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  1. In Memory of LAJ_FETT: Please share your remembrances and condolences HERE

RMFF Round Robin...

Discussion in 'Denver, CO' started by Jedi Girl of Corellia, Oct 1, 2002.

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  1. PtrsonsZOO

    PtrsonsZOO Jedi Grand Master star 7

    Registered:
    Jul 30, 2001
    Okay, I know this is a lot for you to read at once, but I've been dying to put up some of my own posts. So get ready for the floodgates to open up [face_devil] (and this time I mean it, there are no gaps standing in the way for a little while :D )




    Sitting at the controls of the [i]SkyDancer,[/i] Jae-Lee Reklaw absentmindedly plays with the stitches in the back of his head; his face a mix of relaxation and contemplation. Preoccupied with his current task, he fails to notice the arrival of a certain fair-haired woman.

    ?How are those things doing? . . Do they itch yet?? She gently pushes his head forward to get a better view. ?I say they look about ready to come out.? Turning his seat around to face her, ?So, are you ready for it tough guy?? Her face betraying the delight she is taking in the prospect of removing those stitches.

    With a little trepidation, ?Sure, why not? But I should wait for someone to sit at the hel-?

    ?I got it fly-boy.? Nija comes in from behind Mees with an even bigger smile on her face.

    ?Well, I?m glad to see my friends taking such delight in my pain.? Jae gets up form the seat and storms past both of the women.

    ?Gee, what?s got into him?? Mees gives Nija a wink.

    ?Must be what?s comin? out of him,? and the two women laugh out loud.

    ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

    ?Ouwwwwwch! Watch what you?re doin? with those sharps, Mees! This isn?t the least bit funny,? Jae skulks down into the chair; his face in a full on pout.

    ?Oh, quit your bell-aching, that?s just the first stitch, you big crèche baby.? Mees grins a bit and prepares to remove the next stitch, when Master Mussiri comes into the room.

    ?Perhaps you should allow me to perform this task, Meesahran?? With his words she moves away from Jae-Lee. ?I am afraid my young pupil is allowing her relationship with you to interfere with your medical treament.? Master Mussiri takes the sharps from Mees? grasp and deftly begins to remove the stitches.

    ?Thanks, Master Mussiri. I guess our horsing around can be a little disconcerting to others, but we really don?t mean any harm by it.? Jae-Lee blushes at the treatment that Mees has received because of his yowling.

    ?No apologies are necessary, young one. I may be an old man, but I do know what youthful spirit is about, and the two of your certainly filled with it.? Falion nods to Meesahran and she leaves the room. ?There you are, stitches gone.?

    ?Wow, that was quick, and I never felt a thing. How?d you do that?? Jae stands up carefully rubbing the back of his head.

    ?It is a simple technique, and one that you could learn, if you so chose.? Falion palces the sharps into the wash-basin and begins to clean them, not acknowledging the ominous statement he has presented to Jae.

    ?What do you mean? . . Train with you?? Jae?s puzzled expression grows.

    Falion continues to keep his back to Jae-Lee, ?Of course, it would be your own decision, but I would like to present you with the opportunity.?

    Jae stands in utter shock for a few more moments, before he attempts to speak again, ?Master Mussiri, I really do appreciate the offer, but I have some unfinished business to take care of before I can enter into something new.?

    Falion only stands taller, and turns around, eyes closed, but with a look of contemplation on his weathered face. Taking a deep breath, ?Ah yes, your ?personal mystery.?? He takes a few more breaths before opening his eyes. ?I cannot offer you answers to the mysteries of anything, young one, fore those answers are answered only by oneself. . . But I can offer you the tools with which to uncover such things for yourself. . . However, it is your choice to make. I will not pressure to a decision in either direction, but I will simply say this: your path is not so different from that of myself of Meesahran, for we all seek answers to unanswerable questions in the pursuit of truth.?

    Jae lowers his head, knowing that the old man is speaking the truth, as usual, but there is something in him that is calling out to him to deny the man.
     
  2. PtrsonsZOO

    PtrsonsZOO Jedi Grand Master star 7

    Registered:
    Jul 30, 2001
    Snowball Sucks!!!! :mad:

    Tried posting this last night and wouldn't show up. This morning I post it again and the other two times I tried last night pop up :mad:
     
  3. PtrsonsZOO

    PtrsonsZOO Jedi Grand Master star 7

    Registered:
    Jul 30, 2001
    I promised a flood, and I am delivering :D




    [b]?Coming out of hyperspace in ten, nine, eight. . .?[/b] Nija calls out the countdown from the last jump over the ship?s comm system.

    Throwing down her cards, Mees gets up and stretches, ?I guess I better get up there and double check to next jump coordinates. You win by default, fly-boy, but I expect a re-match.? Mees turns to walk toward the cockpit.

    ?You say that every time we play Sabacc, but I?m still waiting for you to win.? Jae smiles broadly with his remark.

    [b]?Mees, there?s a high priority comm transmission waiting for you on the net.?[/b]

    Before Nija can even finish her comm, Mees is rushing up to the cockpit with Jae-Lee and Master Mussiri not far behind her.

    Punching the receive codes into the comm console, Mees brings up a recorded holo-vid of Xaxan.

    [b]My Dear Friend Meesahran, I am contacting you in the hopes of asking you a great favor of dire importance. Please contact me immediately upon receiving this transmission.

    Your most devoted servant, Xaxan Tryashoenu[/b]

    ?Well, that sounds intriguing. . .? Mees strokes her chin a moment. ?Nija, can you grab me the reflector and a groomer.? Nija immediately turns to leave, ?Oh, and a clean shirt, thanks.? Turning to the two men standing in the cockpit and staring at her with questioning looks, ?A girl has to look her best.? Mees bats her eyes at the two, but seeing their disapproval of the tactic, she changes course, ?Look, Xaxan has a soft spot for me, nothing bad, but soft none the less, and I need some info from him, and if I play up his weakness; what harm can come from that?? The two men exchange knowing glances and return their focus on Mees, as Nija returns with the requested items.

    ?So, you?re gonna flirt with him, get your info and find out what?s so urgent with him, then what?? Jae is the first to question her plan.

    ?Then we give Toman the bad news, continue to Chandrila, drop off the package,? Mees winks at Nija, ?and then head out like lightning through a solar sail to Master Mussiri?s people. Simple.?

    Jae?s face turns sour, ?Whose people??

    Mees looks to Master Mussiri and something unseen passes between them, ?I thought you were going to tell him??

    ?Tell me what?!? Jae is now becoming upset.

    Master Mussiri places a hand on Mee?s forearm, [i]He is not yet ready, my child. Perhaps later.[/i]

    ?Sorry, Jae, I thought maybe you had signed on for the full assignment. . . Nija, his ship will be up to snuff by the time we reach Chandrila, won?t it??

    Nija hands the retrieved items to Mees and nods her head, ?Yeah, I just have a couple more things to finish up and she?ll be ready to fly, better than ever.?

    ?Okay, then I guess we can swing by Corellia on the way to Chandrila to let you off. And that way I can give Toman a more personal message. Can?t say much on Hyperspace transmitters, since everyone can pick them up nowadays.? Mees turns around to put the things in the co-pilot?s chair when Jae grabs her should and spins her back around to face him, finding instead a blade at his neck.

    Daring not to move a muscle, he speaks, ?Mees what are you doing?!? His words shake her from her reflexive action, and hers eyes and facial expression change as quickly as she had moved.

    Dropping the knife, ?Look, just don?t grab me like that, okay. . . I?m sorry.? She turns away from them and places her hands on the back of the pilot?s chair, trying to regain her composure.

    Master Mussiri motions for Nija to follow him out the door, and leave the two to attempt to resolve their impasse.

    Not noticing the departure of the other two, Jae starts in, ?What is going on with you Mees?! That?s the third time you?ve come close to lashing out at me, and it?s become a little unnerving. One minute you?re elbowing me in the ribs and horsing around the way we always did before, and the next you?re about to cut my throat with a vibroblade. . . What?s that all about??

    Her breath coming in a heavy rhythm, Mees tries to maintain what little hold on
     
  4. PtrsonsZOO

    PtrsonsZOO Jedi Grand Master star 7

    Registered:
    Jul 30, 2001
    How about a little more? [face_mischief]




    ?Yes, what is it?? Xaxan Tryanshoenu answers the comm station connected to his receptionist.

    ?Master Tryashoenu, you have an incoming Hyperspace transmission, from the secure channel, Sir.? This is the call he has been waiting for all day.

    ?Put it through immediately and return to the outer office, please. I wish to not be disturbed, until further notice. Is that clear?? He knew it would be, but he felt that saying it would impress upon the girl that he was quite serious.

    ?As you wish, Sir.? As her comm clicks off, his vid-screen crackles to life in anticipation of the transmission.

    Postioning himself before the transmitter cam, Xaxan prepares for his coming conversation. He need not to wait for long. Soon an image of a luminous, golden-haired, young woman is filling his vid-screen. She appears to have been sleeping, as she seems to be wearing only a simple, sleep shirt. However, even in this state, she is an absolute beauty. [i]If only age were not my enemy, this lovely vision could be within my reach.[/i]

    [b]?Xaxan, my Dear Friend. What has you sending me such urgent transmissions??[/b]

    ?My apologies for waking you, my Dear Friend. It was not my intention.?

    [b]?I actually woke when the Hyperspace inversion bell sounded, and when I noticed your transmission I thought it best to respond right away. Of what service can I be to you, my Dear Friend??[/b] She brushes away some of the golden hair from her shoulders. Xaxan cannot remember a time when her hair was down in such a manner before, and it strikes him that she is even more beautiful in this natural state.

    ?I fear, my Dear Friend, that the spaceways are becoming evermore unstable. I have had two more transports assaulted, and I am in a precarious position.? Xaxan pauses in an attempt to gauge Meesahran?s reactions to his admission. ?And my Dear Sister is quite insistent on returning to Chandrila. . . Fetè Week is fast approaching and she is adamant that she be present for the celebration. Apparently she is to give an oration at the closing, and she will not be deterred-.?

    [b]?And you would like it if I escorted her to Chandrila? . . Of course, my Dear Xaxan. I would consider it my privilege.?[/b] Looking about the cockpit, Meesahran appears to be searching for something. She picks up an astro-navigation chart and then continues, [b]?And as luck would have it, I am only a few hours out from Commenor. I?ll have to make a few more jumps to re-direct my course, but I could be there by-, . . midday by the looks of it. There will not be any time for pleasantries, simply to board and exit. I have obligations on Corellia and Chandrila that I must keep, but I can certainly get Xana to her celebration in plenty of time.?[/b] Meesahran puts the chart down and returns her gaze toward the vid-cam as she reaches around the back of her head and pulls all of her hair together and lays it down across her right shoulder. [b]?Was that all you needed, my Dear Xaxan??[/b]

    Her words shock him out of his daydreams and he wonders whether or not he should make his other feelings known, ?I would not wish to impose upon you any further, my Dear Friend, but I have concern for you.?

    [b]?I have always valued your council, Dear Xaxan, and I would think that nothing has changed that fact. What are your worries, my Dear Friend??[/b] With an inner smile going from ear to ear, Mees knows that she has Xaxan Tryashoenu right where she wants him.

    ?From your dress, it appears that you have a great deal of familiarity with your traveling companions.? Xaxan waits for her response with baited breath.

    [b]?You mean, Master Mussiri? Of course, he is-.?[/b]

    Xaxan stops her, ?No, Dear Friend, I am speaking of your other companion, Reklaw.?

    [b]?Oh, him? . . I haven?t seen him since we dropped him off on Kuat. It was only a short partnership, only while it was useful.?[/b] Mees stops a moment, thinking she has just found another weakness, [b]?Besides, Jae-Lee is a good friend, but far too much o
     
  5. PtrsonsZOO

    PtrsonsZOO Jedi Grand Master star 7

    Registered:
    Jul 30, 2001
    Sorry got caught up in a debate over in the Writer's Resource Area and forgot to keep posting [face_blush]




    Seated inside the [i]Burn[/i], Jae-Lee Reklaw and Nija prepare to launch from the bay of the [i]SkyDancer.[/i] ?So, all you need to do is sit out here and wait for us to jump back to these coordinates in just under two hours. I just can?t chance Xaxan seeing you guys, or even suspecting that you are on-board, okay?? Meesahran calls up to the pair.

    ?For the last time, Mees, I get it. . . I just don?t like it!? Jae-Lee hollers down at the young woman. ?I think you give this guy way too much credit, and have a lot more trust in him than I ever could. There?s just something about him that I don?t like. . .? Jae scratches his chin, ?I can?t put my finger on it, but there?s just something not right about him.?

    Mees puts a defensive hand upon her hip, ?Look, I know how to handle Xaxan Tryashoenu. And who says I have ever trusted him? I just know what to expect from him, and that?s what I use him for. . . Got it?? Her tone warns Jae that he has crossed over the line once again.

    ?All right, Mees. I trust you, and I guess I?ll have to just live with that.? Just as the canopy begins to close, Master Falion Mussiri strides into the bay. Offering a simple nodding of his head in salutation, Jae responds with wave of his hand, ?Good luck to you both.? And the canopy snaps shut and the [i]Burn[/i] powers up.

    Soon, the two person fighter is maneuvering out of the bay and into realspace, to await the return of its partnered freighter. Still uneasy, Jae-Lee looks back at the [i]SkyDancer,[/i] ?Man, I hope they?re gonna be all right.?

    Speaking to himself more that anything, Jae is surprised to get a response from his travel companion, ?Mees seems like a girl who can handle herself pretty well. . . I wouldn?t worry too much about her, just about us if they don?t come back. This thing still isn?t ready to make it very far.?

    ?Then why don?t you make use of the time and work on her, Nij?? Jae pulls out the tool kit from under his seat and throws it into the backseat. Chuckling for a moment, but his worry returns, ?At least she used to be able to take care of herself, but now. . .?

    ?What?s that?? Again, Jae has forgotten he is not alone.

    ?Nothing. . .? [i]I hope.[/i]

    ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

    Gliding into the private port, the [I]SkyDancer[/I] makes a graceful entrance into the Tryashoenu Landing Field. At the helm, as usual, Meesahran throws up the throttle on the repulsor jets and makes a smooth and perfect landing onto the marked pad. Glancing over her should for approval, Master Mussiri is happy to provide it to her. Landing not being one of his more favorite activities.

    ?Okay, time to put on my sabacc face.? She smiles broadly as she leaves her master to tend to the cockpit duties before their quick departure.

    ?Give my regards, to young Master Xaxan.? His quick and uncharacteristic jibe at Tryashoenu catches Mees off-guard, but she recovers quickly.

    ?I will be sure to do that for you. Anything else, Master??

    Mussiri only shakes his head and Mees departs the cockpit.

    ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

    The boarding ramp lowers with cautious slowness, but the man standing on the side of the pad can see that there is someone waiting at the top for it to finish.

    Taking a deep breath, and offering his arm to his young sister, Xaxan Tryashoenu begins to make his way to the craft.

    ?My Dear Friends! So good of you to be ready for my arrival. My Master asks that you pardon his absence, but he is preparing the ship for our departure.? Mees gives a small dip to the advancing people as she reaches the end of the ramp.

    ?No need for apologies, my Dear Friend. It is I who should be asking for your grace. I fear I have overstepped the bounds of our friendship in making such a request of you. I know that your time is valuable and that you have already given so much of it on our behalf-. . .?

    Mees holds up her hand, stopping him, ?Please, I would consider myself le
     
  6. PtrsonsZOO

    PtrsonsZOO Jedi Grand Master star 7

    Registered:
    Jul 30, 2001
    Been busy today, so just one post :D




    Xana timidly pokes her head through the door of the cockpit, ?Is this okay??

    Mees turns around and greets the young woman with a smile, ?Yeah, did you get all of your stuff stowed in my cabin?? She just nods, standing uncomfortably in the doorway. ?Good. Here, have a seat. . .? Mees turns back to the console, ?Master, have we got the right coordinates? I?m not picking it up on the sensors-. . . No, wait. There it is, must have a been a bit more drift out here than I anticipated.?

    Mees gets up from her chair in a flash, ?Can you handle the controls while I prepare the docking bay??

    ?I believe that I have been piloting this ship for a great many years longer than yourself, young one. I am certain that I will be fine.? Master Mussiri gently moves into the pilot?s chair in Mees? absence.

    As Mees is about to exit the cockpit, she turns back to Xana, ?Can you give me a hand? The docking bay door has been giving me the fits.? Xana, though surprised at her request, rises and departs with her friend.

    ?Thanks, I hate playing with that door. Probably why we rarely use it.? Xana continues to follow her friend down the corridor, wanting to ask her so many questions, but remaining silent, instead.

    [b]?Docking sequence has begun.?[/b] Comes out from the comm system.

    ?Great, now I?ll have to hear about being slow. . . C?mon, let?s step it up.? Mees breaks into a trot and Xana mirrors her.

    Reaching the doors, Xana is surprised to see a ship going past the transparisteel window. ?Are we meeting with someone?? Xana finally asks.

    ?Oh yeah, we had to make a pick-up before we could jump out of system. Some pretty important equipment, if I?m going to finish this job.? Mees? tone is somewhat suspect to Xana, but she continues helping her friend, knowing that she has always trusted her.

    As they struggle with the large door, knocking can be heard coming from the other side of the door. ?Bhesh! Keep your shirt on!? Mees? curse catches Xana off-guard, but she keeps working to open the door.

    Suddenly, the door seal begins to separate and air is finally exchanged between the two sections of the ship, and Xana and Mees fall back into the opposite wall from exertion.

    ?Jeez, Mees, ofax ets burrin tehn.? Jae-Lee Reklaw strides through the still opening door; not seeing the second person to her right. ?Don?t you ever air that thing-.? His words catch in his throat, as he scans from Mees to the now apparent figure to her right.

    Her eyes are as big as the moons of Drall. Xana is torn between absolute shock and complete relief at the site before her eyes. For what might have seemed like an eternity, silence hung in the air. A silence broken by Nija?s words, ?Hey, you big oaf, get out of my way.? Pushing his unmoving body out of her way, ?Mees, don?t ever stick me in a confined place with that space-jockey again. Now I know why I only work on ships. Space flight sucks!? Nija storms down the corridor as she shouts, not even noticing the scene that is taking place.

    ?Well, I guess I better go see what?s eating her. . .? Looking back, Mees calls to Jae, ?Can you handle entertaining our guest for a while, Jae?? Not receiving so much as a blink in recognition, Mees walks down the corridor after Nija, shaking her head and chuckling to herself.

     
  7. PtrsonsZOO

    PtrsonsZOO Jedi Grand Master star 7

    Registered:
    Jul 30, 2001
    Here's the next. Sorry for the delay, but being sick sucks :(




    ?Are y-.?

    ?How?re-.?

    They both blush at their awkward demeanor. Trying to look away, Jae finds he cannot take his eyes off of the amazing beauty standing before him. As he contemplates what to say to her, he comes to the realization that Xana is in complete shock at seeing him. Then anger begins to flood his eyes.

    ?Mees didn?t tell you I was out here waiting, did she?? Xana shakes her head, confirming his suspicions. ?Why that little- . . Fraggin? Eharl!? Jae shouts down the corridor, hoping his curse will find Mees? ears.

    Seeing that his behavior has caught Xana unawares, he quickly regrets his outburst. ?I?m so sorry. I didn?t mean to do that in front of you. . .?

    ?There is no need to be concerned for my ears. . . And I agree, she is a dirty trickster for doing that to the both of us.? Jae is shocked at her knowledge of Old Corellian, and now it is his turn to blush.

    ?Um yeah, well, I guess I should work on my vocabulary on this trip.? Jae scuffs his boots into the decking.

    Xana cranes her neck around Jae, just a bit, trying to catch a glimpse of the vessel that entered the docking bay. ?Was that your ship??

    Jae, sensing her trying to steer the conversation, allows her to lead it, ?Yeah, that?s the [i]Burn[/i], but she?s still undergoing repairs at the moment. . . That is if Nija hasn?t decided to have me blown out the airlock.? A question fills her face, and Jae looks deeper into her eyes, trying to find out what it is, when it dawns on him, ?Oh, Nija, she a mechanic that I know. We?re helping her to relocate after an unfortunate incident.? He sees relief in Xana?s eyes. Or is it her eyes? [i]Why does this feel so weird?[/i]

    Xana quickly walks towards the ship, feeling uncomfortable at the unspoken conversation she appears to be having with Jae-Lee. ?You fly in this?? She says as she takes a closer look.

    ?Yep.? Jae lays a loving hand across the bow.

    Xana, walking around the other side of the ship, calls over to him, ?You are much braver than I thought.?

    Jae is about to take offense at her comment when he catches the look on her face. ?Ha, ha. But this ship has gotten me through some real tough scrapes.? Jae says as he pats the hull of his precious ship.

    Xana makes her full circuit of the craft and ends up standing right in front of Jae once again. She gingerly places a hand over the one he has on the ship.

    The warmth from her hand is intoxicating to Jae-Lee. Closing his eyes momentarily, trying to imagine the kiss that has been taken from his conscious memory, and luxuriating in her touch.

    ?You have recovered from your wounds?? Her question breaks his reverie and he opens his eyes once more.

    ?Yeah, um, yes, with a little help from Mees and Master Mussiri. Not much left to show but the scar on the back of my head.? He unconsciously reaches a hand up to the back of his head to touch the scar, but this time he finds another hand following his gesture. Xana?s hand finds the healed wound and traces her fingers down the length of the scar; her eyes and his locked in a death grip through the whole episode.

    Jae flinches a bit when she reaches the base of the scar, ?I am so sorry. Did I hurt you?? Xana quickly pulls her hand away from Jae, but he takes it in his, planting a gentle kiss upon it.

    ?No, actually, it kinda tickled,? he leans in and whispers in a conspiratorial tone, ?but don?t tell Mees. She?s merciless when she finds a weakness?? His smile is all the Xana needs to feel reassured, but his words provide her more comfort than they should.

    Jae holds her there a moment longer, before releasing her hand from his grasp. ?Are you all right? You weren?t injured that day, were you?? Jae?s concern for her nearly melts her heart.

    ?Thanks to your grace, I came away with only a few bruises. . .? Xana takes her turn at leaning in and whispering, ?All easily hidden from my Dear Brothers.? And with that she winks. Jae is taken off-guard by her candor.

     
  8. PtrsonsZOO

    PtrsonsZOO Jedi Grand Master star 7

    Registered:
    Jul 30, 2001
    This post was done by myself and Joseph_Orion.




    Sitting behind the desk in his office near the private landing pad, Toman Higaeri girds himself for his latest duel with the dark and brooding man for whom he waits. Hearing the special whine of repulsor engines, Toman knows that the time has come.

    Standing up from his chair, Toman straightens his tunic, takes in a deep breath and moves toward the door. As he reaches his hand to the handle he sees it slowly turning. [i]Fast little bugger isn?t he?[/i] Stepping back to allow his arrival entrance, Toman puts on his most charming smile, and as the door begins to swing open, ?Nice to see you haven?t lost your touch, Orion.?

    Sliding in through the partially opened door, Vic Orion steps into the office. ?Yeah? Sure.? With little pomp and no invitation, Vic simply sits down in the available chair and waits for Toman to round his own desk and take his position. ?What?s all this talk about making other jobs worthless? I?ve had a lot of good ones lately, what makes yours so special??

    Quick and to the point, Toman would expect nothing less from this consummate professional. Carefully taking his seat, making sure to never lose eye contact with the hired gun, Toman prepares to make his pitch. ?Glad to have your interest, Orion. And that was no boast... This job will offer you money, of course, but also a few more opportunities than you?ve had in recent assignments.? Toman is hoping that his vague description will gain the dark man?s interest.

    Vic shifts his taut frame in the chair and leans forward, ever so slightly, ?Spit it out, Higaeri. I don?t have the time or the patience for your theatrics. If this is some lame bounty hunter job, contact Darius Fett and quit wasting my time.? The steely gaze that Vic throws across the desk and the unexpected outburst causes Higaeri to move on.

    ?No, no it?s a hit, but it?s a hit where precision is more important than any other job you?ve ever done. And it has to be perfect, no mistakes, therefore Mr. Fett is not a consideration.? Toman knows that the skill involved in such an action will be great and Orion is the only man for the job. [I]If the job is to go off right, that is.[/I]

    ?Sounds a little too subversive for your tastes, Higaeri. Who?d you tick off to get stuck with this one, old man?? Vic sits back in his chair once again, never betraying his interest in the nature of this job. Toman could not tell what Vic was thinking by looking at him. The man was a rock. Vic knew it would certainly be a challenge to his skills and he never liked to be challenged by someone else. That thought alone made Vic angry.

    ?That is irrelevant to the task at hand. . .? Toman throws him an envelope. ?Here?s your entrance fee. And inside that envelope is the price for the job, if you take it. There will be no further details until you?ve agreed to the deal.? Toman?s resolve was solid and Vic knew that he would get nothing else from the cunning smuggler chief without accepting the job.

    Opening the envelope he quickly counts off his initial pay and then separates the note from the credits and peers at the price. Careful not to betray any of his thoughts to the man before him, Vic realizes that the price alone would be worth the job, but it also meant the job was much more than anything he had ever done before, and a great deal more involved than he was currently being told. Had Toman recruited anyone else for the job, the lackey would definitely be in it for the reputation. Reputation was something Vic cared nothing for. It was for the love of money. This job was going to pay, and it was going to pay handsomely.

    Sitting patiently behind his desk, Toman understands Orion?s reluctance to say anything right away. Knowing the amount would be enough to get anyone to try the job, and also knowing that Vic would realize just how involved the job would be because of the money willing to be spent on it. He suspected that Vic would try to get some
     
  9. Miccu_Resea

    Miccu_Resea Jedi Padawan star 4

    Registered:
    Mar 17, 2002
    Wow! We have over 87 pages of work!

    This is a reeeeeeeallly great story! :D
     
  10. PtrsonsZOO

    PtrsonsZOO Jedi Grand Master star 7

    Registered:
    Jul 30, 2001
    I'm waiting on some stuff from some other authors, so it may be a few days before the post after this one.




    With her feet propped up on the co-pilot?s chair, and her battered blue jacket draped across her torso, Meesahran dozes in the cockpit of the [i]Skydancer.[/i] Her hair lying loosely about her shoulders and her chin resting against her chest, she appears to be sleeping comfortably, but as soon as the first footfall reaches the decking of the cockpit, she looks up at the visitor.

    ?Oh, I am so sorry, Meesahran, I did not wish to wake you.? Xana begins to exit the cockpit.

    ?Please, my friend, I have always been a light sleeper. One of the side effects of the job.? Meesahran takes her feet off of the co-pilot?s chair and swings the aged jacket onto the back of her own chair. ?Please sit. . .? Waiting for Xana to take the seat next to her, Meesahran stretches her arms up above her head. And to Xana it is as if Mees has become a felinoid pet. ?So, what can I help you with, my Dear Friend?? Mees says as she gives Xana the most warming smile.

    ?Please, Meesahran, there is no need to continue the formalities. I realize that you do it to honor our traditions, but you and I are quite familiar, and it is not necessary.? Touching the, barely hidden, purplish scar upon her left shoulder, ?If not for you, I might not have survived that horrible kidnapping.?

    Mees takes Xana?s hand in hers, ?You have much more strength than you give yourself credit for, Xana. Much of the success from that mission is due to your own determination and abilities. I was only helpful to your recognizing them.? Looking into Xana?s eyes, Mees can see that she understands and accepts her words.

    A small alarm sounds from the console and Meesharan quickly turns to shut it off. ?Well, you better be quick, Jae?s going to be getting up to take over in here in about fifteen minutes.?

    Xana looks out the viewport into the nothingness of hyperspace, ?That is actually what I wished to speak with you about. . .? Xana pauses for what seems like an eternity, hoping for something from Meesahran, but when the woman beside her remains silent, she continues, ?My Dear Brother is quite un-fond of him. Could you tell me why??

    ?What makes you think that, Xana?? Meesharan is fishing now, trying to find out just why Xaxan is so suspicious of Jae-Lee.

    ?His words and actions concerning Master Reklaw. He gave me some very stern warnings regarding my dealings with Master Reklaw when you first arrived on Commenor, and I also know that he assigned a security detail to him while you were on the planet. What does he fear from Master Reklaw?? Xana is now facing Meesahran, who is staring back at her with a look of pure amusement on her face.

    Exhaling in a deep sigh, Meesahran begins, ?Well, how do I put this? . .? Taking in a deep breath Meesahran tries to conjure up the proper explanation. ?I guess the easiest answer is that he is afraid of you.?

    ?Of, me?! Meesahran, that makes no sense at all.? Xana is quite confused by her friend?s answer.

    ?That?s easy, kid, he?s not blind. For that matter, none of us are.? Meesahran gives her a knowing wink: one that causes the blood to rush to Xana?s cheeks. ?Look, you could be interested in the son of a Chandrillan noble family, and he would find some reason to not like him. I?m told that?s the way older brothers are everywhere in the galaxy. And for Xaxan Tryashoenu, ruler over his own domain, galactic big-shot, and tough guy, that probably goes about fives times as bad.?

    Xana nods, ?I suppose you are right, but it is almost as though he knows something about Master Reklaw that frightens him.? Meesahran begins to chuckle, ?What is it, Meesahran? Do you know something?? Xana is quite upset by her friend?s amusement.

    ?Oh, it?s nothing really.?

    ?Meesahran, if you know something about this, I wish you would tell me what it is, please.? Xana has grown very angry.

    ?All right, all right already. . . I may have said something that may or may not have given Xaxan the impre
     
  11. PtrsonsZOO

    PtrsonsZOO Jedi Grand Master star 7

    Registered:
    Jul 30, 2001
    As of today, I am no longer posting this story to the FanFic boards. If you want to continue it's presence there, be my guest. I cannot continue to participate in the JC FanFic boards due to a very strong moral objection to the flagrant use of discrimination in it's posting guidelines.

    This does not mean that I won't be posting it in here though.
     
  12. arrowheadpodracer

    arrowheadpodracer Jedi Master star 5

    Registered:
    Apr 9, 2002
    I say keep it here.
     
  13. PtrsonsZOO

    PtrsonsZOO Jedi Grand Master star 7

    Registered:
    Jul 30, 2001
    Sorry for the delay, but moving has caused lots of interruptions (and drama of course didn't help either). However, a new post will be coming soon.
     
  14. PtrsonsZOO

    PtrsonsZOO Jedi Grand Master star 7

    Registered:
    Jul 30, 2001
    Okay, I just made an update to the webpage. Included Vic's Bio, and made the story available by chapters on the site itself.

    I'll work on the navigation issues tomorrow, but for now it's up
     
  15. arrowheadpodracer

    arrowheadpodracer Jedi Master star 5

    Registered:
    Apr 9, 2002
    Sorry this took awhile. This portion was done by Joseph Orion, myself, and PtrsonsZOO
    ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~


    Finding himself alone once again in the forward cockpit, Jae-Lee checked over the instruments. It had been a long trip, but he had just pulled the SkyDancer out of yet another hyperspace jump and they were only one more jump away from their final destination. One more jump and then three days out to Chandrila, where Xana would go back to her life and Jae might never see her again.
    This is stupid, I only just met her. But his feelings were no less powerful, and no less real.

    As he sat there, silently contemplating the future he finished up with his flight duties. All instruments indicated everything was operating within normal levels, and he was considering calling the others in the ship to update them on their current position, when he noticed a scanner light blinking slowly, indicating a ship close by.

    First watching the instruments, then looking out the viewport, he found a fighter. It was still some distance away, but just close enough to been seen with the naked eye. Jae grew curious as a strange feeling crept into his mind. Familiar, but not... comforting. He found himself staring out, almost hypnotized, at the other craft. It was close enough to make out the general size, but the actual shape was unclear. Becoming concerned with a possible threat, Jae realized the other ships course could bring it relatively close to the light freighter. Possibly close enough to do damage.

    He decided to try a standard greeting, switched on the comm, and attempted to hail the other vessel with a single tone.



    Sitting in the Death?s Grip, Vic glanced casually over to his sensor light, which now indicated an incoming call.

    Whatever, he thought.

    Vic had noticed another ship in the area and wondered if he should even bother with any contact. After brief consideration he decided it would be a waste of time. Unnecessary. He leaned back into his chair once more and let the ship take him to where he needed to go.

    After receiving no response, Jae-Lee frowned, switched to full audio, and spoke firmly. "SkyDancer hailing unidentified vessel. Respond." The message, mixed with static, sounded in the cockpit of the Death?s Grip. It triggered something in Vic?s mind, and he reacted with a change in course.

    As the light freighter turned directly towards him, Jae immediately activated a scan, looking for anything that could be seen as threatening. He quickly reviewed the ship?s design; standard recorded armaments, and then checked for official codes or markings. What he saw surprised him. His eyes flashed back and forth between the viewport and the screen several times and he smiled as he decided to try a different greeting.

    "Hailing Red Castle. Red Castle, Check one."

    Vic shook his head, ever so slightly. Just like I thought... Jae-Lee. Several memories flashed quickly. Not a bad bone in his body, Vic thought. How the hell did I ever get mixed up with this kid?

    Snapping out of his thoughts, Vic responded to the old call sign with the appropriate reply; a single click of the comm, to which he then added the words "Check?? he paused, reaching for the control panel, ?four."

    Jae-Lee jumped slightly at the sound of the voice and then smiled. At least he remembered the old codes.

    Both men dialed their comms to the indicated pre-determined frequency, and when no greeting came from the other pilot, Jae-Lee spoke first. "Vic?"

    A quiet response, "Yeah?" Vic says.

    "Hey. It?s Jae-Lee. I almost didn?t recognize the Death?s Grip. It?s... uh... It?s been a while."

    Moments of silence grace the comm and Vic almost chuckled at the thought of Jae-Lee's confused face. Vic finally speaks. "It has..." he says calmly, voice trailing off after each answer. Deciding to play it cool and do the answering and not the asking.

    Feeling a bit awkward, Jae-Lee tries again. "So... looks like you're on your way out, hu
     
  16. PtrsonsZOO

    PtrsonsZOO Jedi Grand Master star 7

    Registered:
    Jul 30, 2001
    Wooo Hoooo!!! We're cooking with gas now :D

    More to come tomorrow
     
  17. PtrsonsZOO

    PtrsonsZOO Jedi Grand Master star 7

    Registered:
    Jul 30, 2001
    Next Chapter - Be Up on the Website later




    Meesahran walks into the docking bay and spies Jae-Lee stowing some equipment into the cargo compartment of his ship. Off to the side, she can see Nija testing the motivator she has been modifying. Giving the young woman a nod, Meesahran moves closer to Reklaw.

    ?Wha?cha up to fly-boy??

    Jae turns to see his friend approaching, ?Aww, not much just getting some of my gear stowed. Nija is just about done with this old bird, so it won?t be long now.? Jae pats the hull of his ship as he speaks.

    Meesahran is struck by the sudden realization that her friend is preparing to leave. ?Oh, yeah, I guess so, but-. . .? Hearing the inversion bell sound, ?Nevermind! I?ve gotta go set in the last coordinates. See ya.? Rushing out of the room with a great deal more speed than Jae thought was appropriate.

    ?Hey, what?d I say?? Jae looks around in surprise.

    Nija just shakes her head, returning to her task, but under her breath she utters, ?Men.?

    ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

    ?I just don?t know why we don?t just come out and tell him what?s really going on?? Meesahran stalks out of Master Mussiri?s quarters.

    Master Mussiri slumps onto his pallet and tries to calm himself, finding that center that he preaches so vehemently about to Meesahran in his lessons.

    Breathing deeply and with intended slowness, Master Mussiri sinks into his own subconscious, hoping to find peace with his decision.


    Finding his center once again, he drifts back into his own memories.



    [i]A young man embraces an older woman, while they stand in front of a ramshackle hut. Tears can be seen running down the face of the dark-haired woman as the young man pulls back from his mother.

    ?I must go, Mother. There is nothing here for me, and I fear for your safety if I should remain. . . There are too many people who know of my abilities here. If the warlords should come again, they shall destroy us all.?

    Taking his mother?s hand and going down on his knee, ?I swear to you, I shall try to let you know that I am well.? The woman, releasing his grasp, places her hand atop his head. Her tears still flowing freely down her cheeks.

    ?My son, I understand your need to depart, but it is not something that I can accept with joy in my heart. With your departure, a piece of my heart goes with you.? Stopping to wipe the tears from her face as the young man stands to face his mother?s words. ?Promise me one thing, my sweet Falion??

    The young man nods, ?Anything, Mother, if it is within my power it shall be done.?

    ?Promise me that you shall remain true to the Will. Without its guiding principles, I fear you shall fall into a confused state and shall be tempted to use your abilities for ill deeds. Promise me this, and I shall wish you ?Safe Journey? and strive to live on in your absence, my sweet child.?

    Her words dig deeply into his soul and her face, at that moment, is ingrained into his memory for all eternity. ?As an obedient son, I can do no less, my dear Mother. The Will be done, for all and forever.? Bowing to his mother, and backing away from their hut, Falion Mussiri takes in the site of his mother for what will be the last time.[/i]



    Opening his eyes, Falion asks himself, ?Would I have stayed had I known what she must have known that day? Had I known that they were going before the lords of the local Noble House to beg for the release of the other adepts, would I have stayed? And would it have saved their lives?? Shaking his head and rising from his pallet, ?No, sometimes the future must be left to the future. We must not influence the minds of others idly, for the future depends on the decisions made by their own wills, and not ours.? Straightening his tunic he begins to walk out into the corridor, [i]The Will be done, for all and forever.[/i]
     
  18. PtrsonsZOO

    PtrsonsZOO Jedi Grand Master star 7

    Registered:
    Jul 30, 2001
    Just to keep things moving along...




    Stowing some gear into the underside compartment of the [i]Burn,[/i] Jae-Lee Reklaw turns when he hears someone enter the bay. ?Hey, Mees, so what?s the word?? Looking into her eyes he can see something is up, but not wanting to start another fight, he lets it go.

    ?Um, Jae, I need a favor.?

    ?Sure, ki-, Mees. What is it?? He slams the compartment door shut and turns to face her full on.

    ?I need to borrow [i]The Burn[/i] for a coupla hours. I have to fly out to a meeting point and have it out with Toman over all of this stuff and then high-tail it back to the ship so we can get out to Chandrila to drop off Nija and to get Xana where she needs to be in time.? Jae gives her a puzzled expression.

    ?Sure, but why don?t you just take the [i]SkyDancer[/i] out and head out to Chandrila from there. Seems a lot less complicated.?

    ?Look, I would but there?s an awful lot of ?cargo? on this trip and taking it through the route I need to take is not what I had in mind as ?safe passage.??

    Jae thinks for a moment, ?Well, if you?re expecting trouble, maybe I should come along, too. . . I mean, I wouldn?t want anything happening to my ship now that?s all back together.? He winks at her, trying to loosen the tension in the air.

    ?Thanks for the vote of confidence, but I need to do this solo. No offense, but I?ve got some things to talk to Toman about, and I don?t need any extra ears. I start bringing a crew and he starts getting suspicious and I get screwed over. . .? Mees realizes that he may not be buying her story. ?Seriously, it?s either this way, or I have to try and chance an encrypted code transponder and pray that no one has sliced his transponder relays.?

    Jae takes a deep breath, ?All right, Mees. If you say so, I guess I have to trust you on it. Just remember, not a scratch?? Her smile lets him know that he made the right choice.

    Maybe this will be the one catalyst that will allow her to finally open up to him. Finding the facts behind her mysterious behavior has become Jae-Lee?s all consuming quest at this point. His mind then turns to one of the other passengers on the freighter? [i]Well, maybe not ALL consuming.[/i]

    ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

    Using the opportunity to try and work out some of those still sore muscles, Jae-Lee Reklaw puts himself through a session of shadow sparring in the empty docking bay. With each dodge and parry against his invisible opponent, Jae begins to feel a peace flowing through him.

    He swings and thrusts, plowing his sapphire blue blade through the open air of the bay. Getting into a rhythmic cadence, Jae finds his actions being guided by something: something familiar and something comforting. A voice begins to come through the clouds of Jae-Lee?s mind. The voice is deep and commanding, but also soft and full of caring. Almost hypnotic:

    [i]?Now remember, boy, don?t fight the blade. Let it guide you. In this blade you can always trust.? A man of medium build, with a thick beard upon his face instructs his young son: a boy who is trying desperately to wield the grown man?s lightsaber. His hands quiver from the gyroscopic effect of the energy crystal ignition.

    ?But, Poppa, how will I know that my actions are true?? The boy blows a lock of stray hair from in front of his eyes as he struggles to continue through his father?s prescribed routine.

    ?When you maintain your focus, Son. When you?re at peace. Then you will know the truth.?[/i]

    Jae opens his eyes from the shock of the memory. ?Where in the name of Corel did THAT come from?!?

    ?Where did what come from, young one?? Master Mussiri has entered the docking bay. ?You appeared to have found your center, and then you broke contact with it so violently. Are you all right, young one??

    Flustered and confused by his memory, Jae struggles to regain his focus and respond to Master Mussiri?s questions. ?Um, ah, yeah I?m fine. I just had a weird image come to my mind while I was going through my routine? Just an old bit I learn
     
  19. PtrsonsZOO

    PtrsonsZOO Jedi Grand Master star 7

    Registered:
    Jul 30, 2001
    Slowly gliding into the landing area of the remote base, The Burn fires off its repulsor jets and positions itself above the assigned platform. In an unusual move, Toman Higaeri has gone up to meet his newest arrival at hidden facility.

    Seeing the canopy open and the young woman jumping out of the cockpit surprises Toman, who never expected Reklaw to be far from his own ship. ?Meesahran, my child, you have certainly developed into quite the persuasive creature. Or did you finally beat the Corellian in Sabacc and take him for all he was worth.? Upon reaching the young woman and the ship, Toman puts his arms around Meesahran as he speaks.

    ?Naw, I just told him I needed to see you alone, and he bought it. After all, I did study under your instruction for a great many years. Some of that silver tongue devilishness of yours was bound to rub off.? Returning his embrace, Meesahran also returns his playful behavior.

    Pointing to a door, just off of the platform, ?Perhaps, we should adjourn the remainder of this discussion to my office?? Meesahran takes his lead and follows him into the doorway.



    ?Mees, I?ve already put into motion all of the things that the Mystic had asked for. The Commander and I have settled our differences and have been working closely on this operation.? Toman pours a dark-colored liquor from the decanter on his desk into two glasses. ?I?ve hired a very reputable contractor to handle the job, and his loyalties to a member of your group will keep him honest.? Handing the young woman one of the glasses, he then sits back in his chair.

    ?Someone in my group? What are you talking about, Toman?? Holding onto the glass until she receives her answer.

    ?Why Reklaw, of course. . . He was once partnered with the man of whom I speak, back in Jaquillen?s organization.? Raising his glass in a gesture of toasting. ?May all of our endeavors proceed with safety and prosperity.? Waiting for the young woman to mirror his movements, and upon her raising the glass he utters the final word, ?Slavana!? No self respecting Chandrillan would toast without giving onus to the world of their birth.

    ?Slavana!? Meesahran takes a drink from her glass, savoring the crisp taste of the whiskey, she gives Toman a nod. ?Excellent choice. I believe that one day, Whyrren?s Reserve will be the toast of Corellian culture. Master Whyrren has such a talent for good whiskey.? She drains the last of the liquor from her glass, ?But on to business. Reklaw is no longer part of the equation. He?s an investigator, not an idealist. What we have to do is just not in his nature?? Staring into the now empty glass, Meesahran grows very quiet.

    ?You sound disappointed, my child. Had hopes that he would give up his ridiculous quest and join you and the Mystic on noble adventures across the galaxy, did you?? Reaching over to refill the young woman?s glass, but finding her hand over the top instead.

    ?No thanks, Toman, talking with you requires a clear head? Now as for the other matter, we have discovered some very interesting facts concerning these attacks?? Sensing that any further delay might cause Toman Higaeri to explode with anticipation, Messahran continues. ?Have you done something to tick off the Kuati?s lately? Or should I say, something more than normal??

    ?Not that I can recall, but we always seem to have tousles with the Kuati Shipping League. However, doing business with Tryashoenu guarantees that particular problem. Do you think they have something to do with this mess?? Toman sits back in his chair, trying to mull over the possibilities.

    ?They?re involved, but they can?t be the source.? Meesahran hands over the datacard containing the findings from her investigation, ?I smell a vrelt in the aviary, and an awfully well connected vrelt to boot. Bounty hunters, hidden tech advancements, slicers (top-notch slicers), equipment, personnel, timing and financing coming together for the Kuati?s alone; I just don?t see it that way. I?ve tracked some slicer activity to Coronet City, bu
     
  20. PtrsonsZOO

    PtrsonsZOO Jedi Grand Master star 7

    Registered:
    Jul 30, 2001
    I'm getting a little evil right now, so hopefully you won't mind [face_devil]




    [b]?Docking Sequence has begun, prepare the air-lock.?[/b]

    Jae-Lee Reklaw hears the words of Master Mussiri over the ship?s comm system, and he begins his trip from the med-bay (where he has been residing since before Nija even came aboard) to the docking bay air-lock door.

    He had the oddest sense that things were just not right, and so he hurries his steps. Not knowing what it is that is causing this sensation, but knowing that something is definitely brewing.

    He makes it there just as [i]The Burn[/i] passes by the transparisteel window of the air-lock door. Seeing his beloved craft in one piece, once again, makes his heart jump up into his throat. But quickly he regains the sense of dread that seems to be permeating everything for him right now.

    Seeing the green light flash on the air-lock, Jae begins to pull open the door. Having a great deal of difficulty at first, Jae changes positions and finds the task a little easier. Suddenly, he realizes that Mees is not on the other side of the door making his life just as miserable as he did to her when he was on that side. This is cause for some worry, since Jae has never known Mees to pass up an opportunity to rib him about anything. But of course, he was beginning to learn that he knew very little about the young woman whom he had once considered his only family. [i]Still consider, nothing can be so bad as to keep me from believing that.[/i]

    Finally maneuvering the door enough to get the seal to break, Jae can hear the air being exchanged between the two rooms once more and the door begins to slide open on its own now.

    Looking up from his task, Jae can see Mees standing at the door, her arm resting on doorway, and her head hung down, as if in deep thought. She gets ready to move through the door, not even seeing Jae standing in her way as they collide. Jumping back like a feral felinoid, Meesahran is shocked to find Jae standing there.

    ?Oh, sorry. I wasn?t paying attention.? She tries to move past him, but Jae will have none of it.

    ?Hey, where do you think you?re going? We have some things to clear up before this ship goes anywhere.? Jae tries being very firm with his friend.

    ?What is there to clear up? You?re taking off as soon as you re-fuel and we?re going to Chandrila. Pretty cut and dry if you ask me.? Mees begins to walk down the corridor, but Jae reaches out and grabs her by the arm, trying to keep her in conversation. Without warning, Meesahran spins around and pinning him to the corridor wall with one hand in his chest and the other grappling his throat. ?I said not to do that, got it?? Her biting words coming through clenched teeth.

    Jae tries to nod his head in affirmation, but with her hand planted firmly into his gullet, it makes that a dangerous proposition.

    Catching movement in the corridor from the corner of her eye, Meesahran releases him from her grasp and walks away, as Xana begins to move towards the scene from the other end of the corridor. ?This isn?t over, Mees. You?re gonna hear me out if it?s the last thing I do!? Rubbing the reddened area of his neck, ?And it just might be.?

    ?Might be what?? Jae spins around to find Xana right next to him, not having sensed her approach.

    ?Oh, nothing, I hope.? He says looking down the corridor where Mees had once been. ?Say, where?d you come from??

    ?I thought I would see if you needed any help with air-lock door. I remembered it being something of a chore. However, it would appear that timing is my contribution to this event.? Looking at his neck and the hand shaped red marks upon it, ?Are you all right? And do not try to tell me that was simply horsing around. I have seen that look on Meesahran?s face in the past, and it was never in jest.? She brushes her fingers across his neck in a gentle pass.

    ?To be honest, I have no idea what that was about, except maybe she thinks I?m deserting her or something. I wasn?t even going to leave yet, but she seems to wa
     
  21. PtrsonsZOO

    PtrsonsZOO Jedi Grand Master star 7

    Registered:
    Jul 30, 2001
    Evil moment has not passed :D [face_devil]




    Walking into the med-bay Jae-Lee is a swirl of emotions. Although he tries to hide it, Xana can sense his torment. Upon entering the room, she immediately goes to the supply cabinet for the needed equipment.

    Holding the back of his head, Jae sits down on the bunk, just as Xana approaches him with a suture tray. ?Are you sure you know what you?re doing?? Jae looks a little worried as she takes out the curved needle.

    ?Of course I do. Now turn around, please, Master Reklaw,? the smile on her face betrays her serious composure.

    Looking questionably at the tray, then at the blood on his hand, fresh from his wound, he turns slowly. Wincing, "Just how bad is it?"

    Furrowing her brow as she pulls the hair away from the gaping hole in the back of his head, ?Bad enough to require several sutures, I am afraid? Do you wish to have something for the pain, Master Reklaw??

    [i]Now THAT?S a toughie![/i] "Well? How about something mild for the surface? I don?t want to be knocked out, though. I'll be fine with a local."

    She peers over his shoulder, looking him directly in the eye, ?If you are certain?? Seeing his firm resolve there in those crystal blue eyes, Xana returns to her task. ?First I will irrigate the wound. This may hurt for a bit, but the anesthetic is in the rinse.?

    Seeing her warm smile, he tries to return it. "Do your worst."

    The rinse stings a little, at first, but the pain brings back the memory of how he ended up bleeding again. "Mees is sure jumpy lately, huh?" [i]Sensing a touch that far into the skull feels... eerie.[/i]

    Trying desperately not to react to the ministrations of this lovely young woman, Jae sits is silent, macho agony as Xana stitches up his head. ?There, not too bad I hope?? She finishes up the last of the sutures and returns the instruments to their proper places, ?I suppose it would depend on what you consider lately. Meesahran has been like that since she was- ... I would have to say sixteen or seventeen years of age. Yes, that is when I believe she stayed with us for a time during her recovery.? Xana returns to her tidying up, paying no attention to the astonished look on Jae?s face.

    "Recovery?" A feeling of dread creeps over him. "From what?"

    As she turns to answer him, she realizes that she may have said something that she should not have said. ?Oh, my-? Perhaps I should not have mentioned it. I only assumed that since you were such good friends that she-? Well, that she would have told you about it.? Trying to recover her composure, Xana turns back around to the instrument tray on the counter.

    Reaching out and almost falling off the bunk in the process, Jae puts his hand on her shoulder. Not grabbing and not forceful in any way, but not a loose grip either. "Wait..." Turning half way around Xana looks into the eyes of the pleading man. His concern is genuine and more than obvious. "Please?? He asks, ?What happened?"

    His words and his eyes, the desperation she finds in them, begs her to reveal the truth to this kind hearted man. ?I just do not know if it is right for me betray this apparent confidence.? She knows that Meesahran never told her to keep silent, but Xana also knows the pain that her dear friend endured all those years ago, and the change she underwent following that episode. [i]And his awareness of that could only help to heal those old wounds, would it not?[/i]

    "I only want to help. I mean.... I've never seen her like this. It was nothing at first, but now she seems like she?s on the edge all the time. This time, she actually hurt me. Physically." Jae seems to consider that for a moment. A thought had just struck him for the first time. "That?s never happened. Not out of anger." His face grows even more serious. "I need to know."

    The sheer anguish in this man?s eyes has melted her resolve. Slumping her shoulders slightly, as though a great weight has been placed there, she begins, ?You must understand, I only know about her condition after the incident. I was never told th
     
  22. PtrsonsZOO

    PtrsonsZOO Jedi Grand Master star 7

    Registered:
    Jul 30, 2001
    Sorry for the delay, but blame it on Xcel Energy :mad:




    Cowering upon her bunk, feet drawn up to her chest and clutching a pillow to her face, Meesahran weeps with tearless sobs. Though her tears never come, her sorrow and shame are still quite evident as Master Mussiri peers into the cabin.

    Silently approaching his guilt wracked pupil, Falion fights a war with his own emotions. Knowing that her pain can never truly be healed, it does not dissuade him from trying to bring her comfort and solace. In his heart he feels deeply for this tortured soul.

    It was her cries of mercy, which lead him to her all those years ago. When he finally reached her discarded, brutalized and battered body he vowed to somehow bring comfort to her wounded mind, body and spirit. Her body has healed, and her mind is all but restored, but her spirit is still haunted by the villainy perpetrated upon her innocence.

    Seeing her in such a distraught state once again brings to Falion a sense of failure. When he felt the rage boiling up inside of her again, he could do nothing to soothe her soul. Powerlessness is the one thing that has haunted Falion all his days, and feeling this poor, disconsolate girl reduced to a powder keg of rage and fear has caused that feeling to return to him in full force.

    Careful to project his intentions to the girl, he reaches out his hand, carefully caressing her hair. She is still, but on guard. Feeling that she has failed her master once again, her shame begins to overtake her thoughts. Falion winces at her reaction to his touch, knowing that it is his own doing that she would feel this way towards him. ?Please child, feel not shame. If anything it is I who has failed you, my child.?

    Snapping her head up in disbelief, ?No, Master. I?m the one who can?t seem to control my emotions. You have given me everything I?ve needed to put an end to this madness. It?s just not in me to overcome it? When we?re finished with this mission, I?ll return to my former life. There?s no need for you to waste any more time on my training. Besides, I could never return to the sanctuary, not after what happened today.? She attempts to turn back to the wall, but is stopped by a gentle hand upon her shoulder.

    ?No, my child. You shall remain with me and together we shall work to purge you of these terrible demons.? Brushing the hair back from her face in a fatherly gesture, ?I have made my bond with you, and with you it shall remain.? He sits down on the bunk next to the young woman and she falls into his arms.

    ?I almost killed him, Master.? Her words barely audible from the sobs, ?How could I have done that??

    Falion continues to stroke her hair, hoping that the soothing techniques will bring the child some peace. ?Your emotions are all so very close to the surface right now, my child. Seeing this man again has forced you to recount many things. It is only natural that the bad should follow the good,? his words deliberate and mellow, bringing calm with the sounds of his voice.

    ?But, Jae would never do anything to hurt me. Not intentionally, anyway.? Sitting up slightly in her master?s embrace, her words trail off and Falion can sense her mind going back to her parting with the young man, and the pain that dwells in that memory.

    ?Yes, but in your heart, his refusal to commit to our endeavors is another betrayal. And in your mind, betrayal is as painful as a blaster burn.? His words, though painful have enough truth in them that it sends the young woman diving into his arms once more, her sobs coming as fiercely as before.

    ?Why won?t he come with us?! He would be perfect for the order, and Master Vltava would surely be able to help him with his quest.? Her sobs die down, but her anguish remains. ?I just know they could help him, in so many ways, Master.?

    Still stroking her disheveled mane, ?Perhaps, child, but the choice must be his, freely. If it is the Will of the Force, he shall follow that path. We cannot persuade him with empty promises and hopes of dreams fulfille
     
  23. PtrsonsZOO

    PtrsonsZOO Jedi Grand Master star 7

    Registered:
    Jul 30, 2001
    The evil has not passed yet [face_devil]




    Carefully closing the door behind him, Falion can sense the tumultuous presence of the young man. Making certain to put enough distance between Meesahran?s quarters and his meeting with the young man in the corridor (so that the sounds of their voices will not be heard by the young woman), Falion moves quickly to intercept Jae-Lee.

    Nearly knocking into the older man, Jae is stopped cold in his advance on Meesahran?s quarters. ?Step away, old man. I will not be put off again.? The determination in his voice, words and face are definitively evident, but Falion will not be swayed.

    ?I apologize for any harm that was done to you by my student, but it would be most unwise for you to continue this confrontation right now, young one.? His words contain a small amount of persuasion, and the tone is perfectly clear.

    His rage about to boil over, Jae attempts to move past the older man, ?I?m not looking for any advice from you, old man. I?ve got something to clear up with Mees and I?m not gonna be stopped this time. I don?t care if she does kill me, I have to try and get through to her.?

    Putting a single hand into Jae?s chest, Falion stops him once more, ?You shall not pass, young one.? Jae rips the hand down from his chest, only to find himself spun around with his arm wrapped up behind his back. ?You shall not pass? I am responsible for what happens to Meesahran and I shall not allow you to incite her into another fit of rage.?

    Jae suddenly relaxes in his struggle, struck by the man?s words and their meaning, ?Then why did you let it happen to her??

    At the question, Falion releases his hold on Jae, ?Is that what you believe occurred, my child?? Falion takes Jae by the shoulders and spins him around to face the ancient teacher, ?Do you truly believe that I could have allowed these horrible acts to have taken place?? The pain in Mussiri?s eyes causes Jae-Lee?s resolve to weaken and he slumps back against the wall.

    ?No? I guess not, but how did this happen? Why did it have to happen to her?? Jae?s resignation and sorrow are not lost on Master Mussiri.

    ?Come, young one? Where we can talk, in the hopes that you shall gain a better understanding.? Jae nods his head in affirmation and allows the older man to lead him away.
     
  24. PtrsonsZOO

    PtrsonsZOO Jedi Grand Master star 7

    Registered:
    Jul 30, 2001
    Okay, I'm done being evil... At least for a little while ;) [face_devil]




    Handing the young man a cup containing Jing-Nectar Tea, Falion takes the seat opposite the pallet upon which Jae is seated. ?Are you certain that you are prepared for such a tale, young one??

    Jae looks up into the Master?s eyes, ?I have to know. She?s all I got, and if I lose her, I?m sunk. I?ve spent my whole life, since leaving Toman?s group, fishing around for stories about Mees. Just knowing what she was doing, or where she was gave me some comfort. Knowing that she had found a place to belong. It helped me deal with the guilt? The hardest thing I ever did was leave her behind, and now I find out my leaving caused her even more pain. How can I live with that? Especially if I don?t do anything to try and help her now?? His sincerity is all that Falion needs to continue.

    Closing his eyes and looking inward, for that center, Falion exhales slowly and deliberately, ?First and foremost, your departure was not the cause of this incident. Meesahran was simply in the wrong place at the wrong time. I was told that she had been celebrating her good fortune after a recently successful assignment. It seems that she had exceeded her debt to Toman and had been given a full partnership.?

    Jae looks surprised at his statement, ?You?ve got to be kidding, that was some debt. She?d been with him since she was really little. It took me forever to scrape together that kind of dough??

    Falion only smiles, ?It would appear that Meesahran managed to put one of Toman?s competitors out of business, without Toman having to spend a single credit. Her slicing skills uncovered some rather inappropriate dealings with a high-ranking Corellian official. His superiors and a rather ambitious investigator with the Corellian Police Authority were most pleased with the information provided to them by Meesahran?s efforts. There was also a sizable reward for the conviction of this competitor, so Toman released Meesahran from her debt and made her a full partner.?

    Jae shrugs his shoulders and shakes his head, ?That must have been Farquay. I heard he got nabbed for some underhanded stuff? But what happened to Mees??

    Falion takes in another deep breath and slowly exhales, ?She was on Treasure Ship Row, celebrating, as she was once want to do, on occasion. Her companions were unable to keep up with her, and so they retired, leaving her to play a few hands of Sabaac before she was to return to her quarters. That was the last any of them saw of her, until after she was found, some five days later.? Mussiri?s breathing is now somewhat heavier and Jae can sense the dread building up in him.?

    Reaching out a hand, and placing it over the hands of the older man, ?Please, go on. I have to know?? Thinking to himself for a moment, ?Xana tells me that you were the one to find her, is ?at right??

    Once again breathing deeply and slowly releasing the breath, ?Yes, I arrived in Coronet City on the fourth day. I was to meet with an old friend on Drall, but I was unable to continue on past Corellia. Something was calling out to me, something in horrible pain. When I closed my eyes, I could almost see through a young girl?s eyes; Meesahran?s eyes. The pain was excruciating, and I was barely able to concentrate an anything else. I quickly followed the pain to its source, through the connection that I felt with this poor tortured soul.? Falion closes his eyes tightly, struggling to remove the mental images he is bombarded with in the retelling of this horrible tale.

    Jae sits quietly, shaking his head, ?That?s what I don?t get? She never called out to me? I would?ve heard her from anywhere, I just know it?? Burying his head in his hands, Jae continues into the path of his grief and guilt.

    Placing a hand of comfort on the young man?s shoulder, ?Perhaps you are right, young one. But her sense of betrayal was still quite fresh in her mind. It would be a long time before that sense began to dull?? Jae looks into the older man?s eyes once more and can see
     
  25. PtrsonsZOO

    PtrsonsZOO Jedi Grand Master star 7

    Registered:
    Jul 30, 2001
    It's gonna be a little while before I post again. Just found out I'll be writing some more of the characters, and another person has been slacking off because of school and a certain red-head ;)
     
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