Log Date: 8/7, 8/8/97 Log Cast: Paul Nighman, Shenneret Veery, Kairne Log Intro: On Kichnar Station, Paul has received some immensely disturbing messages -- one, a month-old message from Luke Skywalker warning that Grathix is not to be trusted as he'd been responsible for the disappearance of Han Solo off Palanhi, and a second, from the Mandalorian Kairne, practically pleading with Paul to come to Tatooine to aid in the evacuation of V'ez-tcha personnel before they are captured or killed by the Imperials overrunning the planet. Loathe to take Shenner into such a dangerous situation, Paul attempted to convince the girl to stay behind on Caspar with Marcus Crowley while he, the Horansi Kuxli, and another contact of Paul's, a Twi'lek named Elomin, went on to Tatooine. The young bardling took this idea very badly, and while she was prepared to stay behind if Paul wished it, she refused to stay with Marcus, aware that the middle-aged historian looked askance upon her being in Paul's company and so clearly important to him. Pressured by a query of Kuxli's into admitting that he wishes to protect the girl, Paul, in private, tried to convince her not to feel as though he were abandoning her; Shenner, aware that he didn't mean to hurt her, struggled to keep her composure while maintaining that if she had a choice in the matter she would prefer to stick with Paul, no matter what. Troubledly, Paul has agreed to let her come along, and now, the _Hawk's Wing_ closes in on Tatooine.... ---------- They land without incident, and by the look on Paul's face, that was nothing short of miraculous. "Well, maybe things aren't as bad as they seem after all," he murmurs with a soft tone of wishful thinking in his voice. Glancing down at his chrono, Paul notes that the hour is late, but considering what needs to be done, perhaps that is for the best. Shenner has been a quiet and tense presence on the ship most of the trip here -- and in the cockpit as Paul's brought the ship in for its landing. "Surprised nobody pegged us," she murmurs. "Aw come on," he murmurs reassuringly as he shuts down the ships systems. "The Empire needs people to rule in order to be at the top of the heap ... cnan't kill us all off." He gives Shen a cocky grin, rising from his seat. "I am surprised that no one hailed us coming in though ... must have been the lazy shift on duty." Shenner grins back crookedly, glancing out through the viewport afterwards. "Can't say I complain. What now?" She turns back to Paul, rising, her grin fading and turning into a more businesslike expression. Gone, at least for the moment, is any trace of the delicate child Paul's seen in her over the last several weeks. Heading for the main ring, Paul cannot help but smile a little. "Never say I don't enter a situation prepared," he murmurs thoughtfully. "I had Marcus file some papers for us - pre-dated of course, noting a dig site in the Dune Sea ... that's our cover, should anyone hassle us ... I'm here in my official capacity, you're an intern out of Caspar Academy, working as my assistant. Marcus will cover for any official information requests, don't worry." Looking back at her, his face loses what little gleeful pride it had. "I'm going to meet with Kairne at the Twin Suns - to see what he has to say for himself and to see if he's heard anything about ... about Luke and Jessa." "You should take one of us with yah to watch your back," Shen observes. Paul_Nighman heads aft to the Main Ring, the blast door shutting behind him. Paul_Nighman has left. The blast door slides open and you pass through. Main Ring -- Quasar Bolt(#6524RVat) This is the main area of the ship and obviously serves multiple purposes. The entrance is open and airy, with several couches and a table. It is designed to be an area for passengers and the occasional crew to lounge in. There is a computer terminal available in one corner. To the right, sectioned off slightly, is a kitchen area, well stocked with the latest in cooking equipment as well as a fine assortment of food. Off to the back of the entrance space is a walled off crew quarters section. To save space, the bunks are folded up into the wall space and can be pulled down at will. There is a storage unit available for personal belongings next to each bunk compartment. There is a door visible, leading off to the right next to the kitchen, but it is locked. -=-=-=-=-=-=<>=-=-=-=-=-=- => Paul_Nighman => Duffle Bag => Captain's Quarters -=-=-=-=-=<>=-=-=-=-=- leads to Docking Bay 94 -Mos Eisley-. ft leads to Cargo Hold -- Quasar Bolt. ore leads to Cockpit -- Quasar Bolt. Shenner enters Main Ring -- Quasar Bolt Shenner pads out after Paul, expectantly. Casting his gaze at the sleeping Twi'lek and Horansi, Paul's gaze shifts to Shen. "I don't completely trust Elomin on this ... and Kuxli, well he's a bit obvious." Turning to Shen, he hunkers down before her, gazing into her eyes cautiously. "I'll only be a little while," he assures her, as if by doing so she'll just agree to let him go it alone. He expects her refusal, but honor dictates that he at least try. The girl frowns a little, glancing to the hatch, probably thinking of the city that lies beyond it. "I'll stay here if you need me to watch the ship--" She doesn't have to finish. Both her tone and her expression clearly add without her, 'But I'd rather go with you.' Rising up, Paul considers just taking her on that offer right then and there, her preference being left unspoken. "I'm not worried about the ship, I'm worried about you," he reminds her. Shenner smiles a little, though her eyes are sober. "I won't do nothin' stupid." "I didn't think you would," he murmurs back conspiratorily as he palms the lock. "Now, just follow my lead, try to look alert but relaxed - you know where you're going and you're confident that you belong there. Kairne and I .. we might slip into Mandalorian, just to make sure that we're not being overheard. I'll let him call on that one. You okay with that?" The door panels open to reveal the docking bay below. "If you tell me later what you said," the young redhead murmurs back. She is already in a rather more alert stance than usual, but collected of expression. With a nod of approval, Paul replies, "Done," and with that he is out of the ship. Paul_Nighman has left. Docking Bay 94 -Mos Eisley- Docking Bay 94 is no more than a run-down, beaten patch of steel gouged out of the rocky soil. Ship parts, tools, fuel tanks, and droids lay scattered about the massive spaceport. Despite the high steel carbon scored wall that surrounds the bay, sand still blows in covering anything that remains stationary for too long. Stairs lead up into the city, while an entrance ramp provides access for larger vehicles. -=-=-=-=-=-=<>=-=-=-=-=-=- => Paul_Nighman => STARFIGHTER: Telgorn Gamma Class Assault Shuttle -- Indomitable => STARFIGHTER: SubPro Ilyrian Gnat -- Quasar Bolt => STARFIGHTER: Corellian YT-1300 -- Clean Rip => STARFIGHTER: SubPro Ilyrian Gnat -- CCS Caledonia => STARFIGHTER: Sienar Guardian-Class Light Cruiser -- Regulator => STARFIGHTER: Corellian YT-1300 -- Fortune => starport computer => SIGN: AEC Ships => Trade Panel: Tatooine -=-=-=-=-=<>=-=-=-=-=- ast leads to Spaceport Customs Station 1 -Mos Eisley-. Nighman moves swiftly and assuredly through the docking bay, his eyes casting from side to side, casual, but alert. Paul_Nighman heads east through the blast doors to Spaceport Customs Station 1. Paul_Nighman has left. [Shen and Paul make their way through the city towards the Twin Suns Hotel -- where they know the V'ez-tcha have their headquarters...] You make your way through the crowded streets and move on. Hotel Complex -Mos Eisley- Unlike the rest of Mos Eisley, this area is quite clean and modern looking. The large hotels stand higher than any other building in Mos Eisley. Rich looking beings of all creeds can bee seen entering and leaving the fancy hotels of the area. Some by personal skiff, others by speeder. This is where the wealthy gamblers and off world salesfolk congergate. -=-=-=-=-=-=<>=-=-=-=-=-=- => Paul_Nighman -=-=-=-=-=<>=-=-=-=-=- orth - leads to Entrance Hall -- Twins Suns Hotel and Casino. ast leads to Jawa Salvage Heap -Mos Eisley-. Kairne walks out of the Twin Suns and joins you on the street. Kairne has arrived. [Greeted at the door of the hotel by an old-sounding man with a hump concealed by a hooded cloak, Paul and Shenner enter the hotel....] Kairne enters the Twin Suns Hotel and Casino. Kairne has left. Paul_Nighman enters the Twin Suns Hotel and Casino. Paul_Nighman has left. You place your hand on a scanner by the blast door. It quickly opens for you and then slides shut once you enter. Entrance Hall -- Twins Suns Hotel and Casino(#1453RLtFN) This is a well lit entrance hall. On either side of the wide hall hang various objects that at first glance do not appear to be decorations, but rather weapons of war. Many seem to date back as far as the Clone Wars, or perhaps even earlier. At the western end of the hall, an archway leads to the Casino where the sounds of games in progress eminate. To the north, a smaller archway leads to the Lounge, where people may stop in for a quiet drink and count their winnings, or dispair over their losses. On the easterside, numerous people can be seen passing underneath a large grand archway, some with luggage in tow. This archway must obviously lead to the Hotel Lobby. -=-=-=-=-=-=<>=-=-=-=-=-=- => Paul_Nighman => Kairne => RP Observation Puppet -=-=-=-=-=<>=-=-=-=-=- orth - leads to Lounge -- Twin Suns. ast - leads to Lobby -- Twin Suns. est - leads to Casino -- Twins Suns. outh - leads to Hotel Complex -Mos Eisley-. Looking around suspiciously, Paul follows in the mysteriously cloaked figure, realizing that he must be the one Kairne mentioned in his letter. "Okay, we're here .... now what." The doors of The Twin Suns close behind you, the dust settling in the air. Kairne says, "Come out of those streets." The redheaded young woman following at Paul Nighman's side jams her slender hands into the pockets of her battered vest, keeping her mouth shut, her expression businesslike. Kairne says, "They aren't safe lately, with all those damned imperials about." Kairne Standing around 6' this figure is dressed in a simple steel grey and black cloak, which covers his entire body, and head. He leans heavily on a staff he uses as a walking stick, a large malformed lump on his back. His walk is somewhat lumbered, but not heavily labored. -=-=-=-=-=-=<>=-=-=-=-=-=- => 36T Blaster Carbine => Sword => EKX-10 Blaster Rifle => SBP-200 Blaster Pistol -=-=-=-=-=-=<>=-=-=-=-=-=- => Naval Datapad => Temporary Crate Peering into the darkness of his hood, you can't seem to make out anything, except possibly a briefly visible glint of metal when he turns his head into the sun. Kairne leans on his staff, heading towards the lobby. Kairne says, "Follow me, I don't much like bein' out here." Walking in a little farther, Paul notes that Shen is close to his side. _Good_. "Damn straight," he banters lightly. "Passed a patrol one of the side streets ... Gods damn martial law around here." Kairne says, "Damn plastic toy soldiers they look like" Kairne motions over his shoulder for you to follow him. The redheaded girl simply keeps pace with the Corellian beside her, smirking a bit at the talk of the soldiers as she follows their guide where he bids. Paul_Nighman tilts his head to one side, consideringly. and says, "sregdor, sille kast crej then?"", in Mandalorian. Kairne passes under the Eastern Archway and heads for the Hotel Lobby. Kairne has left. You pass under the archway and proceed to the Hotel Lobby Lobby -- Twin Suns You stand in the western most portion of one of the most grandious and luxurious room in all of Tatooine. Several chandeliers made from rare precious metals and stones illuminate this immense room. All around this room, rare and unique works of art and craftsmanship are prominently displayed along the walls and as exhibits within the room. The room is carpeted in a thick rich Crimson colored carpet. Even the pillars, which provide support for this structure, are carved in some exotic gothic style. Several plush comfortable sofas and seats are situated throughout the room, some in a friendly living room type arangement. Towards the northern aspect of the room, a large registration desk can be observed. There, a well maintained protocol droid along with some members of the Hotel management tend to the needs of the guests. Behind this desk is a door that leads to the Management Offices of the Twin Suns. Towards the farthern most eastern end of the room, elevators can be found leading to the various floors of the hotel portion of the Twin Suns. -=-=-=-=-=-=<>=-=-=-=-=-=- => Kairne => Guards <> -=-=-=-=-=<>=-=-=-=-=- outh - leads to Hallway -- Twin Suns Hotel and Casino. own - leads to Luxury Suite -- Twin Suns Hotel and Casino. orth - leads to Managment Offices -- Twin Suns Hotel and Casino. est - leads to Entrance Hall -- Twins Suns Hotel and Casino. Paul_Nighman walks in from the Main Entrance Hall. Paul_Nighman has arrived. Kairne shakes his head, "What's that gibberish yer mutterin'?" Kairne says, "Sounds like a graak with his head caught in a hole." Shen, just barely, stifles a giggle. Remaining silent, Paul merely follows. "It's an ancient and honorable language," he replies dryly. Kairne says, "Sounds like gibberish to me." Kairne says, "well, on we continue, you and yer squawk talk." Kairne enters the correct security code on the pad beside the door and proceeds into the Management Offices. Kairne has left. _That'll make two of us,_ Shenner thinks, though she doesn't let any sign of that get to her face. Doing her best impression of somebody who looks like they possess more than the normal quotient of clues, she simply keeps up. Paul_Nighman sighs, looking about the hotel, now empty and silent save for the sound of their footsteps. He sighs again and says, "nelaj, y nelk ventrs, ardnzi mozminic eigger mil redav y lomyniya fuar ty. jax nnylf duomham ttefabob?"", in Mandalorian. [The 'old man' leads Paul and Shenner into the management offices... but once there, he leads them out through a secret entrance... and to Shen's surprise she recognizes the route they take. She's been this way before... with Grathix.] Spaceport - V'ez-Tcha Headquarters(#1472RLXntAFJN) This is a giant sunken desert crater that has been turned into a massive Space Port. It is protected on all sides by the high crater walls, which the constant heat and wind have blown into a near solid rock surface. The height of the crater keeps most of the elements out, particularly desert sandstorms, however the intense heat does still beat down during the day. Along the walls to the west are storage and equipment units, as well as several maintenance droids of different types. -=-=-=-=-=-=<>=-=-=-=-=-=- => Paul_Nighman => Kairne => STARFIGHTER: Lantillian Short Hauler -- Chameleon -=-=-=-=-=<>=-=-=-=-=- Down - leads to Underground Shuttle Way -Mos Eisley-. West - leads to Long Entry Hall. Kairne says, "A graak doesn't play games, he just flies where it's safe." "Does this particular graak still need a spare set of wings?" Paul asks idly, willing to play along ... for at least a little bit longer. Shenner's green gaze flicks left, and right, as she takes in the surroundings. For the briefest of moments, she actually smiles to herself at what she sees, before returning her attention to the two men. Kairne says, "Very well might be.. he's not too sure of how the wind blows right now." Kairne says, "But you know graaks, crazy flying creatures they are." Kairne says, "Ive been instructed to show you to another part of the complex, and entertain you a bit." Kairne hobbles a litle further ahead of you in the starport. Folding his arms, Paul stops dead, looking about at the ship and the crater, the fact that it impresses him remaining clear from his features. "Kairne, I came, as I said that I would ... we're not here to be entertained ... we have more pressing business." Shenner takes her cue from Paul, watching quietly, hands still in her vest pockets. Kairne turns around, "Flattered as I am by your calling me that, I am Nikos. Your business is not to be conducted here I am told." Kairne says, "The longer you stall, the longer you keep yourselves from your business." Sighing, Paul steps closer to the humped person. "Alright," he aquieses, "lead on." Kairne says, "Sigh all you want, I just do what I'm told." Kairne walks towards the Blast doors. They open just long enough for him to enter and for a gasp of blessedly cool air to escape, then slam shut. Kairne has left. Paul_Nighman walks towards the Blast doors. They open just long enough for him to enter and for a gasp of blessedly cool air to escape, then slam shut. Paul_Nighman has left. [Shen heads into the corridors of this place, in the wake of Paul and their guide....] Darkened Hall This long hallway has come to an abrupt end. To the west, there is an area that you can see has been recently walled off. To the east is what might be a Meeting Hall. -=-=-=-=-=-=<>=-=-=-=-=-=- => Paul_Nighman => Kairne -=-=-=-=-=<>=-=-=-=-=- ast - leads to Meeting Hall. outh - leads to Main Intersection. Kairne points to east to the large doors of the Meeting Hall, "Your business lies in there" Shenner catches up, frowning, but the frown settles back into her businesslike mask as she falls back into step with Paul Nighman. Nodding pleasantly, Paul murmurs, "Thank you for the escort, and the migration lessons." Turning to Shen, he gestures with his head. "Okay, let's do it." Paul_Nighman enters the meeting room. Paul_Nighman has left. Shenner just nods back, eying their guide askance, but silently. You enter the meeting room prepared for the business at hand. Meeting Hall This expansive hall is where business dealings of the V'ez-Tcha are discussed. Banners of the crest of Mandalore as well as trophies of vanquished enemies line the walls. A long wooden table stretches along the center of the room. A large and luxurious seat heads the table, where the leader of the V'ez-Tcha sits to conduct the meetings. A computer terminal is situated in front of this seat, a little off to the side. -=-=-=-=-=-=<>=-=-=-=-=-=- => Paul_Nighman -=-=-=-=-=<>=-=-=-=-=- est - leads to Darkened Hall. Kairne enters from the Main Hallway. Kairne has arrived. Shenner comes in after Paul, looking over her shoulder, then at the room itself. Kairne enters the Meeting Hall, "I damned near forgot..." Kairne places his staff on the table, and straightens himself up. Kairne pulls back his hood, "Nava choi my guests." Paul takes a long good look around the room, recognizing the crest. Looking over toward the voice, Paul frowns fractionally, then his expression clears, his suspicions confirmed. "Nava choi Kairne, we are here." Kairne's helmet shines in the light. Kairne says, "Please forgive the charades." Kairne says, "Tatooine is not a safe place whatsoever anymore." Shrugging, Paul approaches the table. "Protection or test?" Hesitantly, unsure of the syllables, Shenner simply mouths 'nava choi', as if tasting the way it sounds and reluctant to speak it any louder, lest she butcher it. Kairne says, "Even here in the confines of our base, we are not safe anymore." Kairne motions for you to sit, seating himself in the process. Kairne says, "My greatest appreciation for you taking the time to meet with me, and suffering along with my games..." Kairne says, "Even I am now growing wary of them." Kairne says, "As for your question.. both..." Kairne says, "You've handled yourself well Paul.. you do my people honor." Pulling out a seat for Shenner, Paul seats himself at the table. He nods in acknowledgement of the praise, though his eyes show no pleasure at the compliment. "We have much to discuss, where did you want to start?" Shenner smiles a little at the compliment to Paul, clearly pleased by this, but still keeping her mouth shut nevertheless. She takes a seat when the archaeologist does, her green regard flicking back and forth between the other two faces. Kairne places his hands on the table, his cloak pulling back a little to reveal his sleeves, "I've informed you of our need to evacuated the remainder of our personell and supplies, even the arrangments we've made already are becoming unsafe. While you may not see the V'ez-Tcha in such a bright light, we are not the enemy that the Empire is." "Who could be," Paul murmurs, the destruction of Alderaan brightest in his mind after his recent squabble with Ariana. "While I respect your position, I find it hard to know if helping the V'ez-Tcha will end up in the preservation of a group of honor bound individuals, or in the continuation of a group of assassins, strong arms, and bounty hunters. What assurances, as a Mandalorian of the old honor code, can you offer me?" His features show that he does not ask this question lightly, that is it not a request that he asks without conscience. Kairne says, "I ask you not to help out those V'ez who are assassins and strong arms as you put it, but those innocents who legally work for us, and depend on us to provide for them. The Imperials will not distinguish between the innocent and the crimals, they will just kill them all. I can not have their blood on my hands, there is already too much blood that I can never wash off." Kairne says, "I have killed in the past yes, I have my regrets about things I cannot change.. but I am not without my honor..." There is a long and pregnant pause, but Paul is nothing if not an overly soft hearted smuggler. "Where do you propose to relocate these people to?" Kairne says, "Wherever is safe.. Some of us are heading to Kosari, others to Sluis Van, Corellia.. It matters not really where you can take them to, just as long as it safe place... We will retrieve them when the time comes.. And still others... will return home..." The quiet girl in the chair beside Paul continues to take all this in, her eyes narrowed slightly in concentration, their gaze alert. Her expression is hardly impassive -- clearly, she has thoughts about what she's hearing, if the glitter in her eyes is any indication. For now, though, she continues to keep silent. Laying his hands upon the table, tracing the patterns of the grain beneath his finger tips, Paul nods sagely. "This will be dangerous work, with potential future complications with the Empire. What compensation would you offer for my services?" Kairne says, "I am a man of honor Paul_Nighman... you already have been allowed a gift by myself and Noth." Kairne says, "But I realize the danger you put yourself in, even sitting here with me now. Perhaps in time.. you can call my home yours.. of sorts." Kairne says, "But that requires other assistance as well." Shenner's brow crinkles slightly. The girl knows that when Kairne or Dane Noth or Grathix speaks of 'home', that home is Mandalore -- and the thought of it possibly becoming a home of sorts for Paul is not one she is sure she knows how to digest. She leans forward a little, intently listening. Leaning against the table, Paul's eyes narrow. "I am honored by the gifts bestowed upon me by yourself and Dane, specifically, those of your names and your offer of acceptance and honor toward me, one who is not Mandalorian. However," he adds, raising a finger, "if these -gifts- were not offered freely, but as payment for deeds yet undone by myself, then you honor me not. The V'ez Tcha, despite this horrendous situation, is not a helpless organization without resources hidden away for such emergencies. I have no desire to take advantage of your situation Kairne, but no self respecting pilot would take on this mission gratis." Kairne says, "I see that rumours abound about how well off the V'ez-Tcha is... We are not as strong as one might think.. not in recent months... But do not take my words in the wrong light. Our 'gifts' are not payment for actions yet to be done... They are what they are. I ask for your assistance as someone in need, nothing more. These are innocent people who do not deserve to die." Steepling his fingers thoughtfully, Paul considers for a long moment before responding, slowly and carefully. "Let us agree then, in honor, that come a time in the future when the V'ez Tcha has rebuilt itself, that I may come to you for either a favor of equal value, or financial reimbursement at a time when it would come as no hardship? I can think of no other pilot who would offer so much in advance," he notes forthrightly. "Would you be willing to honor such an agreement?" In unconscious imitation of Paul, Shenner's hands come together in an interlocking steeple of their own, Kairne says, "It is unfortunate that the V'ez-Tcha has grown into something far worse than we had intended it to be... It pains me to know this.. But know that my heart is not V'ez-Tcha.. it is Mandalorian, and they are 2 very different things. I would not have come to you Paul, if I did not have faith in your character. I will honor you, yes, when your time of need presents itself." "It is done then," Paul answers simply. Sitting back then Paul chews at his bottom lip thoughtfully before a smile crosses his lips. "Would it be possible to get your people out to the Dune Sea? If you go to the Power Station and go south from there, you can make it." It is clear that an idea is formulating in his mind. Kairne says, "Know that no Mandalorian has offered this to an outsider, in a long time... I can only hope, that this begins the the building of the bridge from our past, to our future." Kairne nods, "I believe we can get them to the Dune Sea, without too much trouble.. the air skiffs are expendable at this point in time.. what do you have in mind for out there?" Shenner peers at Kairne, her brow crinkling under her heavy forelock. Not entirely certain of what it is she's witnessed -- oh, the deal is obvious enough; it's the implications under the words that are catching her bard's ear, and that she cannot make sense of them brings a taut brief frown to her mouth, a less brief frown to her eyes. That catches Paul unawares, so deeply delved into his plot already. Shaking himself out of his reverie, Paul inclines his head in a near bow. "I would be honored to be a part of that future," he intones gravely. Blinking then, he returns to his previous focus. "Even on foot, if well provisioned, they can make it," he assures Kairne, "and that's a lot less noticeable than air skiffs." A small smile curls his lips once again. "I set up a cover story, just in case, of an archeaological dig going on out in the Dune Sea. It's been authorized by the Caspar Academy and according to the paperwork, has been in process for over a month. If your people can get there, I can meet them, and that can be their cover as well as my own." "I'm his intern," Shenner puts in, speaking for the first time, smirking, but with amusement. Kairne nods. "Like myself, you are a clever thinker... perhaps once, a long time ago, you were a Mandalorian... Your cover story will work.. these Imperials are not as intelligent as you or I. I will assemble those remaining of our staff at the hotel and here, and have them ready to head out. I will remain for a short while, as I must make final preparations.." Kairne says, "Once you are finished here on Tatooine, where will you take them to? You and I have business to attend to together once we are off this giant sandbox." "I have papers, if you have any forgers still on hand, I suggest you make copies - they'll go a long way in proving your people are just xenoarcheaologists," he confides, pulling a document out of his satchel and sliding it across the table. "It should at least slow the Imperials down some. They will need to go south from the power station until they pass the shuttle wreckage, and they should wait at the abandoned enviro-shelter ... make it look like it's their's. The dates on the paper work indicate that the dig is scheduled to wrap up, the participants picked up this week. That way, they should look like a camp closing up." Taking a breath, Paul considers Kairne's question for a moment. "I think Corellia is a good place to take them, unless you prefer somewhere else? And yes, we do have business to attend to, but ... without Grathix?" Paul queries curiously. "What of Dane?" Shenner leans back again, a slight frown returning to her features. But once more, she is silent, evidently content to listen once more -- at least until Grathix is mentioned. Her face twists, in a strange little mix between annoyance and dismay, and she abruptly speaks up again: "Is Grath okay?" Kairne nods, taking the document and examining it. "I believe we have some people who can manage the papers, they will not be a problem." Putting the document back down, "It is unfortunate about Grathix.. we know that the Imperials have him, J'Dan, Nerik and others in their custody, but we know not where yet. I can only conclude they will be sent to a prison camp... but I am hoping for that... Once we know where they are being held.. we will attempt an escape, and I will rescue my brethren.. No Imperial should be allowed to hold a Mandalorian, nonetheless two of them..." Inhaling again, "Dane is to meet with me upon our flagship to finish our preparations for the trip to Homeworld... we have a few things to do before we can make the trip there.." Kairne says, "We will go to Homeworld before any attempt to rescsue my brethren from their imprisonment... there are things on homeworld, that I wish to secure.. things that we hid away before the Empire decided to try to exterminate us... and I believe some of the homeworlders themselves would like a chance to strike back at the Empire, and join us on our rescue attempt." Kairne says, "While they may not be my equal.. we are born warriors.. that is something that cannot be taken away from us." Paul considers Kairne a touch warily, but merely inclines his head in acknowledgement. "Alright then, Corellia. I have one other question for you," he adds uncertainly. "I know that in these times your communications are severely limited, but have you heard anything of Skywalker or one Jessalyn Valios being taken into the Empire's custody?" Kairne shakes his head, "I have heard nothing about the Jedi, or the woman, although I have not had my people primarily looking out for that information. The imprisoned V'ez-Tcha have been my concern... Their carelessness has caused me great trouble... Grathix is a young and naive Mandalorian... I can have my contacts open themselves for information about the Jedi... one who you will transport as a 'digger' is a contact... I will instruct him to give you any information he has concerning the matter when he meets you." Shenner chews at one corner of her lower lip at that question of Paul's, glancing at him, then at Kairne, waiting for the answer. Then she smirks a moment at the idea of Grathix being described 'naive' -- but again, she keeps her opinions to herself. "I appreciate your flexibility," Paul murmurs gravely. "Then I will meet you next on Mandalore? I still need the coordinates, but you can send them to Corellia as you did your last message - it will reach me there." Rising from his chair, Paul's brow puckers thoughtfully for another moment, but then he asks, "Is there anything we've not discussed that is important?" Kairne stands, "There are other things to discuss, but we can discuss them when are people have reached safety.. I will not allow the whereabouts of Mandalore to be known at this time, to outsiders.. I cannot risk the lives of all those on Homeworld... Dane, and I, and possibly the other young Mandalorian we've found, will meet you on Corellia, if that is possible. I do not question your honor Paul, but the risk is too great." Shenner rises without sound, her brow still crinkled. Kairne says, "Perhaps Dane will know of of the Jedi's whereabouts... he and his friends in the Republic are also people we have important business with..." Kairne says, "Like you, I fear they hold too much of a dislike for the V'ez-Tcha.. it is something Dane and I would like to clear... Now is not a time for us to be enemies.. There is much to be gained by both sides, if we can work together... while the V'ez-Tcha is a small portion... you know that Homeworld is something more.. a greater asset..." Inclining his head, Paul replies easily, "That which we do not know cannot be forced from our lips ... there is no need for apology." Turning to Shen, Paul extends a hand to gesture that they should be leaving now. "So long as everything that needs to be said here and now has been, I think it is best if I get everything in order and you send out the news to your people to meet me at the shelter in the Dune Sea," Paul replies consideringly. He looks to Shen, on the off chance that she can think of anything that he might have forgotten. Her expression still bemused and thoughtful, Shenner simply shakes her head at Paul, a sort of 'later' look. Kairne says, "I will prepare them for their trip to the Dune Sea... I will see if I myself can make it out there to see you off.." [After Kairne once more dons his 'old man' disguise, he escorts Paul and Shenner back to the Twin Suns Hotel, taking the same secret route they'd followed before. Paul and Shenner then make as unobtrusive a course as possible back to the safety of their vessel....] Main Ring -- Quasar Bolt(#6524RVat) -=-=-=-=-=-=<>=-=-=-=-=-=- => Duffle Bag => Captain's Quarters -=-=-=-=-=<>=-=-=-=-=- leads to Docking Bay 94 -Mos Eisley-. ft leads to Cargo Hold -- Quasar Bolt. ore leads to Cockpit -- Quasar Bolt. Shenner enters Main Ring -- Quasar Bolt Paul_Nighman has arrived. Paul_Nighman enters Main Ring -- Quasar Bolt Walking into the ship, Paul pauses for a moment before sitting heavily on one of the couches. He stares off into space, silent ever since they left the Twin Suns. Finally, the only word he utters is, "Huh." Shenner has been frowning all the way back through Mos Eisley, and she doesn't stop frowning as she follows Paul onto the ship -- although she does relax, at least somewhat, once she is safely on board the vessel and out of the line of sight of the Imperial patrols that seem to have swarmed over the planet. "Now I remember why I don't like talkin' to Mandalorians," she mutters, petulantly. The girl plops down on another couch, nearby. That ellicits a small smile and a curious glance from Paul, breaking his concentration. Thinking he knows the answer, he asks anyway. "Why?" Shen doesn't see the smile; she's closed her eyes, though she is still scowling, and she's propped her head back along the back of the couch she's claimed. "Karkin' stuck up..." she mutters. "Wasn't expectin' tea and crumpets, but it woulda been nice for him to at least realize I was there." The short laugh is quickly polymorphed into a cough. "Tea and crumpets would have been nice actually," he comments wistfully, his stomach roiling at the thought. Rising from his seat, he shuffles toward the kitchen. "How 'bout it ... you want some?" he asks as he begins rummaging. There is a brief silence, and then he returns, "You know it's nothing personal Shen ... I mean not really - they treat most non Mandalorians that way ..." "Me not bein' Mandalorian didn't keep _Grath_ from at least realizin' I was in the same room," the girl grumbles. Then she sighs, sits up fretfully, and adds, "Yeah... I'm hungry." Moodily, she stares at the floor. Re-emerging with some crusty bread, a sun-dried tomatoe and garlic spread, and some vegetables, Paul seats himself next to Shen, placing the food on a small side table. "Well I guess that's because Grathix is "young" and "naive"?" Shaking his head, Paul prepares a piece of bread, offering it to the cranky redhead at his side, her temperment matching her hair color. "Kairne is obviously old school ... doesn't make it okay, but I bet you anything if I didn't speak the lingo, know some of the customs, and have a ship handy, he would have considered me no more than he would a bug on the sidewalk." Shenner considers this, then grumpily accepts the food, muttering a thank-you. "I guess," she says, uneasily. Then after a beat she adds, "I'm worried about Grath, Paul." "I'm sure he'll be just fine .... he may be "naive" in Kairne's eyes, but he's no fool ... if he doesn't wheedle and deal his way out of this, they'll probably rescue him just fine." Considering the girl at his side, he adds, "They're apparently not using him as leverage, so if they were going to kill him, they would have done so by now ... I'm sure he's of more use alive than dead." Shen blows out a breath, then says awkwardly, "He was... pretty decent to me. Dammit, what'd he do with Solo?" Her brow crinkles, and she rips a chunk off the bread, chewing furiously. Taking a piece of bread himself, Paul chooses the dip method instead. "Dunno," he honestly replies, "but it shouldn't be too hard to find out about Solo if you're really curious ..." The girl smirks a bit, glancing off across the room. "All that trouble Grath and me went to on Etti IV, and the Empire'd already snagged Solo out from under us..." She shifts where she sits, looking like a restless, fidgety child. "I... I dunno. Hope he's okay. Luke woulda told us if they got him back, wouldn't he?" With a soft sigh, Paul reminds Shenner gently, "We don't even know where -Luke- is Shen ..... as for telling us before, well I was lucky to get the one message that I did ... but as you might recall, it was in the past tense, which suggests to me that Han was no longer in Grathix's custody - ie, he was free." The girl nods, without speaking, chewing down the rest of her current mouthful. With her unoccupied hand she pokes at random at the couch, and finally she mutters lowly, "I... was kinda hopin' Grath and me, we'd be able to rescue him offa Etti IV, yah know? Do somethin'... right." Shenner then smirks at her own words, shakes her head a bit, and, bread eaten, flops back along the couch once more. She seems almost sarcastically amused. Considering Shen for a moment, Paul merely murmurs, "Stranger things have happened ... it doesn't hurt to shoot for glory kiddo," he adds affectionately. Shenner snorts, getting to her feet and loping towards the miniature kitchen. As she goes, she flicks a look to Paul, a sardonic little half-smile, though tempered by a distantness to her eyes. "Yeah, well," she says evasively, ferreting into the refrigerator for one of the ciders she'd stashed in there. "Don't think I got the ammo to hit it from here." Staring at the thin shoulders, the long length of back, Paul considers if any response would be truly appropriate. _Nothing -I- can say is going to make her think better of herself_ he realizes dejectedly. _That's got to happen on her terms - on her own merit_ For once, Paul closes his mouth and keeps it that way, only opening it to take another bite of bread. Half-turned away from the Corellian, Shenner opens the cider container and drinks down a good third of it before closing it again. When she turns back, the sardonic edge is gone from her expression, though she still seems strangely distant. "I guess I better go to bed," she murmurs. "It's been a long night," agrees Paul, eyeing the girl somewhat oddly, this mood of hers being something strange and unfamiliar to him. There is a moment of consideration, of letting it go unmarked ... but he can't. "Shen? What's on your mind?" "I..." Shen pauses, looking momentarily stricken. Then she lowers her eyes, and mutters gruffly, "Ah, hell, Paul, don't mind me... just me bein' a mixed up kid, is all." "I do mind you ... all the time .... what are you mixed up about?" he inquires patiently, forcing the pressing issues of the night back to squabble and fight it out in a dark corner of his mind. "We settled it already," the girl replies, flipping open her cider again and taking down another good swig of it. When she pauses for air she smirks and adds, "Just trying to make sure I got it all sorted out in my head, didn't miss nothin'. You know." That just doesn't cut it, and Paul can see a lie on Shen as clearly as if she had changed the color of her hair. "Settled what already?" he asks in a deceptively mild tone. Shen considers whether to return the cider to the refrigeration unit, then changes her mind and drains the container instead. As it rushes down through her system she pauses a moment, letting the mild alcohol hit her blood; then she smiles crookedly and mutters, "About what I, uh, asked you about before. What we are, you know? I'm just bein' slow, it's okay, really..." She does turn, then, putting the now empty container into the recyc unit. "You wanted a different answer." It isn't a question, it's a statement. The fact that this, above all else, is foremost in her mind, removes any doubts that Paul might have had - any rationalizations he might have formed. "It ain't important," Shenner replies immediately, paused there by the recyc unit, not looking over. "'Specially not right now. We got too much other business to take care of." "If this is what is on your mind, then it -is- important," Shenner is informed firmly. "If this is going to be a stumbling block for us ... between us, then it is -very- important." _Not to mention very hard_ This is it ... the moment he had been unconciously waiting for ... the very reason he turned her away on the cliffs on Calamari and the very reason he took her with him. It all comes to this awful moment. "I ain't gonna let it be," Shenner says quietly. "You ain't gotta worry about it." Standing up and walking toward Shenner, Paul places himself in her personal space, intruding deliberately. "You know that I will," he informs her. "Caring about you is becoming as natural as breathing ..." Shen remains where she is standing, her hands lightly gripping the counter before her; her only response to Paul's approach is to close her eyes, but her response to his words as he arrives is a small but noticeable wince crossing her features. She looks up and says quickly, anxiously, "That's... that's _why_ I don't want yah to worry about it, see? I'll be fine... really..." Reaching out, Paul pulls Shen against him. "No, I don't see ... and you're obviously -not- fine .... you'll have to explain it to me." There is a strange strain in his throat - felt but not heard ... a strange twinge in his chest and stomach. If he didn't know better, he'd think he had butterflies ... Paul's hands touch, wrap around, and pull at Shenner's arms with the tenderest of care. Turning her till her back faces him, he draws her against his torso, his arms surrounding her from behind, wrapping about her chest and shoulders, holding her in a protective loving embrace. His head drops to touch against the side of her own. Shen lets out a soft shaking breath. Held that way, she cannot help but lean back against the Corellian behind her; her own hands lift to shyly grasp his arms. "Ahh, Paul... I..." The tentative touch of her hands upon his arms, her soft uncertain voice causes a definite reaction - a sharp twisting in the same telltale places. Swallowing uncertainly himself, Paul rasps softly in her ear, "Yes?" waiting for enlightenment. "I just... I just gotta learn to deal with it, I guess... have to eventually anyway... it ain't your fault, honest... guess it's just all part of growin' up..." The girl rambles these words out, her voice growing progressively huskier, till she finishes with a hoarse little, "Ahh... hell..." His lips brush the side of her neck tenderly, his voice and breath feathering her ear. "Shen ..... I once told Jessalyn that it is rare for a relationship to be completely equal ... of both partners to feel the same toward on another ... there's often an imbalance. It isn't always bad ... and it is by no means permament ... the scale tilts back and forth ... things can and will change." "You ain't done nothin' wrong," Shenner says, roughly, but firmly, with conviction. "I just... I don't expect nothin', you ain't gonna worry about it, it ain't like it's a surprise or anything..." Her voice drops, then, and she whispers, "I ain't gonna clip your wings." The arms about her tighten, one dropping to her waist, curving around it to press her against him hard. Dropping his head to her shoulder, Paul remembers the present, the weight of the tiny amulet laying against his chest. He doesn't argue her points - they're just defensive flailing. "Is that why you gave it to me? To give me my wings back?" "S... somethin' like that, yeah," the girl whispers, her fingers curling more closely about the arms they're gripping. "I never told you this ... never told anyone this before," he murmurs, his voice flowing over Shenner's shoulder like warmed Corellian ale, "but that's why I fly ... because of a redtailed hawk .. just like on the necklace." There is a companionable silence, Paul's memory burning on that vision. "Shen, we fly together now, alright?" Surprised, Shenner turns in Paul's grasp, lifting her gaze to him, blinking rapidly. She finally offers a shy half-smile, as she says huskily, "I, uh, pegged it, then, huh? I mean... with the hawk...?" "Proverbial hammer and nail," Paul confirms with a wry smile, his hands still holding her close despite her shift. Green eyes drink in the face before them, almost as though Shenner half-fears she'll never see Paul's particular set of features again. She tries to cover it, not entirely successfully, with another lopsided half-smile, half-smirk. "I... wanna fly with yah, long as you can put up with a mixed up kid like me..." Hazel meet green, holding, offering their solid steady color to rely on, blend into. "I think we can accommodate your needs there," Paul murmurs, half in humor, half in earnest. Shen considers several replies, as first and foremost she is gripped by relief: _I didn't have to tell him. I didn't have to tell him..._ What she finally says, along with another crumply sort of grin, is, "So we should... crash, I guess...." Considering the idea like a shiny new credit Paul murmurs happily. "Crashing .... crashing is good." Hazel eyes gleam with mischief and he nearly suggests that something -else- might be better of course. "Ow," he murmurs as he bites his tongue. Shen grins a bit, glancing off in the direction of the quarters they've been sharing. "Crashing is good," she murmurs. She starts to move, off in that direction, though removing herself from Paul's embrace only far enough to give him room to follow her. Trailing close behind as if an overgrown puppy, Paul hits the lights, dimming the cabin as they abandon it for their private quarters. There is a certain pleased amazement in Shenner's chest now, as she thinks, _Okay... I can handle this... it's okay...._ Her point appears to have been gotten across, and while the pang in her hasn't entirely eased, it has lessened. Finding this enough, the redheaded bardling crawls out of most of her garments and into bed. Sliding into bed next to Shen, Paul wonders what was accomplished ... something is clearly better, although reviewing his words, he cannot think of anything that was specifically different ... except that perhaps he was more specific this time. Pulling Shen's slight figure to his own, for warmth and just because more than anything sexual, Paul murmurs softly against the nape of her neck, nuzzling her there lightly, contentedly. If nothing else, he notes with relief, the butterflies seem to have migrated. [End log.]