Stone Cold in Love With You

[Helenias Evenstar]

<font color=red>When I get home I found you sleeping
I said the words you know are true
And I'm stoned, stone cold in love with you

You don't have to turn the light on
Ain't had more than just a few
And I'm stoned, I'm stone cold in love with you
You don't have to wonder why now
Look at all the things you've been to me
I'll build my whole life on the sweet foundation
You've given, baby you know what I mean

I left my friends back in the poolroom
They'll still be drowning out the blues
I'm stoned, I'm stone cold in love with you

You don't have to wonder why
Look at all the things you've been
My heart lies on the sweet foundation
You'v given, baby you know what I mean

I see your face below the window
I see the moonlight coming through
And I'm stoned, I'm stone cold in love with you
Yes I'm stoned, I'm stone cold in love with you</font>

--

It was rare she would get blind drunk, rarer that she would pass out. Tonight, she had done her best to do both, but the blissful unconscious would not come. It was like as if the universe was out to make sure she would have this date seared into her brain, to make sure she would suffer every hateful hour, every hurt filled minute, every sorrow filled second. It was all she could do to drink herself into oblivion, to raise the glass to her lips and take another swallow of heartache. Every breath just seemed to be an insult to her memories, every movement, every taste and every smell.

She raised the bottle to her lips, still totally sober despite her best attempts. She hurt. She cried. She exploded into a grief driven rage flinging the bottle into the opposite wall of her apartment. It shattered, but it didn’t satisfy her need to fling her hurt back at the galaxy. She smashed the table she was at with a fist, then flew into a whirlwind of destruction, smashing tables, chairs, glasses, anything she could get a hold of. She put her hand on a small data pad, cocked her elbow to fling this through the window.

Paused.

Looked

There she was, smiling. A man had his arm around her waist, the hands that could be seen shining with a ring on each hand, bright and gold. Her rage broke into grief as she sank to the ground, howling.

“Marcus, you barstard! Why? Why?? WHY????”

Helenias Q’Dunn hugged the picture of her wedding day to her chest, like it was the most precious thing she ever had. As if it could replace the arms that she wanted to hold her, the man she had lost, thought she had found, but had been too late in reclaiming. He was lost again, forever. She cried out her distress at the injustice of it all… just when she had gotten hopeful he had actually lived through the treachery of Callista…. He had died alone, far away from anyone and anything, before she could say just three words to him again. What a cruel joke – thinking he was dead for 10 years, discovering he wasn’t and then to have him snatched away again. She collapsed and curled up in a sobbing ball, just wishing this hell of a day would pass.

It would – should have been their eleventh wedding anniversary.

[Jane X]

Jane walked down the sidewalk to return to her room, when she heard smashing sounds, and then a crying sob. A woman, screaming a man's name. Why it even registered to Jane, she didn't know. She should have kept on going. Arcan wasn't any of her business, and she was just rolling through anyways. However, Jane was afflicted with a moral compass of a sort, and that coupled with a desperate need to find enough money to live on. If this woman needed help, neither one of them could refuse it. And the way she rattled off his name on her heartbroken lips; it reminded her of a different name, wailed in an all too similar manner. She hesitated there for a few seconds, then got the wiser of it. She turned away from the door, and decided to return to the bar. Usually heartbreak and alcohol were hand in hand. Maybe then, she'd be waiting.

[Marcus Telcontar]

Night.

It was raining, a soft rain that caressed the plants, touched the grassed, kissed the rocks. Water ran gently in streams, giving life to the flora of the area, creating dancing patterns in the air that could be barely seen. There was no breeze to distrupt and eddy the falling water. What wildlife there was had long gone into burrow and shelter, leaving the only noise to be the rain falling softly like a lover's kiss.

In the darkness, the shadow of an ancient and apparently long deserted castle could be made out. Closer inspection could testify on the building's huge size, it's age and the damage it had on one corner. Rain dripped of rampants, formed pools on open courtyards, dripped off eaves, ran down the face of walls...

And on one high balcony, fell on the gloved hands of a man, dressed in old travelling clothes, a grey cloak and hood, which was dropped to show his ruggedly handsome face, long hair and beard, thin but strong features and square jaw. Eyes that shone in the darkness, eyes that gave evidnece to the events this man had seen and been part of, the long years and hard toil he had endured. Eyes that missed nothing, scaning the area below the balcony. Sharp hearing ears listened to the rain fall, hearing it's unique music on the plants and stone of the surrounds. A man with many burdens and troubles, someone so far away from his home that the mind could not comprehend the sheer distance involved.

But above all, a man whom was beginning to find peace within himself. A man who had finished a journey through hell and had emerged stronger and unbowed, a man whose presence was marked by the power visible in his eyes, the weight of his stare, the way he could bore through the visible and seemingly make the invisible known just by his gaze. And indeed, there was some truth to that, for this was no ordinary man. He was a Jedi Master, a truly rare being with powers and abilities that others could only dream of, a man who had the very powers that binded the Galaxy together in his grasp and will to use. He truly now had the Light Side of The Force at his command, to do as he willed and also to give him guidance.

If it had not been for the accident Marcus Q'Dunn, Jedi Warlord and Servant of Light thought, I would not be here. I would not have had this time to heal, to think, to feel and begin to believe again. To see where I had gone wrong and to correct my mistakes. It is strange how things that seem bad can end up being edifying for one. It's as if to successfully struggle against that what ails us, makes us stronger for the next challenge life would throw at us

And hadn't Life itse;lf thrown some true challenges in his path? 80 years a evil and corrupt Dark Jedi, 11 years as a Jedi. 10 years alone. 8 years pretending to be someone else. 109 years standard of toil and effort, most of it seemingly futile and wrong, to end up here, with his Jedi Learner. His Padawan. The first true one he ever had, a resposibilty that weighed on his mind at times. Alaina Eldric, a tall and graceful young woman, who was now his charge and in his care, his student. She was a willing one too and was applying what she was taught well. There was so much he wanted to pass down to here, he sometimes didn't know where to start. Right now, she was learning to recognise the Force, to reach out and feel it. Certainly, it was not easy, but she was now beginnig to make progress, after one intensive month. Sitll, there was years of study left, a long and hard task that Marcus was really beginning to enjoy and look forward to on a daily basis.

The Master and his student were still working each other out, but there were signs that there was the very beginnings of a true Master/Student bond. It was still too early, but Marcus was glad he had found Alaina living with Old Jost and had taken her with him.

As he looked out, he could feel his heart was much, much more at ease than it had been for years. His mind was calm and his spirit was at peace. It was a feeling he was treasureing, enjoying for all it was worth.

How long has it been since I felt this at peace with myself and the Universe?

That was an easy answer. Not since the days of his all too brief marriage, before he was a Jedi. Those days with Helenias had been the best he had ever known, a pureness of joy he always held dear. But now, how many years since the fateful day at the briddge, when he had been forced to watch her fall and die? 10 years? The pain of that was now dying, his grief was now gone. He had healed from the shattering and sickeng blow to himself, the loss of his lovely wife. Maybe the intervening years had been hard and sometimes, he had not been able to tthink of Helenias without a pitiful breakdown....

But...

But not now. He had reached an acceptance she was gone and it had been long enough. He had moved on, even if he still wore his wedding ring.

As he thought of that, he had a stray thought.

Well....... so it is. Oh Helenias, I wish you could still be with me.

But even that only bought a twinge of regret, not sadness. Maybe the years had bought healing to himself. Finally.


It would – should have been their eleventh wedding anniversary.

[Taylor Millard]

Grand Admiral Taylor Millard stood aboard the Imperial Star Destroyer Superior gazing out at the stars as they passed by in hyperspace. He was on his way to Bastion, to ensure his protege's wife, Jaranda Piett-Tomar arrived safely. Plus he still had a few gifts to give Tomar as congratulations for his promotion.

However, before the Superior could stop at Bastion, it had to make a very brief stop on the world of Omar Prime to pick up a few supplies for the various troopers on the ship.

Millard strode into his study, sitting down in his oak chair behind the mahogany desk. He rarely meditated but at this time, the recently returned Sith Knight, believed it was right.

As he sat, Taylor opened his mind to the Force, feeling it all around him. It filled his being, taking over his mind. He saw various images...of Tomar, Jaranda, Thomas, his dead brother, Serena Laran, and even the faintest glimpses of a man he could only guess was his father.

It was then he saw the woman. A face he hadn't seen before. She was beatiful, with long brown hair and exotic eyes. She was sitting in a room, obviously drunk, clutching a photo of a man.

The darkness came again and he saw her again. This time she was on a ship, headed somewhere... Taylor strained for the planet's name...then found it. The name itself was alien, but the Dark Jedi believed he would find it...or intercept the woman on her way to the backwater planet.

Suddenly the darkness consumed him, ripping him away from the visions and back to his study. He was sweating a bit, his blue eyes literally glowing from the meditation. Taylor looked at his watch...

Four hours? I've been out for four hours? Millard ran a black-gloved hand through his brown hair.

Time to prepare for something else.

"Captain Fenete," he keyed the comm for his bridge officer, "Prepare a missile boat. I have an errand to attend to."

[Helenias Evenstar]

I felt awful. I had spent who knows how long crumpled up in a ball crying and the alcohol had finally taken over and I had fallen unconcious. Now, hours later, I awoke, picture of my wedding day still pressed to my chest, my eyeballs feeling like someone had sandblasted them, my mouth tasting like I had licked a rancor. And whatever it was I had been drinking had given me a truly vile hangover, one that felt like a dwarf was in my skull and hammering my temples. Slowly I righted myself into a sitting position, fingers raking my hair....

Then leaning over and throwing up.

After that was over, I managed to shakily get to my feet, the holo falling to the ground, forgotten for the moment as I struggled to make the refresher before the next vomiting fit came. A few minutes later, I had managed to drag myself over to the sink, splashed some water over my face. Bloodshot eyes, a flithy face and mussed hair stared back to me from the mirror.

Pull yourself together Elieen....

I wish I could. Nothing right now looked further from being the case. But as with any sorrow, things looked better after a hangover blocker had been sucked down and a decent water shower and a clean dress, a flowing green one, brown leather boots and also a pair of dark tan gloves, which covered my ring. Hair done loosely.

Abruptly, I had to get out of the room. Just get out and be somewhere - didnt matter anywhere else. The bar and grill would do. It was a sudden urge and I had to obey it.

I almost ran out, leaving the cleaning droid to clean up the mess and to pick up the holo I had left on the floor.

[Aura Allei]

Aura caught the audible epilogue in the building as well. Following Jane into the tavern, she attained a seat at the bar ordering a shot of Merenzane Gold from the distempered barkeep.

She reflected on the past with the Noble Warriors of Light, of which she was a Jedi Knight. Aura lost her would be husband to the Darkside. While he was not dead, the one she loved was consumed by the infernal fires of obscurity, as he forfeited his Jedi cultivation. Never again would they enclose the love they cherished for one another.

The memory was a painful part of her transitory past, that the grieving woman resurrected. The golden liquor vanished down her throat, as she sat back ordering consecutive drinks, dismissing the arduous stint into an abysmal niche of her psyche.

[Helenias Evenstar]

Downstairs was the Bar and Grill, the Galaxy famed tapcafe that was run by a small green Jedi Master, Master Yogurt. While in itself, this would seem bizarre, but in it’s own way, it made sense. It was a place for the Jedi to socialize, to talk, to trade knowledge and for quiet business to be done. As well as the Jedi (Whom I had always noted, held themselves apart from everyone else), there was the usual “A list” social climbers, ditzy Jedi groupies (it was true. Beings would be here to dream of being a Jedi or just dream of talking to one – and one of two had schemes to go further, I had already fended one part of unwanted male attention with a savage kick to a groin) and other beings who were regulars. There was also the usual guard of the NRSF, tough men and women, trained to be mentally strong to resist mind tricks, carrying some of the most powerful weapons known, to dealt with the odd idiot whom would actually be stupid enough to try to cause trouble, who also confiscated all weapons at the door (Apart from high ranking Jedi and NRSF officers like myself) and the odd strange alien that had made the place their home.

Much like Lochabre, the enormous Gargoyle that usually sat like a statue near the table I liked and I believed only responded to myself and Xazor Kama, a pretty young Jedi Padawan whom I had befriended and was normally found at that same table. As I entered the tapcafe, I could see Lochabre was as per usual was hunched under it’s filthy cloak, hiding it’s bulk and demonic appearance, but not the burning and intense red eyes. Or the almost paining screaming that was it’s speech. Nearby, Oracus, a 5 meter mountain of alien strolled by. He was the cook. He ate Sith as well, raw if he could get them. I believed the species was called Shambler, but I wasn’t sure. I also thought maybe he was also behind the disappearance of a Cizerack or two – even if he was well fed, Shambler’s did have the need to play with their food now and then.

There was a band of…. Musicians in the opposite corner. The Electrical Mayhem they called themselves, which was an apt name. Mayhem in name and Mayhem in music too. The band leader called himself Doctor Teeth, there was a bearish alien paying keys, a thing that was like a mini tornado and about as literate that beat skins and a few more normal musicians.

A loud explosion sounded from the kitchen and an half intelligible yell sounded. I had to grin at the thought of The Swedish Chef, a barely human disaster area that was the other cook. Right now with the crashes and bangs, it sounded like the entrée was either trying to escape – or quite possibly turn the tables on The Chef. A blue tentacled thing ran out of the kitchen, with the machete wielding Swedish Chef in hot pursuit.

“Ook de bur de spork!! Backa ina der port der din-din!! Bort Bort Bort!” The Chef cried as it ran past. I just stepped aside, watching the chase in fascination, then walked into the warmly lit area as the Chef cornered his quarry. A squeal followed by a rude noise drew my attention back to where the chef was dragging the blue tentacled thing back to the kitchen – or trying to as a tentacle was at this point gripping the Chef in a highly delicate area and obviously squeezing very tightly. “Oo! Let guw de din-din!!” squeaked the Chef, before Oracus came over and sorted the situation out. It was so comical, I nearly had tears in the eyes from laughter as I got to my table and sat down. Lochabre greeted me with one of it’s high pitched welcomes, while I made myself comfortable.

“You have to admit, this place is different” I commented to Xazor.

Out of the corner of my eye, I noted Aura Allei, another Padawan I had met. I waved for her to come over. While not as on good standing with her as I was with Xazor, we all three still had a common bond – we all had lost the men we loved.

[Aura Allei]

Catching a wave at the corner of her eye, Aura paused as she spotted Helenias. She wondered if this was the woman venting her pain in the building. Acknowledging the invitation, Aura bustled over to pilfer a seat next to her friend.

"So how are you tonight, Helenias?"

Aura speculated she may have been that poor grieving soul, but declined to poke her nose in her business. This was a place to overpass the pains of yesterday, and forge ahead into the future with aspirng dreams, dealing with the present with strength and fortitude.

[Xazor Elessar]

Xazor looked around as Helenias commented on the bar.

Yes, it is quite different.

She smiled slightly, then it dissappeared when she saw Aura. Xazor didn't know how to act around her anymore.......now that she had accused her of being an angry woman who was fighting like a Sith. She sighed and forced a smile as Helenias motioned for her to join them.

Greetings, Aura.....

She said, gritting her teeth slightly as she recalled the words spoken to her by the woman. She shook the thought out of her mind and sighed. If she was to get anywhere in life, she would have to let things go as they came.

As the three conversed, Xazor took a seat and motioned for the others to sit as well. There was no point of standing and talking when there were perfectly good chairs surrounding them. She inched her chair a little closer to the table and it screeched as it scrached against the hard wood floor. It was not in the best of shape, but what did one expect in a place like this. Nonetheless, there was a sense of home about the Bar and Grill. Friends and brothers......even strangers all gathered together here, usally in peace.

She looked on and watched the curious crowed as idle conversation took place with many around them. There were a few "business" deals going on, and Xazor wondered who the group was planning to "take out" next. One thing that caught her attention more than anything else was a couple toward the back of the bar. They sat, deep in conversation as the man gently held the woman's hands in his own. They appeared to be in a world all their own, caught up in pure bliss. Xazor sighed and looked at the scratched up table in front of her as she recalled the times she had spent with Shade......now he was gone. Her heart ached so much for him. All she had left were the memories that they made together. She sighed once again and looked up at Helenias and forced a smile.

So, shall I by you anything to drink?

Xazor asked more rhetorically than anything else to both women. A server droid beeped next to their table, stirring a bit of annoyance in Xazor.

I'll just have a JD. And for you?

She said, quickly looking to Aura and Helenias.

[Aura Allei]

"My apologies Xazor for what I have said in the training arena, my past experiences dictated my curt tongue, where I spoke harshly and with no evidence to prove my assumptions. Please forgive me. You are a Jedi, not a Sith."

Aura sighed as she took a drink, and briefly glanced about the bar. She cared not of other conversations breeching her thoughts, adding to the confusement of her soul. As Aura was blind to Xazor's past, so was she to Aura's. They started off on the wrong foot. She sensed a coldness from Xazor and recalled the wise words of Eileen as she added a further comment.

"I too have been accused of fighting like a Sith. I carry two sabers. Most Jedi fight with one. My first Master constantly reprimanded me on my aggressive tactics. He said if I didn't embrace the Force of Light, I was doomed to fall prey to a Sith. A Sith Master almost killed me in Rama's. Please understand, I am still dealing with the after effects of my past plights, as it collides with my present. Maybe I am better off not speaking at all, as it seems to rub people raw."

She sighed looking down at the floor, blocking out the array of occupants, and her confoundment.

[Helenias Evenstar]

While Xazor and Aura were addressing each other, I leaned over to where Lochabre was sitting. Niether of the other two women had seen the rather horrific form Lochabre hid under the cloak and dirty linen, which I was pretty sure would startle them badly if it ever emerged, as it had once before when it had utterly pulverised a vampire - there was something in these Gargoyles that utterly loathed lifestealers as they called them and sent them into a killing frenzy. Other than that, Lochabre was one of the most peaceful creatures, content to just sit in it's spot. And eat rocks. Never thought I would see an alien that needed a high in limestone diet.

"Lochabre, do you travel?" I asked keeping my voice low so as not to interrupt the other two women

Yessss. Travel we do it quiet-screamed in return

"Like a trip to a place called Xa Fel? I am to go there with my military unit in a day's time. We're to protect a diplomat, who is seeking to peacefully transfer into the Repubic."

Travel good. Protect good. With fleshed ones I will go.

That was the strange thing about Lochabre. It for some reason had become protective of me. It would go where I did if I would let it. I had done some talking to get Lochabre instead to act as the silent guard in the Bar, a task well suited to it.

New Fleshed one. Who?

"That's Aura Allei. She's a Jedi and a friend"

Jedi Good. Friend Good. Lochabre like.

"Good... just be a moment". I turned my attention back to Aura and Xazor and listened - wiated until she finished.

"No Aura, it's not right to remain silent all the time. Only remember what I said". I now waited to hear what Xazor would say.

[Xazor Elessar]

Xazor usually was quiet and kept to herself. She was a mysterious young woman who only spoke what she thought was necessary and pertained to the direct moment.

I forgive you, Aura. You know nothing of my past as I know nothing of yours. I do not fight like a Sith......I am just on the agressive side. I see nothing wrong with it, and I condone it as do many others. I fight when I need to.....but never to kill. I too carry many weapons. My saber, sword, blaster, and a few throwing knives. Never do I use more than one at a time......they are not the answers to my problems.......they are only there to help.

She steepled her fingers as she meditated silently in her mind on the words she had just spoke. Looking to Helenias and then back to Aura, she sighed slightly to herself and then looked down at the scratched up table.

Let us put our past behind us, and start off as friends. First impressions may be deceiving.

She said as she gently laid a hand on Aura's shoulder.

[Aura Allei]

Aura elevated her distressed countenance as she addressed her friends with renewed incitement.

"Times have been hard for me. I thank you for your kind words of encouragement and understanding."

She then centered her attention on Xazor.

"We are similar, Xazor, as I too have struggled with my aggresive tendancies. Perhaps that is why I was so stern with you at the arena. I didn't want you to end up like me. My desire for adventure almost got me killed on several occasions."

Aura raised her drink in a toast.

"To the GJO, may we never founder in our attunement with the Lightside. May we bare a strong foundation against our enemies, and not fall prey to the hidden temptations of the Darkside."

[Taylor Millard]

Thomas was against Millard going lone.

"Taylor with all due respect..." the Imperial Guardsmen spoke as he escorted the Grand Admiral through the Imperial Star Destroyer, "I think you're nuts for going at this alone. Going after a Jedi Knight by yourself, for all you know, she's either going to have companions- who will undoubtably be Jedi, or she's going to a location where there will be more Jedi present.

"And to my knowledge," Thomas continued as they kept walking down the grey halls, "You are only a Sith Knight, and even then a recovering Sith Knight. You need an escort. And I am your body guard."

Millard shot a semi-glare at Thomas, but knew he was right. He was still learning the ways of the Force, and his new master, Trace Sha, had disappeared.

He signed, his cold blue eyes glaring, "Very well Thomas. You may accompany me. But I reccomend we use something other than the Missile Boats. Perhaps we should inspect those two X-Wings we captured near Benai. It might be prudent for us to use those, in case they are damaged in any way."

Thomas, through his red hooded shield nodded, "I believe it is a good idea, Admiral. We would hate to lose you to the New Republic."

"Agreed," the Dark Jedi spoke, his eyes flashing, "Come, we'll take a shuttle to Benai. Hopefully when we return we will learn how Vice Admiral Laran did on Bakura."

[Xazor Elessar]

Xazor raised her glass in toast to Aura's words. She took a sip of her drink and set it back on the table.

Like I told you......do not worry about me and the darkside. I have it covered.....

She said with a gentle smile Aura's way. Xazor especially had her anger under control these days after the lecture and lesson her Master had bestowed upon her.....

[Marcus Telcontar]

It was probably an hour later, the rain was a bit heavier if anything and he was now sitting on the balcony on a chair he had raided from his room. A portable holonet transmitter was by his feet and the communications plate on his lap. Thoughts of his anniversary were sort of on his mind, but he wasn’t dwelling on them – why should he? Not now anyway. The future was here, the future was now and there could be no going back. Marcus was pretty okay with that now.

Right now, he was going to make the call he promised to make to Nathan West, before he had left Arcan IV with Alaina a month ago. If he had his timing right… it would be mid afternoon. He typed in the comm. code, waited as the pause symbol flashed. Eventually a face came up.

“This is a restricted channel. Pass your access code”

Marcus did so.

“Code cleared. Who do you wish to speak to?”

“General West thank you”

The face on the other end frowned, a small crackle coming in the image that was being transmitted via the holonet over unimaginable distance. “May I ask who wants to speak to him? You don’t seem to be recognized, even if your code clears you”

“I’m an agent of his. The name is Strider”

“One moment” The pause symbol came up again, Marcus a bit put out. If he was still Tohmahawk…… but no, he wasn’t, that was another life that died three months ago in the snows of Whitetown. A good length of time passed with the Jedi becoming puzzled what the delay was..

"I wonder what's keeping him come on…” the pause symbol dissolved and was replaced by the face of General Nathan West, formerly his 2IC, now the full Commander of the New Republic Special Forces “.....Nathan! I was beginning to wonder if the data pushers had left me hanging! How are you?"

West was looking tired and worn down. “I've been better James. I wonder how the frell you dealt with all the paperwork until I hired a good secretary. Fortunately, the Senate has pretty much left me alone, but I've heard that’s going to change. Yourself?"

“Don’t remind me – I wondered how I coped sometimes - I'm starting to feel somewhat in one piece again. The leg and the ribs have taken a good while longer to heal than I would have liked"

On the other end of the line, Nathan gave a slight smile. "You should have stopped by and borrowed a bacta tank."

"And end up with my mouth tasting like I had kissed a Mon Cal? No, there are some things Bacta can't heal and that’s what I needed”

Nathan nodded "Too true”

"Anyway.... what's been going on? How are you coping so far?"

The other man shrugged "Pretty well, I guess. Broom was in a stink of a mood for a month though. He would have been more comfortable getting the promotion if I had died. Bothans are strange sometimes. Drecker seems to be doing well with the Navy. She was a terror to the 3rd fleet on the last exercise. Oh, I want to scrap the Defender. We spend way too much keeping the thing running, and while it does bring a lot, we'd be better off making smaller ships out of it."

Now it was Marcus’ turn to smile. He was quite a respecter of the talent Drecker had for starship command. “Good to hear about Drecker - she’s a good officer, if a little non-confident. And about Defender - yeah, I know, but the issue is that there are other ships that cant be dealt with by conventional means. What might be a better idea is to re-look how it is deployed. Let me think about that one and well make sure we discuss it with Jyanis, once I decide to tell him I'm alive. Thinking of Defender, what's happened to all my belongings?"

"Cross got most of the things there, and I think she put about half of in storage. Except for the sword. Morgan Evanar put it somewhere safe."

Pardon?!?! "Yep, caught up with Morgan before I left Arcan, he told me where to find it". The Jedi Master paused, thinking what West told him through. "Elieen Cross packed all my possessions up? Never would have expected her to do that….. I wonder why. Is she looking after Jina?"

"Far as I know. I never really kept track of Jina. You know, she said something about being your wife, I think."

Marcus blinked. Had Nathan said what he thought he said? Wife? "Excuse me?"

West shrugged again. "I'm confused as all hell, but she said she was Helenias Q'Dunn. Woman has entirely too many alias"

He had no idea that the universe had such a potent surprise in store for him. Utterly caught flat footed, his mind failed to think or to comprehend. The pause drew out, Gereal West rubbing his chin and waiting patiently. This had to be a joke in very poor taste. Except he had never told West he had been married, let alone the name. His voice came out flat and very, very ominous as he managed to come to voice again. "Nathan..... could you repeat what you just said again"

"Cross said her name was Helenias Q'Dunn."

”If this is some kind of ****ing joke, please desist. My wife died over 10 years ago" Had to be a joke. Night of his anniversary, even. But who the hell knew??? Who frellign knew???

West frowned. "I'm not joking."

Marcus could read the other man’s face. He wasn’t either, unless he was a damn sight better Sabbacc player than Marcus knew West was.

What in the Force is going on here? She’s dead…. How the hell can Cross be claiming to be Helenias? This is simply making no sense whatsoever

There was another long pause while Marcus thought this through to likely conclusions, before speaking slowly, thinking. "I've known Elieen for about a year and at no time has she tried to claim she was Helenias. Now, I’m listed as dead, she comes forward, doesn’t this seem suspicious? What exactly did she say to you?"

"I don’t know exactly, the woman woke me up by shoving a blaster in my face. But I am certain of that."

"Certain she is telling the truth?" snapped back the Jedi

Nathan looked offended. "Why wouldn't she? I have no idea, really. You'd have to ask her yourself."

"I could think of a few reasons why she might not be telling the truth.... except..... " Marcus sighed. This was just something he was not prepared for, not prepared to deal with. "Look, did she tell you anything apart from the name?"

West shrugged again "Nothing aside from thinking you dead more than once before"

"But why now? Why??? This isn't making sense. Alright, what's she doing now, where is she? Who's she with?"

"She has quarters here, but seems to be around the Jedi a lot I don't really know what to tell you. You'd have to see her for yourself."

Marcus was really smelling something foul now. "Around.... the Jedi?!?! But Elieen has for a long time hated them. I don’t know what's more unlikely, her becoming Jedi or her really being Helenias"

Nathan was doing a lot of shrugging in this conversation, which was understandable.

"Nathan, I'm having a lot of trouble believing this isn't a imposter, albeit a very clever one. Helenias is dead, I saw and felt her die"

"You're the only one who would know for sure. I've never met the woman before." said Nathan, pointing out the obvious.

"Yes, but I've known Elieen and I've seen what she has done and whom she is. She's the daughter of an Imperial and was a terror to the Jedi. I just....” He took a deep breath “… can't believe what your saying”

"Don’t ask me Marcus, I just figured you might want to know. I haven't got the background to prove anything about her either way."

So here was someone clearly acting out of character offering no proof of a preposterous proposition. This was just screaming attempt to infiltrate …. Except…. who in God's name knew his past that well? "Nothing? She didn't offer any proof, anything personal that I might only know? Unless she did, this is highly suspicious" said Marcus, voicing his doubts.

"She did tell me about your lightsabre. Claimed it was a gift from her, was wondering if we had recovered it. I course I said no. She described it pretty well and told me there was an inscription in your home planet’s language, be damned if I could even think about trying to repeat it in the language. She said it meant Marcus and Helenias, Together Forever? Uhhhhh….. Marcus?”

If it were possible, the Jedi’s jaw would have just hit the ground. As it was, he gaped as shock and surprise competed on his face and in his mind. He wanted a sign of proof? Well, he had gotten about the best he could have. That inscription was truly only known to him and Helenias and no-one could possibly know what the saber had. No one else’s hand apart from his and hers had touched the handle.

His saber. His wedding present from her. Given in secret. He would have loved to know where she had found the 4000 year old blade, protected and empowered by Jedi power of The Force, his most treasured possession. While Marcus was almost desperately trying to right his thoughts, Nathan waited patiently, rubbing his chin.

"I.. er.... ah frell" was what Marcus managed to get out first.

"I guess you could say that. What do you want me to do Marcus?”

"She cant be for real.... no way...” The Jedi had an idea come to mind. “Okay, if she wants to leave within the next few hours, stop her but don’t make it look like you are. I'll call you back in one hour. Get the Wolves ready, because if she turns out to be a trickster, I want Cross dead. Got that?”

"Yes sir. Should I include the Krakken?". West’s tone had gotten steely, to match the Jedi’s.

"Yes. The charges she will be executed for are spying and infiltration. I'll call you back in one hour. Out"

"Arcan out."

Marcus put down the portable display and stood up. There was only one way to get to the bottom of this. He had someone else to call, but he would do that at his desk.

If she was as he was still thinking, an imposter, West would make sure she died a messy death.

But…. If she was the real thing?

He didn’t know. The Jedi could only answer that question if Elieen Cross was really … he stared at the hand that he wore his wedding ring on, trying to imagine if this could actually be true, then folded the hand into a fist and moving fast inside.

He was going to get to the bottom of this, right now. The Jedi got to his desk, patched into the terminal and it’s holonet unit, dialed up the code for Arcan Control. Ten seconds later, the speakers crackled with a female voice.

“Arcan Communications Control. Who do you want to speak to?”

“The name is Elieen Cross” Marcus replied in a deep and growling voice.

“Your id please”

Marcus clicked in the id for Force Master Hunter, his Bounty Hunter alias.

“One moment…”

Marcus sat at the desk, what felt like the longest and most anxious wait of his life. 10 minutes ago, he felt life had smoothed out. Now, he discovered a yawning valley, dark and unknown. The only way he could possibly find out what was beyond was to step off the edge.

How can this be true?

[Helenias Evenstar]

This was a good thing, the two other women were settling their differences – they were both friends, Xazor especially. As we three sat and talked, the talk was doing me good, even getting me to smile. A consolation to a truly miserable day

And the dinner was good, The conversation had turned to the mission that I and Xazor were to go on in the next couple of days, protecting a diplomatic mission to the former Sith Empire planet of Xa Fel. A combined Jedi, NRSF mission, Aura was still in two minds about going. It was promising to be a quiet trip, perfect to begin helping Xazor in her goal of becoming a Jedi Warrior. While we were discussing this, an attendant came up to my table.

“Miss Cross?”

“Yes?”

“You have holonet transmission for you”

Odd, who would be calling me? “Was there any name given??”

“Yes...” The attendant checked a datapad. “A Force Master Hunter”

A cold chill went down my spine. Stunned, I gaped at the attendant, before controlling my surprise. That was one of the alternative alias that Marcus had used – what the frell? This could only be an imposter. What a cruel, cruel trick, especially given what day. Doubtful however this trickster would know that. “Patch it through to here please” I asked. The attendant nodded and walked away while I cleared the holo projector. Quietly, I waited until a pause symbol appeared, signifying the patching had been made. Another moment and then, the image of a man appeared. s I suspected, this was not the clean cut visage of Force Master Hunter, this was someone different. Long unkempt hair, two weeks growth of facial hair, He was in strange clothing, worn and travel stained, his face was lined and quite harsh. There was an air of world weariness about him like he bore a great weight.

“Good day to you Elieen Cross”

His voice was however quite soft, almost musical. It had a quite strange accent, words clipped and lisped, like as if Common Basic was not his first language. While for my companions, it would be a nice voice to listen to, for me it rocked me to the core. I hadn’t heard that accent in 10 years. I kept my shock hidden and made my own voice sharp and demanding. “Yes, this is Cross. Now who are you? You are not Force Master Hunter”

“Indeed. Your not who you say you are either”

That was an interesting icebreaker. “And who do you think I say I am?” I shot back

There were three beings in the Galaxy who I knew could speak fluent Quenya, the language of my home planet of Arda and of the Terraautralias system. Myself, Jyanis Scorpion and Marcus himself. This being spoke it like a native. [Your claiming to be Helenias Q’Dunn. I know that to be false]

This was bravado! Someone claiming to be Force Master Hunter, accusing me of not being who I really was. Well, I would clip his wings very fast. [And your not Force Master Hunter, so you’re the one whom had better explain. Where did you learn to speak Quenya?]

There was no doubt the man on the other end of the transmission hadn’t expected me to reply in the same language. Which meant he had spoken it to try to prove what he had said, for the real Helenias would know and speak Quenya. [I am asking the questions, not you. YOU tell me where you learned to speak this tongue]

[I was born there, at The Broken Hill. Do you want any other details, like average sandfall? What is mined there? Who my father was? Of course if I am an impostor, I would know that. But not Quenya, because we don’t allow the Secret Language to be taught to outworlders, do we?] I sat back, before continuing. [What plant of the Home are you from and whom do I have the honour of speaking to?] There was no doubt that his was a fellow Ardaian and it explained his knowing the Hunter name – on the trip back home Marcus and I had taken after our wedding, we had left the name with the Ruling Council, in case any of our fellows ventured out into the Galaxy. The Ardaian on the other end of the transmission was acting like a stunned sandfish and had a rather comical expression of surprise on his face.[Oh come on, no need to look surprised. Did you hear I was dead too?]

[Well… yes. As well as Marcus Q’Dunn. Then it is not true, you both live?]

[No… Marcus is indeed dead, I’m sorry. Whom are you?]

[I am Elessar of the Dundain. And you are… are really Helenias Q’Dunn? It is just the rumour of your death was confirmed and The Council would not expect you otherwise. Marcus the Council have known lived until a few months ago… is he truly dead?]

[Yes… he truly is Elessar. Tell the Council he is]

[And why have you not contacted the Council and allowed them to know you lived? You are aware all Ardaians who are Wanderers must let the Council know where they are and their continued safety?]

That was a good question and quite true. [I apologise Elessar, I have a great enemy who would want that information dearly. It was best to allow others to think otherwise]

[A Great Enemy? Who?]

[Callista The Dark]

[I… I have heard of this Callista. Remind me who she is and why the Council want her dead?]

Old history for me. [She stole Marcus as a child and trained him in evil, before he broke the Darkness. She killed a Council member 50 standard years ago]

[Ahhh. You know much of Marcus then?]

[Of course! I was married to him! I don’t have the Q’Dunn name by birth]

The Ardaian on the other end bought his hands up in front of him, cusped them together and said in clear but accented Basic “Yes, I know. Noble born, would I be able to meet you somewhere?”

Noble-born? I had to smile, for that was quite true, it reminded me of happier times. “If you can get to Xa Fel, I will be there for several days, three days hence”

“I will contact you when I get there, Noble-born. [Until then, I bid you fair travels Helenias Q’Dunn! You are indeed as fair as they claim you are! Until then, The Shadows has not claimed me yet!]”

The transmission was cut. I sat there for a moment, puzzling over the last remark. Something about it was very familiar, but I couldn’t quite place my finger on it.

[Marcus Telcontar]

The waiting was really, really awful. The more he waited, the more he had a knot twisted in his stomach, until just before the point where he would explode, the pause symbol dissolved into the image of a woman….

He breathed out, releasing some of his tension. He closed his eyes, mentally prepared himself and reopened them, looking at the image of the woman properly for the first time. Smooth features, long dark hair, slightly full lips, a deep green dress and deep brown eyes, It was the hair that literally scared him, for it was done the exact way Helenias’ hair was done on their wedding day. God, how could I have been blinded like I was? She is the exact image of Helenias! How could I have not noted until now?

“Good day to you Elieen Cross” he said, not allowing his confusion and consternation to show. He also spoke , not in the voice he used to hide his origins, but in his native accent, soft, musical and sounding like he had a lisp.

“Yes, this is Cross. Now who are you? You are not Force Master Hunter” she replied, her voice also familiar. He could have just said it now, just declared himself, but he was still cautious first. He would find out the truth first.

“Indeed. Your not who you say you are either” the Jedi said, voice toned with command and demand.

“And who do you think I say I am?” she shot back

First an interesting first test. He would speak the native of Arda, her home planet. A language not known except by the natives. If she failed to recognize it, she was false… if she understood….. [Your claiming to be Helenias Q’Dunn. I know that to be false]

[And your not Force Master Hunter, so you’re the one whom had better explain. Where did you learn to speak Quenya?]

Frell! She spoke Quenya fluently!

[I was born there, at The Broken Hill. Do you want any other details, like average sandfall? What is mined there? Who my father was? Of course if I am an impostor, I would know that. But not Quenya, because we don’t allow the Secret Language to be taught to outworlders, do we? What plant of the Home are you from and whom do I have the honour of speaking to?] He must have looked startled or something, as she smiled and added [Oh come on, no need to look surprised. Did you hear I was dead too?]

[Well… yes. As well as Marcus Q’Dunn. Then it is not true, you both live?]

[No… Marcus is indeed dead, I’m sorry. Whom are you?]

[i] Dead? Far from it In a split second, he decided giving out his real name before making face to face contact, he did a bit of quick thinking before replying. [I am Elessar of the Dundain. And you are… are really Helenias Q’Dunn? It is just the rumour of your death was confirmed and The Council would not expect you otherwise. Marcus the Council have known lived until a few months ago… is he truly dead?]

[Yes… he truly is Elessar. Tell the Council he is] she replied.

[And why have you not contacted the Council and allowed them to know you lived? You are aware all Ardaians who are Wanderers must let the Council know where they are and their continued safety?] That was a good question and quite true, something only Ardaians knew

[I apologise Elessar, I have a great enemy who would want that information dearly. It was best to allow others to think otherwise]

She was Ardaian, for absolute certain. [A Great Enemy? Who?]

[Callista The Dark]

S*it! Frell frell frell! Either she was a bloody good imposter, or she was the real thing! More subtle tests… [I… I have heard of this Callista. Remind me who she is and why the Council want her dead?]

[She stole Marcus as a child and trained him in evil, before he broke the Darkness. She killed a Council member 50 standard years ago]

Doubt was fleeing. [Ahhh. You know much of Marcus then?]

[Of course! I was married to him! I don’t have the Q’Dunn name by birth]

Doubt was gone. He switched to Basic, bringing his hands up in an ancient greeting of Arda. “Yes, I know. Noble born, would I be able to meet you somewhere?”

She smiled – like he remembered she used to.. “If you can get to Xa Fel, I will be there for several days, three days hence”

“I will contact you when I get there, Noble-born.” He switched to Quenya, [Until then, I bid you fair travels Helenias Q’Dunn! You are indeed as fair as they claim you are! Until then, The Shadows has not claimed me yet!]

He cut the transmission, before bowing his head and giving thanks to God. The last words were something she had said to him before they wed, something said on a dark night, far away in a lonely hiding place they shared while they were being hunted by Callista the Dark’s killers. A night they had huddled in each others arms, each exchanging for the first time pronouncements of their developing love.

The Jedi’ head rose, eyes misted and unfocused, before a thought came to his mind.

“Alaina! Ah frell, how am I going to explain this?”

She was his student. He owed it to her. Getting up, he moved to the door that divided her room from his, stepped in silently, moving in the darkness to a chair on the other side of her room. Sitting down, he took out his pipe, filed it with pipe weed, lit it and began to smoke it, pondering what he would say.

“Alaina,… wake up” he said quietly, “We need to talk”

[Alaina Edric]

Unseen seraphim perfumed the air. Her dream, once bland, was now fragranted. In this drowzy state she took in a breath of the smell; it reminded her very much of Marcus. Infact, it reminded her of the castle as a whole. The lingering taste of the pipe weed that he smoked so frequently was an ever present feature of any room that Marcus remained in long enough.

Dream, this night, was infact reality. Alaina woke slowly as the smoke filled and inflamed her senses, slowly pushing her out of her lethargic sleep into a somewhat drowsy alertness. In the shadows of the room she could see the subtle embers of the Jedi Masters pipe; they cast a soft glow onto the man's features, just enough so that Alaina could see him.

She sat up, tugging the sheets around her body with one hand, the other brushing some sleep from her eyes. She'd not slept well in a long time. The bed she was currently in was fit for royalty, and she'd only just gotten used to sleeping in it.

"What's wrong?"

Her voice was a little croaky, "What do we need to talk about, Marcus?"

[Xazor Elessar]

Xazor had seen the whole transmission and looked at Helenias when it was finished.

Do you find this a little........suspicious?

Xazor asked with curiosity. She replayed scenes from it in her mind as she thought. Thoughts crossed her mind.....if this man knew so much about Marcus......and it was totally uncanny some of the things that he had told her...

Maybe this man has some ulterior motives...I am not sure if you should trust him....

She said, not wishing to appear disrespectful..she just wanted to help.

[Marcus Telcontar]

Now she was awake, he honestly didn’t know what to say. He puffed away on his pipe until Alaina asked what he wanted to speak about again. He looked out the window into the night’s sky and the rain coming down onto the closed window, contemplating what he needed to speak.

“Alaina, we need to leave here for a few weeks”

“Why?” she asked, still obviously fogged by sleep.

God, why indeed. This was hard. The poor girl, what would she think? “We need to go visit someone”

“Oh? Who?”

The truth. He would tell her the truth and not hide anything. In a low and flat voice, he began. “I told you in the first days here that a Jedi was to not know hatred, nor anger, only peace. A Jedi shall not know love as it confuses the emotions and clouds your judgment. To that rule both you and I must stay true……” Hold up he thought. She already knew this part of his past, he had eavesdropped on that night he and Arya had talked, she knew he had been married and his wife was long dead… he relaxed. This would be easier then. “I had a call tonight from Nathan West on Arcan IV. He told me something that I had a lot of trouble believing…. But less doubt now that I have spoken to the person in question in a disguise. We’re off to Xa Fel to see a woman named Elieen Cross. She is claiming to be my wife, Helenias. I believe it’s a trick, but we do need to investigate anyway”

[Sophia Harten]

Sophia Harten, Intel officer of the NRSF, stiffled a yawn as she entered the Bar&Grill for some breakfast. She'd been up all night on a surveilance mission, and had finally been allowed to leave to tend to her personal needs. Like food. She thought for a moment, scanning the tables and looking for a place to sit. Finally choosing a table near the window where the sun was shining through, she made her way there and sat, deciding that after breakfast, she'd book a room for a shower and a quick rest.

Seating herself, she ordered a good hearty breakfast, and a piping hot, black coffee. receiving her meal, she grabbed the coffee first and took a drink, burning her tongue, but enjoying the strong taste. Sighing, she set it down and attcked her food.

[Helenias Evenstar]

“Do you find this a little........suspicious? Maybe this man has some ulterior motives...I am not sure if you should trust him....”

The younger woman across from me, Xazor, voices at least some of my suspicions. I glanced up at her and nodded.

“Yes I do Xazor, but only a little. The language he and I spoke is known to very, very few and those that know don’t teach anyone. He gave knowledge that only of my home world would know, he also knows my real mane… and there is the fact he knows of my birth right. I’ll be cautious but on the whole, Elessar appears to be whom he says he is. Anyway…” I ended as I stood up “I don’t think we will have much to worry about if this Elessar is a fraud, he will need good protection to save his sorry back side. If you will excuse us Aura, Xazor and I need to pack for our shuttle tomorrow morning.”

I shuffled from out behind the table, before turning my attention back to Xazor again.

“Stay over at my room tonight. Bring your gear ove and I’ll get it arranged to have it stowed in the shuttle, okay?”

Xazor wasn’t my Padawan, but her Master had asked me to train her in the Warrior ways. This was the start for her. She was probably about to find out begin a Warrior Jedi was much different to what she expected.

[Xazor Elessar]

Xazor nodded and walked with Helenias.

I shall pack my things as you have told me, and I will bring them to your room so that we are prepared for tomorrow.

She said with a slight smile. She thought back to the whole conversation that the man and Helenias had just had. She thought about the "proof" that he had offered her.

Just be careful with what you take to heart. I don't want you to get hurt.....

She added with concern. It was true, that was the last thing she wanted for her friend. Xazor herself knew what it was like to be hurt this way and would not even wish it on her enemies.

[Helenias Evenstar]

"I know..... and thank you for the concern"

I turned a bit so she could see my smile.

"It does me good just to know I have a good friend here looking out for me. Now go on, see you at my room in an hour. I have something in there for you"

[Xazor Elessar]

Xazor smiled and nodded.

Thank you, I will see you then!

She turned and walked swiftly toward her room. There was a mixed batch of emotions in her heart. She was looking forward to training as a warrior, and she was excited about the mission.......but nervous all at the same time. She was worried for her friend....she didn't want her to get hurt again......

Xazor walked into her room and began to quickly pack. She brought out a few extra sets of robes and things like that. She then thoughtfully checked her weapons belt to make sure that she everything she needed. Her saber, dagger, and throwing knives were all there. She checked the holster on her thigh to make sure her blaster was in place, and then she felt the sword on her back. Smiling brightly, she secured everything neatly and so that none of it would be lost. She then got up and set her things by the door and sat on the floor. Meditation is needed..... She thought to herself. It would be good for her mind, body and soul.....after all, she still had a half hour before she had to be to Helenias's room. She sat in a deep meditation and drowned herself in the Force....

A half hour later, her mind brought her from meditation and she rose quickly to her feet and looked once around her room to make sure she was forgetting nothing. She smiled and picked up her bag and threw it over her back. Closing and locking the door behind her, she quickly made her way down the halls of the living quarters. She has something for me....wonder what!? Xazor thought to herself as she exited the complex and made her way to the NRSF rooms. Once inside the building, she took a deep breath and walked up the stairs to Helenias's room. Once at her door, she knocked softly a few times and waited for her....

[Aura Allei]

Aura bowed to Xazor and Helen, as she spoke softly with a voice hinting anticipation.

"I must seek out my past and uncover it. My fleeting memories have been intercepted, thanks to my Master Jubei and the Force, which never abonded me. I must seek out my old Master and clan, The Noble warriors of Light. I wish you two luck in your endeavors. Have faith, Helen."

Aura dispersed the room bent on her quest of knowledge."

[Helenias Evenstar]

“Thank you too Aura… The force be with you” I said as Aura left. I wasn’t far behind.


An hour later, in my room, I had the contents of my travelling kit spread out. My clothing that I might need was already folded and in my case, along with the personal items. In the corner was a wire frame that held my Royal Guard armour, blood red and buffed to shine, red cape trailing down. A relic it was now and I should have converted the colour… but it was a link to my past that I took some pride in. A Force Pike was leaning against the armour, completing the ensemble. I had another case that stood open, a custom designed and built one that was for what I now was removing from my weapons locker. First was my saber, one that had a blade that match the Imperial armour – it went on the belt. A MkII NRSF Rail Gun that would go in a holster. An Assault Gun, a 12 shot pump load rail gun that fired shot surrounded by a sabot that feel away in fight – a destructive weapon at close range. Another MkII Rail Gun was also there – that was for Xazor. The Assault Gun clipped into the open case, as well as a the NRSF issue rifle, a 250 shot blaster ‘over’ rifle’, with a 40 shot ‘under’ rail gun. Over setting for high fire rate with the blaster, under setting for the destructive capabilities of the Rail Gun.

Rail Guns were fun. But not like my true toy, an utterly superb sniper rifle. A device I had found by accident, it was a gun that was something to behold. Crafted and balanced like nothing else I had ever seen or used, a weapon fit for only the true elite. I checked it’s firing mechanism, the ammo loaders, the clips. It shone of oit and excellent maintenance, smelled like only a top quality gun could. Hefting it, I test fired the unloaded device, hearing the satisfying ‘click’ to signify all was well. A smile and a nod of satisfaction, I reverently placed the sniper rifle into it’s specially designed slot in the weapons case, closing the locking tabs before packing it’s ammo clips. The case was then closed and locked, just as I heard a knock on the door. I glanced at the clock, noting it was almost exactly one hour, before going over to the door and opening it, allowing Xazor to come in.

Well, here was a change. The pretty miss had turned into a walking arsenal. Blaster, knives, saber and a sword, not carried to make herself look more dangerous, but worn so they were accessible fast and there was a hint of frequent use on the handles and hilts. I smiled, then indicated for her to come in. she did so, looking about and catching a sight of my Royal Guard armour. I could imagine what she thought, so I circumvented questions.

“Yes, it’s for real. Before I was a Jedi, I was Lord Fire Blade, Imperial Royal Guard. The armour is not for show or a collectors item. It is genuine and it works. Now, … “ I continued as I closed the door behind the Jedi Padawan “I had a few things for you. One is that your assigned to be my adjundant,, which is military for secretary. That does not mean that you are a data pusher, it means that you are from a legal and military stand point, my shadow. It means that you will be allowed to the places I will be going on this mission that you would not normally be allowed to without question. Your expected to be silent and stand behind me at all times, plus be ready to do what I ask. While you are in public, you are Private Dawnstrider of the Special Forces. What that really means is that no one can stop you staying in my company as would usually happen”

“And.. “ I said with a smirk “we neatly achieve what we need – you get to observe what I do without interruption. If I really need anything, there are perfectly acceptable diplomats to do the fetch and carry. Don’t worry, I won’t be asking you to do something degrading”

Second, your Battalion is the 135th, The Panthers. It is the NRSF Command Group, Technically, that is what I am in, even if I wear The Lone Wolves patch. Third….” I reached over and picked up the second rail gun “This is for you. It is a Rail Gun, it has a clip of 20 shots, a muzzle velocity of mach 5 at highest power setting, the largest and most powerful hand gun in the Galaxy. One shot acan breach a hull – or blow a enemy to vapour. Wear it with pride at all times” I placed the weapon in Xazor’s hands, wondering what she would be thinking. These guns were rare and nearly legendary already, the type that Force Master Hunter used to kill an insane Darth Turbogeek. Guns that could make a fine red spray out of the toughest Sith.

“And last and the real reason I called you to be here…. Come this way”

I turned and walked over to my spare room. I opened the door and turned on the light… that lit up a display wire frame that had mounted on it a set of grey armour that was more like a work of art than something to use in battle. A dark cape set of the full set, that had a gold and silver clasp, the helmet was shaped similar to one Boba Fett once used, but with a wider visor and gold lining, with a silver insignia of the Jedi Warriors on the forehead. The gloves were deep black, with gold palm inserts, boots also deep black with the insignia of the NRSF carved in silver on the shin guards. A dark silver utility belt finished the entire ensemble. It looked utterly beautiful – and completely deadly and menacing.

“It has inbuilt temperature control, waste reprocessing and also fluid supply. It’s made from the latest technology in personal armour, it will block a blaster and I could hit you with a club and it wont affect you. The cloak is woven out of Cortoris, which will cause a sabre to shut down if it intersects. It’s light weight and does not restrict movement to any real degree. The helmet has a built in optical sensors that can adjust for any lighting conditions, personnel tracking sensors and hearing enhancers, which you can use to filter loud noise and only hear what you want. With a trooper wearing this he or she can become a virtual walking minature AT-ST.. A Jedi…. Who knows. It is what you make of what you have that will define what it is”

I was nervous. I wasn’t sure what Xazor would think, so I awaited her reaction with some trepidation.

[Xazor Elessar]

Xazor took the gun and ran her right hand over its intricate parts. She grinned as it caught the light of the room and shined beautifully.

Thank you.....I shall wear it with pride.

She said softly. As she listened to everything that Helenias was saying, she clipped in right to her weapons belt on the right side. Perfect! She thought to herself. Taking in all that her friend was telling her, she made mental notes. Now she was Private Dawnstrider and to be quiet at all times, hidden in the shadow of Helenias. It sounded great to her, she would get to observe and get learn all at the same time.

Helenias requested Xazor to follow her into a secondary room, and Xazor did. She smiled when her friend flipped on the light......sitting there was one of the most incredible things she had ever seen in her life. Xazor's jaw about dropped as she stood there and looked at the armour. Her eyes scanned the display and took in everything they could. Slowly, she walked over to it and gently ran her fingers over the shiny metal clasps. She touched the Warrior insignia on the helmet and closed her eyes. This is what she had dreamed of since she was a little girl. She opened her eyes as she listened to everything that Helenias was saying to her. The whole thing sounded unbelievable. She could not begin to comprehend everything yet. Helenias finished speaking and looked to her for something....anything.....but Xazor could not even find words to begin to speak.

And this is what you're going to wear..............right??

Xazor asked quickly. She looked back down at the armour and smiled.

I think it will be great.....it is incredible! How lucky are you to be able to operate in something so wonderful!!

Xazor exclaimed to her friend. She looked back down at the armour and ran her hand over the utility belt. With a bright smile, she turned around to face her friend.

Thank you for showing this to me....hopefully someday I shall have the priveledge of bearing such a wonderful masterpiece...

She sighed slightly, wishing that day was now.

[Helenias Evenstar]

"No Xazor, I will not wear it. My armour is of the Imperial Royal Guard, that you saw outside. While it is a symbol of the past, It is what I won my fame in, I won't change"

I gave a sad smile, thinking for a moment. My armour was part of me, it was whom I was. In part, the blood red I wore was the prototype for this work of art.

"No, it's not mine to wear. It was a gift to me originally from my Grandfather, but I never could bring myself to switch from what I have always used. Instead, it's been waiting for a day when I might chance to teach someone to walk in the same footsteps I do."

I looked at the young woman.

"I believe that search is over. It is yours now, take it with my blessing and of your Master as well. He was the one who managed to get your measurements without your knowing so it could be modified to fit you"

[Xazor Elessar]

Xazor gasped at her words and looked back at the armor. She smiled so brightly that her aura glowed. A tear fell from her eye and she wiped it away as she thought of everything that had transpired. For me! She thought excitedly to herself. Without much thought, she threw her arms around Helenias and hugged her.

Thank you so much!

It was all she could say in the rapture of the moment. Her soul rejoiced that she was finally taking the first steps down the path of the warrior. Breaking from the embrace, she walked over to the armour once again and thoughtfully ran her hands over it as she thought of where she was headed down this long path.....this journey that was placed before her. She smiled once again and could not speak......but sent through her eyes the silent messages that needed to be said....

[Helenias Evenstar]

I had hoped she would be pleased – I did not expect her hug. My day was at ending well, her reaction also brining joy that a gift was well received. Her eyes shone with delight and thankfulness.

“I’m glad you like the gift. I wasn’t sure what you would think. Now, I know you would like to try it on, but for now consider what I say my first lesson – while your involved in a fight or in a misson, you have often no opportunity to eat or sleep, so before you leave it is important to look after your body. Never do any last minute things the night before, always have a decent meal and a long sleep – remember that. Even if it’s still daylight outside, were up at the 4th hour, so it’s a good idea to sleep now. A droid will come for our gear at the 5th hour and breakfast is 6. You can sleep in this room tonight, the refresher is next door along. If you want anything to eat, the kitchen has a processor which is quick and fast – don’t use stim pills or food tablets, make sure what you eat is real and filling. Now if you excuse me, I’m going to follow my own advice and go to bed. See you in the morning Xazor”

I bowed slightly, then exited, moving over to where my room was. I entered, closing the dorr on the dark room before switching the light on, set to low illumination so as not to disturb the little girl that was sleeping in my bed. My foster care, Jina Jade. 4 years old, small for her age, but yet more mature and grown up, she had had a very different life to the regular child. A daughter of a once Sith who turned Jedi, father unknown but suspected to be a Jedi Master whom was toast (Much to my personal delight), only her brilliant red hair could be seen above the blankets she was under. I slipped off my boots, checked everything else was okay, switched off the light and padded softly over to the bed. Jina protested softly and sleepily as I also climbed onto the bed, still fully clothed and drew the girl to my breast, She was my family now, I was hers.

On a day that reminded me on what could have been, when I wished it was Marcus I was holding, at least it was a reminder the future had some hope for me. I was a Jedi now, I had the responsibility to bring Xazor to the realisation of a Warrior, I was part of the elite forces of the NRSF and there was still evil out there in the Galaxy. Before I went to sleep, I swore an oath to myself, I wouldn’t rest until no other woman would have to go to bed, reaching out for a husband, a fiancée, a loved one and find them not there, taken by evil, like mine had been.

Maybe it wasn’t possible. I don’t know. But Darkness could never overcome light until there was no one left willing to keep the flame burning and allow Light to vanquish the shadows… which drew my mind back to what Elessar had said.

The shadows have not claimed us yet!

The thought of that was with me as I went to sleep.

Where had I heard that before?

[Xazor Elessar]

Xazor smiled and bowed to Helenias before she left.

Thank you for everything......good night, friend.

She said softly as Helenias left. She quietly shut the door and turned around to look upon the armour once again. Xazor walked over and thoughtfully rested her hand on the Warrior insignia that was printed on the helmet. She smiled to herself and then began to prepare for her night's rest and early morning. She would wear her armour soon enough and be called a Warrior. Thoughts flowed through her mind as she crawled into the soft bed. She covered herself with the many blankets and rested her head on the pillow. Her eyes closed slowly as she thought of the journey that lied ahead......and the honor being a Warrior. Drifting off to sleep in the silence of the room, an early day awaited her when she would wake.....

[Alaina Edric]

Alaina gave her sheets a gentle tug and sat up more stiffly. She was more awake now, and the prospect of an adventure of sorts nudged her slowly into being full void of her drowziness - which inevitably made her feel absolutely freezing!

"Claiming to be your wife,"

She murmured absently whilst fishing around at her bed side. She picked up a small bundle of clothes and shooed away Marcus' eyes with one hand before tugging on the garments. They were just some simple things for relaxing around the house in, but they kept her warm - and she did feel a little more comfortable being fully clothed, after all.

"What if she really is your wife?"

The young Jedi sat on the edge of the bed, swinging her legs idly as she stared out of the window in her room. She had heard that Marcus' wife was dead, however great miracles of the force were known to happen; lord knows what the greatest of Jedi could do.

[Helenias Evenstar]

Silence.

Until….

“….. Beep-Beep-beep! Good Morning! Beep-Beep-…” CRASH!!

The alarm exploded as I hit it across the room and out the partially open window. A loud SQUARK! and a bang, followed by a burst of furious chirping meant I had probably hit a bird with the alarm. Something green shot past the window, sounding and probably looking mad at being so rudely woken up. Somewhat like myself, I was definantly not a morning person. Yawning and shivering a bit at the cold, I got up, closed the window and drew the curtains, not before looking out over the expanse of Arcan City, darkened except for street lights, tendrils of fog covering areas like a blanket. It was a dirty and unpleasant to look at place, a pimple on an otherwise resonable planet, even if it was a bit cold for my taste. Even if it was dark, I was getting used enough to the weather patterns to know today would be a fine day.

First things first – callisthenics to do some loosening and stretching. Normally afterwards, I would go to the exercise rooms and put in a hard workout, but I would put that off until we got onboard the cruisers that would be taking us to Xa Fel. Twenty minutes later, muscles pleasantly aching and feeling much more awake, I gathered up what looked like a plain jumpsuit, The main lounge outside my room was still dark, but I could hear stirrings in the room Xazor was in, which meant she was probably getting ready.

“Give me a call if you need help with the armour” I called out as I passed, heading for the refresher.

Usually, most cleaning showers were of the sonic type – step in for five minutes and step out, clean. No fuss. Boring and not satisfying. I much preferred the antique water based ones, of which I had one installed. I stripped off, throwing the clothes I was wearing into a cleaning unit (By the time I finished, they would be clean, pressed and folded. Not all sonics were useless for cleansing), programmed what I wanted from the needle sprays and stepped in. Hot water hit my flesh, making me squeal, before beginning to acclimatise. Heat soaked my skin, the steam opened up my pores, soaking and penetrating right to the core. I sighed, this was a feeling sonics just could not give.

10 minutes later, skin tingling and dripping wet, I stepped out feeling alert and alive. I grabbed a towel, dried myself off. A blow dryer I used to dry my hair, the only styling was a clip to keep my hair from going over the place, keep it gathered and out of my face. I reached over to grab the jumpsuit – which was in fact a specially designed under coat for my armour. It stopped rubbing and chafing, gave a degree of impact cushioning, plus with heat and cooling tubing and coils, which had power / inflow – outflow connections that would clip into the back plate. Matching socks and gloves were also there, as well as a balaclava which I would only really put on in really cold conditions.

Outside the refresher, I walked over to the Imperial Guard armour, glinting almost evilly in the light that spilled out of the refresher. I switched on the lights to the main room, which dissolved the effect, but still… I had to admit the armour still had that touch of sinister presence. Not very Jedi like, but that wasn’t the point when you were a fighting woman. The Arts of War were sometimes quite different to what the Jedi preached, where in battle sometimes creating fear, doubt, uncertainty in your enemies mind was crucial.

First on was the hip / groin guards. Armour was like layers and you had to put the layers on in the correct order. Next was the boots, flat soled, almost knee high. Thigh and calf plates, followed by the knee joint protector / articulator. Next, the arm guards, elbow joins, followed by the chest/ back plate assembly. I breathed in then out, slamming the retaining buckles at that point to lock the assembly in place. Shoulder joins snapped into place, then the utility, power belt. Thin wires were connected to the belts from the back plate, the electrobindings on the armour becoming active and locking all the pieces into their given place, activating clips and sensors. The cooling units began to kick in, thankfully because this all was a sweat box. Last, I took up the red cape, clipped it to place on my shoulders and also at my neck with a small leaf shaped clasped. I picked up the helmet, put my gloves inside it, called my Pike to my hand.

I checked the chrono. Nearly 5. The droids would be here to take our luggage in a moment.

“Xazor? Are you ready to go?” I called.

[Xazor Elessar]

Xazor hurriedly got into the armour. It was like a puzzle as she put each piece on in a pattern. Insides, then outsides... She thought to herself. She was in the middle of putting on the calf plates when she realized that the boots went first. She sighed and took them off as she quickly fit each boot on and laced them up. She then put each calf plate on. Smiling, she finished up by clipping the dark cape to her shoulders and around her neck. She looked like a real Warrior now as she stepped in front of the mirror. It took her breath away....now all she needed were her weapons. She walked over to her old utility belt and removed each weapon. She then clipped her lightsaber to its rightful place on the left of the belt. She secured her new railgun to the rightside of her belt. Her three seven-inch throwing knives tied into the open pouch to the left of her saber. Her blaster was positioned neatly on the very back of the belt, and her single dagger was above her right hip, tied securely on the belt. She smiled as she finished herself by securing her sword diagonal across her back, underneath the cape. The hilt just sticking out next to her head.

Stepping in front of the mirror once again, she heard Helenias speaking to her.

Yes, I am ready! I'll be out in a minute!

She said through the door as she looked around the room for a moment. She had not left anything laying out, and her bags were neatly packed and waiting at the foot of the bed. She placed her dark black gloves in the helmet and held it at her left side as she picked up the bags with her right hand. She swung open the door with her foot and stepped out, letting the auto lights take over and shut off in the spare room. She walked up behind Helenias and set her bags down.

I am ready.

She spoke confidently. Xazor was quite a sight to see, a walking armory. She smiled as she felt the confidence of being a Warrior ring throughout her soul. Helenias turned around and Xazor couldn't wait to hear what she thought.

[Marcus Telcontar]

"Claiming to be your wife"

Alaina waved at Marcus, who turned his back to allow his learner to change.

"What if she really is your wife?"

He turned back, a thoughtful look on his face.

"To be honest, I dont know. It's not something I have contemplated, even in my dreams. I mean... she's dead. Wishful thinking and wild dreams isn't going to bring anyone back. I felt her death in the Force when she fell and that is what makes me believe she is gone. But...."

He paused, thinking and puffing on the pipe. "We need to find out for sure anyway." He got up and began to exit the room, before turning back. "Pack lightly, I dont think we will be gone for long"

He left the room, crossing back to the communications equipment, tapping up a call code. He waited until the face of Nathan West came up on the holoplate.

"Nathan, call off the Wolves. Allow Cross to leave on this mission to Xa Fel she mentioned"

"Yes sir..."

"She's convinced me me enough to warrant a face to face. If I dont call you within a week, set out a rather large bounty on her head. Detain and execute. Clear?"

West nodded.

"Good. I also want a face to face with you. Do you know the co-ordinates of the planet I am on now?"

"No Sir"

"Ask Master Yogurt. It's the ex-TSE home planet. There's a NRSF presence in orbit. Say hi to Captain Dort, who will direct you to the castle Alaina and I are at. When can I expect you?"

"You want me to wait for the call or just bring her over?" West asked

"No....she and I will meet alone elsewhere. Come here in say... two weeks?"

"Done"

"Good. I'll call within a week"

"You take care of yourself Sir" West stated

He smiled rather sadly. "I will. Even if I dont know what to think right now, I will". A hand click ended the transmission, Marcus sitting there and thinking. A minute later, he tapped in another comm code, the code of Arya Ravenwing. He needed transport. She would propbaly want the credits. Sounded like a deal to him. The Jedi got a prerecorded message, asking for him to leave a message.

"Arya, it's Marcus, I need a lift to Xa Fel. What's your price?"

He clicked off. Knowing Arya, she would answer fairly quick. But for now, he would also pack and be ready.

Now, he knew what he would take.... now what about Alaina? She wasn't used to things like this. He would have to help her out. The Jedi went back to her room, while also keeping one ear out for the return call from Arya.

[Helenias Evenstar]

“I am ready”

I turned around, to see Xazor fully dressed in the armour, fully kitted out with her chosen weaponry.

“Well…. You’re an impressive sight”. And indeed she was. “Hang on a moment…” I went to a drawer that held a holocam, just as the druids that were to take over baggage to the shuttle arrived. I detained one for a moment to take a holo of myself and Xazor, both comrades in arms, standing together, both of us with smiles on our faces. An image captured in time that I would keep and treasure. It may be a great moment for Xazor, but it was also a great one for me. It was the marking of like a rite of passage, here I was about to go out with one I would train in the ways of a Warrior. As I had been once, years ago. I remembered that day when I had first clipped my armour and when I first went out with my Grandfather on our first mission together. I was thinner then, smaller and with much shorter hair. But in the holo I had of that day, my eyes could still be seen blazing with fierce pride. Much like what Xazor’s was.

When your turn comes one day Xazor, I hope you remember the day you too took your first steps out the door. It’s going to cause you pain and hardships, but also much joy and gladness. You’ll meet people you never expected, make friends and allies in the strangest of places. You’ll know cold, you’ll know heat, you’ll know what it is to make a last stand and somehow escape with your life…

Thinking about it, I didn’t regret a single thing. Especially as it had bought me to Marcus and a intense joy in our short time together. The holo of him and myself on our wedding day was not in it’s usual place, which was odd. Where had I put that? I mentally shrugged, before bringing up my fingers to my mouth, kissing the tips and then reaching out to stroke the air where the holo should have been.

“I miss you so much my love…. I wish you could meet Xazor, I really do. I promise to train her to something that even you would have been pleased with. Rest in Peace wherever you are Marcus”. The words I hadn’t realized I had spoken out loud. As I turned, I saw a look on Xazor’s face I could not quite read. “Old tradition. Honour those that have fallen so I never forget why I do what I do. Come on then, lets get to to the mess halls – to Shuttle 3” I added to the druids, who beeped acknowledgement. I followed them out the door, waiting for the younger woman to do likewise, before closing the door behind her and activating the locks.

Time to get to the mess hall and introduce Xazor to the rest of my team.

[Xazor Elessar]

Xazor smiled brightly at Helenias's reaction. It gave her a deeper sense of pride to be impressive to her friend. She smiled with that pride in her eyes when the holo was shot. Listening intensly to what Helenias said, Xazor made note of all of it.

I shall do well......no matter what may face me. I am strong in the Force....it is my ally.

She spoke confidently. Then Helenias turned around and spoke to.....the air. It was strange to Xazor at first, but then her friend explained and she understood. Xazor more than understood what it meant to honor a fallen one. She smiled as the droids took their things and they stepped out of the room. Xazor's first steps into the real world of a Warrior. She suddenly turned around and smiled at Helenias.

I shall never forget any of this.....thank you.

She spoke softly with a large hint of sentiment behind her voice. Now it was off to the mess hall......

[Arya Ravenwing]

Arya rubbed sleep from her eyes as she rolled out of her bunk, and set her feet on the floor with a thunk. She looked down, confused at the sound, and then rolled her eyes. Frell, slept with my boots on again. She unlaced and pulled off the heavy black boots, and removed her socks.

With a grimace she threw them into the corner of her cabin, and padded barefoot to the 'fresher.

When she emerged from the sonic shower tweny minutes later, there was a message awaiting her on the comm. Arya pulled a tank top on and a pair of pants, and sat at the console in her cabin, playing the message as she rummaged for a fresh pair of socks.

"Arya, it's Marcus, I need a lift to Xa Fel. What's your price?"

Short, sweet, and aggravatingly to the point. Arya yanked on a pair of thick grey socks and wriggled her toes until they were comfortable. Xa Fel? She walked through the passageway of the Chevvette until she reached the cockpit, and sat in her seat. She checked her current position. Its not far from here but then I don't know where the krasst Q'Dunn is.

Arya activated the comm, and sent a return transmission on the secure channel Marcus had used. Don't waste my time with this, Jedi, pick up the comm.

[Taylor Millard]

"Any idea where we're headed?" Thomas spoke over the X-Wing comm, as he and Millard piloted their way through Benai Airspace. A group of TIE Fighters escorted the X-wings, signifying to the other ships they were not to attack.

"The planet's name is Xa Fel...used to be controlled by the Sith Empire," Millard spoke, breathing the air of the X-Wing's system. It was odd to him, having been used to the skull-like mask and breath packs of the TIE Fighter. Now he had to deal with a might smaller helmet which hugged his temples rather tightly.

No clue how the New Republic does this he though as he dove his X-Wing down inbetween two Star Destroyers. It was fun though to be back in the cockpit. Taylor tended to use all the power he could to fly atleast once a month. Normally it was in his missile boat, but now it was a New Republic Fighter he flew. Different specs, but still something he'd learned while he was in the Unknown Regions.

Grand Admiral Thrawn had captured a New Republic Frigate and confiscated the entire fighter contingent. Millard had over seen the training of the Imperial Pilots to the new fighters and had flown them himself. They were a bit more sluggish than the TIE Fighters, but most pilots were happy about the shields. Millard wasn't...it made pilots more lax and they did not check their 'six' enough.

His R2 droids warbled a retort like, "What do you think you're doing?" as Millard put the X-Wing into a barrel roll. He was showing off, but mainly proving to himself he still 'had it' as a pilot.

"Thomas prepare for departure to hyperspace. Remember to use the codes we intercepted three days ago from the outpost on Sernpidal. Best way to go at it."

He pressed a few buttons then watched hyperspace take them. Millard still wasn't certain what to expect at Xa Fel, only that a Jedi was there...and where the Jedi are, so the New Republic are also.

[Alaina Edric]

As Marcus entered he saw Alaina fully clothed. She was dressed in a light fitting set of doe brown leathers, with a hardened chest plate covering the upper half of her body. She took up a small brown strap-bag and pushed in a few essentials that might come in hand for the journey, slipping the bag over her head. Alaina blushed red somewhat as he looked at her whilst she tugged on her cloak, fastening it at the collar with a small floral pin.

"I'm ready to go, Marcus,"

Giving herself a quick once over glance, she grimaced as she realised there was no saber present on her attire. She hadn't crafted one yet, and she hoped that Marcus wouldn't notice - or that he would have plans for how she would aqquire one in the future.

"I'm looking forward to meeting this woman ... it would be wonderful if she really was your wife."

She was practically talking to herself as she scurried about a bit, making a few final checks. Satisfied after a few minutes, she turned and headed to the doorway where she nodded to Marcus. Ready.

[Marcus Telcontar]

While Alaina was getting ready, Marcus heard the call been go off on the comms unit. He dived for it, triggering the transmission. To some surprise, a live one to Arya. He knew she hated time wasting, so he was quick and to the point.

"Arya, Marcus. I'm on the planet you dropped me off on, I need transport to Xa Fel. I might also be in need your fighting skills. I have a potential bit of trouble to deal with. Normal price times 3 because I need speed. You want to accept?"

[Arya Ravenwing]

Arya chewed her fingernail while the comm tried to complete the transmission. No one was answering the signal. She thumped the console in frustration, and then comm beeped, and Hunter's voice filled the cockpit.

Or was it Marcus' voice? Arya flipped the comm a rude gesture that the audio-only link did not pick up. She chewed her nail tip completely off as he stated his reasons for calling her.

Spitting the discarded piece into the corner of the cockpit, she tapped the console with the new, shorter fingernail. "Speed, huh?" She smiled, "I can do speed. I'm plotting the course now, expect me in a day or so. Arya out." Cutting the commlink, she fed the coordinates to the navicomp and flicked a hair out of her face.

Within ten minutes, the Wing of the Raven had entered hyperspace. She'd be there in twenty-two hours. From the planet the Jedi and his wispy apprentice were on, it would take fourty-five hours in hyperspace to reach Xa Fel. And that was the fastest she could do. Arya pulled her lean body from the seat, and jogged down to her room to clean her weapons.

She'd gotten ahold of a disruptor rifle, and it made the railguns look wimpy. Illegal, of course, but disruptors were still distributed by Black Sun, among other things. Arya had picked up a crate of thermal detonators as well, the six spherical bombs packed full of baradium and snugged tightly in their case. Black Sun was expensive, but one didn't pick these items up at the corner drugstore.

Arya fingered a Merr-Sonn grenade, usually outfitted with a fragementation payload. This one, and the other like it, held inside its metallic innards Fex-M3, one of the most deadly gases known to the galaxy. Fex-M3 would cause death after just ten seconds of exposure.

He said he needed my fighting skills. I'm not a merc, but he always knows how to show a girl a good time. She carefully placed the weapons in a hard briefcase, and clicked it shut, activating the electronic lock. The rail gun she would put at her hip and her blaster would go under her jacket, as always.

She checked her chrono. There was time for a quick meal and then she would study Xa Fel. Might as well try to figure out what the Jedi might want there.

[Marcus Telcontar]

"Speed, huh? I can do speed. I'm plotting the course now, expect me in a day or so. Arya out”.

A day? Frell, that was quick. That must mean she was close. And still, it would give him time to pack and plan. Now what other plan could there be needed other than walk up to to the supposed Helenias and say hello? Well, he could think of plenty. Using a bit of caution for one was a good idea. And being prepared, that was another. Whatever happened, he was going to be ready.

“Alaina – we have a bit time up our sleeve. Oh, if she is Helenias it will be incredible. But I have my doubts still. It’s always good to be prepared” A half grin came over his face. “And I know how to prepare”

22 hours later. Alaina was somewhere below, waiting with what they were taking with them, beside the landing pad. High, high above was Marcus, standing in one of the castle’s turrets, scanning the skies above with a set of macrobinoculors. Much to his satisfaction, it wasn;t his eyes that picked up the incoming freighter, but his ears, enhanced by The Force. The Chevette 57 Arya flew had a distinctive throbbing rumble, much different to normal space craft. He had seen the unusual V- configured motor, a bow-tie small block device that had been modified extensively. A few seconds later, he saw the small but growing dot that was the craft.

Yes, that is her. Well, she certainly has come quickly Amazing how money can make her the most dependable and swift of beings.

There was certainly no altruism in Arya. Whatever she did, it was for the credits. Of course there was much more to the woman than money, she was deep and complex, with hidden motivations. Like would she have sprung to this job if it was anyone else? Before Trogan, he would have laughed that off. After the storm and also Whitetown, he thought differently. And now he was thinking of it…

I hope Alaina remembers she is not to mention Helenias or the real reason we go. We are going because of potential trouble. What exact trouble we don’t know, because we were not told. Now that in a lot of ways is true… we really don’t know what we face.

The macrobinocs were placed in a weatherproof pocket, mounted under a stone on the turret. His sword was leaning in the low wall, which he now picked up, stepped on the ledge and then leapt off. Why take the stairs when there were quicker methods available? Not to mention exhilarating. The wind ripped at his clothes and his cheeks, before he landed, using the Force to soften his landing. The sword still in his hand, the Jedi then jogged around to where Alania was waiting.

“She’s nearly here – ready to go?”

The young woman nodded, clearly excited.

“Good…. Ahh speak of the dragon, here she is” The Chevette’s motors revved as the craft appeared, landing gear already down as the repulsorlifts took over for the landing. The ship dropped into a neat landing and a moment later the ramp dropped, with the figure of a leather clad woman appearing at the top.

“Arya! Good to see you – thanks for coming!” called out Marcus. To Alaina he indicated that she should pick up her traveling kit, while Marcus took hold of a strap attached to a largeish whelled crate. Walking up to the ramp, he allowed Alaina to board first, before he dragged his load up to the top, where Arya waited.

[Arya Ravenwing]

Arya settled the ship down on the landing pad, shut off the repulsors, and jumped out of her seat. Making her way down the passageway, she found herself trying to smooth her black hair behind her ears, and quickly put her hands behind her back.

She poked the ramp controls, and the Wing of the Raven opened up to receive it's passengers. She'd carried live cargo before, of course, but usually it was unwillingly ferried. In fact, the only people she'd taken on as paying passengers were these two beings. Marcus Q'Dunn, Jedi extrordinaire, and his sidekick, Allie, or Alina ...what was that girl's name?

As she stood there, the woman in question walked up the ramp. Arya pointed down the passageway behind her. "You can put your stuff in that room on the right, refresher's down the hall a bit more." The Padawan (padded one? What is with Jedi titles, anyway?) nodded thanks and continued into the ship, silently.

Arya was thankful for that. The trip she had calculated was going to take longer than she'd anticipated, due to a frelling "once in a blue moon" comet crossing the hyperspace route she'd planned on taking. Four days with that bunny were going to be bad enough, but if she talked..!? She grinned, feeling a little goofy, but sobered up as the Jedi himself walked up the ramp.

"What the frell is all this? Never mind," Arya waved her hands in front of her, "I don't want to know. But you can put it in the main cargo hold if you want. Unless you'd rather have that in your room?" She stepped out of the way as Marcus pulled the large crate into the ship, bringing up the ramp as she did so. Hand still on the control panel, she shrugged, "Sorry, but I only have two cabins, and they're small at that. So you get the common room to sleep in - but think of it, kitchen supplies, dejerrik board and easy access to the cockpit, should you want to stare at hyperspace."

She crossed her arms, "Of course, I don't even have a cot for ya, came too quickly to pick one up. But...I'm sure you'll find a spot to stretch out in, I have plenty of blankets. Now." Arya started walking down the hall, then stopped and turned towards him again, "Are you going to stand in the hall all day, or are you going to stow that so I can take off? Meet me in the cockpit, we need to discuss payment, and how long 'fast' is going to be." She charged up the passageway, not yielding to Alaina who was coming out of the tiny cabin, and who pressed against the bulkhead to get out of the captain's way.

[Alaina Edric]

Alaina winced and stumbled back against the wall of the corridor as Arya barged past her. She clutched onto her bags tightly and looked back to Marcus, a pleading look in her eyes. With a light shake of her head she glanced down to the floor and shuffled into the cabin that Arya had indicated she should use. The small holdall she had on her hands bulged with all the items she'd pushed inside and when Alaina through it down onto the floor she was sure she heard something crack inside.

"Oops..."

She sat down on the bed and listened to the talking outside. It seemed she was doing this a lot recently, listening in on Marcus and the pilot woman talking. Marcus must have really needed her to put up with the attitude she had and the way that she treated him.

Alaina lay back down on the bed in the room and sighed a bit. She was looking forward to meeting this woman who claimed to be Helenias wife, so much so that the excitement was making her feel very nervous - ill even.

[Granger Blomquist]

Mess room 16, NRSF Arcan Base 1 05:30

The lithe cat like being walked into the brightly lit mess hall, his one uncovered eye blinking from the sudden transition of darkness to light. Tall and powerfully built, the Cizerack proceeded with the elegance and balance associated with others of his race. His name was Granger Blomquist and he was a New Republic soldier. Rank bars were on his shoulders, his uniform absolutely crisp with knife edged creases. He cared for appearances and protocols, which he knew others saw as being anal retentive and the quiet butt of jokes behind his back. No one dared in front of him – the Cizerack took poorly to that and normally made sure the joker understood that Granger rarely found it amusing. Usually at the end of a clawed fist, swung with the power and strength the Cizerack possessed.

Despite this, he was respected – more than respected if the truth be told. He was a soldier and intensely proud of it, he loved to fight and battle was what he lived for. Being as generally unemotional as he was, he kept his head in even the worst of situations and so far had survived situations where he should have been killed. Incredibly, all he had to show for these battles was the side of his face, a piece of shrapnel nearly removing the eye that was now covered by the patch. He was ranked Sergeant and had been a soldier for longer than he could remember. Where he had come from, he didn’t exactly know, something about being a orphaned cub, found by a NR away team. They had claimed the cat like being, bought it up thinking it was just another unintelligent alien, but realizing soon Granger was much more than that. He spoke Basic with a pleasant accent, he was also cultured, appreciated song and verse and normally in down times, he would read book after book on some of the strangest subjects.

So what was he doing on Arcan IV, about as far from the front lines as you could get? He had been transferred to the Special Forces because of his skills. Not applied as was mostly the case, transferred. That in itself was unusual as for a normal soldier, it was an honour point just to make the to be considered lists of what was the true elite of the Republic. To be just transferred was unheard of, even more to get the call from General West himself. Granger just couldn’t refuse, especially with some of the weaponry the NRSF had developed. On his hip was one of those weapons, the sleek but deadly Rail Gun, designed to turn a Force user into red paste and the marker of the NRSF. He also had the Over and Under, the blaster / rail military rifle that was the standard squad gun. He would also be gaining access to a new version on this mission, a multi barreled version that spat projectile at incredible rates.

Who would have thought in a day of shields and sabers that projectile weapons would make a come back? The first time Granger had seen a Rail, he had laughed. Not after witnessing what a bullet fired at hypersonic velocities could do. Whoever had the idea to create these wonderful guns was clearly inspired. And now with the Shield Disruptor, a device that overloaded small shields with a static charge, you didn’t need to waste ammo breaking a shield. Granger was really beginning to love this place. Kick tail weapons, plenty of action, what more could a being like him want?

More discipline for one. Unlike other battalions, there was no respect for ranks except on the battlefield. It didn’t matter the ranking on the collar, the soldiers of the NRSF saw themselves as equals and in some ways disdainful of authority. It was more like a brotherhood than an army a very tightly knit family that wasn’t to Granger’s taste. You either fitted in, or you got out. Granger however had won respect by his prowess on the battlefield, so he was “allowed” to be stand offish.

Now the being he was heading to as he walked in the mess hall, well no one in their right mind would want it to fit in. A new addition to the squad being formed for this mission, it was some sort of… demon for want of a better word. A huge monster with glowing red eyes, seemingly made out of rock, 3 meters tall when it stood up, vicious clawed hands and feed, a mouth more like a shredder and a screaming voice that could cause ears to rupture. It was a complete walking nightmare… except it was also an incredibly peaceful being, gentle and curious. Even Hudson, the company’s practical joker gave Lochabre a wide berth however – the … errr what was it’s species name? Gargoyle?, stoires had gotten around what this thing could do. Apparently a being that had simply turned up in the Jedi’ Bar and Grill and had just simply taken residence, it had sat in the corner by itself until it had seen what it termed “like-stealers”… and prompty tore both the life-stealers and the area into pieces. Some insane person thought Lochabre would make a good enforcer.

Granger thought that person needed a brain rearrangement.

On the far side of the room, Hudson was complaining as usual. “Hey man, what is this s*it? When do we get some real food?”

“The same time you test positive for intelligence” shot back Vasquez, a dark skinned and brutal looking woman.

“Hey, you ever been mistaken for a man?”

“No – have you?”

Laughter broke out from that table as Granger sat across from Lochabre. The Gargoyle didn’t acknowledge the Cizerack’s presence, but that was par for the course. The only person Lochabre even listen to… was at present walking into the mess hall, dressed in red armour, a Force pike in her hand and another young woman, in a rather spectacular armour ensemble by her side. Granger stood as a mark of respect for Commander Cross, while others in the hall nodded and greeted the newcomer with low greetings. The atmosphere in the hall changed with the entry of Elieen… awe, respect… and even a touch of fear. This was no ordinary woman, it was rumoured she was a Jedi, she had been an Imperial Royal Guard and that she had single-handedly defeated the entire Jedi Council years ago before she had become one herself. She had proven on the practice floor she was their superior in combat and for that Granger gave her the respect he believed she deserved. She also gave the Cizerack the difference he wanted and for that, he would give his personal loyalty to her. Commander Cross paused to speak to Hicks, a Corporal, before moving to the table Lochabre and Granger at.

“You can sit down now Sergeant. How are you this morning?” she said, setting down her Pike and her helmet.

“Well thank you m’dam. Looking forward to the mission. Who is this that joins us today?”

Elieen glanced at the other woman. “This is my adjundant, Private Dawnstrider. She is a Jedi Padawan whom I’m training in the ways of the Warrior. Xazor, this is Sergeant Granger Blomquist, of the Krayt Dragons. He is my ranking NCO. And good morning Lochabre”

The Gargoyle animated, obviously pleased to see Commander Cross. It quiet-screamed something vaguely sounding like [And a rising of light to you too!].

“Good morning to you too Miss Dawnstrider, it is my pleasure to meet you. What would you both like for breakfast?”

For some reason, the Gargoyle was almost fawning to The Commander. Granger shrugged, before calling over a serving droid to order breakfast for the table.

[Xazor Elessar]

Xazor smiled, happy to meet someone that Elieen obviously knew. She wished to bow....but did not know if that was the way or not, so she held out her hand for a hand shake. The Cizerack took her hand in a friendly greeting and she smiled at Lochabre.

I'll have anything....I'm starving.

She said quietly. She remembered what Elieen had told her. She had to eat now for there would be times when she did not have the opportunity. She did not wish to say much more...for she knew that it would be disrespect. She was told to stay quiet and she would....

[Avolon Bisel]

Mess Room 16 Avolon asked himself. He then spoke outloud. "Max, who in their right mind names a eatery after a number?"

Max, a complex and advanced Astromech, grumbled at the man's moronic question. Avolon had a way all his own. He talked too much.

"Sir, the number is a designation. On this Arcan base there are multiple mess halls. The number is a way to distinguish the many rooms. Biological organisms often forget names, so a number system is the most logical choice," Kalvin, a rather prissy protocol 'droid stated.

"You have to learn to lighten up, tin man." Avolon mumbled under his breath.

The day was not an easy one. He had to pack his bags at the last minute and make the meeting. Not an easy task since he was up drinking the night before. He was clearly not shaved. Due to the haste, a five o' clock shadow loomed on his face.

Avolon started rounded the last hall. Only twenty meters to the mess hall. He prepped himself.

He was wearing his custom made, four blaster holster. It was the balistic kind, making for better carnage. The veteran was carrying a rather long and large duffle bag, that housed his Blast and Smash Rifle. This was a nick name he gave his personally made weapon. It had the normal fireing capibilities, plus it had an added on grenade launcher. He had many varities of shells and grenades that could be launched in the bag as well. Normal charges, electronic distabilizers, tear gas, smoke canisters. Something for every occasion. He even had suppresion rounds. These were somewhat like tightly packed bean bags. One point blank shot to the head and the victim was out cold. If there was no brain damage, they'd live. The bag also carried energy packs which could exhange with the bullet magizines, they were multi purpose. So any of his weapons could fire ballistic rounds or energy bolts.

He slung the duffle bag over Kalvin's shoulder, ordering him to carry it.

"Alright, boys, slick back your hair because we're diving into the lion's den."

Kalvin wondered back as Avolon and Max tredded on. Kalvin was perplexed at how he could slick back his hair, he had no hair to slick. The protocol 'droid caught up just as Avolon entered the door.

<hr>

He saw many people in the room, most carrying rail guns. Yeah, they were useful, but he didn't use them. He was a 'set in his ways' kind of guy. He'd been used to these weapons he carried since he entered the original Rebellion many years ago. Avolon also spotted a Cizerack. He had no beef with the cat creatures, so he payed no special attention to him.... then he saw the woman. She was dressed in Imperial garb.

Suddenly he pulled a gun from his holster and pointed at the back of her head. Wait..... Avolon used common sense. These people didn't seem to be threatened, and there was no fight commencing.... she must be on our side. Then, another lightbulb popped over his head. She must be the leader. She was standing with that natural presence that few had. The presence that demanded respect. Avolon holsted his weapon just as she spun around, hearing a rustle. Bisel quickly saluted her.

"Lieutenant Avolon Bisel, ma'am, of the Black Panthers. Reporting for duty."

[Helenias Evenstar]

I nodded at Blomquist.

“The staff here know what I want”.

I waited while the Cizerack ordered, noting his quiet and differential attitude. He had an interesting clipped accent that seemed out of place on the cat like alien. I only had met my new NCO two days before briefly, which still meant I didn’t know a lot about him. Files can only tell you so much. Blomquist finished ordering before I asked the question I was most wanting to ask.

“Sargeant, you’re a full blood Cizerack, yes?”

“I believe so M’dam. What makes you curious?”

“I don’t know much about the Ciz, but your firstly appear to be not endentured to a female and you have no accent”. Blomquist seemed to consider for a moment before replying.

“I know nothing of what you speak. I have not met nor heard of others like myself”

Xazor and I exchanged looks. “Really? This planet is almost infested. When we come back, try the Jedi Bar and Grill. I’m sure The Pride Mother might even turn up”

“Pride Mother?”

I was surprised. I never heard of a Cizerack male that was not enslaved to the Pride. It was sounding like I knew more than he did about his own race. “The ruler of The Pride. Don’t you know anything about your own species?”

“No. I don’t have any willingness to find out anything. Does knowing whom this Pride Mother help one in life?”

I was about to reply when I heard a scraping of a blaster coming out of a holster, I noted Lochabre tense. Turned around to see a male putting a gun away and saluting.

“"Lieutenant Avolon Bisel, ma'am, of the Black Panthers. Reporting for duty."

I gave him a look that could freeze Hoth further “Lieutenant Bisel, you draw a gun on me again I shove it so far up your rectal cavity you could pull the trigger by picking your nose. Now explain yourself”

“I was… I thought..”

I could read his mind as he stumbled for an answer. “You thought I was an Imperial”. I stood and I moved to come face to face with Bisel. He was taller, but my presence was making him shrink.

“Ooooooh s***” said someone from another table “Someone’s about to lose a limb” Hudson. Typical of his wisecracks.

“Now listen to me Bisel” I said softly, but making every word sounding like his impending death sentence “If your too lazy to flick though a data file and realize I don’t just wear this costume to go to a party, then you have a major malfunction. Didn’t you read I also clearly expected you to be in vaguely something like full uniform so we may greet the ambassador who will be coming with us? I do not like wasting my breath or time Bisel”

“Ahh s***, it’s a dressing down” said Hicks quietly at his suddenly silent table “He going to wish it was a loss of a limb”

Ignoring the peanut gallery, I continued. “This is not a merc outfit. This is the Special Forces and I expect a certain standard at all times” My eyes narrowed and seemed to go straight through the soldier. “Do I make myself clear Mr Bisel?”

“Yes…”

“YES WHAT?” I suddenly bellowed, using the Force to make my words seem to take substance and hit he man like a physical blow.

“Yes… M’DAM!!”

“Good. Next time I won’t be lenient. Sit down” I turned my attention to the rest of the room, who I think were secretly entertained, but trying not to show it. I know some called me the BCFH (Bith Commander From Hell), not to my face of course and I wondered if they were also glad it wasn’t them. Now that I was standing seemed like a good time for a final mission statement from myself. “Listen up! If you haven’t read the mission profile, you have one hour to do it. And for those who are too dumb to read…. HUDSON I MEAN YOU! Clean the mold out of your ears”

“Yeah f*** you too” said Hudson, giving me a rude gesture to some laughter in the room.

“I love you too sweetie” I said with a smile and a reply gesture. I tolerated some fooling about with these troops cause of how good they were. “Now here are the final orders. 0700 we are to assemble at docking bay 94 to greet the ambassador. There is two days transit, which will be spent as down time. One hour before reversion to realspace, I expect everyone with full dress armour, full spit and polish. Remember this is a diplomatic mission and we are simply there to protect the Ambassador. Now… as you now know our planet fall will be Xa Fel, a formerly Sith Empire held planet that is seeking to negotiate their way into the Republic. I stress that nothing will be done to provoke any trouble, which I trust you will abide by. That means you too Vasquez, so your not going to bring that cannon with you, understand? Now, the worm who is cringing in the corner is Mr Bisel, who is my XO for this trip. Mr Blomquist” I indicated the Cizerack, who nodded “Is the ranking NCO and will take command if anything happens to me. Our new blood is Miss Dawnstrider, who is also a Jedi Padawan” Some polite welcomes and nods came as I pointed out Xazor, who looked embarrassed “…And we have a new Enforcer, Lochabre Stonewing” A few curious eyes looked over the hunched over Gargoyle, appraising it. The Enforcer was an unusual NRSF position, it went to a typically brute of an alien or human who simply dealt out punishment and would be our point. A dangerous job that from personal experience, Lochabre was perfect for. “Okay, now there are no other changes to schedule or programming, so I will expect you all to be on the ready line at 0700. Clear?”

“CLEAR!” came back the combined shout. The soldiers all got back to their breakfasts and I noted mine had arrived, along with Xazor’s. A large cup of coffee was the first thing I would go for…. “Mr Bisel, join me at my table. I haven’t finished with you yet”

I took a seat, picked up the mug and took a sip of the scaling fluid inside. Ahhh. Nothing like a good cup of coffee in the morning. Xazor wasn’t joking, she was famished. Come to think of it, so was I. I began to get stuck into my meal as Bisel sat down next to Blomquist, setting his food tray down in from of himself.

[Avolon Bisel]

Hey, atleast I didn't pull the trigger. That winged monster would chew my liver like taffy. Avolon thought to himself, smiling.

The fact was, that Avolon's parents were killed by the Empire at a young age. His father was an Imperial defector, and was executed for treason. His mother and he was shipped to Tatooine, left to be a slave. His mother soon died from heatstroke, leaving Avolon to fend for himself. He soon joined the rebellion. After Palpatine was killed, he became a bounty hunter. Years ago though, General James Tohmahawk had pulled him back into this military mess. He was actually very pleased he had done so.

Avolon rather enjoyed what had just happened, it was apperant as he smiled through the entire thing. When he added the 'M'dam!" it was with a crooked smile, showing he was loving every minute of it.. He didn't get embaressed easily, and this was no exception. If he wasn't getting yelled at by somebody daily, he didn't feel like he was doing anything. Getting chewed out was a large part of Avolon's military life. And this woman.... she was as tough as nails, something Bisel admired in a woman or man. She reminded him of someone.... nah, he shook that thought away.

Truth was, he hadn't read the datapads, meant to brief him for this mision. His Astromech had downloaded the information and given him the gist before they came to this mess room. All he remembered was it was deplomatic mission, something he loathed.

Full armor? Did he even had full armor? Did he have armor? He had no clue. His t-shirt, wrinkled, coupled with his jeans made a lousy soldier outfit. But it was his normal attire and he never even thought to look 'nice'.

As he sat down at the table, he eyed the woman straight in the eye. He liked the way she talked, kept him on his toes. He was bold enough to start in with conversation.

"Food here any good?" Avolon asked, turning to Lochabre, who gave him a angry sneer, his previous actions still fresh in the gargoyle's mind. "Guess not," He quipped, trying to make someone, anyone, lighten up.

He turned to the woman. Avolon didn't even know her name, but he wasn't about to ask. He waited for whatever she was about to say. Maybe she'd put him on latrine detail when they got back?

[Xazor Elessar]

Xazor was extremely impressed with how Helenias carried herself. She thought it was excellent when she put Avolon in his place. She smiled as her food was brought to her, and she started in. No, she was not joking, she was extremely hungry. In a few minutes time, she had finished half of the plate before her. Avolon gave her a strange look, but she smiled at him anyway.

So......do you even have any armor to put on?

She asked, picking up on his thoughts. She could see the worried expression in his eyes, and knew that he probably didn't. She knew how he felt, though...for before the generous gift was given to her from Helenias, she had nothing but Jedi robes. She smiled, reassurance played on her expression.

[Marcus Telcontar]

“Common room will do fine for me, I’m not fussed”

The case was dragged back to the hold, where Marcus also hung up his sword. Not particularly worried if it was exposed or not, both Arya and Alaina knew how dangerous this thing was for another hand other than his to touch it. He could hear Arya walking up the corridor, Alaina somewhere up front as well. He closed the hold door behind him, before walking to the common room, flipping his remaining belongings onto one of the chairs. The bow and arrow set was placed on top. Arya would probably laugh and in someway, Marcus would agree. Hurled pieces of wood was a joke in this day of blasters and rail guns, but…. It was silent and made a brilliant hunting weapon. He had used it a fair bit in the last month to catch game and he was beginning to really appreciate what a subtle device it could be.

Cockpit… now where… ahhh, now he remembered. His feet trod softly as he walked, coming up to Alaina who was looking rather forlorn in her room. In the month they had been together, she had adapted quite well to new situations, but sometimes, he detected it all got too much now and then. Plus right now, she was probably feeling put to one side, a tag-along. He came over to where she was lying down, kneeled and then spoke very softly, so only she could hear.

“I know your going to feel left out, but I can’t help that. Arya doesn’t really like anyone, it’s best if you try to keep her on the other side of me. So I want you to do something for me. Be my second eyes and ears. Remember the mental link we practiced? If you want to talk and no be overheard, use it. I’ll keep my mind open to you. Now sit up for a moment…” He waited until she did, before giving her an unexpected hug.

“What was that for?” she asked, surprised.

“Because you needed one. Whatever happens, I think of you as part of my family now. And don’t worry or be too excited, I’m sure if it is Helenias we meet, she will love to meet you. I’ll go up front now, stay here, but use The Force to listen in. You want to comment, speak to me by the Force. Okay?”

He got up and went back to the door, turning up towards the cockpit. A few seconds later he arrived, closing the cabin door behind him.

Listening in Alaina? He spoke via The Force.

Arya was already getting the ship ready for liftoff. Marcus took the co-pilot’s seat.

“Payment? I expect credits to the normal account, or do you need something different? And just how fast is fast going to be?”

[Alaina Edric]

The door clicked open and Marcus stepped into the room. She looked over at him from the bed and smiled weakly - it wouldn't have appeared convincing, but she knew that in the end he could sense exactly what she was feeling anyhow so it didn't matter too much what physical front she put up.

“I know your going to feel left out, but I can’t help that. Arya doesn’t really like anyone, it’s best if you try to keep her on the other side of me. So I want you to do something for me. Be my second eyes and ears. Remember the mental link we practiced? If you want to talk and no be overheard, use it. I’ll keep my mind open to you. Now sit up for a moment…”

She sat up, and suddenly found Marcus had his arms around her. With a nervous smile, she leant back away from him.

“What was that for?”

“Because you needed one. Whatever happens, I think of you as part of my family now. And don’t worry or be too excited, I’m sure if it is Helenias we meet, she will love to meet you. I’ll go up front now, stay here, but use The Force to listen in. You want to comment, speak to me by the Force. Okay?”

Her smile widened and became genuine. He was right, she did need to try and quell her feelings as her excitement was beginning to get the better of her. This wasn't helped too much by the fact that he considered her family now, as this was a huge thing to her - she'd never had much of a family, and especially not family like Marcus! With a nod, Marcus departed then she heard him again, this time in her mind. She closed her eyes and let herself lay back down gently.

"Yep, I'm right there with you."

[Helenias Evenstar]

“No, the food is s***. What do you think this is, bed and breakfast?” I snapped. Actually, the food was quite good, but this Avalon was a bit too flippant for his own good. I was quite sure before this mission was over, I would be very, very tempted to replace whatever was between his ears with my Pike. I could see Blomquist had no expression on it’s Cizerack face, which was about what I had heard of him. Fairly formal, very polished apparently and… eating fruit? With a spoon? To me, knowing what the majority of Cizerack in the Bar and Grill did with their food and what they preferred, this was, well… odd to say the least?

“Mr Blomquist, would you satisfy my curiosity? Why are you eating fruit? I thought Cizerack only ate raw meat”

Blomquist paused, face creased in a frown. “They do? Why would they do that? Raw meat gives me flatulence problems”

And almost right on cue, Lochabre belched. It was horribly sudden and appallingly loud, echoing and rolling on…. But more impressive was the gout of flame that fired out over Bisel’s head. I froze, staring incredulously until the Gargoyle had finished. The Cizerack was staring in horror, while a deep silence had descended over the room.

“Hoy s***!!” exclaimed Hudson. We don’t need guns, we’ll let Stone Man burp em to death!” There was an outbreak of laughter and some beginnings of some animated discussion, most of which was imaginative ways to use what they had just seen. I knew Lochabre spat acid. I knew it’s skin was impervious to blasters and the beast was one of the toughest sentient beings I had ever seen – no scratch that, the toughest. But belched flame? I sincerely hoped Lochabre didn’t …. “Lochabre, please warn us before doing something like that again” The Gargoyle looked at me puzzled, then quiet-screamed a reply that I took as something akin to “Yes M’dam” Or however Lochabre said it. Or said. Sometimes it was hard to follow Lochabre’s attempts at Basic.

I waited a moment for the hubbab to die down before getting Bisel’s and Blomquist’s attention. “Mr Bisel, on the trip over to Xa Fel, I expect you to find something a good deal more appropriate to wear than what you are now. I also expect you to be fully conversant with the mission profile and objectives. I will also expect you to escort the Ambassador and do as she bids”. Blomquist looked horrified, Xazor gave me a questioning look. “In other words, you’re her manservant for the duration of the transport over, so I expect you to dress properly and carry out the task in the manner prescribed. And no, there isn’t any possibility of anything intimate. Maybe while you fanning the Ambassador or whatever a manservant does, you’ll remember to do as I request, else I find you something a good deal worse”

If there was anything worse. Being at the beck and call of a politician was a highly undesirable thing for a fighter to be given – I was going to give that to Hudson, so he was lucky someone had come along and displeased me more than even he did. Which was staying something at times. Hudson was a good soldier, just truly aggravating. “Mr Blomquist, After the formal greetings at Xa Fel, I will be slipping into the background with Miss Dawnstider as I wish not to be constrained. You are also much more experienced in diplomatic affairs than I am, so I will expect you to put that to good use”

“I will M’dam. Will I be expected to sit in on the negotiations?”

“Oversee, yes and be a second pair of ears for the Ambassador. Other than that keep your wits about you. I’ve heard some good words about you Mr Blomquist, so I have all faith you will be able to do what I want”

“Xa Fel it self is fairly peaceful right now. There was some rioting when The Sith Empire unexpectantly left, but to the main, it’s quiet and wanting to transfer to the New Republic in an expedited manner. I understand the takeover by TSE was hostile and the locals are glad to be rid of them, so as I understand the negotiations will be short. After some flag waving and also waiting for a regular NR armed force to arrive, we also oversee local security. Basically, Xa Fel will be invited into the NR, they accept and request a NR armed presence. There is a fleet that will be stationed 1 light year away from the planet, when they arrive and take position, our job is our. Secondary objective is to examine whatever we are exposed to, be it ship yards, ground facilities, for any signs of tampering or left over TSE surprises. As you all should know, Xa Fel is one of the Galaxy’s major ship yards, which makes this a top line target – thence I want this to be smooth and go by the numbers and I want all caution exercised. I can’t stress enough the consequences if the negotiations go wrong. Am I understood?”

Blomquist nodded first. “Understood perfectly M’dam except for one question. I understand this …. Thing next to me is an Enforcer. Why would we need one on a mission such as this? Would it be not better to have a unthreatening appearance?”

“I thought of that, but I would disagree this once. We have to have a moderate show of power, to help convince the Xa Fel residents that we can protect them from anything. The Ambassador agreed. Plus, if there is trouble, I believe it is more likely to be of the Sith variety. While I am confident of my ability to deal with any Dark Sider, Lochabre is insurance. Fair enough?”

[Avolon Bisel]

Avolon smiled and nodded intently after he was given his duty. It wasn't a bad spot at all. He liked woman more than he liked guns, and he loved guns. Being a manservant wasn't a bad thing, the Cizeracks didn't seem to mind it. Plus, if anything was to go down, he'd be next to the would be assinated individual. Right in the thick of the action. What more could he ask for?

As the flame shot over his head, Avolon gave a wide grin at the creature. Marking his teritory maybe? Eh, didn't bother him. Avolon knew that the gargoyle could make him an extra crispy if he so desired, the fact he was still alive showed that the menacing presence must not be too peeved at him.

"Fair, ma'am, very fair. Oh, and I'll be spit polished by the time my duty comes. I'm not as big a screw up as you might think."

Avolon had a feeling that by the end of this mission, he'd be good buddies with this woman. Although the look on her face.... told him she didn't have the same feeling.

[Arya Ravenwing]

Arya throttled the ship out of the atmosphere of the planet, and the Chevvette streaked for the jump point. She nodded to Hunter's first question. Krasst, still calling him Hunter. Old habits were hard to break. She looked at him from the side of her eye, "As far as credits go, everything is standard to the way we've set it up." She put both her eyes back on the viewscreen and counted down to one.

On one she pulled the lever engaging the hyperdrive, and the G forces slammed her back into the pilots seat. Oops, forgot about Bunny back there. Hope she didn't hit her head. There was a moment of childish glee at the thought, and then she frowned. She's all right.

Wait. How did she know that? Arya watched the swirls of hyperspace streak by the viewscreen, trying to mask her momentary confusion, and then turned back to Q'Dunn. "I can get you to Xa Fel in ninety-three hours. Four days, give or take three hours. I was going to be able to get you there in two days, but there's a comet smack in the middle of the hyperspace route I was planning on." She grinned, "Don't worry, it only comes through every two hundred years or so, so it shouldn't permanently crimp your travel plans."

Arya swiveled her chair around, and kicked her feet up on the console, her back to the viewscreen and her head still turned towards Marcus. "Is that fast enough for you, or should I take you back home?"

[Xazor Elessar]

Xazor had to laugh at Avolon. His duty was far worse than anyone's.....in her eyes anyway. She grinned at him and finished her food. Looking to Helenias, the Garou spoke quietly.

And my task is to follow you, my Mentor. I thank you so much for taking me on this mission. I will watch you closly and observe all things that I see..

She bowed her head in respect and then finished her Ki in the glass that rested on the old table before her. She drank every last drop of it and set it back down. She smiled and looked back to Helenias.

Is there anything else you wish for me to do, Ma'am?

She questioned with sincerity. She wanted to be as great an asset as she could possibly be without getting in the way....

[Marcus Telcontar]

96 hours.... that was some detour. He also put his feet up on the console, leaned back and took out his pipe. completely ignoring what arya might think of that, he loaded up and lit up, puffing and blowing a perfect smoke ring.

"Don't seem we have much choice. I dont think you would like my real home. Did I ever tell you anything about it?"

[Arya Ravenwing]

Arya kicked his feet off the console's edge as he lit up his pipe and puffed smoke into the cockpit. She cocked her head to the side and watched him, his movements practiced and unhurried.

The ventilation system warmed up as the smoke reached the detectors, and Arya shook her head at his question. "You've never told me, and I've never asked." She paused, "I don't pry into people's pasts for a reason. The only thing anyone has to look forward to is the future, and all we have to live in is the present. Yet, I would like to hear about your home planet."

Perhaps it was like hers. Wherever it was. Arya's hand went to her breast and she unconsciously drew out the medallion and rubbed it between her thumb and forefinger. She felt a yearning in her heart for home...any home.

Marcus opened his mouth, holding his pipe in one hand as he started to speak. He stared at the pipe..no, at the smoke above the pipe. Arya looked up as well, and caught a glimpse of a ghostly image in the smoke. A female face almost...it looked like her mother. She started, and her boots thunked to the floor, but the image dissapated almost as soon as she'd seen it.

She glanced down, and noticed her medallion was again tucked inside her shirt. But I didn't touch ... Arya felt a little frightened. Did I do that? She shrank into her seat, not sure what to say next.

[Helenias Evenstar]

“No, nothing for now Miss Dawnstrider, thank you. Another twenty minutes and we should be on the parade ground. And you Mr Bisel, I see that you seem to be amused by the concept of a manservant. Let me inform you, the Ambassador uses man servants to lance boils and other things I have no wish to think of during dinner. I hear the last man servant was ordered to wipe her buttocks after a particularly messy bowel movement. I doubt that’s the worse either. Oh, I’m not joking either Mr Bisel. I have a lack of a sense of humour. Mr Granger, make sure the team is assembled and ready by 07:00. Anyone late gets to share duty with Mr Bisel”

I stood up, wiping my mouth. This place really did do a good breakfast. I picked up my Pike and helmet, gave Blomquist a salute and indicated for Lochabre to follow myself and Xazor. As we left, I detoured towards where Hudson was.

“Your in luck Hudson. Someone has annoyed me than you do. It looks like Hicks loses the bet”

There were some good natured jeers as Hicks with a smile paid his credits to Vasquez. “Damn and I thought I was on a good thing too”

“Miracles happen. And Hicks…. Come with me please”

“Errr, sure” the soldier said, getting up. He followed myself, Xazor and Lochabre out the door, wherein I turned to him.

“Ryan, This is Private Dawnstrider. Xazor, this is Corporal Hicks. Ryan, I wanted to have a quiet word with you. I have a problem I might need you to deal with”

“You know me Elieen. I’m deal with any problem”

“Good man. We could have a very serious infiltration concern.”

Hick’s eyes narrowed. “Who?”

“Not one of us. At Xa Fel, there is a man that wants to meet me named Elessar. He’s claiming a lot of things that are suspicious and I want someone to find out what his game is. Xazor is my new Jedi Warrior student – thence I want you to also teach her something of espionage” I noted Xazor seemed surprised, so I explained myself. “Being a Warrior is not just about fighting. It’s also about having the right intelligence, so you know what you are dealing with. Ryan here is NRI, New Republic Intelligence. He’s my spy ring leader. He poses as part of the company and is also my second set of eyes. He used to hold that position when I was an Imperial. Isn’t that right Ryan?”

“Sure is Elieen. Nice to meet you young lady I might say. And what is this… thing?” he asked, looking Lochabre over with an appreciative eye

“This is Lochabre, clan Stonewing. It’s a Gargoyle. Were you not listening when I introduced?”

“Of course I was listening. I wanted to see your eyes when you said it to me in person. So… is this the thing that ripped the Jedi’s bar to pieces, hunting down the Vampires?”

“It is. Impressed?”

Hicks gave the huge beast another look. “Hell yes. Was that all Elieen?”

I nodded. Hicks saluted and went back into the mess room. This time I turned to Xazor and Lochabre. “Lochabre, Xazor is your friend. Youa re to extend the protection and submission that you gave to me, to her. Understand?”

The Gargoyle looked at Xazor, burning red eyes almost reflecting on the Padawan’s face. It grunted, then quiet screamed it’s agreement.

“Good. Lochabre, you go to the shuttle now. Xazor – parade ground. We review the troops, greet the ambassador and then leave”

[Avolon Bisel]

Try as she might, she couldn't wipe the toothy grin off Avolon's face. The fact of the matter was, he was right next to the flag on this mission. If anyone decided to try and capture it, he'd be the one to see the serious action.

"Well, Granger..." Avolon began as he stood up from the table. "I have some polishing to do," he ended with a pat on the Cizerack's back.

Kalvin and Max, seeing that the woman had left, saw that it was safe to approach.

"Oh my, she was most rude, Mr. Bisel. Most rude!"

"Watch your mouth. She's fine, just doing her job. You know what I do to people who poin guns at me, right?"

Kalvin stammered for a minute, not sure. Max told him.

"Oh, well, that is most ruthless, I am sure. But the fact is, you thought she was a spy, sir!"

"In full uniform, in a mess hall, addressing troops?" Avolon scoffed at his own mistake. "Come on, let's get cleaned up."

Before long Avolon was in his room. The clock was ticking slowly and he couldn't help but watch it every step of the way. He was half way to looking persentable. Nice clothes, fitting of a man his rank. Clean boots, nicely combed hair, his ordor was gone. His holsters were a matching color now to his uniform and were fully loaded with blasters as always. Even the bag in which he carried his blast and smash was more suitable for an officer. All that was left, was polishing the 'droids. Wouldn't want them to come in looking like yesterday's trash.

"Kalvin, you look terrible."

"I am aware, sir. It is most difficult to clense myself with these unoiled joints."

"I can take a hint. I'll lube you up on the trip, there's no time now," Avolon said, standing up. "Max, you ready?"

The Astromech had cleaned itself. He had done a superb job. It reminded Avolon on how self reliable the little trashcan was.

"Well, let's get going then. Better early then late."

He slung the bag over his shoulder as he exited the room, walking down the long path to his destination....

[Xazor Elessar]

Xazor was surprised beyond belief when she was informed of Espionage work. She smiled to herself at the thought of learning....higher intelligence. She listened intently as Helenias explained everything.

It is a pleasure to meet you also, Sir..

She said awkwardly to the man that her mentor referred to as Ryan. She smiled gently and diverted her attention to the large Gargoyal known as Lochabre. She felt better to know that she was also under his protection as well.

As Helenias gave out directions, Xazor was sure to make note of everything. She did not wish to mess anything up......or it would probably be her last time accompaning anyone...anywhere! She nodded when her mentor spoke of where they were to go.

Yes ma'am.....I shall follow you closly and take in everything. I feel that I shall learn much from this experience. I wish to thank you for everything....

She said softly as she and Helenias made their way to the parade ground.

[Helenias Evenstar]

06:55

I was in a small room near the parade / lamding ground where I could hear the NRSF troops arriving, stowing gear and getting ready for parade time. There was a few jokes and rude comments that filtered back into the room through the open window. Xazor was outside as I had requested to be alonne for a few minutes as I wanted to think and to process some thoughts. It was finally dawning on me what I was doing. Here I was, former Imperial agent, one of the best ever, about to lead a NR team to a world which wanted to be part of the Republic. You could join all the groups you wanted, say what you wanted, but until the time came, it meant nothing.

My leaving of the Empire and all it stood for was about to become complete.

Added to this, I was realising why West felt so burdened with the NRSF command. Above us all stood the shadow of it's now dead creator, it's heart and soul for so long. Everything you did or said was compared to "Our General" as he had been affectionatly known. It was like a weight on the shoulders, a stone around the neck bearing the legend of General Tohmahawk. I felt it particuarly keenly. Even if no one else knew it, I had the expectations Marcus would have had for me. I had much to live up to, even if it was for just myself. How did you follow in the footsteps of a General like Tohmahawk, a Jedi and a partner like Marcus?

For a few more minutes, I just allwoed the thoughts to drift through my head, until the chrono on the wall beep. 06:59. I took a breath, pushed idle thoughts away and picked up my helmet. Without hesitation, I put it on, connected the power filaments, waited till the visor diags were complete, before picking up my Force Pike and leaving the room. I few steps, a turn and I was outside, marching out to the middle of the parade ground. I must have caust Xazor out, as she initially lagged, also putting on her helmet. As I came to where the soldiers were talking and mucking about, I saw Granger see me, then turn to the troops.

"COMPANIE!!!! ATTENSHUN!"

And in a second, the group of mena nd women changed from relaxed bums to every inch soldiers. Uniforms and armour shone in the early morning light as I stopped, Xazor coming to a halt two paces behind me. I looked over the group with a professional eye, really liking what I saw. Even Bisel was scrubbed up. I nodded my approval to Blomquist, who saluted and moved to the front of the company, snapping to an immaculate attention stance.

I turned at a sound from my left to see the Ambassador, a cross between a slug and a Wookiee came out onto the ground. I could see Bisel looking with some trepidation at the rather hideous alien floated by on the suspension platform. Without a word, the Ambassador and her enterage moved to and boarded the centre shuttle on the landing area. I pointed to Bisel, making it clear I wanted him to follow. He did so and I waited until the group was inside their shuttle before I spoke.

"All right, you know your places! Onboard now!"

The NRSF company peeled off in two perfect lines, one line to the shuttle on the left, tthe other to the shuttle on the right. I went to the right, Blomquist left, while Xazor followed myself.

We seated ourselves for takeoff.

"Next stop... Pootang! yelled out Hudson

"Only pootang you will get is something dead" snapped back Valdez

"Are you planning to die soon?" I said sweetly and I took my helmet off. Valdez gave me a rude gesture, while laughter sounded up and down the shuttle.

"All right! Listen to me you bad asses - you all are in stand down mode while we are in transit. Get some rest and food into you - I want every man, woman, alien and Unidentified like Hudson to be ready when we touch soil on Xa Fel in 72 hours. Got it?" I stated.

A few good natured "Yes M'dam's" came out. I leaned back next to Xazor.

"Excited?"

--


OOC : Please be aware my next post will be a time step of 96 hours. This will include a summary and assigning of starting points for players who are involved already. This will not include Marcus' side of the roleplay, he will time step that that himself.

Anyone who is involved now may proceed to post again or join in if they have something they want to tie up before the time step.

[Helenias Evenstar]

Narrative

96 hours later, the NRSF team comprising of 32 regular troops under the command of Granger Blomquist are arranged around the beginning of serious negotiations between the Ambassador, her aides and officials of Xa Fel. They had only been going for one hour when in a reasonably distant area of the city, a bomb goes off, destroying a parked speeder. Believeing this to be connected, Commander Elieen Cross and her adjundant Xazor Dawnstrider go off to investigate, with the Gargoyle Lochabre in a basic disguise in tow. Avalon Bisel and Sopia Harten are outside the building, patrolling in plain clothes – Harten is called out to investigate a suspicious package left three doors down the road. Ryan Hicks has disappeared and gone into the Xa Fel underground to gather intelligence and to begin making contacts that the NRSF could use later.

Sith Knight Taylor Millard, secretly on Xa Fel for a few days has learned of the NR mission to the planet and has decided to do what he can to distrupt the proceedings. He begins a plan that begins with the speeder bombing which killed no one, but which he believes will force the NR to leave Xa Fel and maybe give the factions he is with a chance to make a planetary grab.

Note : RP’ers are now encouraged to use freedom from their starting points to expand on the story. I’m sure if it gets too far off track, Marcus or I will let you know.

[Xazor Elessar]

Xazor was attentive as she followed Helenias and listened to her tell of what had happened and why they were going to investigate it. With this at hand, it was difficult for her to think of much else, but she could not help some stray thoughts. Everything was happening so fast around them, and all the padawan wanted to do was take every moment of it in. She felt like she was really a part of something.

Helenias, what are we going to do when we are done investigating this site? Do we even know who did it and how are we going to find out?

Many questions like this raced through Xazor's mind, but she had to calm herself for her nerves were also building. She could sense that Helenias was thinking of many things also and she wondered what was on her friend's mind....

[Marcus Telcontar]

Now that wasn't something you see every day. The smoke of his pipe forming an image of a woman that looked c=vaguely like Arya, theen dissipating. Whoever that was, it seemed to have quite an effect on Arya, who seemed to be a bit frightened. On the other hand, Marcus knew quite well she was Force sensitive - even if she thought it was a load of ranour droppings. Funny how you could still think that when you had a very powerful Jedi Master sitting next to you. She had seen Marcus do somme impossible stuff and yet.... ahhh well. If she insisted on being blind, so be it. He tourned back to looking out the front viewshield, coming back to the subject he had borached.

"My home.... its a dry and barren. Deserts stretch as far as the eye can see. It's a hell hole with temperatures so hot that it's nearly impossible for humans to walk the surface. And even if they could, the gravity would make it a task of great labour. The air is......."

--

96 hours later. Marcus was in Alaina's room, teaching her how to cheat at Sabacc, when Arya poked her head in the door.

"Coming up on Xa Fel"

"Oh, about bloody time" growled the Jedi Master. Being in this ship for five days was really getting to be trying on his patience. "Do you need me up front?"

"No"

"Okay" Marcus turned his back on Arya, waited for her footsteps to signal she was in the cockpit. "What a detour. I have to admit, I have been wondering the last day what we are goign to find. Do you still hope we find it is Helenias?" he said to Alaina, careful to keep his voice for her ears only.

[Sophia Harten]

Sophia tugged absentmindedly at the sleeve of her tight-fit sweater. It almost felt strange for her to be out of uniform, but she never minded the freedom of civilian clothing. She and Bisel were outside the building, patroling, looking for anything suspicious.

So far, nothing out of the ordinary had occured. It had been a normal morning, almost to the point of being slow. She even had to stiffle a yawn.

As she attempted to shift her sock within her shoe with her toes, her comm vibrated in her pocket. Plucking it out, she flipped it on, speaking in a regular, low tone.

Harten here.

The voice on the other end informed her that she was to go and investigate a mysterious package, left just a few doors down from her present location. Acknowledging the order, she replaced the comm back into her pocket, turning to face Bisel, who had been close enough to hear the conversation.

I shouldn't be long.

With that, she turned, and proceeded down the walkway in the direction where the package had been left.

Reaching a small alley, she stopped to look around, and spotted a plain, brown package, roughly the shape of a rectangle. She approached it slowly, looking around to see if there was anyone in sight, either someone who had left the package or the one that had reported it. Not seeing anyone within reasonable distance, she bent down to examine the package, but did not touch it.

It was indeed very plain, with no markings on the visible sides. Giving it a once over again, she retrieved the comm from her pocket and activated it, making a direct link with command.

I found the package, though I don't know what to make of it. I haven't touched it yet, and I'd rather not until I've scanned it's contents. If it's anything dangerous, at least it's off the streets.

She paused momentarily and then continued.

How shall I proceed?

[Arya Ravenwing]

Arya stomped back into the cockpit, and stuck a tiny reciever in her ear, flipping a switch under her seat.

"What a detour. I have to admit, I have been wondering the last day what we are goign to find. Do you still hope we find it is Helenias?"

She yanked the reciever out of her ear, and shoved in back into its place under the console. Helenias? His wife?! She was dead! At least, he'd thought so. Something must have happened to change that.

Arya tightened her hands on the controls, and eased the Chevvette into the docking bay. She landed with a slight bump that she could have avoided had she tried. Why does he not tell me he thinks his wife may be here? Unless...he felt torn. Perhaps he did have feelings for her. Or maybe for Alaina, they spent enough time together it was a wonder they were not in the same bed. Perhaps they were...

Jealousy raised its green head in her heart, and Arya narrowed her eyes as she cooled the engines down. Thumbing the intercomm, she reported calmly, "We've landed, in case you didn't notice."

[Avolon Bisel]

Avolon was overjoyed to be in normal attire. His weapons were stowed away in a rather large backpack, usually used in camping. He matched his clothing to look like a tourist, to add to the pack. He even wore emerald colored sunglasses.

"Like I'm not going to give you backup...." Avolom murmered to himself.

No way was he going to let her handle this alone. He was an extremely cocky man, so he believed his fighting skills to be an asset to this woman. His 'droids were still at his side when he turned to follow Harten.

"Max, keep your shock rod powered up, don't let anyone come in that building without my say so. I won't be far away."

Kalvin had a built in voice amplifier, so he could shout over most anything.

Avolon had taken his pack off, carrying it now in his hands as he approached from behind. He unzipped it, reaching his hand in. His hand grabbed a blaster, but kept it concealed in the bag, not wanting his cover blown.

"Don't do anything stupid, now. I'm too pretty to die," he chimed from behind, attempting to lighten the mood. He now stood a meter away.

[Taylor Millard]

Millard was sleeping again, dreaming of nothing in particular, as the X-wing made its way through hyperspace. Occasionally an image would come up...Masters Darkserpent and Sha, Serena Laran, his dead brother.

But now, the dreams were haunted by another creature. Another woman, this one with brown hair and Force Power. She was sad, this woman was, lamenting over a dead husband....but hope...that damnable thing called hope was in her soul. That her husband was still alive and well, living under the same name he did when she loved and married him. She stood on a planet, the one he was travelling to, waiting for him. She was powerful in the Force, and could be even more powerful.

Why he sought her, Millard was not sure. He was not enamoured by her at all. In stead, he seeked out Force Users. Perhaps he could learn something from her about the Force. If she was Dark Side he would...if she was light side, the Dark Jedi mused, he would fight and kill her.

He watched as she stood, waiting for something...anything. As he began to walk towards the rocky ledge where she stood, he heard a buzzing sound. It grew louder and louder, then suddenly...

Millard awoke. A could sweat was on his face as he stared at the chronometer.

Four Hours until our destination. Four long hours...

Sighing, Taylor yawned, then fell asleep again.

[Sophia Harten]

She'd had a feeling Bisel wouldn't let her go alone, and was more than happy to have his backup.

Still waiting for a response from command, she looked up sideways at him, he being a good deal taller than herself, and gave him a lopsided grin.

Har, har, Bisel. I'll try to keep things tidy.

She chuckled softly, turning her attention back to look at the package.

[Alaina Edric]

What a detour. I have to admit, I have been wondering the last day what we are going to find. Do you still hope we find it is Helenias?"

She nodded and rose to her feet, her face brimming with a smile.

"Definetly. I would love to meet her ... and I bet you are very excited about the possibility of seeing her again!"

At that moment the ship shook somewhat then a barely audiable hiss was heard.

"We've landed, in case you didn't notice."

Alaina spun on the ball of her foot and tugged up her bag, slinging it over one shoulder before turning and thudding straight into Marcus.

"Come on! Come on!"

[Marcus Telcontar]

"We've landed, in case you didn't notice."

Gee, thanks for stating the blindingly obvious, thought Marcus. He was beginning to realize he was in a bitingly bad mood for some reason that to him wasn’t clear. Maybe it was the enforced wait and boredom, maybe it was impatience. Whatever it was, he was in a truly foul mood. Maybe it was anxiety at finding out what was at the end of this mystery of this woman, Elieen Cross. In some ways, this was reminiscent of the towering temper displays he has when his name was Tohmahawk. He was bumped by Alaina, who was quite enthused to be finally getting outside.

“Wait for me outside. First thing we do is establish a base to operate from, preferably not in this ship. See to it with Arya, she knows my preferences, I’ll lock the ship when I leave”

How easy it was to slip into business mode, even after 4 months. It was like he had never diverted down the road of Whitetown – and that itself was a concern. The memory of nearly slipping to the Dark Side at Fondor was still in his foremost thoughts.

Caution is needed. I must not be too hasty and not allow my temper to get away with me. Calm and peace is what I need

Yeah right, who was he kidding? He was a Warrior and sometimes a clear head was for the stupid. By their nature, Warriors walked a fine line down the Force and were always more susceptible to the Dark Side. That was one of the reasons he had left the Jedi in the first place, he plain didn’t see eye to eye with their ways. And yet, here he was teaching Alaina in their ways. And doing fairly well, even if Alaina was a good pupil, he could teach the Jedi ways quite well and understood them.

But he didn’t fully believe in them himself. He was certain Alaina could pick up his disgust at times when he spoke of some things that he disagreed with - like the fact the Jedi seemed to sit in their council and do nothing but talk. It was almost a cruel thing he had to admit, for a man like him to be saddled with a Council seat as he had been years ago. Wars make not one great the now dead Master Yoda had said, but for Marcus, he could not rest until evil was defeated. He was a driven man.

And then why have you not challenged Callista? She’s more evil that any Dark Sider alive and yet she is free to move

Because the time is not right, he replied to himself. The Time of Gathering was still a few years off and it would serve no purpose. There was a time and place to cut Calista down and he would when he could…. If he had the strength in his blood. To be honest, he really did think this was all a trick – even if he had been convinced enough to come out here, the more the thought about it, the more the proposition sounded absurd. This had to be a very, very clever imposter. A very, very dead imposter when Marcus got his hands onto her.

First things first – getting changed. The traveling rags he wore wouldn’t do. He made his way to the back of the ship, where he had put the case and also his sword. It still hung on the wall in it’s scabbard. Marcus crossed to the case, punching in the unlock code to reveal the contents – his long unused armour. A combination of plates and closely interwoven rings with leather coverings, it looked something out of a museum and indeed it was. It was a genuine device made with Dark Arts so many centuries ago that no one knew of it’s creation or how it had come about. It wasn’t exactly something a Jedi would wear, which to him right now wasn’t a concern. After the armour was in place and the sword back by his side, He picked up the black as night cloak that still remained in the crate, looking at it for a moment, closing his eyes and calling up the exact sequence in his mind, calling on the Force – and as he swung the cloth on, he seemed to shimmer and if you were looking at him via The Force, he seemed to disappear. In his years of Tohmahawk, he had used a variation of this power to stay hidden from Force users, but now this was the full effects of the power he called Shadowing – to totally disappear in the Force, to change his form to the sight of others and to deflect curious minds. With only the cloak to define his form and no face to see in the blackness of the hood, it was rather creepy to view.

But that was not what someone would view if he revealed his face. Instead of the scraggly beard and hair, the weighty eyes and careworn face, they would see something a lot different. Their own worst and deep most fear, come to life and in front of them to confront them in the worst way imagined. In reality, it was a particularly powerful illusion and it took all his power to keep going. He had to use a power of suggestion on himself to even bring the power “up”, which made the cloak symbolic of it’s effect and it’s raising and lowering.

A power a Jedi should use? Probably not. He would certainly never teach Alaina how it could be done. It also had the effect he could use no other powers to their extent while he was Shadowed. Of course, when you saw your own worst fear presented before you, 99 times out of 100 the opponent would run so there was no real need to do anything else. For the other 1 out of 100, that was what the sword on his hip was for.

He exited the cargo hold, moving to a place where he had a small comm.. unit. He picked it up, dialled up Arya’s code, then pressed transmit.

“Found a place to stay yet?” The voice that came out was still the voice of Marcus, but it now had a harsh note to it. He waited for the answer, before replying. “Very well. I’ll be where you are shortly” . He broke the transmission, moving to the ship’s exit. On his way out, he picked up his bow and arrows, almost as an afterthought. A moment later, he was outside in the sunlight, the ship locked behind him. The Jedi strode out, moving swiftly to where Arya and Alaina were presently.

[Arya Ravenwing]

Arya waited outside the Chevvette for the bunny to arrive. Alaina descended the ramp, wide eyed with excitement. I was never like that. Was I? No, Arya decided, she'd never been quite that innocent.

She shouldered her duffle bag, already packed and repacked five times in their trip to Xa Fel, and directed Alaina with a nod of her head. "Lets get going, Princess. Lotta ground to cover before nightfall."

The padawan gave her a look that was somewhere between mortally offended and long-suffering. Arya ignored her as they trudged through the vast spaceport, and hailed a taxicab on the far side. Alaina wedged herself in next to Arya as the older woman told the driver where to go. A breathless moment later they had risen in the air and joined the general flow of repulsor traffic.

Arya turned the air vents on her, letting the cool air blow on her warm skin. Alaina seemed a little afraid of her, and hugged her bag close as the taxi spun around a corner a bit too fast. Arya grinned, and grabbed the arm rest to stop from colliding with the padawan.

Ten minutes of hairraising travel later, the cab stopped and they piled out, Arya reaching over the partition to pay the driver. Alaina stood on the pedway, looking up, mouth agape. Arya stood beside her and looked up at the towering 'scraper, the monolith as beautiful as it was practical, rounded, organic corners and a fluid design that suggested Mon Cal styling. It made the other buildings in this city look shabby.

The padawan probably hadn't seen anything more impressive than Arcan IV. In fact, Arya knew she hadn't. The woman lightly poked the padawan in the shoulder. "You're going to catch more than flies if we don't get moving." She leveled her eyes at a trio of leering humanoid males, and they decided to press their luck elsewhere.

Alaina looked at her a little wonderingly, and Arya sighed. "Lets just get this over with, okay? We could stay at this hotel, frell, its extravagant enough for the King of Sheba." Arya shrugged. "But its not the place we're here for." She took the younger woman's elbow not unkindly, and they walked a few yards down the pedway until they stood in front of a drastically different building.

Not much shorter than the Mon Cal style 'scraper, this one was more unkempt in appearance, and slightly...seedy. Alaina looked calm as they entered and got a room on the fourth floor. There were 48 floors, but she picked one closer to the ground. Just in case certain Jedi Masters decided that everyone could float to the ground just like them.

Actually, four floors up was still a little too high. Note to self: Don't stand between Hunter and the window.

Once inside their suite, Arya set her bag on a table and called Marcus on the commlink. Afte their conversation she looked at Alaina, who had already unpacked her bag into a dresser. "He'll be here soon."

[Helenias Evenstar]

Helenias, what are we going to do when we are done investigating this site? Do we even know who did it and how are we going to find out?

I pondered Xazor’s rather pointed question before answering.

“I don’t know yet. This bombing I think has everything to do with the mission we are on here, so we will need to be careful. There are possibly still TSE holdouts still about and that is the first suspect”. We were in full armour, with helmets on, so my voice was being reprocessed to become male. It helped giving the local who was flying the speeder we were in a false impression. After I answered, I fell quiet, staring out the window and contemplating. The bombing itself wasn’t unexpected – it was the manner that had me wondering. It was much like what I would do had I been against the negotiations, plus there was the fact there was little other damage according to reports. Clearly, it was a diversion. But a diversion to what?

10 minutes later, we arrived to the site. A barricade had bee set up on the road, disallowing any civilian progress. Air traffic was also cordoned off and instantly, I had a suspicion – especially when I could not see the speeder remains down the road like I expected. And there was a lot of smoke in the area. I got out quickly, followed by Xazor and the shrouded and folded up Lochabre and went up to one of the local militia.

“Commander Cross, NR Special Forces. Who’s in charge?”

“Umm…. Captain Ascroft, Sir. He’s near the site now – you’re the NR officers we were told to expect?” replied the young man, who I summised was about 20.

“Yes we are. This isn’t the site?” I asked, puzzled.

“Ummm…. It is…..”

“I don’t see the wreckage. I was told the damage was minimal” I replied

“You better come this way” stated the militia member. I turned to Xazor, my unseen face twisted in an expression of puzzlement that I was sure Xazor was feeling too. We both followed the young man, passing the barriers and walking down the road for a few minutes until we reached a corner, which we turned… and I swore when I observed what was there. I could feel Xazor’s shock in the Force. I moved forward, the smoke obsuring a lot of what I could see with my eyes, but the receptors in the helmet cut through that and told me the whole story. This was no minor incident.

The whole damn road was a war zone. Twisted metal, damaged buildings, fires that were still burning, medic crews that were still carrying away injured and dead. Behind us, the disguised Lochabre growled softly. “My God” I said softly “What happened? The report said a speeder was destroyed only”

I went forward, looking about for someone I could speak to. After a few false tires, I managed to find Captain Ascroft, who was bloodied and filthy – at least eh didn’t look dazed, as a lot of the clean up crews did. Not that I would blame them, this was horrific.

“Commander, I’m glad you’re here”. Ascroft was a fat man, who had a cigar in mouth and a straight forward attitude I liked. “Apologies about the misleading news reports, we had to keep this quiet to avoid a panic. We’ll let slip in stages just how big this was over the next few hours” He also had a definite and strong handshake.

“How big this is? You mean it gets worse?” I asked. “And this is my adjundant, Private Dawnstrider. Does anyone have any idea what happened?”

“Well, far as we can tell” began the big man, escorting myself and Xazor further into the damage zone, “A human drove a transport speeder filled with fuel and detonators up to the front of the Galatic Credit Exchange and set it off. As you can see it left quite a crater..”

And indeed it had. An alarmingly big crater. Now I understood why there was so much smoke. I paused, looking over the devastation. I could barely see the front of the Exchange looked very battered and partially collapsed, other building in the blast radius were similarly affected. I knew a lot about such things – it must have been a big speeder to cause this much destruction. “Yes…. Casualties?”

Ascroft grunted. “Not as many as it looks. The buildings here were designed to withstand something like this. Any one inside would be okay. Outside…. At least 120 so far and climbing. Inside few shrapnel wounds, a heart attack and a lot of stress attacks. Could have been a lot worse”

Indeed… still, the damage was staggering. “Any idea who did it?” I said, bringing my mind to business.

“No idea. No warning given either, like in most actions like this. I suspect it’s someone sympathetic to the previous regime”

”As do I. Is support for the Sith Empire strong here?”

“No, we hated ‘em Commander. Only sympathizers would be loonies. We did have a few of em, but they were caught pretty fast – or surrendered. You can imagine what happened if the civvies got hold of a TSE sympathizer. Fact is, we had to mercy kill one two days ago”

“Mercy kill?” I asked

“He was beaten up so bad, tortured and well ….errrr…… “ he glanced at Xazor before bringing his attention back to me “… I’d rather not say what else, he would have been eating from a tube, unable to walk or even s*** - I’m not even sure if there was enough of his bowel to s*** out of. It would have been truly cruel to put him on life support.”

I winced. It never ceased to amaze me how otherwise civilized people could turn into savages given the right trigger. “All right Captain, I get the idea. Take us to ground zero”

As we made our way through the wreckage, I began to put The Force to work, looking insight to what I should be looking for. I needed every bit of help I could get, because working out what was going on and why was something I needed to do fast.

“Xazor, begin looking for anything that could help us” I ordered the Padawan, just as I stepped over something I prayed wasn’t what I thought it was. This was truly an evil act targeted against civilians. Any Warrior would be truly disgusted by such a barbaric act. “Lochabre…. Lochabre? Where in seven hells did that damn thing get to? Xazor, did you see where Lochabre went?”

I heard cries of alarm nearby… I turned my attention in that direction… then relaxed. I remembered Lochabre had no problems with killing if need be, but it believed innocent life was not to be denied. It was digging out survivors from rubble, using it’s huge strength to haul away masonry. The worked that were so startled and terrified by the huge beast began to realize it meant no harm… and in fact wanted to help.

“Frell, what IS that thing Commander?” asked Ascroft, amazed that the smallish cloaked figure who had been following myself and Xazor had morphed into the giat winged beast he now saw.

“It’s a Gargoyle Captain”

[Xazor Elessar]

Xazor was stunned at the sight before them. It truly was a war zone, and it brought an ache to Xazor's heart...one that she had not felt since the Great Defeat on Cysaria...when there was so much killing....

She sighed slightly and followed Helenias, continuing to listen as Captain Ascroft informed them about the whole incident. The scene was horrific as the injured....hardly recognizable as living creatures were pulled from the wreckage and hauled in front of them.

Xazor's attention was suddenly drawn to a scene of Lochabre pulling out victims from under the fallen pieces of building and other wreckage. She smiled inside of her helmet...it was a good feeling to see one of such statcher helping others. She looked to Helenias and spoke quietly, her voice was also mistaken for a man.

Who would want to do something like this besides a Sith? I mean...a bounty hunter wouldn't do this...a Dark Jedi probably wouldn't even do this. I just don't understand how someone could do something so horrible...

She sighed as they stepped over something. Xazor accidentally looked down to check her footing, but saw what they stepped over....a dead body. Xazor grimaced and Helenias could feel her shock through the Force. It was a terrible feeling she had in her stomach as they treked on through the rubble. She broke off from Helenias and began to search through the wreckage. She came across some kind of...package...located near a burning building. It had been blown out of the top and was wrapped with a timer. She grabbed it quickly and pulled excess wires out from under a block of cement. Holding it out in front of her, she ran to Helenias.

I think I found something. I recognize this from somewhere. We used these back on Cysaria when we fought against the Jedi there....they would take out a large amount of people and transports. Could there be more?

She questioned softly. She wore a look of shock and and seriousness as she questioned. Though her mentor could not see it, she knew that she could feel it through the Force. The concern that Xazor had ran through her veins...this was something bigger than what they had thought...

[Marcus Telcontar]

It didn’t take him long to reach the seedy hotel Arya had picked out. Marcus scanned it with some approval. Just his kind of place. You could keep a much lower profile and also you didn’t get the questions in a dump. A haven for those that didn’t want to be found.

Like him.

He ignored the desk clerk as he came in, took the stairs instead of the lift and came up to the floor Arya had stated she and Alaina were on. The corridor was dark and illkept, in some places there was rubbish on the floor. A single droid, corroded and not well maintained walked up the hallway, knocking on doors and trying to sell food. He smiled from under his hood as he walked passed the droid, pushing it aside to get past. This just wasn’t good – it was perfect. Now what number were they in again….? It didn’t take long to find the right number, to knock and to get answered. Alaina opened the door, he face falling when she realized this wasn’t the kind Master she knew – this was something else. He walked in almost without a word, threw his pack and his bow on the bed, before turning on his heel to exit again

“Stay here. I need to make a call”

His manner was burquise and short, more like the Tohmahawk he used to be. Even the body language had taken on the mannerisms of the arrogant bastard The General was. It really was too easy to slip into old habits, especially when there was a job to do. Out he went without further comment, even to one of the women asking when he would be back.

He this time decided to take the lift. It was at the end of the hall. A gloved hand touched the ‘down’ symbol and with a beep, the door opened some seconds later. The Jedi stepped inside, to find the lift already had an occupant. Ignoring the other totally, he pressed for the lobby’s level, then turned to put his back to the wall as the doors closed. The other occupant, a jumpy and nervous half-human, half god-only-knew regarded him.

“Hey, nice sword, you know I had a brother who deals in antiques – wanna sell?”

Oh s***, just his luck. He had picked a lift with a jizzed up trankhead, high on spice by the smell. “No” he snarled. The tripped out trank ignored the verbal warning, continued to talk at a million parsecs.

“No problem, I could sell ya something? Death Sticks? I got the best around, Spice, Glitstim, you name it…”

“You will shut up” said Marcus, waving a hand in the direction of the trank

“I will shut up” replied the trank, meekly

“You will get off drugs, get a hair cut and get a real job” added Marcus, with a small smile on his hidden face.

“I will get off drugs, get a haircut and a real job” intoned the trank. There was silence until the doors of the lift opened for the ground floor, Marcus allowing the obviously pondering trank to leave first.

“Hey man, do you know the address of a decent salon? I really need to get my locks clipped, you know what I mean?”

Marcus pointed at the reception desk. “Maybe they do. Have a good life citizen”

“Hey you too man!”

The Jedi smiled from under the hood again. Sometimes he wished solving the problems of others could always be as easy as a wave of the hand, but when it could be done… it was satisfying. Bringing himself back on track of why he was here, the Jedi looked for where there were public communications units. One was available, so he crossed to it, before realizing it was a pay unit. And he had no credits on him. A bit miffed, he looked about, before spotting a gambling table….and a credit coin on the floor, unnoticed. He clicked his fingers and a second later the coin thumped into his outstretched hand. With some amusement, he looked at the credit chit, noting it would even give him some change.

He went to the communications unit, noted the sub-human graffiti about wanting a good time call (You didn’t add about the disease you could also catch, muttered Marcus), before punching in a general code, used to get an operator.

“Hello. I need to get in contact with a New Republic team that is on the planet” he stated as the operator, a tentacled squid thing appeared on the view screen.

“Name?” it intoned

“Elieen Cross. My name is Elessar”

“One moment”

The pause symbol came on, Marcus leaning back and waiting patiently. Eventually the squid came back on-line. “Commander Cross has agreed to speaking to you. One moment again please – this will be aural only as she has no visual holo unit”

“That will be fine”

A few seconds of static, then the voice of Elieen filtered into the speakers. “Yes?”

[Good evening honoured Princess] said Marcus, switching to Quenya. Being a language no one knew of, it was the perfect encryption.

[Good evening to you too Elessar! I was wondering when you would contact me again]

[I was delayed, Princess by a comet mass shadow on the hyperspace route. Forgive me for being hasty, but can I still meet m’lady?]

There was silence on the other side for a few seconds. [Certainly. Where in particular?]

[I do not know the planet, Princess. I leave the meeting place to you]

Another pause. [There is a Gal’onlds near my present location. I will wait at it’s corner for you]. He cut the transmission, waited for a printed receipt for the credit transaction, then stood to go back to the room Arya had hired.

A Gal’onlds? The Galactic purveyor of junk food? How appropriate! Little did anyone know was that he was the secret owner of it and had been for years. The Golden G, famed through the galaxy. That reminded him, he hadn’t checked on it’s operations since the ambush…. But not now. For starters, there was something more important to do. There was a woman to meet – and for her sake, he hoped she was what she claimed to be.

His mood had somewhat improved however, hearing Elieen’s voice. Now he would find out whether she was Helenias. Mentally preoccupied, he falied to notice he was being watched…. And the figure fled up the stairs as he pressed the ‘call’ button on the lift.

[Arya Ravenwing]

Arya scowled at the man who sauntered into the room, and then left without so much as an answer to his padawan's question.

"Stay here. I need to make a call."

Ravenwing had set up her spy equipment for inside the hotel, monitoring all the systems. As the door slid -DO-NOT-SWEAR--DO-NOT-SWEAR--DO-NOT-SWEAR--DO-NOT-SWEAR- behind the disgruntled Q'Dunn, she plugged in one last cord, and the screen came to life. Arya heard Alaina close her door, probably to take a nap, and the smuggler flipped through the different security cameras, keeping an eye on Q'Dunn's progress. His demeanor had changed, as well as his clothing.

She lost him inside the 'lift for a moment, as he picked (by accident?) the only one with a broken security camera. But she knew he was heading for the lobby, and so she simply waited for him to show up on the ground floor.

Arya watched long enough to see what comm unit he entered, and quickly sliced into the systems, inserting a card Aaron had sliced for her years ago. It basically took apart the security to a transmission, made a copy of the voicestream, and then sent the transmission on its merry way again.

"Elieen Cross. My name is Elessar” Elessar? No matter. Slipping a datachit into a recorder, Arya started a burn of the conversation happening in Hunter's communications stall, and then she pulled her coat on.

She ran to the 'lift and rode it downstairs to the lobby. Once on the ground floor she got as close as she could, without risking detection, and overheard some sentances in a language she couldn't understand. One thing was blatantly obvious, the word "Gal'onlds." A meeting, perhaps with this female, Eileen?

Curiosity piqued, but aware of the chance of emminent discovery, Arya fled up the stairs as the unit's door opened.

She took them three at a time, praying that there would be a party of Umgullians on the second floor that all wanted to go down to the lobby. Anything, any distraction at all.

Arya dashed into the room seconds before the 'lift opened its doors, and vaulted into her seat, deftly undoing the slice into the communications and pocketing the chit. She'd look over that later. Taking a deep breath, she exhaled as the room doors slid open once more.

[Helenias Evenstar]

As I as discussing the Gargoyle with Ascroft, Xazor came running up to me, holding a piece of shrapnel.

“I think I found something. I recognize this from somewhere. We used these back on Cysaria when we fought against the Jedi there....they would take out a large amount of people and transports. Could there be more?” she stated. I took hold of the fragment, considering it.

“Possible. What is it, some sort of…. Oh I see. Timer, remains of a fuse. Detonator. Well…” I looked about at the destruction, thinking on the size and energy output of the device needed to do this. “Seems too small. Most likely this is the remains to a primary charge, used to set off a much larger secondary one. This seems more the work of a non-Force user in my opinion, this is not the way of a Sith or Dark Jedi. Maybe a sympathizer, although that makes no sense given the dislike of The Sith Empire here. I would also guess hired outsiders as well. Now…. Ah bloody hell, who’s calling me?” I finished off with a disgusted snap as I pulled out my portable comm.. unit. “Commander Cross. Who the hell is it?”

“Xa Fel Control M’dam Commander, apologies for interrupting you. There is being named Elessar making a priority diplomatic call to you. Do you want to take it?”

In all what I had to do here, I had forgotten about the stranger from the my birth planet! “Certainly, put him through Control”. I looked Xazor and shrugged. It didn’t take long for the patch to be made – in a few seconds, the comm. Unit beeped an all clear to transmit.

“Yes?”

[Good evening honoured Princess] said the voice I remembered from before we left Arcan IV. And still in flawless Quenya.

[Good evening to you too Elessar! I was wondering when you would contact me again] I replied

[I was delayed, Princess by a comet mass shadow on the hyperspace route. Forgive me for being hasty, but can I still meet m’lady?]

I thought this through for a few seconds. [Certainly. Where in particular?].

[I do not know the planet, Princess. I leave the meeting place to you]

Hmm. Now where was a good location, one easy to find. Now I thought about it, wasn’t there a…. [There is a Gal’onlds near my present location. I will wait at it’s corner for you].

I was expecting an acknowledgement, but instead, the line went dead. I had to admit, I was a touch offended by that – and it got me thinking.

“Helenias? Who was that?”

I turned to Xazor and I had an idea. This slight should be replayed. I doubted a native of Arda would want to hurt or be a problem, but they should be reminded of my status. Sending Xazor in my place would be an adequate snub and besides, this bombing needed my full attention. “Miss Dawnstrider, did you see where the Gal’onalds was on our way here?”

“Yes M’dam!”

“Good. Go there and meet the man who contacted me before we left Arcan. His name is Elessar. He is a native of home and will do you no harm. Bring him here. Understood?”

[Xazor Elessar]

Xazor was slightly confused by the conversation that had just transpired....but it was quickly made clear to her. She nodded and smiled under her helmet. This was a good mission for her and she would return shortly.

Yes Ma'am, I know where it is and I shall return with this man shortly. May the Force be with you.

She said before taking off through the rubble. It was difficult to get back to the street, but she did so. The padawan took off running toward the Gal'onalds, powering her speed with the Force. In a minute or so, she reached the complex and went inside.

A dirty man nearly took her head off as he passed through the door. She moved out of his way and opened the secondary door as she stepped inside. Some consumers gave her a curious look as she entered, and she recalled why. She removed her helmet, revealing a gentle set of eyes belonging to her.

Some looked shocked that she was a woman...or perhaps it was the mass arsenal that she carried along with her? A guard at the side door quickly approached and requested that she disarm herself. She held up an ID and spoke.

I am Private Dawnstrider, shadow to Elieen Cross of the NRSF.

She informed. The guard bowed his head and let her continue to walk toward the back of the Gal'onalds. She found an empty table and sat down on the rickety wooden chair. Now it was time to observe until the one she was expecting arrived.

A very fat man suddenly bumped into her, almost taking her off of her seat. She promptly rose to her feet and stood in a defensive stance...until she realized it was an accident. She could not be too careful though. Apologizing quietly, the young woman resumed her seat and blushed a deep crimson as people slowly began conversing and eating amongst themselves once again.

Quite near to where she was sitting was a man and woman who seemed to be arguing about something. Xazor was not one to eavesdrop, but it was very difficult not to as their voices seemed to get louder and louder.

I don't know what you expect from me, Terhan! I am your wife and you spend no time with me!

The woman shrieked at the man. He rolled his eyes at sat back with a careless attitude.

It is most difficult when I have eight other wives, Orphilia. I can only spend a few hours with each of you daily!

The man's voice bellowed. Some other patrons soon were staring at the on going argument.

Maybe you should have only married me then, Terhan! I'm leaving you!

The woman rose from her seat and straightened her poofy skirt. She then looked to the table across from her where six men were sitting together.

Let's go....

She said to them, much to the surprise of Xazor and those that were gathered in the Gal'onalds. The padawan had never seen anything quite like it, and had to hold back a laugh. It was useless, and she laughed along with about fourty other people. The flurstered man rose from his seat and stomped out of the Gal'onalds, after the woman and six men did.

The young padawan shook her head and leaned back in her seat, resting her helmet in her lap as she thought about the man whom was supposed to meet her here. He was actually looking for Helenias, but Xazor would do her part and take him to her after she met him.

I wonder where he could be....

She thought to herself as she checked the crono on the wall. She had been there for nearly ten minutes and she began wondering if he was really coming at all.

[Taylor Millard]

OOC- Just gotta get Millard from Space to the planet to the speeder bombing and beyond. IC:/

The two X-wings came out of hyperspace, about 30 minutes after the New Republic began sending their troops down to the surface.

"What the frell...Thomas, looks like we've just stumbled on a New Republic invasion!" Millard yelled, as the two X-Wings circled around a Mon Calamari Cruiser. Although the normal jamming worked in ship-to-ship communications, the Imperial Grand Admiral ordered his R2 unit to run static as well.

"Any ideas?" Thomas replied over the radio. One of the two would have to head back to Imperial space, getting a portion of the Imperial fleet at Balmorra to return and prevent the invasion.

Taylor concentrating, just barely sensing the Force signatures on the surface. The signatures were indeed powerful, and one was almost even familiar.

The Dark Jedi chewed on his inner lip, pondering his actions. He had two choices, let Xa Fel- a former TSE world fall into the hands of the Rebels...or go to the surface and fight whatever forces were there in an attempt to stop their progress, until someone could signal an Imperial fleet.

"Okay Thomas, here's what we're going to do."

Four Hours Later

Millard was on the surface, ducking into a building as New Republic troops streamed outside, looking for anything and everything. Millard was no fan of The Sith Empire, but the planets were better off under Imperial rule than being able to make decisions for themselves. The Galactic Empire was the best choice for the former planets, a choice Millard adhered to and served with his life.

It was then he found a group of men, with heavy Imperial Repeaters, holed up in a building just outside of the main city.

Sith Empire must have left a few stragglers behind when they evacuated out, Millard thought as he swept their minds, This could be used for my advantage.

Concentrating, he searched their minds for any commanders...then found one...a Commander Chianti from Ryloth. After gathering the Commander's information from the memories of one of the men hiding, Millard stepped forward.

"Captain Hartov!" he spoke brusqly, imitating that of the commander.

"Commander Chianti!" Hartov gasped as he stared at Millard, "I thought you left when TSE took off!"

"You thought wrong, Captain. Report."

"THe New Republic has begun shuttling troops to the surface. We have about 50 holed up outside the city, and 75 more at another base. I hope you have a squad a troopers with you."

"Negative Captain. Okay here's what we do. Take a team of troopers and begin disabling all transportation. Do not get into a major firefight with anyone...be sneaky and cautious. Is that understood Captain?"

Hartov nodded, "Biggs, Drake...assemble a team. We'll have that taken care of in no time."

The Imperial Grand Admiral, clothed still in a Rebel Flight Jumpsuit, tightly smiled...then removed the jumpsuit, revealing a black one beneath it. He threw the jumpsuit to ground, then stuffed it into a closet. To his delight, he found what appeared to be some clothes from the locals,

Time for a bit of sneaking around he thought as he hid his lightsaber.

"One other thing Hartov. Provide me a distraction. I'm going to go scout around a bit. Preferably something quite large...and with someone whose expendable."

These were soldiers, after all, he mused. They are doing their jobs.

Hartov nodded, then slipped away silently. Millard, now clothed in a bit of the local dress, walked out into the street viewing the scene before him. Indeed, New Republic troops were landing on the planet and it appeared, the locals were welcoming them as well.

The Dark Jedi shook his head, then began walking towards the nearest eating establishment...a place called 'Gal'onalds'. He'd removed his 'Commander Chianti' disguise, going with a more tradtional look of the locals of the planet.

It was then he heard the reving of a speeder, and had to leap out of the way, as one shot past him. It headed towards the Galactic Credit Exchange, avoiding the blasts of New Republic soldiers as they attempted to fire upon the speeder. The speeder collided with the building, then exploded sending people flying everywhere.

One woman, barely alive, landed at his feet...her green eyes staring up towards him...pleading for help. He paused, then cursed Hartov.

He may have provided a distraction, but killing civilians... Millard cursed him again, then motioned for the nearest NRSF commando.

"Take care of this woman," he ordered, "And forget I was ever here."

Three Days Later

Millard was running down an alley, keeping his senses alert as he Force-Leaped onto the roof of a building. His sources on the planet had confirmed the leader of Xa Fel was living in this residence and was going to proceed with negotiations to cede Xa Fel to the New Republic. With the Imperial fleet still a day or so out, Millard knew he had to act quickly, if he were to delay the negotiations.

He'd sent Hartov to do another attack on a target, military this time...the communications base of the New Republic. He had a feeling the terrorist would use the same methods he had last time, the speeder laced with explosives, but this time on a grander scale. Were the New Republic to kill the bomber before it reached its target, the bomb would explode anyway, killing those around him.

But Millard, as Chianti, had also cautioned Hartov against civilians deaths. Ever since the Dark Jedi had killed the leading Senate member on Balmorra, civilian deaths had always rankled him the wrong way. If they were soldiers, they were doing their jobs...civialians...bah. Millard pressed the thoughts away as he slipped into the house where the leader lived.

A squad of NRSF soldiers guarded the leader, as Taylor gazed off the roof. He found the nearest open window, then slipped in.

"Honey is that you?" a woman slowly raised herself from where she was sleeping as Millard rolled into the room. A wave of his hand, and she was silent.

The Sith Knight exitted the room, then saw three troopers guarding a door down the hall. He turned on Force Speed, then attacked, killing each quickly and silently, easing their bodies to the floor. After placing them into the room where the woman slept, Millard walked into the room where the leader was.

"Who're you? What do you want?"

Millard silenced him by holding up a fist and closing his windpipe, "You and I have much to discuss."

His cold, blue eyes flashed, "You may find...Imperial rule more liking to your tastes."

Thirty Minutes Later

Helenius' comm sounded as she got another call. It was the leader of Xa Fel.

"Commander Cross, this is Zev Kalent, Chancellor of Xa Fel. We wish to inform you that we will not be needing your assistance any further. If you would please gather your troops and leave our space immediatly we will not bother you further."

Millard smiled as he heard the leader speak. Hartov would be attacking the base within the next fifteen minutes, enough time for the Dark Jedi to escape to another house.

Taylor entered Kalent's mind again, slowly removing the memories of his visit. If anything, Kalent would remember nothing, only that after considering the plight of his people, the..."freedom" given to him by the New Republic would not benefit Xa Fel at all. Only a rule where there was one leader, running the entire Empire would flash through his mind. As he completed his work, Millard smiled again, then quickly exitted the house as he came in...

[Avolon Bisel]

The comm from Helenias came through to Avolon, informing him of Kalent's request. Avolon quickly shut off the comm, cutting her off mid speech.

"Sophia, you are hereby ordered to get the hell away from that package."

She turned to him, opening her mouth to question his order. Avolon grabbed her and pulled her near.

"No time to explain, sweetheart. This place is getting fishy and I'm not hungry. I'm getting to the bottom of this and that package isn't helping matters. Now LEAVE IT!"

Avolon unzipped his bag completely, revealing the rifle. Before long he had his custom holster strapped on.

"Hey, rusty, anyone come near this package, you let out one of you're loudest shrills. Got it?"

Kalvin nodded. "Absolutely."

"Alright, come on!"

Avolon started darting for the location of Kalent.

[Sophia Harten]

She opened her mouth, but the man hadn't even given her a chance to take in a breath. Then she was being practially dragged away from the package, having just enough time to pocket her commlink and pull out her blaster, with enough air in her lungs to give a retort.

I am not your sweetheart!

This caused Avalon's lips to spread into a cocky grin, which made her skin turn two more shades of red.

But then there was no more time for talk, as both sprinted down towards the location where they would find Kalent. Though running didn't hinder her thought process, and she began to wonder what was held in store for them.

[Taylor Millard]

Millard was on the roof, leaping from roof to roof as quickly as possible. He was almost certain Hartov would be attack the NRSF base in no time.

But without wasting time, Millard slipped into another house, silencing both of the residents by putting them to sleep.

NRSF Base

Hartov didn't trust anyone with this mission. It was his and his alone. He piloted the speeder past the guard, using an ID he'd pilfered from one of the dead New Republic Officers he'd killed in the earlier bombing.

As he pulled into the base, he thanked the Sith Empire for providing him a chance to destroy the New Republic. Reving the speeder he charged for the main base...

Ten Seconds later, and explosion rocked the base.

Millard exitted to the streets of Xa Fel, then disappeared, masking his thoughts, and blending in with the crowd as it rushed towards the smoke and fire.

[Marcus Telcontar]

Marcus opened the door of the room to see Arya relaxed in a chair by the window. As he did, he de-Shadowed, taking off the cloak he used to help effect the power.

“I’m going to be gone for about an hour. If I don’t contact you, your hit is a woman named Elieen Cross, a NRSF Commander. Further information on her and an id holo are on this datachip” he said, handing over the small card. “Normal payment terms. Might be an idea to study it anyway, as she could still be a…. hmmm, sounds like local trouble” he finished as an explosion sounded dully out. He turned, grabbed his pack sling, put it over his shoulder. He also slung on his quiver and his bow – with the sword now conspicuous by his side, he now looked like a homeless bum with a strange taste in weapons. Long unkempt hair and a few weeks worth of facial stubble completed the look – he looked as far removed from a Jedi as he could possibly be.

Now where was Alaina…? He stretched out with his feelings and located her, seemingly lying down in the next room. He raised his voice so she would hear as well – “Alaina, stay here until I come back. I won’t be long. You stay here too, Arya”. And without waiting for reply, he was out the door.

In the 10 or so minutes it took him to get to the Gal’onalds, he did get some curious looks that made him wish he had remained Shadowed. Also, he was getting the feeling he was being followed. He threw a look over his shoulder every now and then, but the tag was pretty good, always remaining out of sight. With the sounds of a disturbance in the air, he could feel within the Force something was wrong.

The Jedi was starting to think something was wrong here. Very wrong. What exactly it was, he didn’t know. But he was getting the same feeling that he had on Arcan before the place had gone to hell on his first visit there a year ago. There was a feeling of unease, a feeling of energy that was struggling to get out. Last time, he had been Tohmahawk and had a armada and an army to back him. Now… it was just himself. His hand touched the hilt of the sword, his mind’s concerns eased a bit by the familiar sensation of the metal hilt.

The Gal’onalds he was aiming for was on the ground floor of a fairly tall building. It took most of the ground area, had a few openings and also was ringd with large clear windows. Inside, it was crowded, but the plethora of windows gave him a good opportunity to see who was inside. His unease grew as even with a few minutes observation and changing locations, he could not see Cross inside. However he did see the upper torso of a pretty young blonde – her beauty didn’t draw his eye. It was the fact she was dressed in a very impressive set of armour. And visibly heavily armed.

Now I really have a bad feeling about this…..

Already jumpy and keyed up, Marcus leaned against a wall out of sight from the armed figure, thinking.

“Looks like my suspicions were right” he muttered, hand coming to the handle of a large dagger that was at his belt. The Jedi turned around the corner, peeked inside the restaurant, contemplating his course of action.

--

Inside the room, the noise was not too bad, but conversation did have to be raised. A couple and their child moved to exit at a door behind the young woman, bumping into an unshaved and decrepit looking human, who quite rudely pushed past. The male of the family started to object, but was silenced and thought better of saying anything with the killing look the unshaven human gave him. It was a clear indication that protest would be met with violence, especially with the weapon the human had in his hand. The family stepped out of the way as the human stalked in. There were a few heads that looked up as he walked by. One step, two, three…. He moved in silence until he stopped behind the armed figure. Silence had descended on the eatery, which the armoured figure noticed. She seemed to look about in curiosity, until she could see the wide and terrified eyes of a child, staring at something behind her. She turned…. And an arrow tip was thrust forward, stopping near her eyes. The arrow was strung in a bow that was drawn back, ready to fire. The weapon was held by the scruffy human, who now however was looking more like Death itself. He remained silent for a few more seconds, before an angry sounding rasp of a voice, oddly accented, low in volume but deep in power spoke.

“Who the hell are you? “

[Xazor Elessar]

Xazor quickly drew her lightsaber and ignited it, standing from her seat and facing the man whom had an arrow pointing right at her head. Helenias had said that whom she was supposed to meet wouldn't harm her.....it sure did not appear that way. She cautiously looked at him for a moment before saying anything, and when she did speak, she showed her elongated canines...she was nothing to mess with.

I am Xazor Dawnstrider....padawan to Verse Dawnstrider, private of the NRSF and shadow to Elieen Cross. I should be asking the questions here...who the hell are you?

She said back, standing in defense if he was to do anything. Something was odd about this man, though. He had a powerful aura about him...something of which she only felt when she was near those such as Jedi Master Sage Hazzard and Master Yoghurt. It was odd and she couldn't quite put her finger on it...but she felt as though she could trust him. Disengaging her saber, she clipped it to her belt. She stood more at attention and her weapons clanged together, as she was armed with so many. The whole room was silent as the many eyes watched in slight horror and shock, the scene unfold before them.

I apologize sir...but holding an arrow to my face does not bring for warm greetings.

She said, slightly moving his arrow aside to feel more at ease. He was not so easy to move it, so she let him remain. This would prove to be quite interesting indeed....

[Helenias Evenstar]

It was about twenty minutes later, still at the site of the blast when I got a call. I answered and was quite surprised to hear who it was – and even more to the point, who it was.

“Cross. Who is this?”

"Commander Cross, this is Zev Kalent, Chancellor of Xa Fel. We wish to inform you that we will not be needing your assistance any further. If you would please gather your troops and leave our space immediatly we will not bother you further."

Before I could reply the call was cut. Captain Ascroft was looking at me, obviously wondering who I was speaking to. The call had been on the secure comm. inbuilt into my helmet. I was caught flat footed. This was so sudden.. “Ascroft, I just got told my your Chancellor to leave. Would you mind explaining why that would be?”

Ascroft was stopped in his tracks. “Excuse me Commander? That can’t be right. Your Ambassador was invited by the Senate here and… what is it?” For I had held up my hand to stop him speaking.

“Captain, why was I told directly and not by the Ambassador?”

“Err…”

I began to think this one out, because in the back of my mind, something felt wrong. Why was the Chancellor telling me to withdraw and not the Ambassador…? I made a call.

“Ambasssador Depetch” came the response. “This betther be good Commander..”

“With all due respect… STFU. Are you aware I have been ordered to withdraw by the Chancellor herself?”

There was a splutter on the other side and I could hear dimly hasty conversation. Depetch returned her attention to me after about a minute. “No Commander, you have to be mistaken. The representatives of Xa Fel know of no order to withdraw”

“I am not mistaken Ambassador, that is what I was told. Now you find out what the frell is going on” I clicked off, before turning to a bewildered Ascroft. “Captain. I would speak with your Armed Forces Commander”

HE had a look of doubt on his face. “Well….”

“Captain, I have been told to leave by your Chancellor. My Ambassador knows nothing of this, nor do your delegation. So unless you can tell me what the frell is going on, get me your Supreme Commander and now!”

Ascroft still looked doubtful “Well Commander, he is on holidays and…”

That was it. I had a great deal of patience, but this was getting too much to bear. Hardly giving myself time to upclip the helmet, I threw it down to the ground, before grabbing the man by the shirt and dragging his face to mine. “Listen. I don’t have time for games. Now I can read your mind and it says Holy Frell, I’m a woman? Yes I am. And right now Captain, this woman is seriously contemplating putting aside her Jedi vows and rip your throat out. Now get me your Supreme Commander…. NOW!”

The fat man’s jowls worked as he tried to work his mouth to speak, eventually coming out with… “You’re a Jedi?”

“Yes I am. Ascroft. Your Commander. Now”

I didn’t have to use a mind trick. He ran so fast, he almost levitated. I shook my head in frustration, before picking up the helmet. As I did, an explosion boomed out. I looked up in the general direction of the noise, wondering what it was. I put on my helmet, reconnected it’s power and tuned into a emergency channel.

Explosion at NR base… repeat explosion at NR base….

I felt my blood go cold. I switched to the secure NRSF frequency, to find it alive with chatter, noise, and yells. I took me a few minutes to work any sense, but when I did, I felt an icy chill deepen in me. Our base had been hit. I used Command override to silence the inane chatter and to directly speak outwards to all units.

“Commander Cross on line. You are now authorized to defend yourselves with all force necessary. We have been attacked. I repeat, we have been attacked. Form unit pattern Alpha and unlock. Cross Out”


The NRSF soldiers would be right now scattering and reforming’ Some around the Ambassador, others going to ground. And Blomquist would become a focal point. For me, I would just have Lochabre. That stone demonic being would be all the backup I needed. Now where the frell was that damn fat Captain and his Commander…?

It didn’t take long for Ascroft to find me and with him was a tall and silver haired man. He was almost regal, had a look of strength about him.

“Commander Cross? Captain Ascroft informs me that you wanted to meet me” I nodded, placing my hand out. He accepted it, shaking. His grip was quite powerful, I had to silently admit. However, mine was near murderous in strength. Must have been the displeasure I was feeling at these unexpected events.

“This way please Commanders, there’s a mobile command base you can meet in” said Ascroft. I nodded, followed him to a small room on a building that was undamaged. Inside, he ordered others out, before Ascroft also left, closing the door behind himself, leaving the room empty except for myself and the Xa Fel Supreme Commander. We stared at each other, until he spoke first.

“So… my Intelligence was correct. You are this Lord Fire Blade I have heard of. The last I had heard however, you were fighting the Republic, not aiding them my Lord… and neither was Fire Blade rumoured to be female” he added as I took my helmet off again.

“Correct. General Tobis Reaak, I presume?”

“Indeed. I must say Commander, you are full of surprises so far” he said wringing his hand. “Is Captain Ascroft correct? You are a Jedi too?”

“I am – a Jedi Knight, General”

“I would not have thought a Jedi would be an active part of the military” Reeak noted. “Is that not what the Jedi stand for?”

“Some Jedi see things differently, General”

“Hmm, most surprising. As are you so far I might add”

“This trip has become full of surprises I don’t like” I replied. “Now would you mind explaining this ordered pull out?”

General Reeak sighed. “Commander, we don’t know. I spoke to the Chancellor herself and she confirmed the order. She also added that we would be better off with an Imperial alliance, which I do not understand. It was decided in Council that we would go with the Republic. This change of heart by The Chancellor is most puzzling”

“Anyone else of the Government also had a change of heart?” I asked.

“Not that I have been able to contact. I would add my condolences and apologies for the cowardly attack on the Republic base as well. I hope it was not a citizen of Xa Fel who carried out this barbaric attack”

“So do I General”. Reeak’s information, basic as it was, was making me think. It was becoming evident that the order to withdraw was a lone act and not of the full wishes of the Government. Something was wrong here. Something was very wrong.

[Arya Ravenwing]

Arya leapt into action as soon as Marcus left the room, strapping her shoulder holster on and throwing her long black coat as she pressed the little datachip into the holoviewer. A fairly attractive woman's face appeared, shortish dark hair and blue eyes.

Her eyes narrowed, seeing a familiarity in the woman's features, at least, in her coloring. Old girlfriend, maybe? Although why the Jedi would want her to kill an old girlfriend was a little beyond her. However, Arya herself had blue eyes and black hair, and the similarity of this woman caused the wheels in her head to start turning.

Marcus had kissed her on Trogan, but she had always had the feeling he was thinking of someone else. There was a sorrow deep within him, which had been explained in Whitetown as emanating from the death of his wife. This Eileen, however...

Arya switched off the viewer, pocketing the chip again.

She strode out of the suite without another word to the bunny in the other room. Arya slipped into the 'lift, just as the doors were closing, and was glad there was only one other occupant, a thick bodied, many eyed and tentacled Sljee. It said nothing, probably overwhelmed by her human odor, and trying to place her species.

The Sljee got off on the second floor, while Arya continued on to the lobby. Exiting the 'lift, she walked quickly out of the lobby, and caught a glimpse of Hunter turning a corner. He was walking, not taking a cab, so that made it easier to trail him.

Ten minutes later, a large explosion rocked the area, and a plume of smoke trailed up against the blue sky. Arya could hear screaming, although faint, and people in the street looked towards the sky, and

After about three more minutes, they reached a Gal'onlds, and he turned, looking behind again as he had many times during the walk. Arya turned to a store front, peering inside at the holoviewers that showed a building on fire. There were troopers running around in NRSF uniforms, and emergency crews pulling charred bodies out of the wreckage. Her body was masked from view by an overweight Rodian who was muttering curses at the window beside her. Two seconds later she was nonchalantly walking to the Gal'onlds, but stopped just short of actually walking in, or even walking by the windows.

Slipping around the side, she found a kitchen helper taking out the garbage. Arya walked in the open back door, her hard eyes daring anyone to say anything. No one did, but the Lorrdian flipping burgers mimicked her expression, before turning back to his job. Arya stood silently behind the deep fryer, watching through closed eyes the altercation between Marcus and a woman in gaudy armour. She was in no danger of being discovered, as there were many people still about.

Their words were clearly spoken, and easy to hear in the shocked stillness of the room. Watching them in her mind's eye, Arya was not shocked that Marcus would threaten this one's life, but rather shocked that he would do so in front of so many people. It showed a desperation in his character, a willingness to risk it all for... ...for what?

There was still a piece missing here. And then there was the strange conversation she had in her pocket, on a second datachip. Next plan of action, if nothing more happened here, would be to get that translated.

The Jedi Master was up to something, and she had a feeling that it wasn't good. All this open hostility sounded Dark side to her, not that she cared a whit about it.

[Marcus Telcontar]

His eyesight was lined down the shaft of the arrow, aimed directly between the eyes of the woman, who had a fair degree of bravado he had to admit. Still…

“Really. Well your presence brings no pleasant feelings to me either”

His aim twitched slightly and suddenly he fired. The bow twanged, the arrow shot out, brushing Xazor’s ear as it sped by, to bury itself into the throat of a human male whom fell to the ground, dropping a hold out blaster as he did. A few screams broke out as Marcus went around a table, pushed past the wide eyed Dawnstrider, bent down and picked up the blaster. He stood, regarded the man now drowning in his own blood, before aiming with the blaster and firing three times, point blank into the man’s face. It was all done so casually, it was all the more frightening. Even more so when he dropped the blaster, reached down and pulled the arrow out of the dead man’s throat.

For some reason, the restaurant was clearing of beings in an indecent hurry. Dawnstrider was even more wide eyed as Marcus cleaned the arrow tip.

“No sense in wasting a good arrow on scum like that” he remarked coldly. “Seems he wanted to shoot you in the back. Now as for you..” he suddenly grabbed Dawnstrider’s arm and if it was possible to frog march someone by one person, he did it. She was dragged out side, before being thrown against a wall. Almost in the same moment, one of his hands gripped her throat, lifting her off the ground – Marcus was a good deal stronger than he looked.

“… I ask the questions around here. Just because I shot an Imperial off your back doesn’t mean I won’t break your neck now. Elessar might leave you unharmed, but I am not Elessar. Where is Elieen? Answer!”

[Xazor Elessar]

Xazor was completely shocked by the man's actions. Fear shook her body as he held up above the ground. His grip seemed to tighten around her throat as the seconds passed. It was getting harder for her to breath, and she gulped to try to clear her throat enough to speak.

Sir.....please....don't hurt...me. I am but a Jedi Padawan...you have much more power...and strentgh than I... Elieen couldn't..

She paused, suddenly recalling what he had said. I am not Elessar. She stopped in her thoughts as she tried to gather something intelligent to say.

You're not Elessar? Than who ar...

She then remembered not to question this man, or he might do something to her. With a sigh, she spoke in response to his question.

Hele...ah...Elieen couldn't make it. She had to tend to the problems in the center of the city where the massive war zone is. She wished she could have made it...but this was such an urgent emergency. They needed her there, so she sent me to bring you to her...

She said through choked breath. She did not sound so convincing, and had almost spoken her true identity. Xazor shook as the man continued to glare at her.

Pl..please...if you're not Elessar...then, who are you..if you don't mine...m..me asking?

She dared to question, hoping he would not harm her any further. She winced and looked away as if expecting him to take a weapon to her and end her short life there and then.

[Arya Ravenwing]

Arya's eyes opened as her sight faded, and she shoved her way out of the back room, exiting through the back door. She had caught the last segments of their conversation, but didn't dare get close enough to actually overhear.

Unless...

She shook her head. It was too dangerous to attempt a shift in public, even in a back alley. Besides, Hunter would probably still be able to sense her, even if he didn't recognize her. Arya was skirting the building, getting ready to join the main street again, but something hit her, and threw her against the permabrick wall.

Her hand dipped into her jacket, her blaster in hand almost before she had time to think it, but just as she turned her head to locate her attacker and bring the weapon to bear, it was kicked out of her hand. "Frell!" Her hand stung, and Arya ducked under a wild swing.

A fist impacted the wall, followed by a curse. She got a good look at the being, a large human, or at least human looking, male in some sort of uniform. He appeared to be part of the left over TSE force -

Belatedly, his buddies also appeared to be ragtag members of some forgotten unit. Arya felt her arms grabbed fom behind, and the large man growled. Literally. He was rubbing his injured hand, and she kicked her legs out wildly as the two men holding her dragged her forward.

The uniformed man balled up his left fist, and smashed it into her jaw, almost knocking her unconscious. Arya clung to the daylight, cursing herself for getting caught off guard. She shook her head, banishing the clouds in her mind, and bracing herself for another blow.

None came. Expecting ...well not quite sure what to expect, Arya glared at the man across from her. He came nearer, and she lunged at him, trying to catch the men holding her off guard. They kept her tightly gripped, fingers bruising her upper arms as she struggled. Arya kicked the man in the stomach, but he grabbed her leg, pulling her off her feet.

She bucked as he pulled her coat away from her thigh, exposing the menacing gun at her hip. He tsked and pulled the rail gun from its holster. "This is a NRSF issue weapon."

Arya spat on the ground at his feet. "What of it? I stole it."

"Stole it?" He laughed, but without mirth. "I find that hard to believe. However, you are in the NRSF. We tailed that woman from thir HQ, and here you are as well. Convienent placing, don't you think?" He studied the railgun, pointing it almost casually in her direction.

Arya flinched in spite of herself, but was gratified when one of the silent partners spoke up. "Hey, Bear, point that frelling thing someplace else why don't you?!"

Bear cursed, "I'll point it wherever I damn well please!" He focused on Arya.

"Convenient? More like a coincidence. Damn New Republic taking over everything, like they own the place already or something." She leveled firey hot eyes on the larger man, "Give me my gun back, or I'll have to steal it again."

He laughed, "I don't think so. And don't think that your 'stealing' story holds any liquid. It doesn't. NRSF forces would take a little girl like you apart and eat your guts for breakfast."

The men holding her were doing a good job...however, the one on the right had relaxed his hold as little when she stopped fighting to get loose. First mistake. Arya yanked her arm foreward, breaking his grasp, and then brought her elbow back, smashing him in the face. He dropped back, clutching his face in agony.

The goon on the left was quick, but not quite quick enough. He hooked his foot around her ankle to pull her to the ground, but she pivoted on the foot, arm still grasped by him, as he made his move. Arya swept his left leg out from under him, and they both went down to the ground. Bear seemed to be debating shooting her and risking bringing the whole NRSF on his ears, or waiting to see how far she got with goon number two.

From the ground she saw her blaster, but didn't have enough time to grab it. Acting on reflexes and honed instincts, she flipped up to her feet, blocking a punch with her forearm. Arya grabbed the next fist that came her way, forcing it downwards, and popped something in the goon's elbow. He yelped in pain, and then she placed a right hook on his jaw, silencing him for the time being.

The first goon had disappeared, apparenly having bitten off more than he could chew. Arya scooped up her blaster, and pointed it at Bear, just as he brought the railgun to bear on her. She shook her head. "You wouldn't fire that. You'd bring half a garrison on your head with the report of that gun. Not to mention the mess. Sort of hard to hide a body when its spread out over a wall."

He sneered at her, but didn't pull the trigger. "You haven't convinced me you aren't a part of the NRSF."

She laughed sarcastically, "I lied. I am in the NRSF. Why else would I have a railgun?"

Bear frowned, "So you do admit it."

"Of course not. You are a stupid prick, aren't you. I stole the gun from a NRSF officer. Earlier today, during the confusion at the Galactic Credit Exchange."

He processsed that, but was just a little bit too slow. Without hardly seeing how she did it, he found that his hand hurt and now Arya had both weapons. Bear glared at her, but she smirked. "I do have a favor to ask you, however."

"What's that?" He grunted, wondering if he had enough time to grab his own blaster before she painted the wall with his guts.

"I need a translator droid. A. S. A. P."

[Marcus Telcontar]

Still with the woman hoisted in the air, hand around her throat, his unsettlingly intense stare bored into her terrified one, seeming to see right through her. Just as she was about to pass out from the grip around her throat, Marcus let go, dropping the now gasping woman onto her backside.

“An interesting story you tell, Xazor Leo Dawnstrider. As much as it annoys me, I see in your mind you tell the truth” He stooped to pick up the helmet she had dropped, was about to hand it over again with ill grace, when he seemed to pause. And then give the piece of armour in his hands a good look. He turned it over and looked up at the woman, who was now getting up while rubbing her neck, where there was an appreciable red mark there.

I’ve seen this before, he thought. Now where was it…?


A hand opened a cupboard door, revealing a grey suit of mithril plated armour. The house crest was emblazoned on the chest, a symbol of a lone star, which he remembered as Umari.

“This is my link to my home” a female voice said. He had turned, to see his wife of but a week, Helenias smiling as she showed him the beautiful set of armour. He reached out to touch it, feelings it’s surprising warmth and yet steely coldness, caressing a contour and marvelling at the craft that had been used to produce such a work of art.

“It seems such a waste to use such armour on the battlefield. Blood on it would be an unbearable slur on the craftsman. Surely this is ceremonial only?”

“No, it’s not. The First Born believe in Art, Marcus. The finer a work of our hands is, the more we will use it and the greater it is in Art”

“Art?”

“Yes. Magic is practiced for power – it is not natural, Art is for preservation and unselfish, for healing and long life and is natural. The First Born are great in Art and while there were other that practiced Magic for their own ends, it is Art that is truly great. It uses patience, perseverance and perfection. This was made thousands of years ago, when the smiths of Feanor were at the height of their Art. Some would say they were too close to Magic” Helenias added with a soft regretful tone.

“There is so much to learn of home, Helenias. How will I ever learn it all?” he asked.

“For the Second Born like you, that would be a study of many lives, even as long lived as you are. And for one like you whom has not known of the wonders of Arda, that would be impossible. But have you not desired to see the sands of your home again Marcus? I have been there many time. It is a terrible place, fiercely hot and heavy with gravity and not to the liking of the First Born…”

“Yes I have much desired to see it again. Even seeing this armour makes the desire grow fiercer in my heart. All my life I had wondered why I was different to humans, why I could stand in gravity that would break others, where my strength came from. Now I know much and for that I am grateful Princess”

She had blushed. “Stop teasing me!”

“But you are”

“I might be Marcus, but when I am with you, I am your wife.”

The thoughts flashed through his head in a blink, as he examined the helmet, feeling the strange warmth of the metal once again. On the front, the crest of her family was gone, replaced with the winged cigarette skull of the NRSF, but the crest was still emblazoned on the chest plate. The gold piping was unchanged too…

“Where did you get this?” he asked, this voice still raspy and oddly accented, but a good deal kinder and softer. “This is the helmet of a Warrior Princess of my home system. I have not seen anything like this for 10 years. How did you come to possess it?”

[Xazor Elessar]

Xazor rose to her feet. Her knees felt week and her neck burned from the grip he had just been holding her in. If he would have not let go, surely he would have broken her neck. She dried the fallen tears from her eyes and looked away from him as he examined her helmet. She hoped he would not find her at fault for something she had not done. He then spoke and she turned with a surpised expression on her face. A warrior princess possessed them? She thought to herself. Then it hit her like a ton of bricks. Helenias.... She thought to herself once again. Could it possibly be? It would have had to have been. Now she was stuck for an answer to his question. She knew that he would either go to kill Elieen, whom was really Helenias, if he thought that she had stolen them...or perhaps kill Xazor if he thought that she had stolen them. She sighed slightly and spoke despite her fears.

"I recieved them as a gift from Elieen Cross....my mentor. The one who wishes to meet you, but is unable at this moment due to the emergency at hand. She gave them to me......"

She said, hoping he would believe her. What she spoke was the absolute truth....

[Marcus Telcontar]

"She .... gave you this??? That is hard to believe if you know of it's value.... "

He tossed the helmet back at the young woman, who caught it deftly - and somewhat surprised.

"She must think highly of you to give you such a treasure. And if I am not mistaken, the giver was not Elieen Cross. Cross is a vagabond, a wanderer who hates the Jedi with a passion. Tell me, does the names Q'Dunn mean anything for you?"

[Xazor Elessar]

Xazor caught the helmet in her hands and held it at her side. She then broke into a slight sweat as he asked the question that would tell it all. She looked around, searching in her mind for words but could not find any. Her mouth felt dry and she looked straight into his eyes. She could not lie, it was too hard for her to do...besides, she was terrible at it.

"Q'Dunn.......I know.....I know that she really isn't Elieen..."

She said faintly. Gaining more courage in herself, she spoke with more confidence.

"I know the value of this armour...I know the whole story! Her name is Helenias Q'Dunn....she is the warrior princess...her husband is dead. She misses him terribly and the information that you gave her could have only been given by him. She didn't know what to make of the whole ordeal.....but that is only partly why she isn't here this moment. Honestly, though, she is helping out with the emergency situation. Please...you must believe me...."

She pleaded with her eyes. This information was so difficult to give out....

[Arya Ravenwing]

A block away from Gal'onlds, Arya and Bear were pressed into a crowd of people, all straining to hear the latest on the most recent explosions. It appeared that Xa Fel nationalists had planted a bomb at the NRSF headquarters. Bear pointed down an alleyway, and she nodded, but made him take lead down the detour.

It was not, in fact, a detour. Bear knocked at a door, and they were admitted into a darkened mech shop, filled with sparks as an unidentified being working on the casing of a droid. Bear motioned to a corner, and she tightened her grip on her blaster, following him further inside. It was loud in here, almost too loud to carry on a conversation.

Her muscular companion leaned down to shout in her ear, "There is a droid here who could fit the bill. Old, but its the only one within miles that isn't registered to the government. So, i fyou want secrecy, here is where it is."

Arya nodded tersely and approached the droid. It was slumped in a corner, a C3 model protocol droid, badly in need of a lube job. As she got closer she could see that its optical receptors were dimly glowing, and she hesitated. "Can you translate something for me if I play a recording for you?" Turning back to Bear, she glared, "Get over there where I can see you," and kept the blaster pointed in his general direction.

"Oh my! Blasters, here?" The droid creaked as it raised its once golden arms in protest, but then settled down as Arya glared at it again. Its masculine voice was prissy, but the vocorder was in working order. It tilted its head a little, appearing to focus in on her. "I am C3-PO, human cyborg relations. I am fluent in over three million languages -"

"I get the picture." Arya held up a little audio player. "I just need you to tell me what you think about this."

The droid enveloped the 'player in its jointed hand, holding the player to its audio receptor on the side of its head. The welding suddenly stopped, and they all heard the end of the recording, the language strange to their ears.

The C3 unit pondered for a minute, handing the 'player back to Arya. "I am not entirely familiar with this exact language, although it appears to be a dialect of an Ardanian language. The system Arda was discovered in the Unknown Regions years ago, although nothing is known of it or its inhabitants. There were some transmissions recorded from the outermost of the planets, and the studies on that language were uploaded into my databanks. I believe that -"

"Cut the chatter, Tincan. Can you translate it or not?" Arya was losing patience with this outdated protocol droid. She shot Bear a sideways glance, but he seemed to be fiddling with an upsidedown gonk droid. Men.

The droid sounded offended. "I was saying, I believe that I can put together a rough translation. It appears that the male speaker has traveled to meet the female. There is something I cannot quite get, but it appears they were to meet at a Gal'onlds. Of course, in Basic we hear that the male is Elessar, and the woman is called Eileen Cross. It is actually quite fascinating: hearing a language never spoken in the known regions. Could I keep a copy of this recording to study, Miss...ah.."

"Just call me Arya." She snatched the recording away, pocketing it. A thought occured to her, and she strode away from the protocol unit, to where the owner of the shop was fitting a breastplate back onto a valet droid. "Excuse me!" Arya shouted over the sound of the tools.

"Eh?" The man looked up, greasy and unkempt. "What are you doing in here?"

"She's with me." Bear strode up behind her, putting a hand on her shoulder. Arya elbowed him in the side, and he gasped, backing away.

"I'm interested in your protocol droid. How much?"

"That priceless treasure? Nothing less than three thousand." He scratched his nose, leaving a black smear on his face.

Arya snorted, "Priceless? Worthless, more like it. You should pay me to take it off your hands. Five hundred."

"I'm offended you think I'll accept less than what I paid for him. C3's are almost antiques now, worth a lot more than five hundred! Fifteen hundred." The man banged something on the droid in front of him, and the optical sensors flickered on and then off.

"I'll give you nine hundred. I heard they came out with a C7 last month." Arya feigned disinterest. "Or perhaps I'll just go somewhere else."

He looked pained, but agreed. "Nine hundred it is then. But I'm not taking him to your ship. Provide your own transport."

Arya pressed a credit chit of the correct amount into the mech's hands, and walked back to the droid. In her line of work it was helpful to have a translator droid around. And one that had apparently dropped off the books was even better. No one would trace this one, or even notice it.

"Hey, C3, get up, you're coming with me." She jerked her hand over her shoulder, indicating the door.

"My name is C3-PO, human cyborg relations." The droid got shakily to its bipedal feet, and she groaned at its lack of mobility. Looking over her shoulder, she caught the mech's eye.

"Oil bath will run you another fifty." He started up the tool again, filling the air with an unearthly screeching noise.

Ten minutes later she was darting into the street, her newly acquired droid enjoying a bath inside the mech shop. She'd pick him up later. The ex-TSE soldier jogged beside her until she stopped and glared at him.

He spread his hands, "Where are you going with my blaster? Don't I get it back?" He still wasn't quite taking her seriously, and at about six foot seven and two hundred odd pounds of muscle, that was a dangerous combination.

Arya spat on the ground, and lit up a cigarra. "Now I need to know where Eileen Cross is."

He laughed, "That's easy. Except she might have already died."

The smuggler shot him a hard glance, "Explain."

Bear shrugged, "She's NRSF. That explosion might have taken her out already."

Arya pondered that, while walking briskly towards the plume of smoke in the skyline. If Eileen was NRSF...and Marcus was also NRSF...and he wanted her to kill Eileen if he didn't come back...

Of course, the NRSF thought Marcus was dead.

What would be the greater good? Protecting Marcus from himself? Obviously he was going to kill the woman, or try to. But she was on the same side as he was, at least that was what Arya had been led to believe. And somehow he doubted that he would come back from this, otherwise, why leave Arya as a failsafe assassin?

It would be better if this meeting did not take place.

[Taylor Millard]

Millard was moving again. At times like this, moving was the best option. He'd left the Chancellor to process the information and...discussion...they'd hand. If Kalent was smart, which Millard assumed he was, the discussion would do more than just affect Kalent it would make his decisions even more towards Imperial interests.

If the New Republic was smart- which they were to the most part, save for a few political reasons- they would begin to set up guards around most of the head leaders of Xa Fel's homes. But, the Dark Jedi also knew, they would be busy figuring out what happened at the New Republic Base...that would give him more time.

He leaped another roof, realizing eventually he would have to eat. Millard could go atleast six days without sleep but in his older age...he did have to eat every day atleast twice. Much easier to miss sleep if he did that.

It had been relatively easy finding the dwellings of the Senate members. Chancellor Kalent had been more than happy to provide Millard with their names and locations. Currently, the Sith Knight was perched on the rooftop to Harmar Zigot, one of the head members of the Senate.

It was then he saw the figure on the roof, keeping watch over the entire town. Best way to avoid an ambush

Millard slipped behind him, then with a quick movement of his fist, knocked the soldier uncouncious...leaving him on the roof. He used the same method he had, when entering the Chancellor's house. Silence any family members (this time a male who was waking up from a nap), kill any NRSF forces in the home (none this time, they must be all fighting the fire), then find the Senator herself.

Forty-five minutes later, and Millard was on rooftops again, heading for the nearest restaraunt he could fine. A brief stop there, and then he could continue his mission.

He walked into a place called 'Star-hoppers' then sat down, ordering a pasta dish and bread. He scanned the place of dining...then sensed something. Another Force User, outside. Although the five days growth of beard concealed his face rather well, Millard still kept his presence muted as he ate.

[Marcus Telcontar]

Helenias?!?

As the young woman related the description of her mentor, the Jedi kept his growing surprise hidden. With some difficultly. He had been only planning to meet with Elieen and investigate personally her identity. Here instead, he had basically cast iron proof. The armour was authentic, the fact he could read the confirmation on Xazor’s mind – and also hearing Helenias still missed him. A great lump came to his throat, but he was still able to contain his emotions … just. He kept the steely calm exterior, whilst inside, his whole soul was screaming for him to….. to what? It was all so confusing. To think you wife was dead for 10 years and suddenly, to have the proof she was alive presented to you was a staggering emotional blow to take. Even more so to hear she still loved his memory.

What would it be like if she knew as well?

He thought about that for a few seconds, while Dawnstrider continued to be on the edge of panic. Actually, calming a distressed Padawan would be a better place to begin. He put his bow back into it’s packing on his back, before spreading his hands out to show he had no weapons in hand. Her eyes widened however as they got a glimpse of first the sword, then on the other hip, his cloak revealing Athona, his light sabre. “With my life, I will protect you” he stated. It did have some effect, the Padawan did begin to calm down. But she still was on edge, eyes flicking to the sabre.

“No, I am no Sith, nor am I Dark Jedi or a peddler of antiques. Reach out with your feelings Padawan and sense just what I am. I would consider killing you as much as I would consider killing myself. I ask for your forgiveness in my rough hands”

It even got a shy smile out of her, while Marcus took the time to assess her. Not very tall, from the exposed neck and jaw, quite athletic. Long blonde hair and to be quite truthful, quite a pretty young woman, although she did seem to have a haunted look in her blue eyes.

[Threepio]

"Thank the Maker!" C3-PO lifted his arms shakily as his body was lowered into the oil bath. His head turned to watch the mech who had rescued him from a band of Umgulians who were bound and determined to take him apart.

That had been... processing time frame ...five years ago? It was so hard to remember. He hadn't been remembering anything for a long time. There was something in his memory banks about an astromech droid, but it was degraded.

For the momentthe droid thanked his lucky stars, a strange, human thing to do... and relaxed into the bath. It was long overdue.

Perhaps his new mistress would treat him to an overhaul, and his degraded memory cells might still be saved. C3-PO stood still, letting the lubricant seep into his joints.

[Arya Ravenwing]

The dark haired woman loitered by the police line, just before the crowd of beings who were fascinated by the NRSF explosion. Some uniforms were holding up the containment line, but she wasn't looking towards them.

Bear hulked beside her, and seemed to have forgotten his animosity towards her in his curiousity as to what she would do next. He had ditched his dirty uniform for non-descript black pants, spacer boots, and an off-white shirt, unbuttoned at the collar. She looked up at him, and he grinned, showing a set of white teeth.

Arya scowled. "Don't you have someone else to bother? I should just shoot you." Turning away from him, she went back to studying the street leading away from the NRSF headquarters. A plan was slowly forming in her mind.

But she didn't feel like sending rag tag troopers to their deaths...although it seemed that Bear would support her in whatever she decided to do. Stopping the NRSF from completing an important mission (okay, so she'd glossed over the truth) sounded good to the ex-captain.

Her enormous shadow bent down to reach her ear. "What do you have in mind, Raven?"

Arya brushed at her ear, shooing him away. Marcus had not appeared yet, but she had the feeling he might come around that corner at any time. "Bear."

"Mmm?" He was scratching his ear, but turned his attention to her again.

"Do you know the hotel on 91st and Galaxy Way?"

He nodded. "Yeah, P.O.S. joint. What about it? Your agent going there from here?"

Arya shrugged. "I have a feeling about it. Can you ... do you have an explosives expert around anywhere?"

Bear laughed, "Yeah, I carry him around in my pants." Her eyes smoldered, and he settled down. "I know someone. Whadya have in mind, Raven?"

She pulled his head down to whisper in his ear, and he laughed again. "Might work. Delicate operation, but possible. I'll get my boys." Bear turned to head up the street, already talking on a commlink, and she called to him before he'd gone ten feet.

"You might need this." Arya tossed his blaster back at him, which he caught deftly in a big hand before disappearing in the crowd.

Arya counted to three hundred, and then followed him.

Fifteen minutes later, roughly fourty minutes since she'd left the Gal'onlds, another explosion ricotetted through the city. It wasn't as spectacular as the NRSF or the Credit Exchange hit, but it was centered on the second and fifth floors of the hotel on 91st and Galaxy Way.

The hotel where Alaina was currently sleeping in her room on the fourth floor. Bear's explosives expert had set the charges precisely, intended to trap the fourth floor in flames and smoke. A Jedi padawan should be able to keep herself alive...but unable to escape. At least, that was the desired affect. If the bunny died...Arya tried not to think about it. She darted into the lobby, pushing past fleeing patrons, and choking on the smoke that was billowing down the stairwells. She checked to make sure the 'lifts had been knocked out by the emergency shut down, and then ran back out into the street.

Sufficiently covered with soot, Arya dashed headlong down the street, heading towards where she guessed Hunter would be. Going from Gal'onlds towards the NRSF base, or even the Galactic Credit Exchange would take the pair down 54th Street.

Arya gasped for breath as she erupted onto 54th street, and hoped she wasn't too late. The Force must have been with her, because Hunter was walking down the street just to the left of her, with that blond woman in the overdone armour.

What is it about blondes? Belatedly, she realized that her thermal detonators were still on the fourth floor with Alaina. The case should keep them stable for a long time..however...

"Hunter!" She shouted at him, and ran across the street towards the pair, jumping onto a hovercar's hood and bounding over it. There was no time to waste.

[Helenias Evenstar]

Even while the General was speaking about the known positions of the Government to the New Republic, I was consulting The Force, looking for any insight I could get. While not strong like a Master Yogurt, I did have one particular capability that I was a natural with. I called it Oversight, where I could ‘see’ what was happening to a particular person or object, normally one that was familiar to me. It served no future seeing purpose, but it told me what was happening now. I used to use it to watch Marcus when he was away from me years ago…. And after he was killed, I had hardly ever used it again. It was painful to oversight , for the memoires of when I used the ability in better and happier times were at times overwhelming.


It was a strange thing, grief. You could go years without thinking of someone that had been close, then an action could bring back memories that could cripple. I closed my eyes, clearing my mind and allowing my mind to reach out…

In a room. Lights. Feeling I’m not alone. Turning. Fear… Darkness…..I can’t resist… Darkness coming to envelope everything!

I snapped my eyes open with a gasp. Reeak was staring at me. “Commander, is something wrong?” he asked.

I was still breathing hard and I realised I was sweating. How long had I been drawn into what I had seen? Or more precisely… what had I seen? “How long was I silent for?” I asked.

“I’m not sure. You cried out something and then I noticed you seem to be in a trance. Maybe a minute?”

A minute? “General, the Dark Side is strong here” I said. “Are you sure all the Sith left?”

He seemed taken aback. “Well…. Yes. They were never really here, they ruled by proxy. Why?”

An idea came to my head and I pondered it for a few seconds. Ignoring the General for another moment, I closed my eyes, reaching out once again and this time I felt it. I couldn’t see anything because the Dark Side was strong – very strong. I opened my eyes. “The Dark Side is strong here General” I stated.

“Umm, excuse me?” he asked, confusion on his face. “You sound like some sort of a Jedi”

“Exactly. I sense something is moving here and I can’t see it. The Dark Side clouds the Force – I would wonder if your Chancellor has had a too sudden change of heart. One that would have been influenced”

“Are you telling me you are a Jedi?” asked Reeak. “How can that be? Your wearing the armour of a Royal Guard and your in the military… unless that is a cover?”

“I am not under cover apart from my name General. Not all Jedi sit on the backsides and comntemplate their birth marks, some Jedi are warriors and also serve in the NRSF. I am one and I lead them to a degree. Helenias Q’Dunn, Jedi Knight”

“Then why the Imperial armour, Master Jedi?”

I smiled. “I didn’t say I was always a Jedi. Lord Fire Blade might be a name familiar to you”

Reeak’s eyes went wide. “But… how can that be? Wasn’t that name the one who destroyed the Jedi Temple a few years ago?”

“Yes. They refused my application for membership, so I blew their Temple to dust”

My bad joke bought a “Hpmh” and a half smile. “Your full of surprises Master Jedi. You should have not hid under an assumed name”

“Why? I’m sure a former world enslaved by a group of Force users, they would not like another Force user, especially one like me about. You think I would have been welcomed General?”

“You have a point. However, a Jedi is not what I think would be useful right now”

I frowned…. And followed Reeak’s gaze to where my helmet was sitting. It took a moment for the idea to also come to me as well. When it did, I nearly laughed. How simple and yet, so clever. Turning back to the now grinning General, I spoke again. “General Reeak, can you guarantee the support of the military? What I perceive you would want to do is dangerous without that support”

“Master Jedi, I don’t think you quite understand the level of dislike for our former rulers and the attitude they would have to the Jedi. We are sick of being dictacted to and we will not swap one set of slavers for another. You must understand, we want our sons and daughters to be free – that is the reason Xa Fel approached the New Republic. You have the full support of the Xa Fel military”

I nodded. “Excellent. Then do what you need to General. Signal me when you are ready – but for now, I must go to my soldiers”

“To comfort them?”

“No…. to control them”

“Pardon?”

“General, The Special Forces is the elite. This cowardly attack would be making a lot of very, very good soldiers very, very angry. Very good soldiers with some very nasty and heavy weaponry. Not long ago, I gave them permission to not hold back if attacked again. If they find any Imperials or TSE holdouts, I guarantee all that will be left is a red smear. You want that?”

“To be honest Master Jedi, if they catch Imps or TSE, they can do what they want. Who is your XO?”

“Granger Blomquist”

“The Cizerack? Interesting. Very well Master Jedi. Wait for my call”

I bowed slightly, putting on my helmet and powering up the visor. “I will be waiting”

The General returned the bow. “Good hunting, Master Jedi. If you find who is behind this Dark cloud, please be my quest and turn them into a red paste”

“Believe me, I will” I walked out the door, then outside. In distance, another explosion sounded out. Immediately I connected back into the NRSF private channel.

“… ahhh -DO-NOT-SWEAR--DO-NOT-SWEAR--DO-NOT-SWEAR--DO-NOT-SWEAR-! Looks like someone blew up a civilian hotel!”

“Excuse me? That makes no sense” I interrupted.

“Commander! This is Hudson. I’m telling ya, they blew up a hotel!”

“Stupid that was. So far this is only terrorist type activities that will make the population furious. Hudson, I want someone to find Lochabre. It seems we have a Dark Sider somewhere about. I want Blomquist to regroup everyone and then go hunting. Use Hicks for Intel. Get in contact with the local military and work with them, but not for them. Understood?”

“Yes M’dm! And you?”

“I going to see if I can find our Dark Siders. And make them regret they ever came here” I clicked off and began to walk up the street, past a few shops and restaurants. I gave no one inside any attention as I headed back in the direction of the now damaged base we had been using. People stepped aside - no doubt due to the blood red Imperial Guard armour.

[Xazor Elessar]

Xazor's eyes widened as she caught glimpse of the man's saber hilt.....and his sword. She felt comforted when no weapons were in his hands, and felt quite relieved when he said he would protect her with his life. This meant a lot to her...no one had ever said...and meant...anything to her like that before. She smiled shyly and closed her eyes for a moment, probing his aura. Indeed...he was not Sith nor dark Jedi....he was of the light, and he was....

"You're a Warrior Jedi....Master?"

She had not felt an aura that strong since she had spoken briefly with Master Yoghurt. It sent chills down her spine as she gazed into his eyes. They were gentle enough to give her inner peace. He was a kind man and she was sure he had not meant her any harm before. Somehow....he had won her trust more easily than anyone else before.

"I forgive you for handeling me roughly...it surely has not been the first time..."

She closed her eyes tightly and looked down at the ground, memories flashbacked from her past. It was almost as if she was reliving those times once again. She shook her head, trying to forget that for the moment.

"I have a question...most honorable sir..."

She said meekly. He had instilled a bit of fear and reverence in her, and her soul shook as she dared to speak the words to him. She alost regretted them the moment they escaped her lips.

"You never told me your name....and you know so much about Helenias, and this armour. The reaction she had after talking with you...the expression she had while talking to you..."

She paused a moment, putting it all together. She nodded gently and smiled to herself. She had remembered warning her friend and mentor not to fall to hard and believe that he could be the one she wanted it so badly to be. She then light up slightly and looked up at the man. His features were rough and handsome....he was the picture of a warrior. She smiled and knelt to one knee lowering her head, showing a deeper respect than before.

"You are Marcus Q'Dunn.....I know this in my heart. You are a Warrior and the one whom Helenias speaks of so often. She had wanted so much for me to meet you. She said you would have liked me. Well.....now I have met you..."

She said softly, not wishing to disrespect him in any manner, despite how he had treated her earlier. She smiled slightly to herself.....pleased that she had figured this out on her own. She knew this information to be true....she felt it in her heart....

[Taylor Millard]

Just as the bit was food was about to enter his mouth, Millard heard it. Another explosion.

I didn't authorize it.

He shoved the food into his mouth, then threw a credit chip onto the table. It was more than enough for the food, plus it was non-Imperial.

Along with a crowd of followers, the Imperial Grand Admiral walked out into the sooty air. It had appeared someone had gotten the idea to destroy a hotel, capitalizing on the chaos Millard had caused with the two bombing earlier. The soot flew into his brown hair, darkening until it was almost black... His face was so darkened Millard was certain he did not look like himself at all. A gloved hand wiped a bit of the soot away, and the looked on.

A part of Taylor was a bit more secure in the chaos...it would allow him more time to create more instability within the government.

The other part...hated seeing it. Millard had never been a fan of civilian deaths, especially when they served little merit. While some of the populous might decide the Rebellion helping them out was a bad thing...other would stand by them.

"This is crap, pure crap," a voice snarled behind him, "Where's the New Republic huh? Why ain't they helpin' us?"

"No no!" another called, "This is the Sith...They've come to take us back, we're call gonna DIE!"

Still more chimed in, "The New REpublic will save us! Down with the New Republic! The Sith...they'll kill us all! No...the Jedi will protect us!"

The crowd grew more frantic as several men began racing towards the destroyed hotel. Millard felt himself being pushed forward until he suddenly, slammed into an Imperial Guardsmen, sending them both towards the ground.

As Millard began helping the Guardsman up, he felt a flash of pain in his mind.

Jedi...

[Avolon Bisel]

"Damn it all to hell!"

He grunted, almost being enraged enough to throw his rifle down..... almost but not enough to break that piece of artwork.

"Harten, I'm completely out of ideas here. This planet officially sucks. I can't find a damn thing! Why don't we just let the Imperials have this piece of junk?"

He was talking out of frustration. All leads had hit a dead end. He didn't know his way around here and he didn't have that nutty Jedi intuition.

"I'm going to hate myself for this...."

Avolon picked up his comm and keyed it on.

"Helenias... give me some good news here. I'm strapped to the teeth with ammo and I'd like to unload it on these terrorist punks!"

[Sophia Harten]

Sophia came to a skidding halt just behind Bisel, nearly clipping his heels with her toes. She glanced past him to see what it was their destination held. And what greeted her was... nothing. That's when Bisel started going off about out of ideas.

She sighed and reholstered her weapon, looking up at the building while squinting her eyes against the sun's glare. When her partner had finished speaking into his comm, waiting for a response, she spoke.

Well, I don't think even the Imperials would want this place. Not to much as a tooth pick to clean your teeth wtih.

She watched some a couple walk by, minding their own business.

[Marcus Telcontar]

"You're a Warrior Jedi....Master?"

He smiled slightly, giving her encouragement.

"I have a question...most honorable sir..." She sounded quite meek, Marcus nodded to indicate for her to continue "You never told me your name....and you know so much about Helenias, and this armour. The reaction she had after talking with you...the expression she had while talking to you..."

Marcus could almost see the thought process. She smiled and knelt to one knee lowering her head, showing a deeper respect than before.

"You are Marcus Q'Dunn.....I know this in my heart. You are a Warrior and the one whom Helenias speaks of so often. She had wanted so much for me to meet you. She said you would have liked me. Well.....now I have met you..."

His smile faded. Whether it was a guess or reason or the Force she had got it exactly right. Marcus pondered trying to mislead her, but in his heart, he knew the time of deceptions and hiding under assumed identities was at a close. Ever since Whitetown……

“Well done Padawan. You did that with remarkably few clues. Indeed, that is whom I am. Now you may stand” She looked up, before rising slowly, a shy look on her face and taking a step backwards. “What did you say your name was again?”

“Xazor Leo Dawnstrider, Master. Padawan learner to Verse Dawnstrider”

Marcus raised an eye. “Verse? I used to know him. A good Jedi and a good Master he would be. You not his wife…?”

Dawnstrider’s face flushed red with embarrassment. “No! I’m his daughter”

“You are? Strange, you don’t look like a wolf to me” At the expression of surprise on her face, Marcus added “Verse is Garou. I know of the species well. So I presume you can change as well like he can. So…. You know Helenias well?”

“I only met her not along ago, Master. She has begun to train me in the Jedi Warrior ways, like she knows. Forgive for asking.. but she thinks you are dead. Why have you not contacted her? She thinks about you and I can feel her sorrow”

“Were you there when she received the call from Elessar?” Marcus replied.

“Yes”

“How long ago was that?”

She seemed to think “A week?”

“And if I said I was on the other side of the Galaxy – and I had only found out she lived 10 minutes before she received Elessar’s call, would that answer you question?”

“Oh” she said quietly.

“Does she suspect who Elessar is?”

Xazor shook her head.

“Then she’s getting slow. Elessar means “Friend of the Firstborn” in our native tongue. It is a name she used to call me. But it doesn’t matter… where is she for I much desire to meet her”

The young Padawan frowned. “I’m not sure right now. Can I call her?”

He waved a hand dismissively. “Certainly. But do not tell her what you know know now. I wish to see her face when I tell her personally face to face…. Come with me for now back to where I am staying.”

“But…”

“No buts Young Padawan. You ranked me correctly, I am a Jedi Master. You will do as I say”

He turned to walk back to the place he was staying with a reluctant Xazor in tow. After a minute, she drew level and spoke again. “I don’t see why you don’t see Helenias now!”

He didn’t bother turning his head. ”Either do I. The Force tells me that I must go in this direction first however. If the Force tells me that, then it is well we obey”

“Oh. Is there anything the Force tells you Master?”

“Only to be careful. Something is not right here. There is Darkness… and through that, even I can not see. We must use caution”

He remained silent as they walked. Getting closer, Marcus slowed suddenly, a look of concern on his face.

“Ummm, Master Jedi? What’s wrong?” Xazor asked

“Something feels wrong…. What in the Force was that?”

The exclaimation was well deserved, as the area was rocked by an explosion and then screams. And it was close to the hotel where he was staying… Abruptly, he charged, running fast … and turning a corner to find his worst fear realized. The hotel was partially collapsed, with smoke pouring from it, dazed survivors running for their lives through any escape they had.

“HUNTER!”

Marcus turned at the source of the called to see Arya running up to him. “Where is Alaina?” he yelled, concern in his voice and a lot of concern in his eyes

[Arya Ravenwing]

Arya darted around a swerving hovercar, and grabbed his arm, completely and totally ignoring the blonde at his side. Blondes! She avoided a mental sigh, and dragged Hunter towards the hotel. "I went out to run an errand, and I'd just come back when - !"

They rounded another corner, Blondie still tagging along unfortunately, and the hotel swung into complete view. Arya tugged on his arm again as he stopped moving. "Alaina is still in there!" She had to shout over the roar of the flames and the sounds of sirens as emergency crews were scrambled from other parts of the devastated city.

Arya ran for the front entrance, only to be shoved away by a burly firefighter. "Get back ma'am!" His voice was muffled by the rebreather he wore.

She coughed on the smoke, and almost pushed past him, but stopped. "I need to get to my room!" Rebuffed again, she turned to go back to Hunter and smacked into him. You would think he'd warn me if he was going to be right behind me.

The smudge faced woman was truly concerned, not wanting this to get too far out of control. "My...things are up there too! Something needs to be done!"

[Marcus Telcontar]

“I went out to run an errand, and I'd just come back when - !”

They had rounded another corner, with the hotel in much better view. Emergency services were arriving, while a crowd of rubbernecks were starting to gather. Arya tried to push by a fireman, who pushed her back – straight into Marcus. She turned to him, looking very concerned. "My...things are up there too! Something needs to be done!"

“Your… THINGS are up there? By the Force woman, get your priorities right! Alaina’s up there!” Disgusted and appalled at her callousness, he was about to push by her, when he had a thought. The Jedi grabbed Arya by the arm, a frown creasing his face. “Exactly what do you mean by… your things?”

She stayed quiet for a moment before giving in to the intensity of Marcus’ glare. “Thermal detonators”

“Oh Sh1t” Marcus said quietly, casting a despairing look at the fourth floor. “This is so not good. If I catch the moron that caused this…..” He left the statement unfinished as he let go of Arya’s arm “Your going to get the area clear except for those I want to stay. Dawnstrider, your with me”

“And how am I going to that?” snapped back Arya.

“Don’t ask me, you’re the brains of the operation. You do realize that if those detonators go off, this whole place will become a civilian killing field? You want that? If not, your going to find a way” He whirled around, ignoring whatever else Arya might have said, advancing on the fireman who had repelled Arya before. He moved to force Marcus back, until the Jedi flicked his cloak back, revealing his lightsabre. The Fireman’s eyes grew wide and he looked at the weapon, then to Marcus’ face. His mind was a panic, the Jedi could sense.

He thinks I’m a Sith

“No. I am a Jedi and as is my comrade here in the armour. Who’s in charge here?”

“Err…. I don’t know. It’s all a bit confused here Master Jedi” was the relived reply. “We have several people trapped on the fouth floor however, but the flames and damage is so far too much for us to deal with”

Oh lovely. Thermal Detonators, Alaina up there and now others trapped as well? Could this get an better?

“There’s also a gas leak we are trying to contain” added the fireman.

Me and my big mouth

He walked closer to the building, thinking this through.

I must be getting old. Three years ago I would have charged in with no regard to my survival. Either that, or a good deal less reckless. Another thing that had changed since Whitetown. “What the name Fireman?”

“Johasson, Master Jedi”

“You know how to fly a speeder?”

“Yes Sir”

“How brave are you?”

“Brave enough for whatever you want me to do Sir”

The crowd was starting to move away. Whatever Arya did, it was working. “Right. Get a speeder and get tot the corner of the futh floor and wait for me there. Do not leave until I tell you to. Understood?”

Johasson looked up, seeming to steel himself. “Okay”

“Good man. Dawnstrider”

“Yes?”

“With me”

Marcus strode out to the base of the wall, then looked up again. He gathered in the Force and his own power, then Leapt. The Force carried him far beyond what he was capable of, soaring high. Even then, he had to grab hold of a ledge and haul himself up to the desired place. While he took out his lightsabre, Dawnstrider joined him, making the last part by climbing. While she also hauled herself upright, Marcus used his saber to cut the window to pieces, kicking aside the remains to create a decent sized entry / exit. “Good, you have your helmet on. This is our exit point. Never lose your point of reference. Now…” He looked down, noticing beings were streaming away, then closing his eyes “If you have a motion detector, go look for trapped beings and get them here.” It felt to him that Alaina was alive, but badly frightened . “Go”

Marcus dived into the smoke filled room first. Staying as low as possible, he went to the door that lead out into the corridor, slamming it open with a shoulder charge that left him sprawling on the ground. Dawnstrider was not far behind, paused to give the Jedi Master a hand up. “Don’t worry about me, go get the others trapped in here! MOVE!” She obeyed with a bit of hesitation, running down the hall. Marcus picked himself up, got his bearing, then ran down the corridor as well, lightsabre burning bright in the hazed atmosphere.

He skidded to a stop, then bolted down another corridor. Acrid smoke burned his eyes and his lungs as he raced, his cloak flying as he again skidded to a stop right outside the door to the apartment he was supposed to share with Alaina and Arya…. With one well aimed kick, the lock disintegrated, the door flying open.

“ALAINA!”

[Arya Ravenwing]

"This is so not good. If I catch the moron that caused this….." Hunter turned away from her, releasing her arm. He continued, "Your going to get the area clear except for those I want to stay. Dawnstrider, you're with me”

"And how am I going to that?" Arya snapped, forgetting herself momentarily. I'm going to have a bruise from so many people grabbing my arms.

"Don't ask me, you're the brains of the operation. You do realize that if those detonators go off, this whole place will become a civilian killing field? You want that? If not, your going to find a way." Hunter pushed his way to the firefighters again, leaving Arya in partial shock.

"But..but I'm a spacer, not a riot policeman!" She shouted at him, but it was doubtful he ever heard. I should have just let him kill that woman. She shuddered. Nope. Having someone that powerful become a dark sider isn't something the universe needs. You hear that? You owe me one! Arya shook her fist at the galaxy, and then pondered her options.

"Frell it! All my ...stuff!" She stomped her foot and cursed, and then shoved her way to the front of the growing crowd of people. "Get out of here!"

No one paid much attention to her, although a pair of humans started edging away. Arya waved her hands at the crowd, and then turned to a peace officer, who was also trying to get the crowd back from the scene. He didn't look very happy.

I don't feel very happy either, Bub. Arya say Bear loitering around as well, still in his civvies. She took a moment to glare at him. He seemed to grin, and she turned back to the officer. "Officer...Malkovich, I need these people away from here!"

"Tell me something I don't know." He pointed back to the line she had accidentally crossed. "Get back over there with the others, ma'am."

"You don't understand." She lifted her jacket open to reveal her rail gun. "NRSF. Don't ask me for ID, because I was undercover. If we don't get everyone out of here in three minutes there aren't going to be any people left on this block."

"What? I mean... the -"

"This hotel was the root of an investigation I was participating in. We have cause to believe there are thermal detonators in one of those rooms. If they go off..." She let her voice trail off ominously.

The peace officer gulped. "Are you sure?"

"As sure as I'm in the NRSF." Arya turned to the still growing crowd, and shouted, "Clear the area! Anyone left in three minutes gets taken in for questioning! Go!" People at the front of the crowd started pushing back, and the peace officer was on his commlink, calling for more back up.

A minute later a strong male voice came over a loudspeaker attatched to one of the firevehicles. "There has been another bomb threat on these buildings. Please clear the area in an orderly fashion and go to your homes!" Officers were going door to door, making sure the area was cleared.

Arya pushed a dazed onlooker. "In a hurry to visit a nice clean cell? Get the lead out!" He frowned, cursed, and turned away. In another three minutes, one minute past the three minute deadline she had artifically set, the area was clear except for rescue personel.

The original peace officer hurried up to her. "Uh.."

"Lieutenant Vasquez," she supplied, helpfully.

"Lieutenant, how long do you think we have?" He was sweating and covered with soot. It was a very dirty fire, because the materials in the hotel were so outdated.

"By my best guess, we only have...ten more minutes before this whole place goes up. And we're talking Class A thermals, not the namby pamby military issue." Arya coughed and stared up at the billowing flames. People were piling out of the fourth floor window into the transport, and she could almost see a flash of armour..but that was probably her imagination.

She turned back to the officer, who had visibly blanched. "Keep it together, man! That Jedi will most likely get everyone out, and the detonators, before they reach critical." At least, he better. Frell, two thousand a det times six...krasst why don't I think longer before I do something?! "But if not..and just in case, everyone should be out of here in eight minutes."

Arya ran to an emergency transport, and indicated frantically that it should take off if it was full. It was, and the driver wasted no time getting out of there.

Eight agonizing minutes later everyone had completely abandoned the area, and the emergency crews had pulled back, leaving the volatile building plenty of room. Arya debated about what to do, but her decision was taken out of her hands just as she saw the blonde woman leap out of the window into the transport. Hunter appeared, pushing Alaina out, and then, inexplicably he ducked back into the smoke.

Arya felt like bursting from adrenaline, and jumped a mile as two big hands clamped on her shoulders. "Raven, what are you doing? Get out of here!" Bear lifted her up bodily, and dragged her away to a safe distance.

She craned her neck backwards, trying to see what was happening.

[Helenias Evenstar]

I had to admit, I was simmering. The blowing up of the Bank and the Hotel was pointing to desperate beings willing to go to any lengths. There was much taught how to handle situations and even in some cases, I had virtually written the manual. This however… this was the classic situation of someone just lashing out. No reason anymore, just out to cause damage. The most unpredictable enemy and the most unstable. Also, the easiest to catch as the basket cases would always leave a trail. A truly determined and committed person would have done the base hit… so, if they did that, why the Bank and the Hotel?

Conclusion – likely to be two forces at work here. I mentally grouped the Base hit with the Chancellor’s sudden change of heart as well as the Dark Side influence I was feeling, those did sound connected to me. The others, the Bank hit and the Hotel were grouped together as well. That felt right to me.

The lunatics, Granger could handle. I was after the Dark Sider. With Lochabre if anyone found the beast. Most likely I considered, it would still be helping digging out survivors near the Bank….

I found myself on the ground. I had bumped into… a human male, who was already apologizing and reaching out to help me up. I accept his hand and used it to get to my feet. As I did, it seemed as if he had a twinge, as he winced. I brushed myself off, realizing I had dropped my Pike. I stooped to retrieve it, then came upright, just about to apologize – to realize the man I had bumped into was gone. Surprised, I scanned the crowd, but failed to find him. Now how had he managed that…? Maybe running into an Imperial Guard might spook you, but you couldn’t disappear that fast… could you? I had only taken my eye off him for half a second.

For some reason, I knew I had to work this out. I had a hunch this man had been important. With the memory enhancements the Force could give, I reviewed the scene in my mind – he stepped in front of me, I tripped and fell. Got up, Looked at his face, then turned away for a moment….. backed up and froze the face in time. Build was much like a Fighter jock. Short hair. And..,

I swore silently. Intel kept tabs on Imperial military commanders and a dossier, with holos of the major officers. And they didn’t come much bigger than a Grand Admiral. The name I had seen on the dossier that I had read before leaving Arcan IV, with the image of this man I had bumped into.

Talyor Millard? What the frell was an Admiral of the Empire doing here?

Stupid question, I admonished myself. Xa Fel was going to the Republic. Unlike Arcan IV, with absolutely no tactical significance, Xa Fel had a major ship yard, was a major trading centre – and just generally a prize for anyone. For an Imperial, it would be a Crown Jewel.

Narrowing my eyes, I began to think where Millard could have gone. He would also have most likely a Sith working with him, which would complicate matters. However, I felt something akin to satisfaction – I had worthy adversaries. I always told the Jedi they depended too much on the force and not enough on their mind. Now here was a chance to prove it.

“Allright Mr Millard, let’s see how good you are” I muttered to myself, walking north and away from the hotel explosion, the beginnings of a plan forming in my mind. To begin with…. I would see what move the Grand Admiral made next.

[Taylor Millard]

It had actually been quite simple for Millard to disappear. A quick use of the Force, carried him from next to the Unknown Jedi to the rooftops above the street. He paused, still wincing a bit from the shock of pain that'd gone through his system.

Never...felt anything like that... It was only an initial reaction though, a warning of another Force User's presence. But there had been something familiar about the presence...the Imperial Grand Admiral paused, the concentrated.

He saw the woman again, standing sad at a gravesite. A tear ran down her left cheek as she wept. Then, a bottle raised in her right hand, smashing down into the tombstone of the grave.

"M-marcus..." she stuttered as the tombstone was soaked in alcohol.

She sniffed, then stood at a attention. For some reason her garb had changed into that of a NRSF soldier. She walked away, then disappeared.

Walking through his vision, the Dark Jedi took a look at the name on the gravestone.

<Center>Marcus Q'Dunn
Beloved Husband to Helenias</center>

The vision faded. Millard stood on the rooftops, his head beginning to clear.

So...Helenias Q'Dunn it is...where have I heard that name before.

Two top members of Xa Fel's government were all ready under his control...the rest would follow soon enough. Taylor paused then contemplated.

10 to 1, Madame Q'Dunn is going to learn quickly of the Senate Leader's 'change of heart'. Some senators will listen to what they have to say.

His X-Wing was posistioned about 4 clicks outside of town. Leaping across the rooftops, Millard began heading towards it. Once he figured out who Helenius Q'Dunn was, he could continue to formulate his own plan as to how to defeat the New Republic.

[Xazor Elessar]

Xazor took the motion detector and departed from Marcus. She ran down the halls of the building, searching for people in the rubble. Suddenly she picked up on something not to far away from her starting point. She flew over to a pile of rubble and began removing large pieces of concrete. If not for her gloves, she would have cut her hands to pieces on the sharp edges of the stone. Suddenly, she saw some brown hair sticking out from under the rock. The padawan winced as thoughts of what she could find rushed through her head.

At that very moment, she heard a bit of sound. It was almost that of a small child or an animal, wimpering in distress. Her heart lept into her throat and she continued removing large pieces of concrete. As she pulled another of, she suddenly came face to face with a little girl. Her cheeks were tear stained as well as dirty. Adrenaline began pumping through Xazor's veins as she struggled to pull out more pieces.

Remembering then, that she was a Jedi and could use the Force to help her, she did so. She lifted a large boulder off of the little girl and the young one gave a high screetch.

"It's okay now....I'm going to get you out of here."

She said softly, carefully lifting the small child out of the pile. Xazor set her down and examined her quickly. She gathered that the girl only had minor cuts and bruises and no broken bones. From the sound of her frequent coughs, the little one had inhaled a lot of smoke. Xazor lifted her again and held her close as she began making her way towards her beginning point. She glanced down at the little girl and their eyes met. She looked so scared and uncertain.

"My name is Xazor....I am a Jedi and I am trying to help you."

She said softly, trying to comfort the child. Hearing a cracking sound prompted her to quicken her pace towards the Jedi Master. As she jogged, she smiled down at the little girl.

"What is your name honey?"

Xazor questioned with a smile.

"Rain......"

The little one replied softly, wiping a tear away with her free hand as she held onto Xazor's neck tightly. The padawan smiled and nodded as she continued. She arrived but did not see whom she was looking for.

"Marcus!!! Where are you?"

She yelled loudly, shielding the girl's ears so she wouldn't be too hard on her precious hearing. Xazor looked around but did not see him.....and she hoped that he would come soon. Somehow, she felt something bad might happen and she was going to make sure that the little one made it out alright. The padawan silently vowed to guard her life with her own....