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Author	Topic: Kyp and Cass - Post ROTJ - Kyp,Luke,Mara/ Angst, action, romance.
Adalia-Durron Title: Oceania RSA Registered: Jun '03	Date Posted: 6/26/03 5:29am Subject: Kyp and Cass - Post ROTJ - Kyp,Luke,Mara/ Angst, action, romance. - Date Edited: 6/29/03 6:41am (1 edits total) Edited By: Adalia-Durron
	Wrote this back in 1999. All my stories have Kyp in them, they are all different female leads. (shrugs) works for me. This one has three parts, the last being the longest. Kyp and Cass He remained staring out of the window at the city beyond. I didn’t know how to convince him to change his mind, to reconsider his decision. I had no Jedi skills, none that I knew of, but I knew how I felt and I knew how he felt. Why he was fighting it was what I had spent the best part of the last hour trying to find out. He had given me more excuses than I could imagine, still, not one of them was valid as far as I was concerned. "You should go, there is nothing more to say", he said quietly without turning. He really thought that would make me leave? "I’m not leaving till I get a reason to go. So far I have heard a lot of excuses, no real reasons". I watched as he lowered his head and slowly shook it. "Cass, please, this is hard enough. Please don’t be stubborn and fight me on this." It’s harder for me, I’m not the one running." I responded evenly. He spun to look at me, "I’m not running" he said firmly. I raised my eyebrows in question, "You’re not? Could have fooled me. Why, if I didn’t know you better, I’d say you were afraid of what I could mean to you." It was a statement, true, but I needed him to admit what I already knew. He opened his mouth to protest, but instead turned back to the window. "That’s ridiculous", he muttered. Pursing my lips I decided that the time had come to make a move, nothing else had worked up until now. I took three steps and bridged the gap between us. "Is it? Say, you, Oh, I don’t know, fell in love with me?" I whispered over his shoulder. His whole body tensed ever so slightly, almost in defence. Lifting my hand I brushed the back of my fingers over his cheekbone and down under the hair at the back of his neck, stopping at his collar. His eyes closed automatically and I noticed as he tilted his head ever so slightly away from me, savouring my touch. I began to trace my fingers around his collar, caressing his neck as I went. "You really don’t want me to go, I know that. Why don’t you just give us a chance?" For a moment, I thought I was getting through to him. Suddenly he pulled away, putting several metres between us again. "No, I can’t." he said firmly, "I’d end up hurting you, I know that and I think you know it too" he added turning to face me. "There is too much in my past Cass, too much to expect you to accept, geezzz I have trouble accepting it most the time!" Running his fingers through is thick black hair he went on, "don’t you think I wish things could be different? Do you think I like living like this, like feeling like this about you and knowing that I can never act on it?" I could see the pain in his deep blue eyes, Jedi or not, he couldn’t hide that from me. I don’t care about your past!" I cried, feeling the tears I had been fighting all night begin to sting at my eyes again. "Don’t you understand, it means nothing to me, it’s the past and I don’t judge you for it, let alone hold it against you! And before you say I don’t know, I do! It didn’t take me long to search Coruscant library files to find out what happened 10 years ago, but that was then this is now. From the moment I met you I knew, damn, I have never felt like this before about anyone, never in my 26 years. I will not let this go easily, I’ll not walk away without giving it all I have!" I drew a deep breath and closed my eyes and added softly, "things can be different, it’s up to you Kyp." The tears were stinging a lot worse now, and I knew I couldn’t stop them for much longer. Opening my eyes again, I found him staring at me, a mix of surprise and concern on his face. It was clear he never expected me to delve into his past, his gaze softened as he realised my emotions were taking over. "Please don’t cry," he muttered, "I don’t know if I can fight that." He added. Emotional blackmail so that’s what it was going to take? I really didn’t want to resort to that, such a weak approach and totally out of character for me. Choosing not too, I lowered my eyes to my feet. "You know where to find me. This is not over Kyp". I needed to leave before the tears fell, he needed to see how strong I was, how I could handle anything he had to offer. With that I spun on my heels and strode out of the room, leaving him staring after me. Entering the street below, I blindly ran trying to put as much distance as I could between the two of us. I needed to think, needed to sort out my thoughts and regain my strength. Oh yes, I was going back for round two, but I had to compose myself before I did. I slowed my pace as my mind drifted back to six months ago, the moment I first laid eyes on him. As a Cell Leader of the Akrian Underground, I had been instrumental in organising the meeting between the New Republic Forces and the Underground. The flagging Imperial government was loosing control very quickly now that they had no outside support, it was only a matter of time until it crumbled entirely. The Underground was powerful and we had to be sure we were ready to assume control without bloodshed and without trauma to the people of Akrian, who had suffered enough. It was decided that if we initiated contact with the New Republic it would help us establish a stable first government. The ultimate goal being to join the New Republic and become a democratic and free society once again. I was informed that Minister of State, Organa Solo was sending an Ambassador representing the New Republic and if intervention was required, he would be the one to make that decision. I knew that meeting had to go well as did my counterparts. It took nearly all our resources to bring the Ambassador planet-side without the Imperials knowledge, calling in all favours and using almost all our local techs to cover the incoming ships’ flight path and origin. It was then a major operation to bring him to our underground base in the mountains. The Imperials had been suspicious of our whereabouts for sometime and at that late stage of the operation, we didn’t want to have to re-locate again. I remember pacing the room impatiently as I waited with the other leaders, so much was resting on this meeting and I knew we had to make a good impression first time up. I had already pictured the Ambassador, a stuffy old man with very old-fashioned values and not willing to take any risks at all. In fact, I had already decided that he would refuse our request for help and that this whole meeting was only for show, not to mention a waste of time. I had kept that opinion to myself because the other leaders were so optimistic and felt a whole new Akrian was being born tonight. I remember the stunned look on Jace Orians face as he burst into the room. "He’s a Jedi, a Jedi Knight!" he gasped. I had to confess that was one I didn’t expect. Someone asked who he was, I guessed that they hoped it was the most well known Jedi in the galaxy. "It’s not him, he’s a Master anyway, it’s one of the graduates from his Academy, he’s not much older than me" Jace went on. I am sure he wanted to say more, but the approach of our expected guest silenced him. Curiosity got the best of me I remember standing with my shoulders square facing the doorway, what happened next I could never have expected. The young man strode into the room; confidence seemed to ooze from his every pore, that and a strange sense of calm that I don’t think I had ever experienced before. His slightly long black hair hung around his face, but somehow gave him a look of recklessness from without, but his stance and deep blue eyes showed an entirely different person. I remember everything about that moment, the royal blue tunic he wore, the black cape shot with fine silver fastened on the right shoulder with the emblem of the New Republic in silver, long boots to his knees and firm fitting black pants. I also remember my body’s involuntary reaction to his presence. I couldn’t move, and I knew I wasn’t breathing, my heart was pounding so hard in my chest I was sure it would burst out. Confused, it took all my strength to draw another breath evenly and avert my stare. I had heard that a Jedi has the ability to sense the feelings of those around them, I hoped it was just a rumour and that I was the only one who knew how his presence had affected me. I listened as he introduced himself as Kyp Durron, Jedi Knight, and felt his even, gentle voice seep into every pore of my being. Desperately, I clenched my fists as I tried to re-gain my senses. I was only half listening as our elder began to introduce us all one by one, knowing that I only had seconds to gain control. "And this is the leader of our Southern Cell and one of the people who organised your visit here, Ms Cassiopia Tehanis." I raised my head and stared directly at him, nodding my head in acknowledgment as that was all I could manage. I then realised the rumours were true, the ever so slight smile that touched his soft lips and the warmth in his eyes told me that, he knew what I was thinking and I couldn’t do a thing about it. The rest of the meeting was a blur, and when it was over I cannot even recall how I made it out of the room to my quarters. I lay on my bed staring at the roof wondering what in the name of the galaxy was happening to me. I had never had time over the years for any sort of personal relationship and had never reacted to anyone like this before. Oh, yes, I’d had un-easy feelings about traitors, warm feelings about good friends and there were even people who scared me, but this was new. This un-nerved me and for the first time in my life I felt I wasn’t in control. I slept very badly that night, my dreams were haunted by his image and more than once I woke bathed in perspiration. The next few days were a blur, I honestly cannot remember how things went. Akrian did attain freedom, the Imperials were gone and within weeks a new fledgling government had been established. The New Republic Forces moved in and helped us to establish a stable environment for the people to begin their new lives and all the charges held against myself and my fellow leaders had been dropped. I had been offered a governmental position but had turned it down, believing I was too young and that there were things I wanted to do with my life now I was free to choose. I saw little of Jedi Durron, but witnessed much of what he had achieved in a few short weeks. He was in my thoughts so much so that I found it hard to concentrate at times, on the bright side, I had learned to control myself in his presence and was able to hold conversations with little trouble. At least that was what I had convinced myself, although I simply could not deny that my attraction to him was only growing. It had been 2 months since his arrival. Akrian had a stable government and was settling down nicely to the free world it once was. Most of the New Republic Forces had gone and the remainders were preparing to leave within a week. I knew that meant he was going as well, something I wasn’t sure how to deal with. I had convinced myself that my feelings were one way and therefore there was no point in acting on my emotions. I knew he’d ‘read’ my reaction to him all along, he had to know, but he’d never said anything so there was my answer. I found myself that particular night on the balcony of what used to be the Imperial Governments base, it was now used as a residence for me and many other former Underground Leaders who had yet to choose their future paths. The view was beautiful from here and I often stood there bathing in the cities newfound freedom. I didn’t hear his approach, nor feel it, so when he spoke I almost jumped the balcony! "Beautiful view, isn’t it?" he spoke softly over my shoulder. I remember spinning to face him and was startled at how close he was to me. "Yes" I remember responding, such a very deep comment! He was undeterred by my reaction and went on, "I’ve been looking for you, do you come here much?" ‘Looking for me?’ My mind raced as I tried to control myself and look relaxed. "Yes." Once again, so very deep! Why couldn’t I think of an intelligent thing to say? He smiled, a warm gentle smile that touched his eyes. "I wish you’d relax around me, it’s kind of disconcerting knowing how uncomfortable I make you feel." His honesty and straight-forwardness stunned me. "Are you always that blunt?" I asked. I watched as he gave a slight chuckle and looked away for a moment, returning his gaze with a broad smile. "Not usually, but I think you know I know what’s been going on." He said. That was confusing, get somehow it made sense. I shifted my weight uncomfortably, "do I have any secrets any more?" I questioned, as I looked at my feet, not even sure I wanted to know the answer. "I’m sure you do. I’m not in the habit of delving that much into a person’s mind. I only pick up what’s sent out by the people around me. You’ve been, well, pretty easy to read from day one." I felt my cheeks burn as the humiliation took hold. "Sorry" I muttered, not sure what else to say. "Don’t be. I have to say, at first I was simply flattered. Can’t say that that’s ever happened before, but I didn’t know you at all so for all I knew, it was a common reaction for you." My head snapped up and I gave him a look of disbelief, ‘how could he think that about me?’ "BUT," he added, holding his palms up to me in a defensive position, "I know better now. That’s why I was looking for you." He finished. I wasn’t sure what to say, so it was best to remain silent and wait for him to speak. Lowering his hands, he seemed to study me for a moment before he went on. "I’m leaving in 3 days, and I was wondering if you’d like to, say spend some time together before I go?" Once again my heart was pounding uncontrollably in my chest, he was here to get to know me. I had been wrong about his indifference to me all along. I couldn’t speak, so I nodded slowly whilst swallowing hard. "Good. Have you had dinner yet?" Still not trusting my voice, I gave my head a quick shake. "Ok, would you like to join me? Maybe between the two of us we can find your voice again?" From that second on we spent nearly every waking moment together. He showed a side of himself he didn’t show anyone else and it didn’t take me long to find my voice again. We laughed and told stories about our pasts, I found myself wanting time to stand still because the three days were almost up and I didn’t know what was going to happen after that. It was after dinner on the last night that I had that clarified for me. "I’m leaving in the morning, returning to Courscant" he spoke softly as we walked through the city’s botanical gardens. "I know" was all the response I could muster, I hoped at the time that he would say more. He stopped walking and waited for me to stop and face him. "I’m sorry Cass, but this is where this has to end." I have to say that was the very last thing I had expected to hear from him. Things had been so good, so comfortable, I felt that we had a connection that he wanted as much as I did. I couldn’t even find the appropriate words to respond with, what to say? Was I supposed to throw myself at him and beg him to stay? Maybe I should have got angry and demanded to know why? Instead I simply stood there, unable to speak and unable to react like I should have. He went on, "There is so much about me Cass that you simply don’t know. So much I don’t want you to know about. I can’t let anyone in,.." he paused, studying my face "It would be too hard for both of us. Please, don’t get me wrong, these last three days……" he glanced away for a moment, "I’ll never forget you, I won’t be able too. No-one has ever gotten this close." The tears were welling up and I swallowed hard to fight them back, I was stronger than that. "Do I have a say in this?" I asked. He lowered his head and slowly shook it, lifting only his eyes to look at me through his dark hair. Looking away from him, I desperately tried to figure out what was happening, then he did something I had been waiting for, he kissed me. Not a peck on the cheek, but a slow and very gentle touch on my lips that felt so sensual and intimate that I temporarily lost all comprehension of what it really meant. It only lasted 30 or 40 seconds, but it felt like a lifetime at that moment. His hand caressed my cheek gently as he pulled away, gazing into my eyes with what clearly was hurt in his. His fingers gently traced my lips as he whispered to me. "I’m really sorry Cass…..Goodbye." I watched stunned as he spun on his heels and strode away from me quickly, my feet like lead and my heart aching so painfully I could barely stand it. ……..oooooo……. Looking back on that time I had cursed myself for not moving, not fighting back, not demanding a better excuse from him. Instead I simply went on with my life and tried to pretend that absolutely nothing had ever happened. I accepted an advisory position with the new government and threw myself into my work, allowing little for not time for me to think about anything personal at all. It took nearly 4 months for my closest friend to confront me. I remember it very well. "When are you going to snap out of it Cass?" Christia asked as she helped collate my discs for the meeting I was to attend later in the morning. I gave her a blank look, "Snap out of what?" She shook her head, "I have known you too long to not know something is wrong. He’s been gone nearly 4 months now. Either something else has happened, or you are so in love you simply can’t get past it." I turned to face her, speechless for a moment. ‘In love? Me?’ I had to be honest with myself and admit that I hadn’t even thought of that. Maybe she was right, but what could I do about it? The best way out was to deny it totally. "In love? Me? Don’t be absurd. I’ve just been really busy with my new work. I haven’t thought about him for months!" That had to be the biggest lie I had ever told in my life. Christia knew it, I could tell by the laughter coming from her, I should have known better than to try and hide my feelings from her. We’d been friends most of our lives, she knew me better than anyone. "Give it up will you? Look, you got two choices here, you can get over it. Something I can’t see happening, or…" she paused and stared at me, "Do something about it" "Like what?" I asked, "take the next transport to Coruscant, march up to him and tell him what for?" an amused smile on my face. "Yes" she said simply. I started to protest, but stopped myself. Maybe she was right, maybe I should be fighting for him. I must have stood there for several minutes thinking until Christia gently shook my shoulders to wake me up. "Hey, are you ok?" she asked cautiously as she scanned my face. Re-focusing my eyes on her I responded. "Yes, I don’t think I have ever been more OK than I am right now." For the first time since Kyp had gone I knew what I was going to do, knew what I had to do. That was two weeks ago. In that time I had given notice and left my position a week later, taken the next transport to Coruscant, done a little background research in the central library and marched up to Kyp and told him what for! Unfortunately it hadn’t worked out like I had expected, maybe I was asking too much to expect him to change his mind in an instant and fall into my arms. Maybe I should have been a little less direct? Maybe……. "Well, what do we have here? This has to be one of the best looking harlots in this area. So clean and neat." I was snapped back to reality by someone grabbing my arm and spinning me to face him. The foul breath assailed my senses and his scared face made me shiver slightly. "I’m not a street walker" I said firmly, "let me go." His raucous laughter echoed around me as I heard several other voices join in. Quickly I turned left and right to survey the others around me. Six, no, seven including the man who now had hold of both of my arms. Looking past them all I realised I had walked into a very un-savoury part of the city and at night no less, how could I have been so foolish? Instinctively I struggled to reach for my blaster, the same one I no longer carried now Akrian was free, damn! "Mmmm, she wants to play boys, shall be indulge her?" Swallowing hard I tried desperately to fight the panic that now threatened to overwhelm me, I knew if I did panic there would be no way I could find any escape. The simple fact was, I couldn’t see one anyway. Lifting my chin in defiance, I ground out "Let me go". Hoping that he would listen and do as I asked, no chance of that. "I don’t think so sweetheart, you’re here after dark, in an area known for it’s ladies and you expect me to let you go?" He roared with laughter again, "not until my friends and I have tasted some of your obvious sweetness" My blood ran cold, how could I have let this happen? I began to struggle against him to no avail, he was so much larger than I was, and I had no chance. I could feel his hot breath on my neck and cried out. "HELP ME. KYP!….." I called out to the only person I knew who could help me, the only person who wasn’t anywhere close enough to hear. "LET HER GO" I heard someone say from a distance, still nothing changed, the man seemed to be all over me at once and the panic I had quelled earlier escaped as I began to scream and fight him with everything I had. "I SAID, LET HER GO." The voice again, suddenly the laughter I could hear around me ceased and the abhorrent mouth left my neck. I heard a distant sound, ‘Snaphisss’ and I tried desperately to see through the blinding tears that I had unconsciously shed. Before I could see anything I heard one of my attackers hiss "Borelain, look.". Blinking the tears away as best I could I strained my neck to see what or who they were staring at with such hatred in their eyes. My blurred vision didn’t stop me from seeing it was Kyp Durron. Standing there with his lightsabre held slightly aloft in a defensive position, calm radiated from him. "I’m only going to say this once more, Let Her Go." He commanded evenly. The man holding me, Borelain, snarled, "She ain’t worth it anyway". With that he shoved me away from him so violently than I hit the ground with a very painful thud, my head making an awful sounding crack sound as it connected with the street. After that, everything was a bit of a blur, I heard blaster fire and yelling but saw nothing. Desperately I tried to pick myself up, by the blinding pain in my head prevented me from doing so. I could taste blood in my mouth and was now trying to hold on to consciousness, I was loosing that battle. The very last thing I remembered was Kyps voice, "Cass, are you alright? Look at me!" Then the world began to spin and I allowed the blackness to envelop me. …..ooooo….. There was silence around me, so quiet that the faint pounding in my head seemed uncontrollably loud. I slowly opened my eyes and carefully looked around without moving anything else. The room I was in was dimly lit and I could feel that I was laying on something very soft. Slowly I rolled onto my side, I had to admit, my head didn’t feel as bad as I expected it to. Surveying my surroundings I knew that I had never been where I was before, it looked like a bedroom. "About time you woke up sleepyhead" I heard a soft male voice say from behind me. With a little effort I was able to slowly sit up and face him, he was leaning in the doorway with a warm smile on his lips. I stared at him for a moment before I spoke. "I don’t remember how I got here, or what happened after I fell or how you got there". "I’m not surprised," he said simply as he pushed himself away from the doorframe and moved to sit down beside me. "I followed you as I sensed danger somehow. I brought you here after you blacked out from the fall. You were bleeding so I didn’t bother going after the men who attacked you, I just got you here so I could look after you." I raised my hand to touch my forehead where I vaguely remembered hitting the ground, but there was nothing there, no cut, no bump, nothing. I frowned at him questioningly. "Oh, arh, just used a simple Jedi healing technique. It puts you into a kind of trance and helps you to heal a lot faster. I hope you don’t mind." Mind, how could I mind? I slowly shook my head. "No, of corse not. Clever trick that, must come in handy." I tried to sound light, but having him this close to me was stirring all the emotions that had originally brought me to Coruscant in the first place. I shifted uncomfortably and averted my eyes as I realised I was sitting on his bed, that added to my feelings of tension somewhat. "I, um, was doing some thinking while you were recovering. Can you tell me what you know about me? I mean, I need to know." I looked up at him, I could see he was nervous, like he didn’t think I did know everything and he was afraid at how I would react to the truth. Biting my lip slightly I drew a deep breath and began. "I know about your parents, Kessel and how you grew up there mostly…." I paused, this last piece of information was the bit he was afraid of. "I also know about Carida." The silence hung in the air for what seemed like an eternity, I watched as a series of emotions played over his face, finally he turned away from me, the fact I knew hurt him. When I read the files it was clear that this particular part of his life had been very traumatic and painful. The file referred to his ‘fall to the darkside of the Force’, that was something I didn’t quite understand, but I knew it wasn’t good. It mentioned the loss of his brother was the result of his actions, as was the destruction of an Imperial Base and the entire solar system it was in. I was shocked by that information and at the time felt ill at the very thought of what he’d done. I spent the whole night trying to come to terms with the knowledge and found myself struggling. The next day I returned to the library and did some research into Jedi Knights, and this ‘darkside of the Force’. I found it difficult to grasp at first, but then, as if hit by lightening, it made sense to me. Good and evil, that’s what it boiled down too, and with what Kyp had suffered through his life, it was only logical that some of it would hang over him. The fact that he had been able to come back from that dark place and re-build his life had shown me so much more than he gave himself credit for. I reached out and using the tips of my fingers, I turned his chin toward me. "Please don’t turn away. I know, and I understand. I can’t imagine how hard it was for you, how you survived through it and the very fact that you turned out to be so wonderful is a credit to you." I whispered, he still wouldn’t look at me, his eyes remaining downcast, I pushed on. "Do you really think I would have made this much effort if I didn’t know that I was doing the right thing? Give me more credit please. From the moment you walked into the room back on Akrian I knew there was something special about you." I looked down and smiled, "What’s more to the point, you knew exactly what was going through my mind before I’d even had time to analyse it." He smiled gave a small shrug. "Believe me, it wasn’t that hard to pick up on from where I was standing." "Then you should know how I feel about you, that nothing else matters, not to me." Gently he reached up and took my hand in his and lifted his eyes to mine, the pain had returned, but I could see he had something to say. "I killed millions of people" he said simply, "I thought I was doing the right thing, helping the New Republic get rid of the Imperials……..I was wrong. When I look back I can’t imagine how I could have possibly justified what I was doing." He paused and I remained silent as I felt he needed to explain his side of the story to me. "There were things happening on Yavin 4, and to me. Things I didn’t understand at the time. I was angry at the whole galaxy for what it had dealt me and, ………..I guess it got the better of me. There’s a Dark side to the Force, so different to the path I follow now, so evil. It took the Emperor, Vader and so many others. It almost took me as well." He closed his eyes, I could see he was gathering his thoughts, so I waited patiently. Pursing his lips he returned his gaze to me, "I lost my brother because of it, the last family I had. That alone could have meant the end, but somehow, with help from Captain Solo and Master Skywalker I found my way back. It’s taken a long time for the people of the New Republic to forgive me, infact I’m sure there are some who never will, but I’ll never go that way again." "I know." I said. We sat there in silence staring at each other for several minutes, I wasn’t sure if he was ‘reading’ me, but at that point I didn’t care. He was close to me and for the first time since I had arrived on Coruscant, he wasn’t fighting me. Finally I had to say what I left Akrian to say, "I love you." It felt so natural to say it and I knew now it was truer than anything I had ever felt before. His lips parted slightly, I realised I had caught him totally off guard. I watched as he moved his mouth to say something, but nothing came out. Then suddenly he acted instead, cupping my face with his free hand and kissing me long and hard. I surrendered totally to him, drowning in the softness of his lips and savouring every sensation. When he finally pulled away it was only to respond to me, "I love you too Cass. I have for so long now. I never dreamed…."He never finished that sentence, instead choosing to resume kissing me. I knew then I had won this battle, but something told me the road ahead wasn’t going to be smooth, and that my life was never going to be the same again. There's more if anyone is interested. -----signature----- New Jedi Order Fan Club - Grand Admiral Wild Knightz Lead. Age is part of what makes women beautiful, not an imperfection that needs to be corrected
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Jez_3-14159265358979 Registered: Aug '01	Date Posted: 6/26/03 9:39am Subject: RE: Kyp and Cass - Post ROTJ - Kyp Durron, Angst, action, romance.
	PLEASEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE. that was so good Adalia. I must have some more. Jez -----signature----- "She Drew a Circle that left me out, Heritic, Rebel, a thing to flout, But my heart had wit to win, I drew a circle that took her in."
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Adalia-Durron Title: Oceania RSA Registered: Jun '03	Date Posted: 6/26/03 3:22pm Subject: RE: Kyp and Cass - Post ROTJ - Kyp/Luke/Mara, Angst, action, romance. - Date Edited: 6/26/03 6:43pm (1 edits total) Edited By: Adalia-Durron
	Thanks! As you requested!! I had been on Courscant for a month now, and as I had predicted, the road had been very rocky. It was taking a lot of effort for Kyp to let me into his life and he seemed to spend the better part of his time trying to protect me from the real world. It was obvious to me that he still didn’t think I was ready to handle him, all of him. I once again found myself debating to his turned back. “Come on Kyp, you’re being so over-protective. You seem to forget what I’ve spent most of my life doing,” I sighed, “and I wish you wouldn’t turn your back on me, I really don’t like it.” He glanced at me over his shoulder, “It’s the only way I can hide from you” he muttered with a small smile, “You seem to know what I’m thinking before I do, that confuses me.” Finally, an admission of weakness! “So, I can get to you if I have too.” His gaze had returned to the window, but I could sense the smile I had brought to his face. “Don’t get to cocky, I can still keep two steps ahead of you.” I laughed out loud which seemed to diffuse the situation a little. “Let me come with you. I’ll rot if you leave me here, you know I’m not used to sitting on my hands when theres work to be done.” He turned to face me, “It’s too dangerous Cass, I can’t take the risk of you being hurt,…..or worse.” I could see that he was remembering the past and his losses. “I’m not your brother, or your parents Kyp. It’ll take a lot more than you can imagine to get rid of me,” I said gently. “You say you love me. Me being what I am, not what you want me to be. I can’t sit by quietly while you’re making a difference; it’s not my way. I think you know that.” Just at that moment the door chimed. Kyp turned to it and his eyes narrowed ever so slightly. I had gotten used to him using his abilities to do simple things like checking who was at the door. He raised his eyebrows and sighed, “Come in” Not having his insight, I had to face the door to know who was there. When it opened I studied the woman standing in front of me, I had not met her before. “Hello Mara. I didn’t expect you until tomorrow.” Kyp said as she entered the room. “I left a day early, therefore, got here a day early.” She responded. I watched her as she crossed the room, her golden red hair hanging just below her shoulders, and a lightsabre attached to her belt. Another Jedi Knight? “You set to go? Sooner we get there, sooner we can sort this mess out.” Kyp glanced at me, “Not quite, I have a couple of things too sort out before I go.” Mara turned to me. “You must be the Cassiopia I’ve heard so much about. I’m Mara Jayde Skywalker.” She closed the gap between us and thrust out her hand out to me. Taking it in mine I was a little stunned, I knew Kyp had famous friends and acquaintances, but sometimes he still surprised me. “Pleased to meet you, I have to be honest, Kyps’ told me nothing about you.” I gave him a quick look of disapproval, it was obvious he had been expecting her, nice of him to mention it to me. Mara laughed. “That doesn’t surprise me, especially since it’s obvious he didn’t want you to be involved in his next assignment. BUT, before anyone says anything I have to put my two credits worth in.” She held her hand up to Kyp as if to silence any protest from him, “and you know whose opinion as well.” Kyp was about to protest until she added that last bit; he then shut his mouth. “I’ve done a bit of checking into your past Cassiopia.” I widened my eyes wide in surprise. “Don’t give me that look, you’ll get used to not having any privacy around this lot. Han worries about Kyp, kind of a father thing I guess and he talks to Luke and well, I get everything then.” It made sense to me, but un-nerved me a little at the same time. I still had to get used to being around Jedi Knights and them knowing my thoughts and feelings, not just the one I was involved with. “Anyway, we talked about the fact we need a cover to go in, and as this place is a resort in the surface we figured couples were less likely to be noticed. She turned to face Kyp squarely, almost challenging him to disagree with her, “from what I have read, it seems the lady behind me can more than handle herself and if she intends to hang around with you, you should get used to her being included in things.” At last, someone that respected my abilities, minor as they were against the other two people in the room. “It’s out of the question.” Kyp said evenly. I was getting very annoyed with him now, turning away and letting out a groan of frustration. “You know, if I thought it’d knock some sense into that head of yours, I’d pump a stun bolt into you right now” I snapped as I turned back to face him resting my hand on the blaster I had begun to wear again since the attack. “But somehow I think there isn’t any sense in there to be knocked!” Kyps face dropped, he didn’t expect that from me. Mara chuckled, “I like this girl.” I remained glaring in his direction daring him to argue with me. He studied me for a moment, I could tell he wasn’t just looking at me, I knew by the look on his face. With that in mind I tried to project determination and strength to him, I had the support of Mara and her husband, so I wasn’t going to let him say no. “I don’t like this, but I guess I don’t have a say in it anymore.” He sighed shaking his head. “I suppose you should go home and get some gear packed.” Mara frowned, “You don’t live here?” she asked me. I shifted my weight a little uncomfortably. “No, um, I….” Our relationship had not progressed that far, I wasn’t sure I was ready to admit that it was because of me. “I guess you could call me a very old fashioned kind of girl.” I could feel the slight blush spread up my neck and over my cheeks. I glanced at Kyp then back to Mara, “I guess I must be the galaxy’s oldest living virgin.” Should I be proud of that one? Kyp could see and feel my embarrassment, we had discussed the subject weeks ago and he’d been very supportive and understanding. He crossed the room and put his arms around me, “It’s a joint decision, there’s no hurry for anything.” He said gently as he gazed into my eyes lovingly. Mara shrugged, “What ever, it’s your business not mine. Anyway, you’re going to need to a couple of gowns and some holiday wear. This place is pretty up market. You’ll be heading out on the ‘Nova Star’ in the morning, Luke and I will follow a day or so later. You two won’t need a disguise, no one knows you Cassiopia, and Kyps’ not that well recognised. You will have to change your names though. Us on the other hand, we’ll let you know when we get there who we are. Kyp will fill you in on what we are up too. I guess that’s all there is for now. I trust the two of you can handle the rest.” She began to walk to the door, “Oh, do you have any names you’d prefer I use to make the reservations?” she asked. Kyp frowned, clearly he’d not thought about it at all. I remembered the happiest couple I’d known on Akrian. “Jace and Christia Orian” I said. Mara nodded, turned and left. I watched her go and remained silent in his arms for a while, finally pulling away. I felt I was letting him down on a personal level. “Stop thinking like that Cass, I told you, I’m Ok with your decision. I don’t want anything from you that you aren’t ready to give.” I couldn’t look him in the face, was there something wrong with me? I wandered into the kitchen area and got myself a glass of water, keeping my eyes downcast. Kyp watched me and remained silent. I finished the water took a deep breath. “Maybe when we get back from this trip I should see someone about this. Maybe I have a problem.” I spoke evenly trying to hide the fact that I felt I was failing him in our relationship. “You haven’t got a problem. Don’t talk crazy.” He closed the gap between us, “You’re just a very rare woman, someone who didn’t waste their youth and is waiting for the right guy and the right time. I don’t think there is anything wrong with that.” “What about you?” I looked at him; “it must be difficult for you.” He shifted his weight from one foot to the other shrugging his shoulders. “I’ll cope. There are more important things you know.” “I don’t know what’s wrong with me. I know I found the right guy as you say, ……”my voice trailed off as I wasn’t sure what else to say. “That means a lot to me.” He leaned on the bench that was between us, “I guess we’ll just have to work on the timing thing when we get back.” He smiled warmly. I reached up and caressed his face gently; he leaned his cheek into my palm. “Have I told you lately?” “Yeah, but hey, my male ego can always use a boost.” “You’re so special, do you have any idea how much I love you?” “I’ve got a rough idea, but tell me again and refresh my memory.” I moved around the bench and put my arms around his neck, “I hope I’ll be able to show you very soon.” “When you’re ready” he whispered, finally kissing me soundly, reminding me how much he loved me. ……ooooo….. Just over an hour later I had gathered some clothes into a suitable case and was back at Kyps quarters. He wasn’t home, having allowed me access so I could wait for him. I had a rough idea of what the assignment was, but I didn’t know the details so I had to let him fill me in. I wandered around the main room not really looking at things, just moving while I did some thinking. I had the feeling that what we were about to embark on was going to be dangerous, otherwise Kyp wouldn’t have been to adamant about me not being involved. It had been a while since I had seen any action, the Imperials on Akrian were really a push over in the end, very little fire had been exchanged and it was mainly political manoeuvring. Something I had to admit I knew little about so I had kept out of it mostly. I knew that Mara Jade Skywalker was involved in the ‘transport industry’, another description for ‘smugglers’ I figured. So the very fact that she was involved told me that this was something to do with the seedy underbelly of the New Republic. In a way it kind of excited my senses to think I was going in with these ‘seasoned veterans’, I hoped I could live up to expectations. I was startled back to reality by the door opening. “Glad you’re back. We need to talk.” He strode over to the table and placed a data pad and several cards on it. “I’ve got the outlines of the assignment here and the backgrounds you need to know”. He turned to face me, “I don’t have to tell you again how much I am against this do I?” “No, I think I got that about 4 hours ago.” I walked to the table and picked up the data pad, “I think I also made it clear that I can handle myself.” Turning to face him I added, “and I don’t like you thinking I’m not up to the challenge. I survived a long time before you came along Kyp.” “I know that.” He sighed, “But I didn’t know you then, let alone love you.” That made me smile, it was nice that someone felt so protective of me, I couldn’t remember the last time I had ever felt ‘protected’. “Kyp, you have to trust me on this, I can handle it. I want to handle it. It’s real sweet they way you want to protect me, and believe it or not there’s a part of me that wants simply to do the same for you” I leaned against him, placing my palms flat on his chest. “You have to learn to do what you do best and I’ll try to do the same. You never know, we might turn out to be a pretty neat team.” He chuckled softly, “You never know” “Right. Now, you go and pack while I study these discs, OK?” He hesitated, looking at me with concern on his face. I pulled away and moved behind him, “GO!” I said as I shoved him firmly in the back. “I’m going, I’m going” I waited until he disappeared into his room then turned my attention to the discs and data pad. I began with the one that was already inserted, sitting myself on the lounge I began to read. It seems I had correct about Mara’s involvement. She had a major problem with ships and their entire cargoes’ going missing, and when the ships did turn up, only the male crew was aboard. Worse still, they seem to have lost part of their memories, not to mention their minds. They had no recollection of what had happened to them, their cargo or their female counterparts. There seemed to be no particular pattern as the ships had disappeared from different parts of the galaxy, on the other hand, all of them were carrying unusual cargo. Cargo that wasn’t of the norm and could be considered luxury. Leaning back into the soft lounge, I considered this for a moment before reading on. The ships had turned up again in very different places, usually somewhere near a populated area so they would be discovered quickly. A good thing as mostly the men had lost their ability to contact help or simply fly the freighters they were on to get help. I had to admit I had little or no knowledge of piloting a star ship of any kind, I could handle most land based vehicles and considered myself a pretty hot in a speeder, but that was no comparison. I briefly scanned the list of ships, their cargoes and crews, 20 in all, but decided not to take in much of the details, as I couldn’t see the relevance of knowing them all by name. Anyway, I was sure Mara would know every name, ship size and crewmember. Removing the disc and inserting the next I was interested to see the connection between the resort and the disappearing ships. The Quasar Mud Resort was situated on a planet called Saurius, a world not generally known for its habitability. The surface was hot and steamy, but not a pleasant kind of humidity. The were thermals doted all over its surface that gurgled out rather smelly gases that causes eye and skin irritations. It had been discovered that even though the gases were bad, the actual mud produced were highly therapeutic and had healing properties, and therefore much desired. The owners of the resort had managed to find a way to rid the mud of the gases and harness it to their purpose. They had constructed huge plasteel domes and created an entire ecosystem more to the image they were trying to project, rich and tropical. It had become a favourite ‘honeymoon’ location over the past few years as it relaxed young couples and helped them start off their marriages well. Honeymoon? I shifted uncomfortably, I guess that means we’ll be sharing a room, I mused. We’ll cross that bridge when we get to it I decided. Reading on I discovered the connection. One of Mara’s operatives was spending some of his holiday time in the resort when he stumbled into an area normally not used by most patrons. It seemed to be some kind of ‘pleasure house’ for males. Upon entering he was stunned to find one of the members of Mara’s organisation serving there. She had no memory of him and seemed almost programmed to serve food, drinks and herself if so desired. He also noticed that she was serving Nmarna Juice from Bakura, a drink known for its ability to totally relax the drinker as well as it extreme expense. He reported all he had seen to his employer as soon as he had returned to base and was informed that one of the cargoes missing was from Bakura. It was the only evidence found so far and even though it was a very weak link, it was one none the less. It was decided that this would be the best place to start the investigation but the direct approached was not going to work. If this was a tenuous link, the last thing wanted was for the culprits to be scared off before anyone could make a stronger connection. It all made sense. Finally I inserted the last disc, our covers and details we should know. The first few sentences told me straight away that they had intended Kyp to go in by himself as a single man. That was going to be his angle of attack and Luke and Mara were coming in from the other side as it were. Then the tone changed and I was mentioned as his partner. I had the distinct feeling there had been intervention to prevent a sticky situation developing for him. With a girlfriend at home, it would make it a little difficult for him to do what was necessary to infiltrate the ‘pleasure house’. I had to smile and wonder who had changed the plans. I remembered Mara saying that retired General Solo looked upon Kyp as a son, maybe it came from that high up? Reading on I saw that Luke and Mara were a couple trying to re-establish their marriage, add some spark. Their names were listed as Dack and Mikki Dilalis, Dack was a Data Gatherer for the New Republic and his wife Mikki worked in the Charity sector. I then read that the names I had suggested had been slotted in appropriately for us and that they had matched our ages identically. We were described as ‘newlyweds’ on our honeymoon. Oh boy this was going to be difficult, I had to get over this really quickly if I wasn’t going to blow the whole operation. Kyp was listed as a pilot for a small transport company and I was crew on another ship for the same company. I could pull that off I was sure. It said we were both from Courscant now, but I had come from Akrian many years before. That helped me, I wouldn’t have to make much of that up or cover my accent. There was also an account listed that contained 1500 credits as our spending money, that sounded nice. I had wondered how things were being paid for. I sighed out loud and flopped back into the lounge. It was all pretty straight forward really; I just had to make sure I knew my role backward so as not to mess up. “Having second thoughts?” Closing my eyes I slowly shook my head. If he thought I would be put off that easily he was sadly mistaken. “You wish” I answered. There was a pause before he spoke again; he was ‘feeling’ me out, another thing I had gotten used to him doing. “Yeah, I guess I did”. “Give it up” I sighed as he came around the lounge and flopped down next to me. He turned to face me. “The Nova Star leaves at 8 am in the morning, it’d be best you stay here so we can get away early. Before you say anything, this is a really comfortable lounge, so don’t worry.” I smiled at him. “Yeah, I know, just give me a pillow and blanket, I’ll be fine.” “Not you, me silly.” “Why? If it’s because you are the man, that’s a weak excuse. This is your place; therefore I’m on the lounge, got it? Anyway, I’m shorter than you, less of me will hang over the edge.” I explained. He opened his mouth to argue and I firmly placed my hand over it. “Not another word, hear me?” He rolled his eyes and nodded, “OK. Now, I guess some dinner would be the go about now Mr Orian, you up to going out?” He nodded again. I had to laugh then; he looked so silly with my hand over his mouth so I removed it. He was laughing as well by this stage. “You OK with the cover?” he asked as we stood up. “Yeah. Most girls would consider it a dream come true and be packing every exotic piece of underwear they had. Unfortunately I don’t own any, so I had best get used to the lounge.” “You don’t have too” he muttered. I turned to face him and saw something in his eyes that I hadn’t seen before; it took my breath away and scared me a little. I turned away, knowing exactly what he was thinking. No pressure, sure. “Yes I do, for the time being anyway. Lets go” I couldn’t get out of there fast enough. …..ooooo….. Dinner was pretty quiet, he knew I was upset a little by what he’d said so he kept to himself. We didn’t talk about the coming days at all for fear of someone overhearing us, that and the fact that I didn’t want to talk about it. Once we returned to his quarters I made it clear I was very tired and all I wanted to do was get some sleep, he didn’t argue at all going to his room to retrieve a blanket and pillow. I took them from him and silenced his protest with a glare, sighing he returned to his room silently. I lay there staring at the ceiling for what seemed like hours fighting the tears that threatened to fall. I was wrong I knew it, he was only acting like any normal man would and I had made him feel so bad about that. I had no right; in fact I was holding him back. He could be out there finding the right woman, one who would do the right thing at the right time, not like me. Groaning I rolled onto my side, a mistake I realised too late. Gravity took over and the tears fell from my eyes uncontrollably. I felt so lost, what was stopping me from being everything to him? I had searched my mind for something, anything that made me like I am. Maybe there was something in my past I had blocked out, I’d heard of that happening before. I had never had to question myself until now so somewhere in my past there may be the answer. I wasn’t going to get any sleep tonight, that was clear so I decided to get up and go over the discs again to be sure. I was glad to find the data pad was internally lit so I didn’t need any other lights. After reading them again I was still restless, I’d stopped crying long ago and had tried desperately to put that particular problem from my mind. I got up and began to pace the room; I needed to exert some energy to tire myself out. I heard a soft moan from the bedroom that stopped me in my tracks. I stood staring at the open doorway for what seemed like an eternity, something inside of me was pulling me toward him, another part of me was fighting it. Eventually the pulling won out and I found myself making my way over to his room. I stood in the doorway and peered in trying not to make a sound. In the pale light that shone through the small window I could see his sleeping form. He was lying on his stomach with one arm under his pillow the other stretched out above his head. The blankets were only covering him from the waist down and he was naked from there up. My heart began to pound painfully in my chest as a mixture of feelings coursed through me. I was scared, excited, aroused, and nervous and a whole lot of other emotions I couldn’t put my finger on. Leaning on the doorframe for support, I wasn’t sure what I should do next. Part of me was saying, ‘get back to the lounge and go to sleep’, then there was the other part saying ‘go to him’. I knew what path was the right thing for any other woman in the same situation, and the path I would normally have taken. Maybe the time had come to change paths, or at least make an attempt to. Biting my lip I pushed myself away from the door and crept over to the side of his bed, sitting down as gently as I could. He stirred slightly but didn’t wake up. Tentatively I extended my hand and gently brushed some of his hair out of his eyes, running my fingers through to the back of his head. Suddenly his midnight blue eyes shot open, I jumped slightly as he startled me. He looked up at me. “Is everything all right?” he asked attempting to sit up. I watched him carefully and nodded slowly. “Everything’s fine, I just…” I lowered my eyes as I was now a little embarrassed at my actions. “Just what? Oh…Look Cass I’m really sorry about earlier, I was way out of line. I made a promise and, well I shouldn’t have said what I said. I really am sorry.” He said softly. I kept my eyes down, “you know how you ‘read’ my feelings sometimes?” “Yes, I’m not now though” “I know. Would you please?” I didn’t have to look at him to know he was confused. “Are you sure?” I gave a quick nod. I listened as he drew a shallow breath and went silent. Waiting for as long as I knew it would take him, then lifting my head to meet his gaze. His look told me how stunned he was; he swallowed and bit his bottom lip. “It’s a little confusing in there. Want to help me out here?” I could see he didn’t really want to believe what he had felt, I wasn’t sure I wanted to believe it myself. There was a chance I was rushing this, so I decided to take it one step at a time. “The lounge is very uncomfortable,” I prodded his pillow with my finger “and I haven’t gotten any sleep yet.” “Oh, Well we’ll swap, no problem” he said starting to get up and grabbing his pillow, I could hear a little disappointment in his voice. I reached out and grabbed his arm. “No. It’s also cold out there.” He frowned at me not understanding my meaning so I pushed on. “I’ve heard that it’s a lot warmer when you sleep close to another person.” “Oh, is that so.” I nodded, he looked down at the bed and then cautiously moved back a little, “Well I guess there’s room here if you think it might keep you warmer.” I decided not to say another word and simply moved myself over and lay down with my back to him. He remained half sitting until I was settled down and then lowered himself behind me. He wasn’t touching me so I decided to be a little assertive. Reaching back I took his hand and gently pulled it over my body to encircle my waist. I waited as he carefully rested his body against mine relaxing himself. I smiled and closed my eyes, this was enough to start with and I promptly fell asleep. …..ooooo…… When I woke the next morning I was alone. I rolled over and scanned the room realising he’d been gone for a while when I felt the coolness of the bed. Getting up I wondered where he was and why he’d left. I found him in the kitchen finishing up the preparations for breakfast. He seemed really happy so I simply enjoyed the attention. After breakfast we made our way to the spaceport and I felt like we had moved to a new phase in our relationship, not as far as it could go, but it was a step in the right direction. I began to enjoy this part of the assignment, boarding a luxury space liner with everyone believing I was a newly wed, it was rather exciting. Once aboard we found our quarters and settled in for the lighter part of the journey. Kyp could sense how pleased I was with everything around me and seemed to enjoy my pleasure. The journey was only going to take two standard days and one night, so we took the opportunity to explore the ship and enjoy some of the activities. The meals were exotic and there were activities organised all over the ship at all hours. By the end of the first day we were both exhausted and couldn’t wait to get some sleep. We spent the night the same way we had the night before, only he wrapped both his arms around me and held me close with out any hesitation. It felt right. When I woke on the second day I was alone again, there was a note left for me. He’d gone to the ships gymnasium, said he had some excess energy to work out. I knew what that meant and felt guilty, I was making things difficult for him. I took the opportunity to explore the boutiques on board hoping maybe the retail therapy would help to relax me and was astounded at the array of gowns to be found, not to mention the incredible prices being asked. I knew I didn’t have anything quite this exotic and began to wonder if my meagre garments were up to scratch. A little further along the Promenade I found a place that had and large range of garments that weren’t quite as expensive but still had a classy look about them. Only there was one of every size on the rack so I knew they weren’t originals, but they were much nicer than then the old dress I had bought along with me. I tentatively entered the store and surveyed the store. There it was the most beautiful thing I’d ever seen. The gown was a rich burgundy velvet fabric with fine straps made with tiny Chrystals. It hugged the figure of the model wearing it and as I approached it I noticed the lower part of the gown glittered slightly. Upon closer inspection I was able to pick out the same Chrystals only smaller woven into the fabric. The assistant, a Twi’lek female was very helpful and before I knew it I was standing in front of a reflector glass and was stunned at my appearance. The assistant had scooped my long auburn hair up and coiled it onto the top of my head and shown me a fine necklet that matched the gown. It didn’t take me long to delve into the expense account given us and I was pleased to discover it wasn’t going to cost as much as I had thought. The assistant then showed me some of the exotic night garments the store stocked as I had mentioned my cover as a newlywed. At first I refused, but curiosity got the best of me. I was overwhelmed with the rich fabrics of the revealing yet very beautiful nightgowns. I looked at them all and eventually chose one, knowing I would use it when the time was right. Once I had finalised my purchases I glanced at my chrono and was stunned at the time. I quickly made my way back to our quarters and was relieved to find them empty. Hiding the gowns I went to find Kyp and was surprised to find him still in the gymnasium. When he saw me he finished up the work out and after a quick trip to the refresher unit we resumed out guise of newly weds. …..oooooo….. The planet of Saurius filled the view screen in front of us, it had orange coloured clouds slowly and gracefully swirling over the planets’ surface. I was in awe of it as I had only ever seen Akrian and Courscant from space and all three worlds were so very different. “Beautiful isn’t it,” I said softly leaning against the man posing as my husband. He glanced at me and smiled briefly, his expression turning serious just as fast. “I hope you know what you are getting into here.” He muttered under his breath. Turning my attention back to the viewport I simply nodded, I didn’t want to get into this now, as far as I was concerned it had been sorted out. Thankfully he understood me and didn’t say any more on the subject. Only one standard hour later we had departed the liner and had found our room. Along the way we were given information about where the mud pools were and how wonderful if would make us feel. I felt it was a little overkill, but guessed it was the only attraction here so they had to make it sound very appealing. I was surprised at the size of the accommodation. The main room had a sweeping view of the resort below and a huge bedroom with a large bed covered with exotic looking quilts and pillows. We waited until the valet droid had departed leaving our luggage just inside the bedroom doorway before we actually spoke to each other. “This is huge!” I commented as I slowly turned around the room. Kyp was looking into the bedroom. “Yeah, pretty luxurious, not sure I can get used to this.” He muttered. I laughed. “I’m sure you’ll learn to suffer through.” He leaned in the doorway and smiled at me. He then began to scan the room with deep concentration on his face. I knew he was looking for surveillance cameras or sound detection devices. He wanted to be sure that no one knew who we were and why we were there before we sat down and discussed our first move here. He slowly moved around the room scanning it for anything unusual and once he was satisfied it was clear he sat on the lounge. “So, where do we start?” I asked as I flopped down beside him. “Not sure, I guess we could scout the place out, take a look around. I think we should have something to share with the others when they get here.” I thought for a moment. “Maybe you should go a check out that place mentioned in the report, you know, the one where the crew member was found.” He turned to me with a stunned look on his face. “I beg your pardon?” I have to admit, his reaction did amuse me and somewhere deep inside I got what I was aiming for. Trying to keep a straight face, I went on. “You heard me. I can’t go there, I think that’d be a little strange, but you on the other hand…” I shrugged. He studied me for a hand full of seconds and then broke into a grin. “Oh, I get it, a test. I’m not falling into that one, sorry.” I laughed as I hugged him. “Too clever for me. Come on, lets check this place out” Together we left the room laughing. ……oooo….. I was fascinated by the growth of the luscious plants growing everywhere knowing that their upkeep would not only be expensive but very intensive. I guessed the soil would be very fertile but full of chemicals that would not be beneficial to most fauna. There were beings everywhere scantily clad in towels and small robes either heading toward one of the many mud pools or leaving them. They all seemed to have pleasant smiles on their faces and an almost dreamlike look in their eyes. The atmosphere was very relaxed and as we strolled holding hands I would have found it very easy to forget the real reason for our presence there. Kyps voice broke into my thoughts. “Don’t, keep your mind on the job” he was leaning close to my ear and his breath sent a shiver down my spine. I turned to him and promptly kissed him. “Try and relax and fit in, if you don’t you’re gonna be the one blowing it” I whispered back. He rolled his eyes and began walking again. I was enjoying this. “Welcome Sir and Madam, I am C9T8 and would be pleased to assist you in anyway to make your stay enjoyable.” The emerald green protocol droid offered as it approached us. There were several clean towels draped over his forearm, which swung precariously as he walked. “Thank you, but we’re happy just to look around for the time being if you don’t mind” Kyp answered smoothly. I nodded in agreeance, playing the part of new wife who had not learned to argue as yet. “Of course gentile sir, you and your lovely lady are welcome to explore our complex as much as you require. I would like to suggest that you make good use of our mud baths while you are here as I believe you will find them quite rewarding.” With that he turned and went back the way he had come. “They really push the mud here, but I guess that’s what we are supposed to be here for” I sighed adding, “I’m not sure I like the idea of being submerged up to my neck in muck”. Kyp laughed. “You’ll never know unless you try it, I’m game” “Maybe later, right now I want to make sure I know my way around this place with my eyes closed.” He nodded and we proceeded to move around the resort. The layout was pretty straightforward, the accommodations and space port were placed around the circumference of the huge dome and the mud baths, restaurants and entertainment were dotted around the centre divided by lush green parks and fountains. I began to wonder where this ‘pleasure house’ could be, it had to be hidden behind or even in one of the accommodation facilities. I guessed that it would not be pointed out to us due to the fact that we were a couple. Damn, Kyp was right, I should have stayed away; he would have a lot more chance of getting in without me. I began to feel annoyed with my stubbornness, and myself. If I had only listened in the first place, but there was no point in ‘what ifs’ now, as it wouldn’t help. I had to admit though; there was a part of me that was grateful that he wasn’t here alone. I was not sure how I would handle the idea of him in such a place keeping our current situation in mind, after all he was only human and the temptation could be huge. Once again, I was brought back to reality by his voice. “I don’t know what you’re tossing around in that head of yours, but will you either give it up or share it with me. You’re confusing me.” I forced smiled at him. “If my thoughts are that confusing, stay out of them.” That was a little harsh, as I was annoyed at myself and not him. The look on his face told me I had gone too far and I was immediately sorry. “I didn’t mean that, really I didn’t. It’s just that I think I know now why you didn’t want me here, you could be achieving so much more.” He studied my face for a moment then in one smooth movement he enfolded me in his arms pulling me close to him. “Look, I didn’t want you here, but not for the reason you’re thinking. I couldn’t pull off going to a place like that, it’s not me, not to mention the guilt I’d have to live with.” “And the punishment you’d suffer from me” I added as I nuzzled close into his neck. “Yeah, and I think that scares me more.” He chuckled as I wrapped my arms around his neck and held him close. “How about that mud bath now, I think I need to relax a little.” I muttered as I pulled back. He simply nodded and gently kissed my forehead. “Sounds good to me” …..ooooo….. Standing in front of the reflective glass I eyed myself in the one-piece bathing suit supplied by the resort. I couldn’t recall the last time I had need for such a garment, there hadn’t been much call for such during all my years with the underground. The colour, a flat brown, left a lot to be desired and the cut was very basic. I guessed it was designed to cover a large array of female forms of all shapes and sizes. Sighing I reached for the robe provided to cover myself, which wasn’t much bigger. “You ready yet?” Kyp called out from the lounge area. I’d chosen to use the fresher area to change as I was concerned about my appearance and wanted to see what I looked like before anyone else did. “Coming” I called as I left the room. Upon entering the room, I had to surpress a soft gasp. The robe he wore was slightly larger than mine, but left little to the imagination. I found my eyes straying down his bare legs, taking close note of his muscles as he moved to collect our towels. I was entranced and hadn’t realised I was staring. “Uh, hum. You right there?” Startled, I snapped my head up to gaze into his eyes. He was standing with his arms folded across his chest and an extremely amused look on his face. I felt my cheeks flush but found it impossible to drag my eyes away, unlike his which had begun to travel down my own body. “Ok, we’re even” I croaked as I tried to pull the hem of my robe down. Where had my voice gone? He laughed and picked the towels up again. “Come on, hopefully the mud will do a better job than these robes.” He said with a twinkle in his eyes. Lowering my head I made a dash for the door and decided to keep my eyes down for my own sake. Choosing to go to the closest of the baths we entered the compound in silence. I was un-nerved by my reaction to him, but at the same time encouraged, as I had felt definite desire building from within myself. I had to wonder if he had noticed it and was ignoring it or if he’d missed it totally. I looked around the baths and noted several humans, two groups of Twi’leks and a pair of Devorians. All seemed not to notice our arrival, lost in a haze of pleasure. For the first time I noticed that everyone here was the same, oblivious to the world around them, almost trance like. Puzzled, I turned to Kyp with the appropriate expression and was surprised by the look on his face. He turned to me with a questioning look as he leaned closed to me. “Have you noticed too?” he whispered “What, the fact that everyone seems to be in some kind of trance? Yes I have.” I responded in a hushed voice, adding, “do you think it could be the mud?” “Makes sense, maybe we shouldn’t go in, I can even sense these people.” “Stars, I was really looking forward to immersing my entire body in brown, slimy sludge.” Kyp gave me a disapproving look. “Gentile Sir, Gracious Lady, welcome. Please let me assist you in taking your robes before you enter the pools.” I spun to face the protocol droid that had approached us from behind. It was almost exactly the same as the one we’d seen earlier, but this one had gold markings on its torso. We were trapped with no avenue for escape, there was no choice now, we had to go in or cause a scene. “Stay close” Kyp whispered in my ear as he removed his robe, removing my own I nodded. I didn’t like this, was the mud going to turn my mind to mush, I hated the thought of not being in control. Turning back to the mud, I made my way to the edge and feeling Kyp’s presence behind me. Slowly I began the decent down the steps provided, allowing the mud the ooze around my legs. It felt warm and I was right, it was slimy, but my skin began to tingle in a sensation that sent shivers up and down my body. Suddenly I felt like I was being drawn in, like I no longer had a choice in this and I felt a small amount of fear rise in my stomach. “I’m right behind you, I think I can over-ride this if you keep contact with me. Hold on.” He took my hand in his, gripping it firmly in his. Blindly I moved forward allowing the mud to cover my whole body up to my neck. I felt like I was loosing my grip on reality, everything around me took on a hazy glow and I felt light-headed and dizzy. Then a cool wash that began in my hand moved up my arm and slowly engulfed my mind, gently clearing the haze. As I was brought back to reality I silently thanked Kyp and his Force abilities. I turned to face him gratefully and was pleased to see his eyes clear and a look of reassurance on his face and I felt the need to hold on tighter with both hands so as not to loose the connection he’d formed. We sat quietly for a very long time; at least that was how it felt. I desperately wanted to get out but I knew we had to stay long enough to give the impression we were being fully affected by the goo around us, a time that was beginning to feel like an eternity for me. I felt like I couldn’t take much more and squeezed Kyps hand with mine giving him a pleading look. He gave me a slow nod and slowly began to leave the pool pulling me behind him, the only bright spot there was the view I was given. Even though his body was covered in the red/brown mud, it was clearly visible to me, and I found myself staring once again. The droid guided us over to a spa like pool, which was meant to cleanse the mud from our bodies. I followed blindly, partly to keep up the pretence of being affected, partly because of the view I was being offered. The soothing water washed our bodies clean, which relieved the fear I had been harbouring in my belly; I felt if the mud was off our bodies; we would be free to think clearly. With this in mind I let Kyps hand go, an action I immediately regretted. The haze quickly clouded my mind and blindly I fumbled to grasp his hand again, finding it quickly as he was reaching for me. He frowned slightly at me, warning me not to let go until he did, I gave a slow nod. Emerging from the spa the droid placed our robes around us and thanked us for coming, guiding us to the entrance as if we had no idea where or who we were. I suspected we weren’t supposed to. We remained silent as he guided us back to our room, and I waited until he closed the door behind me and let go of my hand. “The mud, I was loosing control, almost like a drug I guess.” I babbled, “not that I have ever taken any kind of drugs, but I suspect it’s a similar sensation.” He nodded. “I was shielding us with the Force, but I was very aware of the mud’s effect. I think we might be onto something already. The effect of the mud wears off after a time, so I guess that’s why everyone who comes here doesn’t really remember much except being very relaxed. But, if the mud was say enhanced….” “It may cause memory loss or worse, like what the pilots and crew of the freighters had experienced. It may even lead the missing women to do what ever they are told.” I finished his theory for him. He pursed his lips in thought for a moment. “I think we should stay indoors for the rest of the day to avoid the pressure to use the pools. With our cover, it shouldn’t raise any eyebrows.” He moved over to the bedroom undoing his robe as he went, “I’ll just get changed, then I’ll leave the facilities to you. You might want to have a shower make sure there isn’t any mud left on you.” He then disappeared into the room. Wrapping my arms around me I suddenly felt a little insecure. Wandering over to the lounge I lowered myself and curled my body into a ball wrapping my arms around my knees tightly. How could all these beings allow themselves to be brainwashed as it were by this natural phenomenon? I had always been proud of the fact that I never required any sort of external relief from my own life, actually I never really understood why anyone would want to escape from reality having found it best to deal with it in the past. The use of alcohol and drugs confused me if nothing more, and as far as I could ascertain, this mud was another sort of drug. “Hey, you’re ok now” His voice was soft as he leaned over the back of the lounge. I tilted my face up to his and smiled. “I know, I just don’t understand that’s all. I have never indulged in any of the mind altering substances I’ve heard of and find it hard to comprehend why anyone would want to loose their grip on reality like that.” Kyp laid his forearms and palms flat on the back of the seat, resting his chin on them and smiled warmly. “You project this image of a warrior who fought for freedom but I think I might be the only one who has really seen you.” He spoke softly in a manner that was meant to compliment me I think. “What do you see?” I asked. “A gentle person who in some aspects has lived a reasonably sheltered life, but I would be the first to warn anyone not to cross you.” I laughed lightly. “Mmmm, I hope you have the sense to take your own advice?” “Go and get cleaned up”. With that I did as I was told, for a change. …..ooooo….. As it was already late in the afternoon when we returned to the room and dinner wasn’t far off we only had to stay indoors for a couple of hours. After cleaning myself up I felt very good almost strangely so, and had a spring in my step when I re-emerged. Kyp was on the lounge watching the screen that was showing promotional information about the resort; he looked so serious and engulfed in what he was doing. I, on the otherhand felt that we had some time alone and we shouldn’t be wasting it, keeping that in mind I lept over the back of the lounge landing in his lap. “Hey! What are you doing?” he cried in surprise. Giggling I cupped his face and planted a deep kiss on his lips. “Are you complaining? If you are, I can go away I you want. I mean if you find that screen more interesting…” I tried to look as hurt as I could, but felt way too light and happy to pull it off and began to giggle. Frowning he took my hands in his. “Are you feeling ok?” “I have never felt better. So alive, so, Oh, I don’t know.” I giggled squirming close to him. “Sexy maybe?” Why was he looking at me like that? So concerned, so serious. Didn’t he want me? I thought that’s what he wanted and here I was feeling like the time was right and all he could do was question me! “Settle down Cass, I think this is a side effect of the mud.” He said evenly, “maybe you should go and lay down for a while.” Lay down? Side effect of the mud? I felt a wild anger rising up and wanted to lash out at him just as suddenly as my previous emotions had risen. Struggling I pulled my hands free and began to hit him. “What’s wrong with you? I come in here offering myself and you act like I’m suddenly not good enough for you” I cried. I had taken him by surprise and it took him a few seconds to respond. I had little hope when he did. Grabbing my hands and pulling them together and holding them with one of his he literally threw me back first onto the lounge, placing himself on top of me to hold me down. I fought him and somewhere in the back of my mind I could hear myself asking what was I doing, this wasn’t like me and in my mind I knew I was acting out of character but I simply couldn’t help myself. I felt his hand cover my mouth to silence the abuse that was pouring from my lips. “CASS, STOP IT!” He yelled. I continued to fight him and felt tears streaming down the sides of my face, what was happening to me? “CASS, Listen to me, I know this is not you. Please STOP!” He was pleading with me now, but even that didn’t get through and I continued to fight him. “I’m sorry Cass, this is for your own good” He then removed his hand from my mouth and touched my temple with his fingertips. Blackness crept into my mind subduing me slowly, part of my mind cried out for him to stop, but the irrational part was still fighting. The blackness moved further and finally I closed my eyes and surrendered to it. …..ooooo….. -----signature----- New Jedi Order Fan Club - Grand Admiral Wild Knightz Lead. Age is part of what makes women beautiful, not an imperfection that needs to be corrected
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Risste Registered: Nov '01	Date Posted: 6/28/03 9:17am Subject: RE: Kyp and Cass - Post ROTJ - Kyp Durron, Angst, action, romance.
	This is very intriguing. More, please:) -----signature----- It is in accepting our limitations that we surrender our hope for a better future. Stop telling others what to do and go do something useful!
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Adalia-Durron Title: Oceania RSA Registered: Jun '03	Date Posted: 6/28/03 5:03pm Subject: RE: Kyp and Cass - Post ROTJ - Kyp Durron, Angst, action, romance.
	As requested, thanks. Before I had even opened my eyes I knew I had been in this situation before. The room was darkened and quiet and my head ached. The memory of what had happened flooded back to me and I suddenly felt very ill at the thought of how I had acted. Rolling onto my side as I opened my eyes and brought my hands up to clutch my head as if holding it would ease the aching. I was surprised to see Kyp sitting cross-legged on the floor, shoulders hunched forward and his head dropped. I wanted to say how sorry I was but found I couldn’t speak, he must have heard me trying to speak and lifted his face to look at me. My heart ached painfully when I saw the tears on his cheeks and the pain in his eyes. “I’m so sorry, but….” He seemed to be struggling with his words, “I didn’t know what else to do, how else to stop you.” His voice was quiet and hoarse. It was clear he was blaming himself for what had happened. I knew better and had to let him know that. Pushing myself up I rolled off the bed and on all fours crawled over to him. “Don’t do this. None of this is your fault you only stopped me. I don’t know what happened to me but I knew I wasn’t acting right but couldn’t stop myself.” I spoke softly as I realised how sore my throat was from yelling earlier. I sat down in front of him not game enough to touch him yet, how he must detest me. “It was the mud. I figure that most couples are both effected by it so neither question it.” He swallowed hard, “It didn’t effect me so I knew you weren’t right. I should have handled it better, should never have done what I did.” His voice was so weak, he sounded like a man defeated and I couldn’t stand it. “No. You did the right thing; I could have hurt you or myself. You had no choice and I am so grateful to you for stopping me from making a mistake. Not that making love with you would be a mistake, it wouldn’t, the situation would have been wrong though”. I looked deep into his eyes, “please forgive me” I whispered. He stared at me for a moment and suddenly pushed himself forward to wrap his arms around me. “How you can see it this way is beyond me. I should be begging for forgiveness, not you” He pulled me close and I enfolded him around the waist. I needed to hold him right now and began to sob with relief. He caressed my hair gently and when I had finally stopped crying he lifted my face to his and gently kissed me. It was soft peck at first, then another and the next was longer. The one after that was much deeper, and the next deeper than any we’d shared so far and I didn’t resist, infact I pushed for more as I was feeling I needed him at that moment. I felt a strange excitement building in my stomach and my response to him became more urgent, I was in my right mind this time. With his arms around me I could feel the gentle caress of his hands