for you; anything at all?"

[Palleus]

I sniffed and shook my head. "No, I'll be fine. I'm just going to bury myself in my blankets and sleep."

[Argos Ewan]

“Very well then,” I replied. “If you need anything please don’t hesitate to let us know. Sleep well,” I said as I gently closed the door and left.

I went back to the Ewan Mansion and went to the servants station and saw the Captain of the Servants and discussed operations for serving meals to Palleus. As I did, my Dodya entered and listened nearby.

[Ceres Ewan]

I walked in and saw Argos speaking to the Captain of the Servants. I listened in and caught the extent of the conversation but didn’t interrupt. Once done, I stepped forward and spoke to my son. “I overheard your conversation about Palleus. I’m sorry she has come down ill and where the help we’re providing is to go. I know your going to be pretty busy the next few days with work. So why don’t I help out and pay her a visit? I figure it is the least I can do to help you to check on her.”

[Argos Ewan]

“I’d appreciate that Dodya. That is very kind of you.” I turned to find out where the Captain had gone. “If you’ll excuse me I need to go and fish making arrangements.” I turned away and went to finish the details of the service to Palleus.

[Ceres Ewan]

After speaking with Argos I went to Palleus’s room at he Inn and knocked upon the door.

[Palleus]

I was too tired to get the door, so earlier I had unlocked it after getting a delivery of some medicine that was not helping in the least. "Come in!"

I was miserable and wished my Master were here. He'd make me homemade soup and be right there beside me. I missed my master dearly, he could make things seem better than they were in any situation.

I knew this flu could last up to six weeks and prayed it didn't. I felt uneasy as Ceres Ewan walked in, but at least I was wrapped in a blanket and was sick so maybe he'd leave me alone.

I looked at him. "Sir? It surprises me that you are here." I sniffed.

[Ceres Ewan]

I walked in and went and sat down next to her and eased my arm around her waist. "I just wanted to come and see how your doing? I thought maybe you and I could pick up from where we were so rudely interrupted last night."

I took my hand and pulled her closer to me and brought my head closer to her as I spoke to her. "I never did get a chance to get to know you better. Thought maybe we could do that."

[Palleus]

"That's very kind of you, but I'm really sick and I really need to rest." I told him, to hopefully get him to leave. I grabbed up a few tissues and blew my nose. "All I want to do is sleep, Sir. So, if you..." I sneezed into my cupped hands.

[Ceres Ewan]

"Awwww, you poor girl." I turned next o her and put my other hand onto her shoulder and turned her toward me. "Maybe I can make you feel a little better," I said as I pulled her body toward mine.

[Palleus]

"Sir...please..." I tried to pull away, but he had me and I felt the urge to sneeze again.

"Sir, I'm going to sne...sne..." I tried to pull away again and in the struggle I couldn't get to my tissues or even my hands to my face and sneezed right into his face.

[Ceres Ewan]

As Palleus sneezed in my face I retracted myself from her and and took up some tissues that were sitting nearby. I took up for her and myself. I handed some of them to her and began wiping the mess from my face.

Once I had finished I stood up in front of her and smiled at her. This girl is more trouble than she is worth. Actually I could do much better with some wench anyway and probably have more fun.

"Well it seems you have it much worse than I figured you did. Actually, I just thought you weren't interested in Argos and told him about being sick just to shun him off. Perhaps I was mistaken about that. Was I," I asked.

[Palleus]

I blew my nose and listened to this man. "Shun him off?" I asked. "Look, Mr. Ewan if I wasn't so sick, I'd be with your son tonight. I really don't like your behavior towards me, it's rather unacceptable." I told him pointedly as I shivered.

[Ceres Ewan]

"Ha, ha, You know, I really don't care what you think of me. It's not that important. Acceptable, usacceptable....Bah! It means nothing to me." I turned away and headed toward the door. "Besides, I would think my son could find something better to bide his time with."

I opened the door to leave as I threw down the tissue and smiled at her. "Hope you get to feeling better."

I walked out and closed the door behind myself and headed toward the Mansion.

[Palleus]

I just sat there and stared at the closing door and then shook my head, which was pounding from all the commotion. He's a real work of art...and I was quite sure that Argos had no clue to this side of his Dodya. Argos talked of his Dodya with pride, but his brother...had little good to say from the party the night before.

I would have told Argos, but there was really no need too. I'd be gone in a few months and until then I would make sure to avoid this rude man whenever possible. Which would not be to hard at this point with my flu.

Suddenly another sneeze overtook me as I flopped back onto my pillows. I hope I made him sick...he deserves it!

[Avalon Aquilo]

For 5 weeks Palleus had been down with the flu. At one point she even spent one week in the Med-Center for treatment. Following her stay in the Med-Center, Argos’s Dodya spent a week there too.

On the sixth week of her recovery, I got word from Argos that the servants that had been bringing nourishment to Palleus said she was recovering. Seeing the flu strain that seemed to going between Argos’s Dodya and Palleus, I decided to pay a visit to Palleus and check on her recovery.

I went to Palleus’s room and knocked on the door as I waited outside for her reply.

[Palleus]

I had been on my balcony in my robe drinking some hot tea when I heard the knock on the door. I slipped into my slippers and got up.

I felt pretty good once again, and was so glad that I didn't get out of breath anymore when I walked across the room. "Yes?" I asked as I opened the door and saw Avalon standing there. "Avalon, it's good to see you. Please come in." I smiled as I stood back.

[Avalon Aquilo]

“Well now, there is a smile not to be forgotten. How are you feeling today,” I said with a huge smile on my face as I entered the room.

[Palleus]

"I'm feeling so much better, I'll tell ya what I never want to have that flu again. That had to be the worst six weeks of my life." I said as I closed the door behind her. "I was just having some hot tea on the balcony. Would you like some?"

[Avalon Aquilo]

"Not just yet," I replied. "Right now I'd like for you to sit on the bed and let me examine you."

I watch her body language as she sat upon the bed and she moved quite freely and with no restrictions. I went to her side and sat on the bed next to her and began examining her. I placed my hand under her chin and turned her head toward me. “Please, open your mouth for me.”

She complied and I checked her throat out. “Okay, you can close your mouth now.” I felt around her throat and pressed around it looking for lumps and reactions to soreness and she didn’t react as if anything was bothering her.

I pulled out on both her arms and checked them and everything looked good.

I looked into her eyes and saw them clear and free of anything unusual.

“Well your color is good and every thing looks fine. Do you have a reasons to believe you can’t go out side now? Are you experiencing any pain from sunlight.” I asked.

[Palleus]

I shook my head no. "Not at all. I feel a lot better than I did even a week ago. I have my breath back and everything. I have to really thank you, Jace and Argos, you saved my life all of you did. I mean, had you not come over to check on me that one night and found me passed out from lung distress, I would have died and Argos has been a saint. He was always there, mask and everything..." I smiled, it felt good to be wanted.

[Avalon Aquilo]

“Palleus, you don’t know the half of it. I can’t count the times I had to keep Argos away from you. Even after my insistence about not coming here to see you he still did. You are one lucky girl Palleus,” I said as I smiled at her. “How can you not go crazy for this guy?”

I reached over and put my hands onto her left thigh and rolled my eyes back. “Oh, he is so dreamy. I’d jump him every chance I got.” I pulled my hands back and covered my mouth and laughed and then looked at her with surprise at what I had just said.

“Oh, don’t get me wrong, I am so in love with Jace and he is my man, but Argos....” I let my body fall back onto the bed. “Oh, Gods what a dreamboat.” As I lay upon the bed I looked at Palleus, “and he’s rich too which is even better.” I put my hand under my head and propped it up as I looked at her. "You know he is quite smitten with you, you know that don’t you?”

[Palleus]

I laughed. "Yeah, I know. I really like him too." I answered with a smile. "I've not really been with anyone, so this whole thing is quite new to me."

[Avalon Aquilo]

I looked at her and laughed. “First time? Are you kidding? Geeeesh girl; for the first time out of the chute your pulling aces. You better hang onto what you have there. Look it is like this. Touch passion when it comes your way. It’s rare enough as it is. Don’t walk away from it when it calls you by name. Right now it is screaming at you.”

[Palleus]

I wished I could've been optimist like her, but I knew what the future held and love was in no part of it. I would return to the Jedi in nine weeks. Seven weeks were almost up of being here and I'd lost six of those weeks being ill. "Well, I just have to take one day at a time, Avalon." I said as I avoided eye contact.

[Avalon Aquilo]

“What is holding you back? You have an entire future staring right at you and you can’t open yourself to it?” I got up and leaned back on my elbows. “Look Palleus, I am a woman too and I know how love can pull on someone some times, but when you have it beating you on the head you’ve got to pay attention to it. Don’t shut it out or be so scared of it If you‘ll just open yourself to the possibilities you maybe surprised at what you will find.”

[Palleus]

"That's the problem, Avalon. There is no future here for me." I told her and bit my lip.

[Avalon Aquilo]

I sat up and looked at her with surprise. "No future? Pfffft, your kidding right?"

[Palleus]

I shook my head. "I wish it was, but my time here is limited."

[Avalon Aquilo]

I could see that what I was saying wasn’t getting through to her and decided to let her figure this out on her own. After all, it seemed to be the only thing she was going to understand. I got off the bed and got ready to leave. “Oh, ok then. Well I’m not going to encourage you to do something you don’t wish to have in your life, but think hard about this Palleus. Think real hard before you end up regretting your one and only chance you may ever have for happiness in your life. Now me, I plan to hang onto what I have, one way or the other.”

[Palleus]

"I wish it were that easy, Avalon. But, for me it's not." I didn't want to think about this anymore than she wanted to hear it. The point was I had nine weeks left before I had to go back to the Jedi Temple and I knew by then I would regret it.

"Look, I know you don't understand, but I have no choice really." I finished.

[Avalon Aquilo]

"Well I wish you all the luck in the world." I walked over to the door. I hope to see you again before you have to leave. I really enjoy your presence. By the way, your fine now and can go out as you wish, not that you ever needed my permission. I'll see you later."

I opened the door and stepped into it and got rapped on the head.

[Argos Ewan]

By the med reports I had been reading I knew Palleus was going to be getting out and about soon and would be in need of escort. Even though I knew Avalon was going to be seeing her and checking up on Palleus, I decided to go to her room and visit her. I walked up to her Inn door and knocked upon it as I looked around at he beautiful new day.

As I knocked on the door I felt my hand hitting something soft and saw that it was Avalon’s head I was hitting, not the door. I reached out to Avalon and took her by the shoulders. “Av...Avalon. I’m sorry. I wasn’t looking.”

Avalon rubbed her head as she walked away without speaking a word to me. This seemed quite unusual to me.

I shrugged my shoulders and looked at Palleus as I smiled at her. “Well, you look magnificent today. Do you feel like getting out for a while or not? If so I’d like to take you to a park nearby. We can go for a walk there if you wish. It is quite pretty there and the flowers are just coming into bloom and I know you like flowers.”

[Palleus]

Guilt washed over me as I saw him standing there. I didn't say anything for a few moments.

"Yeah, that would be nice, Argos. I could use the walk, just let me go get dressed and I'll be right out." I told him with a slight smile.

[Argos Ewan]

Just as she walked away to get dressed I saw something on her face that didn’t seem right.

I wonder what is wrong? Did I say something wrong? Did I do something out of line? Humm.

As I thought to myself I went outside her room and stood by the outer railing and looked across the landscape.

[Palleus]

The guilt weighed on my heart as I got dressed. Maybe I was handling this all wrong, but it was too late at this point. Things had gotten this far and I had to go back to the Jedi. I had too.

I slipped on some sandles and stepped out into the warm sunlight. Argos was standing there looking outwards as I stepped up to him. I slowly put my arms around him and held him. "I'm really glad you are here, Argos." I told him softly.

[Argos Ewan]

As Palleus put her arms around me and spoke to me, sudden confusion struck me. What in the worlds? I’m not getting this. Was I getting the wrong signal from her?

As she embraced me I turned and put my arms around her and held her gently. “I have really missed having your company. It is really nice having you with me.” I slid my arms down her body and took her hands in mine as I stepped back from her. I released one of her hands and slightly lifted the other hand and lightly pulled her to one side to allow her to turn. “Well let’s have a look at you.”

As she turned in front of me I took in the entire view of her. “You look magnificent. Absolutely stunning.” I pulled her close and looked deeply into her eyes. You know, I have really missed you.”

[Palleus]

I looked up into his eyes and nodded. "I know and I'm sorry I had to go out and catch some stupid bug that took over six weeks of our time. It really meant a lot to me to see you there so many times and I was told you were there when I was delirious with fever. I'm just glad that you didn't catch it."

[Argos Ewan]

"Well I am too," I replied. "It just something I was willing to do for you. You know, I have come to think a lot of you. I like being with you. It just that something just feels so....so right when I'm near you."

[Palleus]

"Argos, I don't know how long..." He put his finger to my lips. How could I tell him that none of this was supposed to happen? How could I break his heart knowing what I knew to be true? How would I feel when I left, knowing what I felt at this very moment? This was love, this was what it was all about! How could this be so wrong?

[Argos Ewan]

"Palleus, let's enjoy the time we have, okay?" I reached across to shut her door and looked back at her before closing it. "Have you got your key? I'd hate to see you lock yourself out."

[Jace Keller]

I just returned from a meeting with a sister planet and headed straight to my Dodya's bed chamber to give him a full update. I was stopped just outside the suite door and was given a mask to put on so I would not breath in the flu virus.

I walked in and saw my father still pale, feverish and obviously very ill still, but at least he was out of the med center.

"Dodya, I just returned from the Carver meeting and they are indeed interested in doing a merge with Remington Industries for some new hatcheries, they want the business." I said as I took seat by his bed.

[Ceres Ewan]

“Tat ounds putty goud son.” Suddenly I was hit with a sneezing fit. Feeling miserable I lay bed in the bed again. “Ohhhhhh, geeeeeeeesh. I am to tick of tis blu. I am so miderble wit tis. Are you tur you tould be here with ma?”

[Jace Keller]

"That is what the mask is for and I wash everything once I leave." I informed him as I handed him the tissue box. "You sound dreadful, Dodya."

[Ceres Ewan]

“Oh, thans a bot. I bite ou po. Geeeeeeesh I wit I coud bethe.” I waved my hand as if to tell him to leave. “Ou had butter go. Ou dunt eed tis. Go, go ow.”

[Jace Keller]

"Alright, you get some rest and I'll check on you later." I told him as I pulled the blankets up a bit for him. "Look Palleus is finally over her flu, so yours isn't going to last too much longer." I made sure he had everything he needed before I left and went to my own quarters for a shower.

[Ceres Ewan]

I sneezed loudly as Jace left. I rolled my eyes in my head at the thought of seeing Palleus again. Yeah right, like I would want to see her again. If I ever do it will be to soon. Especially after getting this flu from her. Gods only knows what else she is carrying around. I just hope Argos doesn't catch anything.

I sneezed again and groaned, "Oh guds."

[Palleus]

I nodded at Argos. "Yeah, I have the key, no worries there." I told him. Once he closed the door I put my arm around him as we walked. "I'm sorry I had to blow some of our time being sick, it was just my luck." I said.

[Argos Ewan]

As she put her arm around me I did the same and pulled her ever so gently close to me as we walked. "Palleus, come on. I know you couldn't help it. It just happened and it wasn't like you planned it now did you? I''m just glad to have you with me now, can't you tell. I've really missed you."

[Palleus]

I made an awful face. "I hope I never go through that again." I told him. "All that sneezing and blowing and the fever bouts...and the not being able to breath...ick!"

I shuddered as I leaned against him. "I thought for sure I was going to die."

[Argos Ewan]

I turned a corner with her and headed toward the park as I held her close. "Well that would be a sad day for me if that happened."

As we contunied to walk, I sofly spoke to her. "Palleus, I must say. I've never felt the way I feel about you. There is something that has a hold on me and it feels warm and good."

[Palleus]

"I feel the same way, Argos. I can't seem to get you out of my head. It really meant alot to see your smiling face giving me support when I was so sick."

[Argos Ewan]

I walked with Palleus into the park and stopped at a tree and took her by the hand and turned her toward me and I walked up to her. As I did her, back went against a tree that was nearby. I took her other hand in mine and drew both her hands to my chest and kissed her hands. After I did, I looked her in the eyes as I softly spoke to her. "I believe I am really falling for you Palleus. It is all in the feelings I was telling you I was having about you."

[Palleus]

I bit my lip as I looked at him. "I know and...I feel the same." I replied with a shy smile.

[Argos Ewan]

I let my grip loose from her hands and reached up with my right hand and gently and slowly placed it under her chin to kiss her. I carefully watched her eyes to see if she was receptive to me or not as I moved close to kiss her.

[Palleus]

I stopped for a second. "Argos...I just got over the flu, are you sure..."

[Argos Ewan]

I took my hand and removed it from her chin and gently stroked my fingers up her cheek as I continued to look into her eyes. "I've never been more sure of anything in my life Palleus. Do you wish for me not to?"

[Palleus]

I looked at him and stood on my tiptoes and kissed him gently on the lips. I couldn't resist and if he was not afraid of my flu, I wouldn't be either. Besides if he caught it, I could take care of him...

After the kiss, I looked at him. "I'm falling for you, Argos...I can't help myself."

[Argos Ewan]

"There is no need to Palleus. I feel the same way about you," I said as I carressed her face with my hand. "I feel so close to you and would like very much to tell you that I do love you. Does that scare you," I asked. "Is it something that you would rather I didn't say?"

[Palleus]

He loved me...I'd never heard that used in this type of situation. I'd never been in this type of situation.

"No, it doesn't scare me, why would it?" I asked a bit confused.

[Argos Ewan]

I gently pulled her long hair over her shoulder and held my stare in her eyes. "Well it is just something that someone once told me in the past that they were afraid of hearing and wasn't sure they wanted that for themselves. How do you feel about it?"

[Palleus]

"Well...I...I don't know. I've never been in love, but I know how it feels now."

[Argos Ewan]

As I looked at her I saw something fly past me. I looked beyond Palleus and saw it was a colorful butterfly. I held out my finger towards the colorful creature and it landed upon it. I slowly drew my hand back and showed the butterfly to her.

"Love, it is much as fragile and gentle as this butterfly. It's strength comes from the beauty you can feel from the mear sight of it. Much as to how I feel about you. The color comes from within it and yet it grows and wraps it's body within itself. Much how a love can be from me in how I feel inside about you."

[Palleus]

"Awww, you are too sweet, Argos Ewan." I smiled and blushed.

[Argos Ewan]

I looked away from the butterfly and looked at Palleus and smiled. I moved my hand and the butterfly toward her and took her hand in my free hand. I moved the butterfly toward her hand. "The thing about love is that you have to have the willingness to embrace it and know it is a part of you." I raised her hand and sat my finger next to hers. "If love is what you desire then there it will stay in your heart."

As the butterfly walked off my finger, it walked onto hers. "If you feel love within you then you'll truly know that it is yours and yours alone." I moved my hand away from her and watched the butterfly slowly walk across her hand as I smiled at her.

I bent down and lightly blew on the butterfly and it flew away. "Love can often fly out from your heart and can often set you free. As free as the wonderful spirit within you."

[Palleus]

He could say the most amazing things. I stood in awe as the butterfly walked on my hand. "That was amazing, Argos." I beamed.

[Argos Ewan]

"Well they aren't just words my love. Let me show you beauty. Beauty that is all around you. Close your eyes and hold my hands and follow my vioce." I held my hands out to her for her to take them.

[Palleus]

I smiled and did as he said. I let him lead me to wherever he wished and giggled slightly along the way.

[Argos Ewan]

As she closed her eyes and held her hands I slightly bowed down and kissed her. I stood upand looked at her as I held her hands still. "Now follow my voice."

I stepped two steps backwards and walked in a circle that went around to the back side of the tree that we were once standing next to. Once on the other side of the tree I walked her to a circular flower garden that was planted there. Amonst the flowers were many butterflies just like the one she once held. I walked her to the center of the flowers. "Alright now keep your eyes shut and sit down."

She sat down in the flower bed and the butterflies flew all around her. I stepped away from her and released her hands. "Now keep your eyes shut."

I walked out of the flower bed and stood with my arms crossed as I looked at her. "Alright you can open your eyes now."

[Palleus]

I opened my eyes and squinted for just a moment. My eyes widened in delight. "My goodness!" I cried. "This is lovely! Look at all of them!"

[Argos Ewan]

I walked over to Palleus as she smiled and knelt down next to her. I picked a flower and handed it to her. "Now do you see? In all the love that there is, often much of it is embraced by us. It's not what we do to embrace love that matters as much as it is the love that embraces us. That is what we should always allow ourselves to feel." I stood up and reached down to her to help her up. "Do you understand what I am saying love?"

[Palleus]

I nodded as I looked down to the flower now in my hands. I knew deep down thiough this would not last, I would be leaving in nine weeks.

It was my duty, to my Order. I had lied this far and due to the context of my stay, I would have to continue to lie. I sighed deeply. "Argos, things are good, but sometimes things happen even though we don't want them too." I stood and gave him a gentle kiss and walked over to a nearby bench and took a seat. This was so unfair to him and I was allowing my guilt to get in the way. The fact also came to the reaction to his Dodya, I really didn't like this man in any means and I had to wonder if what was happening in his family that there was more to it.

"Tell me of your brother, Argos." I said as I motioned for him to have a seat by me. "It was no secret that things are very tense there."

[Argos Ewan]

I could understand what she maybe saying but I had other things on my mind, her. So I took her lead and went and sat on the bench next to her. I looked out over the landscape in the distance as I thought of what to say to her.

I looked back at her and smiled, "you know, much as things are in life, many things that effect us and our surroundings is mostly that which we allow to be a part of ourselves and how much we want those or other things in our life. Nothing else matters as long as you hold true to what you want in your life."

[Palleus]

I looked at him strangely. He avoided my question. "What are you talking about?" I asked.

[Argos Ewan]

I looked solemly at Palleus. "I'm talking about what is important. Because of what we have nothing else is importanmt."

I turned on the bench and gave her my complete attention. "Look, it's not that I refuse to speak about Jace, alright? It is simply right this very moment there is something far more important to me. But, to answer your question, I have no idea what is going on about Jace and my family. Things in families come up like this all the time. Therefore I don't give it much weight and concentrate on what is to me."

[Palleus]

I sighed. I wanted to tell him what I heard, but he wasn't responding to me. I was a Jedi first and always.

I thought about his Dodya offering me credit for services...and again just weeks ago. I was clearly upset about this and didn't really know what to do, I'd never been treated this way.

"Argos, this is important." I told him. "Alright, then what is the relationship you have with your father? This is important to me."

[Argos Ewan]

“My Dodya," I replied. "Oh, I guess we're ok between us. He’s usually so busy with meeting and such that I really don’t get much time with him.” I shrugged my shoulders. “He’s my Dodya. What more can I say? Is there something specific you're wanting to tell me or what?”

[Palleus]

How many times does be ask your female companions to have sensual relations? That was what I wanted to ask, but I didn't. The guy gave me the creeps and the next time he came to me, I'd give him more than just the flu.

"No, I was just wondering that's all." I once again lied. "Look, I'm starting to get really tired, I probably should head back and rest." I told him as I stood and began walking.

I hated lying to him, it wasn't like me at all. Lie after lie was telling and for what means? To leave in the end of nine weeks and go about my business once again as a Jedi Padawan, Quay'Na Rakai. I hated myself, I was getting in way too deep.

[Argos Ewan]

I suddenly got a strong feeling inside myself as I watched her walk away from me. I slowly got up and watched her closely and she looed as if she were running away from me. Now confused, I stopped and stood still and called to her from where I stood. “Palleus? Have I offended you in some way?”

[Palleus]

I turned and looked at him. "No, it's not you, it's me." That was not a lie.

[Argos Ewan]

Her words gave me no comfort and I slowly walked toward her. “Palleus, if there is anything I can do to help you; please tell me. I want to do that for you.”

[Palleus]

"You can't help me." I spoke softly. "I know that there are certain things you want and ..." I couldn't speak anymore and began to walk away.

I thought of my Master and his reassurance when I was in trouble. I could use some of his assurance now. I missed my Master and it hurt me deeply to know that I out right lied to him and I was doing the same to Argos.

I was a fraud and there was no other way to put it.

[Argos Ewan]

I stood and watched her walk away from me. what in the worlds could be some terrible. First she’s pulling herself close to me then she walks away. Now2 what do I do? Go after her or let her go and stew on what ever it is that bothers her?

I finally decided I didn’t want her to be alone with what ever was bothering her and went after her. “Wait Palleus. Come on, quit running from me, stop!” I finally caught up to her as she slowed showing me that she really didn’t want t run from me.

As I came up to her I gently placed my hand on her shoulder. “Come on Palleus. Please don’t ber like this I beg you. As much as I have come to love you , you are now hurting me and it hurts a lot. Please tell me what is wrong.”

[Palleus]

What was I supposed to say? I looked at him. "I can't tell you..." I said, with tears in my eyes.

I didn't know what to say, but perhaps it was time to fess up on this particular situation. "It's your Dodya..."

[Argos Ewan]

"Huh," I replied. "What about my Dodya? What's the matter with him? Is there something about him and the flu I don't know about? Has something happened to him?"

[Palleus]

I looked at him, deep into his eyes. "He approached me, Argos...twice." Tears streamed down my cheeks as I spoke.

[Argos Ewan]

I looked at her in shock and took her by her shoulders. "Are you alright? Did he hurt you? I want to know. Tell me the truth. Did he hurt or harm you in anyway?"

Anger began to well up inside me and I felt as if I were about to explode with anger towrds my Dodya.

[Palleus]

Through my tears and shame I shook my head. "At the party, he came at me and wanted to pay me if I'd spend time with him and he was interupted by your brother and then he came to my room when I was sick. He wouldn't go away and he thought I was shunning you and was playing sick, he wouldn't leave me alone until I sneezed on him and then he got really hateful. I don't want to be around him, Argos..." I sobbed.

[Argos Ewan]

I took her shoulders and pulled her close to me to comfort her. "Shhh, come on now. Your with me now and he's not ever going to come close to you ever again. I am so sorry darling and I couldn't blame you if you never wished to see me again. All because of someone else and how they treated you." I put my head on her shoulder as I held her close. "I am so sorry. Please forgive me."

[Palleus]

I eased a bit and nodded. "I don't want to be a troublemaker for your family. But, I just couldn't keep it in, it really disturbed me. I thought he was really kind when I first met him and then he changed and was so hateful. I'm sorry for having to tell you this about him, I feel horrible."

[Argos Ewan]

"Alright," I repied. "Now you've finally told me this it all makes sence to me and I believe you. It wasn't your fault and I will deal with this."

I took my head off her shoulder and looked down with her head next to mine. "Palleus, please don't think less of me because of him. I'm nothing like him and would never treat you this way."

[Palleus]

I leaned against him and nodded. "I trust you, Argos."

[Argos Ewan]

"And I trust and believe in you too my love."

I put my arm around her and turned her toward the Inn. "I'm going to take you back to the Inn anmd your room. I'm going to leave for a short while and then I will return to you if you so desire."

[Palleus]

I nodded, it was true and I was getting tired. So, the rest would do me some good. I knew where he was going and I was not going to try to stop him.