Star Wars: Lost Soul

[SiaKlynn]

Taryn Nalani

She didn’t remain in the galley for long, a handful of seconds to collect her thoughts, before returning to the cockpit retaking the captain chair. Vince feeling the need to explain his actions without any prodding speaks up, "Master......I’m......I’m sorry…for.....the market, I...uhh... had let myself drift, just happened I had......found this necklace"

Taryn shifts her pale gaze to look at Vince and sees the blush rise to his cheeks and suspects she is not alone in her feelings.

"It was beautiful; I had never seen anything like it." He grows quiet and she senses he’s searching for the words or perhaps not trying to say too much. "I thought it would fit you beautifully, it matched your eyes, when I went to pay I noticed my money was gone, I caught the hesitation and guilt of the man who did it through the force, and, well, I just kinda went on auto pilot......."

Looking down at the glass cradled in her hands she sighs softly and considers her next words carefully, “I underestimated your ability to control your anger; you’re still learning control and I should have used better judgment.”

Lifting the glass for a sip of wine Taryn looks to the side feeling her cheeks warm as she addresses his confession about the necklace. “It was thoughtful… the necklace even if it didn’t work out as planned.”

A small smile touches her lips, but she doesn’t know what else to say, she should be tougher on him. Relaxing back in the chair she stares out into the blackness and finishes the wine. The right decision would be to return to Coruscant, but she’s already committed to staying with Vince and proving the council wrong. She tells herself that mistakes will happen along the way and that he only needs more time; his decision to turn his back on the darkside deserves a chance.

“When we reach our destination we’ll head to Balamak and settle on the southern outskirts not too far from Dorum, the planet’s capital. From there we’ll keep to ourselves, but we’ll be close enough to the city to buy supplies we’ll need. When we’re in the city no wandering off on your own, not at first, in time you’ll have the strength to control your temper. I have faith in you.”

Standing up she rests her fingers lightly on his shoulder, “Why don’t we relax? We have a day’s travel ahead and the cockpit really isn’t that comfortable.”

Leaving the cockpit she returns to the galley to brew some tea and put together a small selection of snacks. Taking a tray to the common area she sets it on the table and curls up on the couch with a cup of tea.

 

[LoganDarkHolme]

“I underestimated your ability to control your anger; you’re still learning control and I should have used better judgment.”

“taryn……i….”

Vince looked away, he hated the fact she blamed herself for his continued failure, after weeks with her, how tense he’d been, again he had to wonder if she’d subtly done something to him, he just couldn’t find it in himself to hate her, feel anger towards her any longer, he didn’t want her to feel this hurt. He didn’t want her to blame herself when it was he he screwed up…….what the hell…..

“It was thoughtful… the necklace even if it didn’t work out as planned.”

Taryns words roused him from his thoughts and again he felt his face heating as he blushed, sith spit what was wrong with him, he should have killed her when he had the chance…….but……oh hell……

“When we reach our destination we’ll head to Balamak and settle on the southern outskirts not too far from Dorum, the planet’s capital. From there we’ll keep to ourselves, but we’ll be close enough to the city to buy supplies we’ll need When we’re in the city no wandering off on your own, not at first, in time you’ll have the strength to control your temper. I have faith in you.”

Vince frowned, in all his travels he didn’t quiet recall Balamak, didn’t belive he had even been there, but well, the galaxy was a big place, Vince looked to his control panel then back to Taryn as she continued speaking, he nodded at her mention of supplys
“yes master………as….you wish..” He sighed in resignation, her vote of confidence in his ability to control the darker side of him not withstanding he didn’t have faith in himself, he sighed again feeling the tender touch of Taryns hand on his shoulder

“Why don’t we relax? We have a day’s travel ahead and the cockpit really isn’t that comfortable.”

“yea, that sounds good, “ rising he followed Taryn back into the lounge and sits down, looking at the selection of food he munchs on a cracker, it felt if a galaxys worth of weight was slamming down on him

“whats the point of all this Taryn, the council’s just gunna kill me anyway, I damned myself years ago, you should just give me up, im a lost cause “ His voice was soft, his eyes shadowed, for the umpteenth time his memorys, feelings, replayed in his head, his dreams, his sleep had been restless, he only managed 2 maybe 3 hours of sleep a night and spent the rest of the time in meditative trance if anything to simulate sleep

 

[SiaKlynn]

Taryn Nalani

Taryn had put out food out of routine; it was something to keep her busy as she thinks about her decisions over the last month. Ever since she’d received the assignment to go after Vince her steady path had changed. She defied the Jedi council and ran off with Vince because she believes he can change. He’d already begun changing even with this set back. He feels regret for his actions and that is why she hadn’t killed him, why she won’t. It is why she’ll continue to encourage him. Her attraction to him is an emotion easily put aside.

“What’s the point of all this Taryn, the council’s just gunna kill me anyway, I damned myself years ago, you should just give me up, I’m a lost cause.“

His voice breaks through her thoughts shifting her pale green eyes to rest on him, studying him as she works through a series of reactionary emotions of sympathy, annoyance and even a flash of anger. “The point?”

She sits up straight and sets the mug on the table, “The point is you deserved a chance to change. Their decision was wrong. You were venerable, feeling lost and betrayed, but I could sense that you were not truly lost, so I took a chance. I didn’t force you to reject the darkside and embrace peace you made that decide on your own. Don’t let what happened in the marketplace discourage you.”

Standing up Taryn turns to walk away, but then decides otherwise and turns around to look at Vince, her voice stern, “It’s time to stop sulking and grow up. Decide what you want. Not for me or out of guilt; but for yourself what path you’ll follow. You have so much strength inside you, but it means nothing as long as you sit around brooding and whining.”

 

[LoganDarkHolme]

Vince sat there, a dour look on his face, again he felt like he was a lost child, fighting the urge to run, to scream at her, to force her to end this stupid pathetic game she was playing, the urge to just kill her, or kill himself, save everyone the trouble of a public trial, almost growling just with the frustration of it all the sharp tone in Taryns voice snaps his mind back to the present

“The point?”

He watchs Taryn shift in her seat and he straightens, unsure of her actions

“The point is you deserved a chance to change. Their decision was wrong. You were venerable, feeling lost and betrayed, but I could sense that you were not truly lost, so I took a chance.

Vince’s frown just seemed to deepen as he listen, his body even visibly jerked as she said the council was wrong, you just never heard that from any Jedi, and the fact that she just went out of her way, again amazed him, but he’d had to snort as she claimed that he “wasn’t lost” yes he was, she just refused to see it,

I didn’t force you to reject the darkside and embrace peace you made that decide on your own. Don’t let what happened in the marketplace discourage you.”

Again that damned feeling of being a scorned child, as Taryn stood he stood too, he’d had a piece of fruit in his hand and the single thought of just whipping it at the back of her head, out of pure frustration, even to him came across as childish, instead he just popped it into his mouth and sighed heavily, shaking his head as he words rung in her ears, he was never meant for any of this he was just another useless force user with no future and a dismal past

“It’s time to stop sulking and grow up. Decide what you want. Not for me or out of guilt; but for yourself what path you’ll follow. You have so much strength inside you, but it means nothing as long as you sit around brooding and whining.”

“I DO NOT WHINE!” that set his anger off, it wasn’t her, it was what she said, he’d always been taunted, jedi, sith, he’d always stood out, never had many friends, picking up a strawberry he whipped it at Taryn again out of frustration and self hatred and because it was the closest thing he had at hand other then his saber, but dueling sabers inside an aircraft would be disasterous, a single nick in hull, even at light speed and they’d be space dust into microseconds

 

[SiaKlynn]

Taryn Nalani

With a nonchalant wave of her hand the small morsel of fruit is tossed aside without regard to the mess it makes as it hits the durasteel floor. “Perhaps not verbally, but it’s there in your mood. It’s time to snap out of it!”

The young Jedi Master’s voice is sharp as she confronts Vince there with no sign of backing down, “You have the ability to choose your path. No one can choose it for you. I’ve offered my help, but I am not here to be your new master.”

By now Taryn is standing on the other side of the table looking up into Vince’s face those pale green eyes determined and yet deep within them is fear and something else, something the Jedi Master cannot freely admit. What if he chooses the darkside? Will she be able to kill him? The grip of desperation hits her like a wall and she pauses; looking off to the side she feels suddenly vulnerable. How can she feel so strongly for him?

“I know it’s hard…” She says, her voice barely above a whisper, “I … “ her brow knits together as she tries to find the right words, “I’m sorry.”

She didn’t trust herself to say anything more as she realizes part of her determination to save him is fueled by how she feels about him. Walking away Taryn leaves him in the common area to go to her room to meditate and seek guidance. She had ignored Cal’s warning and now she doubts her ability to think clearly on the situation.

 

[LoganDarkHolme]

“You have the ability to choose your path. No one can choose it for you. I’ve offered my help, but I am not here to be your new master.”

Vince waited, his body was tensed, he wanted, no, he needed a fight, he needed something to hold onto to lash out at, he….he just needed to feel something, anything, he’d spent so long in the dark, cold, alone, unfeeling, unhurried, but this…..this….jedi…this..women…..made him..feel, something, like a child? Like…….normal…..he didn’t know how to cope, but anger, anger he knew, anger he could grasp, could fight back with………..but…….

“I know it’s hard…I … I’m sorry.”

Sithspit, that was it, vince exhaled, and his head started to droop but he caught himself, her voice, the sudden tone of her voice, the almost girlish way she looked as she turned from him, it drove the anger from him, she gave him nothing, nothing at all to lash out at, he’d wanted to fight, almost felt like he needed to, but again she proved herself better, he watched her, his body shaking, adrenaline, anger, just…….what…..driving his body, but now no were to go, with a cry of frustration he lashed out, slamming his hand into the bulkhead, the reverberating shock of pain up his arm he did it twice more until the pain forced him to cradle his arm, till the adrenaline could not over power the empty feeling he had within himself he panted, cradling his arm, his hand,

“sith spit….” He looked down to the bloody savaged flesh on his hand, numb to anything , the pain had dulled, but by the looks of things he had just broken his hand, well, his left hand, at least it wasn’t his saber hand…..with another cursed sigh he just let himself slump into the copilots chair, and set about rummaging through the first aid kit for wraps and cleansing ointments

 

[SiaKlynn]

Taryn went to her room to mediate, but couldn’t, clearing her mind proved useless she couldn’t stop thinking about Vince and their argument and feelings she shouldn’t have for him, but does. Sitting back on her bunk she leans against the wall and stares at the door; she’d walked away from him like a scared child. Sighing softly, she wonders how she’s suppose to move forward with him.

The loud bangs against the durasteel wall of the ship echo through the ship and she sits straight up, it is easy enough to sense Vince’s frustration and then the pain. He’d hurt himself. Pressing her lips together she sits back knowing it wouldn’t be wise to approach him right now. Let him stew, calm down and then she’ll go to him. She’ll need to be mindful of her feelings.

Taryn let an hour past before leaves her room and walks to the cockpit, “Hi.”

She says softly as she sits in the captain’s seat and looks at him her pale gaze studying his face for a moment before looking to his hand, which is wrapped a little haphazardly. A faint smile tugs at the corner of her lips, “Does it hurt? I can wrap it better, if you want….”

She leans forward reaching out her hand to gently take his hand, “I don’t want to fight anymore… I know we still may, but… well... I’m sorry if I’ve been a little insufferable.”

 

[LoganDarkHolme]

As he sat there in the cockpit he mottled through the first aid kit, doing his best to wrap his hand without using the force and alerting Taryn, muttering, cursing to himself as the pain finally made itself apparently even through his hazed mind he side, giving up after a while and just curling the hand into the folds of his robe he just sat there staring out the view port, They were still hours from their arrival point and vince now was more unsure then ever about what his future held, he’d given up trying to meditate…..

And hour later vince blinked not having realized he’d either fallen asleep or just completely zoned out or his surroundings, Taryns greeting rousing him he jerked liked he’d been bootlicked by a speeder craft, he made a show of checking gauges and their coarse before settling back, drawing into his robes he winced but hid it with his cowl

“Does it hurt? I can wrap it better, if you want….”

“its fine” his voice was dead flat in his response, how could one women drive him into such lengths of frustration……..yet…….the thought of lashing out at her, giving her cold shoulder just……….didnt appeal to him anymore…….what the hell……

“I don’t want to fight anymore… I know we still may, but… well... I’m sorry if I’ve been a little insufferable.”

As she took his hand his body tensed, and he was about to pull from her, but….again…he..just couldn’t……with a weary sigh the kind of heavy sigh of years he hadn’t yet earned he let her take his hand, shrugging the cowl off his face had paled slightly from the pain, and exhaustion his body was feeling from the injury he looked to taryn, just not able again to find any anger, or hate, or scathing words to fling at her, and her touch……was….soo gentle…..kind…..

“w…………well….its…..not entirely your fault…i…uhh……suppose….i haven’t been…..the best company……to deal with either…..” he grimaced as a muscle in his hand spazmed and the pain shot up his arm “ummm…..i….uhh…” vince frowned, seriously? Was it really this hard for him? “im sorry..” he finally blurt out, if a little rushed

 

[SiaKlynn]

A smile touches Taryn’s lip as Vince offers his own apology. They have a tentative truce, which is a good start. She said she wasn’t here to be his master and she meant it, so perhaps she needs to start acting more like a friend than a mentor. Shifting from her seat she kneels next to Vince gently probing his hand with her fingertips to assess the damage, “Sorry if this hurts.”

She can feel the shift of his bones around the knuckles and a frown touches her lips, “You hit the wall hard… I hope you at least left a dent.”

Lifting her eyes she looks up at him and can see the weariness. She wishes she can help him feel at ease, but only time and his willingness heal those emotional wounds. “Let’s go to the common area and I’ll wrap your hand.”

Releasing his hand she stands to her feet and walks through the ship picking up the tray of food from earlier and carrying it to the galley. Next she heads to the small medical bay and grabs the medikit before returning to the common area to see Vince waiting. Her eyes glance to the nearby wall and she sees where he’d punched by the splatter of blood, which was the only sign of damage. Perhaps she shouldn’t have walked away from him earlier. Coming around to sit next to him on the couch the medikit is set on the table. Reaching for his hand she carefully unwraps the bandage revealing the bruised and swollen knuckles. Turning to the kit she opens it and grabs the hypospray loading a pain sedative into the chamber.

“This will help with the pain.” She says as she press the tip to his neck injecting the medication. Next she grabs the spray split and encases his hand to properly set the bones in order to heal correctly.

“You’ll probably have to wear this for a couple of weeks, but the bones will heal. You may also want to rest in your bunk instead of crunched up in the cockpit.”

Closing up the medikit she looks over at Vince, “Do you want anything? Tea .. or something stronger to drink?”

 

[LoganDarkHolme]

“Sorry if this hurts. You hit the wall hard… I hope you at least left a dent.”

Vince couldn’t help but snort a soft laugh at that, shaking his head he let it fall back so his head rested against the seat, his eyes watching her, he was sooo tired, so worn out, his anger gone, his rage, left him limp and shaky. He winced slightly as she moved his hand around, inspecting it, again he felt the urge to pull back but knew she wasn’t trying to intentionally hurt him

“Let’s go to the common area and I’ll wrap your hand.”

Vince nodded and got up, the sudden rush of blood leaving his head as he got up to fast he stumbled and faceplanted on the floor grating with a vicious curse, shifting his weight to his good hand he sighed again cursing himself up and down before rising slower this time, seeing the concern on Taryns face he just waved at her like nothing happened, moving back into the bowels of the ship he sat on the sofa

“sith spit” Vince cursed again as taryn moved around the cabin gathering supplys then knelt by him again

“This will help with the pain. You’ll probably have to wear this for a couple of weeks, but the bones will heal. You may also want to rest in your bunk instead of crunched up in the cockpit.”

Vince just stayed silent, watching how she cared for him, it was instinct, he pulled away as she brought the hypo near him but relaxed “sorry, just…..reflex….” tilting his head he closed his eyes as the soft click and hiss as the meds where injected. Then rubbed the injection spot softly with his good hand, damned things always left a slight tingle behind and it was annoying.

“Do you want anything? Tea .. or something stronger to drink?”

“got anything strong enough to knock a ronto out?” he half smiled at her, and at the joke, as he watched her put everything away and get up he suddenly felt tired, as she moved into the galley area he curled up, before he knew it he fell asleep right there on the sofa

 

[SiaKlynn]

“Got anything strong enough to knock a ronto out?”

Taryn smiles, “I think I have something.”

Stepping away to return the medikit to the medical bay she then heads back to the galley. Taking a glass from the cupboard she then opens a second cupboard, which contains a few bottles of various sizes and shapes. There have been times Taryn has transported dignitaries and other people of importance on diplomatic missions, so she kept a supply of different alcoholic beverages. Picking up a bottle of Chadian Rum she pours two fingers full and then returns to the common area to find Vince sleeping on the couch. Setting the glass on the table she opens a small cupboard located under the couch and pulls free a blanket. Shaking it out she carefully covers Vince’s body pulling the blanket up to his shoulders. Watching him sleep for a few moments she gently brushes the tips of her fingers against his temple. “Sleep well.”

Scooping up the glass as she walks away Taryn heads to the cockpit and drops into the captain’s chair with a soft sigh, “You really don’t know what you’re going to do.”

She mumbles to herself before taking a sip of the rum the strength of the alcohol makes her cough as it burns down her throat and she winces slightly. Setting the glass aside she sees they still have half a day travel till they reach Balamak and that they’ll need to refuel once they arrive. Her fingers hover over the holo-comm as she thinks about Cal; though she cannot raise him while in hyperspace she wonders if it’s time she contacted him, if only to tell him she is fine. He’ll urge her to come back, but she has no intention of returning to the temple.

Through the years Taryn had seen other Jedi leave the temple and while some returned others did not. She never completely understood their decision until now. It’s too soon to say when or if she’ll return much of that will depend on what happens between her and Vince. In any case, once they’re out of hyperspace she will contact Cal and try to explain her decision. If she officially leaves then there is no reason for him to track them down.

 

[LoganDarkHolme]

:::galaxy’s away:::

A red skinned Twi’lek paced anxiously back and forth along the floor of the cabin she was using, the dead body of the owner still smoking on the floor. Alura, cursed to herself, it had been a few months since she left Vince to fight the Jedi, Left him behind expecting them to kill him. But more and more her visions and attempts to peer into the force, to see vinces fate eluded her, even though they had to be systems apart she still felt that small tingle of him, of his power through the force, and knew at least that he lived. It had been nagging her, the day she left, to run, to disgrace herself by saving her own ass, Should other sith find out about her cowardess she’d be dead.

With a growl of frustration she let her body curl to her knees, crossing her legs she let out a deep shuddering breath. She had to try, had to find Vince and needed to either kill him, or get him back. Closing her eyes she reached out, through the void, through the expanse of space searching. Searching for the tingle of anger, rage, for Vince’s aura. To her surprise, she managed to finally see him, her vision clearing, asleep; she felt the pain, even as he slept. She also felt the Jedi……..odd…….. Alura clasped her hands together in an arcane manor, whispering softly as she called about her Sith Alchemy skills, weaving her illusion through the force, as she’d done when she first met him.

She was surprised to feel no resistance to her charms, Vince’s sleep was a drugged sleep, leaving him defenseless, with a grin Alura probed deeper, weaving her spell, her image forming in Vince’s mind, but to him she would appear as Taryn, the Jedi whose face she remembered.

:::: Dreamscape:::

Vince sat at the command console, frowning, the hyper drive had failed and they were dead in space Taryn had gone into the engine deck to try and see if she could fix it, he turned his head as Taryn walked up to him. Laying her hand on his shoulder and smiled at him dirty with grease and grim. Wiping sweat from her forehead

Alright Vince, try it again, lets see if that fixed it, enough to at least get us where we are going and hopefully we can find a mechanic.

Vince nodded to the illusion as he reached over, tapping in the command control sequence the whirr of the hyper drive cycling up thrummed through the ship, Vince watched the power readings on the monitor and nodded

“yea that did it, we have just enough power left to get us to Balamak, good thing its only a half days travel, if we cut power to non essential systems and hope we don’t manage to get into a fight with anyone we should be able to make it”

The illusion of Taryn nodded, hiding the gleam in her eyes as he revealed their destination, dusting her hands off she leaning over Vince, her hands on his shoulders, subtly she began to rub his shoulders, Vince shuddered softly but didn’t object

good, gives us a chance to talk, or…..other things…..

With that the image of taryn leaned down, catching Vince off guard with a scalding kiss, a kiss that curled his toes and made him moan…….wait……… Vinces sleeping body jerked, as he suddenly became aware something wasn’t right, why would Taryn kiss him? She…..she wouldn’t….would she? He thought he’d sensed she was attracted to him……but, …..

Vince sat up suddenly, Awake, Alert, the spell broken, the dream fading, Vince shook, panting, looking around……wow….what a dream…..Vince had to swallow and adjust the suddenly stiff tent in his leggings, shaking his head to clear the image of taryn kissing him, sitting up slowly he groaned, rubbing his forehead he stood.

Walking to the cockpit he saw taryn there, just gazing out the viewport, with a smile he leaned down, placing his hand on her shoulder he gave it a gentle squeeze seeing the untouched glass sitting on his console he picked it up as he sat down

“hey, thanks for the drink…..”

 

[SiaKlynn]

Taryn Nalani

Though they’d spent several days on Axum Taryn feels weary of traveling and the space of the Fading Dawn feels cramped. The whole experience of trying to help Vince proved to be daunting, not what she had expected. Then again what had she expected? That he’d be grateful she rescued him from the fate the Jedi council had ruled? Yes, a part of her had expected he’d feel that way, but the opposite had happened. She believed in her decision, but with their last confrontation she had doubts. Not wanting to give up on him she still has hope he will embrace the change that is there inside of him. If he can’t there will have to come a time they part ways because at this point she knows it’s not in her to kill him.

The touch of his hand on her shoulder interrupts her thoughts and she looks up at him and wishes she didn’t feel the ache of the crush she has on him. How had it happened?

“Hey, thanks for the drink…”

A faint smile pulls to her lips as she watches up pick up the barely touched drink she hasn’t been able to brave another sip. “You’re welcome.”

The silence between them only last a few seconds before Taryn decides to be honest with Vince. “I need to tell you something…”

Waiting for him to look at her she says quietly, “I’m not returning to the Jedi Order my actions prove that I need to leave; at least for now. They’ve sent Cal to find us and instead of hiding I’m going to contact him once we reach Balamak to tell him I’m not going back. Of course, he may still feel the need to come after you. As for you and I… “

Taryn pauses and knows the next words are important even though it may end their traveling together. “You don’t have to stay … I want you to decide what you want for yourself. After I contact Cal staying on Balamak for an extended amount of time may not be wise, but I need to refuel. If you want to continue to travel together you’re welcome to stay, but it’s unfair to make you feel as if you have to stay.”

There are mixed feelings to the decisions she’s made in the past weeks, but this one feels right. Vince needs to decide what he wants for his future.

 

[LoganDarkHolme]

“I need to tell you something…”

Vince frowned softly, those words had never boded well for anyone when spoken by a women, and instantly put Vince on edge, as he looked to Taryn and listened his eyes widen as she laid out her thoughts to him, for so many weeks she’d been guarded, kept her own counsel oh what she wanted to do or had planned, but as Vince listened to her discuss her plans and what she wanted to do his frown deepened, There was a change in Taryn, a change he hadn’t notice, when she’d first come to him she was Strong, fierce, knew what she wanted and was in command of herself….now……

“I’m not returning to the Jedi Order my actions prove that I need to leave; at least for now. They’ve sent Cal to find us and instead of hiding I’m going to contact him once we reach Balamak to tell him I’m not going back. Of course, he may still feel the need to come after you. As for you and I… “

His eyes widened at that revelation, and he twisted his chair around to actually look at her, a scowl gracing his face for an instant, This wasn’t the Taryn he’d come to know, to hate, to like………Vince squished that thought midstroke before it went further, frowning he sat back a heavy sigh passing through him, What was really going on? Why did she suddenly feel so wrong, look so lost, had he done this? Once more had he just did this to her? Caused her to doubt herself?............why the hell did that bother him……Vertigo, Sith warrior, unbeatable, unstoppable……..yet.,…. Taryn had stopped him….hadnt she? He’d never met another with such sheer determination, even his old masters,

“You don’t have to stay … I want you to decide what you want for yourself. After I contact Cal staying on Balamak for an extended amount of time may not be wise, but I need to refuel. If you want to continue to travel together you’re welcome to stay, but it’s unfair to make you feel as if you have to stay.”

Vince just nodded to her as she spoke, Perhaps contacting the other Jedi would be a good thing, he could easily slip away, leave taryn……………..no……..he couldn’t leave, he wanted too, But….something……….stopped him……..what in the hell was happening to them? Did they come down with something on Axum?

“speaking of fuel…..” Vince spoke, his dream suddenly flashing back to him “when was the last time the Hyperdrive has had maintenance done? Or been checked on………”

Vince turned to his Console and called up the Hyperdrive Status screen, Power levels where normal, if slightly elevated, but the Dream had been too real, Vince decided it had to have been a vision, or warning, scowling he started doing diagnostics

“I just had a weird dream, we’d been stranded in space, Hyperdrive failed, not sure what to make of it” Vince concentrated on the screen before him……his voice was almost a whisper when he spoke next “i……….i want…to stay with you…..Taryn……I, dunno why, I just feel……………” vince let his voice trail off

 

[SiaKlynn]

She can sense his surprise as she opens up and speaks freely, but she also senses he doesn’t entirely agree or like what she has to say. It doesn’t matter the words are out and he has to decide whether or not he’ll stay with her. She hopes he will because if he does then maybe she isn’t mistaken about him.

“Speaking of fuel…..” Vince begins and she raises her brow wondering why he’s suddenly concerned. “when was the last time the Hyperdrive has had maintenance done? Or been checked on………”

“All system diagnostics are run on a monthly basis… everything checked out fine before we left Coruscant.”

“I just had a weird dream, we’d been stranded in space, Hyperdrive failed, not sure what to make of it”

Taryn sits quietly for a moment contemplating what he’d said and wonders if perhaps he had a vision or if it was only a dream, after all he’d been in a sedated sleep. All the same she has never been one to dismiss a strong feeling. “We’ll run a diagnostic on all major systems just in case… better to be safe.”

As system diagnostic begin to run Taryn looks over at Vince out of the corner of her eye and knows she is losing her objectiveness in regard to him. This is dangerous. Perhaps it’d be better if they parted ways.

“i……….i want…to stay with you…..Taryn……I, dunno why, I just feel……………”

Vince’s voice is just above a whisper as he makes his decision though the remaining thought is left unspoken. Taryn sighs with relief, but knows she must tuck away those feelings she has for him. Nodding her head slightly, “I’m glad you’re staying.”

They are honest words and she’s thankful for the distractions of watching the results slowly pop up on the screen as the each test completes showing nothing is wrong. “You may want to consider what our next destination should be once we’ve refueled on Balamak… somewhere where we can stay for a while, blend in. “

The thought of not returning to the Jedi Temple, the only home she’s known, is strange and a little sad, but she needs to see something more of life before she can consider returning.

 

[LoganDarkHolme]

“I’m glad you’re staying.”

Vince smiles softly, hearing Taryns soft sigh he sits back, the computer beeping they are on final approach to the Taldot sector, Vince’s next words are cut off, tapping out commands on his panel he reaches up for the Control throttles “dropping from Hyperspace” with that Vince throttles back, the whine of the hyper drive winding down reverbs through the ship as the stars streak then settle back into normal space, locking the hyper drive controls into standby mode Vince brings the Ion drive online Vince Calls up the planet map and scans it quickly then nods

“Dorum is the Major capitol of the Planet, lot of people, easy to blend in considering we are in the Mid-rim we shouldn’t have to worry much about being bothered, get what we need, refuel, resupply then go from there?, I have been here before, they have a lot of shops, this is also a Major Holonet transmitter hub, so there is a lot of news media around, only thing I didn’t care about “

Vince glances over as Taryn swings them into the atmosphere and circles around to the Dorum Spaceport slipping from his chair he moves back into the general quarters of the ship and slips into the sonic shower before dressing in fresh robes

 

[SiaKlynn]

Taryn Nalani

As the stars return to pin points Balamak comes into view, a green planet with patches of blue where bodies of water separate land. Vince takes the controls and flies the Fading Dawn into the atmosphere as she quickly requests landing instructions. Once they are transmitted and safely tucked into the spaceport she watches Vince leave the cockpit. They won’t spend more than a couple of days here just enough time to figure out their next destination.

Even though the system wide diagnostics passed without error Taryn decides to hire a maintenance crew to double check all systems are operating properly. Initial business taken care of she returns to her quarters to change into fresh clothes, a deep green ankle length dress made of Ottegan silk, the body of the dress fitted to cling to her slender frame with the skirt flowing loosely around the hips in order to offer easy movement. The dress had been a gift from Xavier long ago when they’d visited Corellia together. Like she, his family had not given up contact, so he’d taken her to meet them. Buckling the leather belt around her waist she brushes fingertips against the soft material recalling the memory of that trip fondly.

Returning to the cockpit Taryn keys a code into the comm, which will put her in contact with Cal, if he’s available. Several minutes pass and just as she’s about to cut the signal Cal’s holo image appears, a small smile touches her lips, “Hello Cal.”

“Master Nalani, I hadn’t expected you to contact me.”

“I know, but I’m aware the council has sent you to find us, so I thought it only fair to tell you I’m leaving the Jedi Order. At least, for a time or perhaps indefinitely, if they decide I cannot return.”

Cal’s image shows surprise and something else – anger? She can hear a tremor in his voice, “Master, you can’t be serious? You’re leaving the Order for him? A Sith?”

“I’m not leaving for him. I’m leaving because the council showed such little compassion when it came to their judgment of Vince. He deserved a second chance and that is why I left Coruscant with him. There are times when decisions might not be viewed as wise, but you must follow what you know is right. I am right about Vince and he’s already begun to embrace the light.”

“Mas—Taryn, please… you must reconsider. Is everything you’ve accomplished worth throwing away on one man?”

Taryn sits back in the captain’s chair and stares at the holo of Cal, “I’ve made many unpopular decisions while in the service of the Jedi Order and I do not regret a single one. My relationship with Xavier showed me that there are more than the stringent rules of Jedi. I know this is difficult to accept and I’m sorry if I’ve disappointed you, but I ask you respect my decision and not try to find us.”

Watching Cal’s holo she sees his body visibly stiffen and then resign as he rubs the back of his neck, “Master I don’t believe that the council will reconsider my task even with your resignation they want Vertigo in custody. They believe he is dangerous especially with his Master still out there… they have others searching for her whereabouts as well.”

Taryn couldn’t disagree that Vince isn’t dangerous especially after what happened on Axum. “He’s trying Cal… he only needs time.”

“Master, I implore you to change your mind before this situation escalates. He is one man… “

“Yes, one man worth saving. My decision is made, but I owed you a personal explanation. We won’t be easy to find, so until then… may the Force be with you.”

“Be careful, Master…”

With that she ends the transmission and leaves the cockpit walking slowly through the ship, their home. In time they may be able to settle on a planet, but Cal and the Order are resourceful and hiding from them will take careful planning. She imagines Cal is already contacting the council though she will contact them on her own. She hadn’t seen Vince since they landed, but she can sense his presence his nearby and trusts there won’t be a repeat of what happened on Axum.

 

[LoganDarkHolme]

Vince finished cleaning up and dressed, a small travel pack laying on his bunk he had packed and slung on his utility belt he straightens his robes out and slips the belt around his waist and fastens it. With a heavy sigh, his mind in so many directions so many thoughts, past, present, he sighed again and run his hand through his hair he straightened. As Vince moved about the cabin he heard Taryns voice, a mere whisper this far back in the ship it sounded like she was talking to someone. With a scowl he realized he hadn’t heard the access hatch open so didn’t think anyone was on board. With grace and ease he made his way soundlessly towards the cabin.

“Master, you can’t be serious? You’re leaving the Order for him? A Sith?”

Vince nearly tripped over the deck plating as he caught that tid bit, the voice he recognized, it was the Jedi he had first encountered that had traveled with Taryn……why would she be contacting him? Now? Was he right and this was all just an elaborate trap? The breaking out of Coruscant? Axum? Vince pressed his body against the Bulkhead cloaking in shadow he listened silently

“I’m not leaving for him. I’m leaving because the council showed such little compassion when it came to their judgment of Vince. He deserved a second chance and that is why I left Coruscant with him. There are times when decisions might not be viewed as wise, but you must follow what you know is right. I am right about Vince and he’s already begun to embrace the light.”

Vince’s jaw almost hit the floor with that revelation, so everything she had told him wasn’t a lie, she was trying to trap him………….she generally wanted to help him?!?!? It put a whole new shine on his view of her, and his heart twisted with something……..joy?......hurt? what was this he was feeling now?

“Master I don’t believe that the council will reconsider my task even with your resignation they want Vertigo in custody. They believe he is dangerous especially with his Master still out there… they have others searching for her whereabouts as well.”

Vince's body jerked like he’d been bootlicked by a Ronto at the mention of his old master, her image immediately came to mind, memories flooding back of his time with her and he wrapped his arms around himself, his body almost going ice cold, then the memory of her leaving him on Tantooine, abandoning him, and he went numb, his eyes had gone dead, she betrayed him, if she was still alive he would have to find her………and kill her……….betrayal was not tolerated…………

“Yes, one man worth saving. My decision is made, but I owed you a personal explanation. We won’t be easy to find, so until then… may the Force be with you.”

Vince is roused from his thoughts realizing he is about to be caught spying he makes his way back to the cargo hold and makes like he is checking the food stores and storage capacity as he hears Taryn come down the walkway, Turning he catches the full view of her form, and the dress and stops dead, his eyes wide he knew he couldn’t hide the surprise

“mmmmm…Taryn…you look…………………………………………wow………………*blink blink*”

“””””””””””Hyperspace en route to Balamak”””””””””””””

Alura’s computer beeped as she entered Hyperspace, it had taken her longer then she wanted to find a ship that suited her, Oh she had her own ship true enough but where she was heading if spotted her prey would instantly recognize it and she couldn’t risk that, no, not after all this time she had to fly in under the radar, it was the only way she would be able to get Close to vince, and to that Jedi slime that had chased her off, oh no, the fury of that day boiled deep in her chest, the Jedi would die, and if Vince wouldn’t come back to her she’d kill him too.

Alura looked out through the viewport as the stars streaked by, it had been hard to find a ship that was fast and sleek, but with so many poor people in the outer rim it had taken her days to track down a rich spice trader that was doing his best to hide from authorities, she’s killed him without a second thought, now she was preparing herself, it was gunna be a tough fight, but Alura would walk away and the Jedi would be dead, she’d foreseen it

 

[SiaKlynn]

Taryn stops as she approaches the ramp and is met by Vince who steps out of the cargo hold, a small smile spreads across her lips, but before she can say anything he stammers.

“mmmmm…Taryn…you look……………………………………………….wow……………..*blink blink*”

Her brow raises as those pale green eyes meet Vince’s gaze and a warm crimson blush colors her pale skin. “Thank you...”

Her voice is soft as her eyes divert to the side wishing for the warmth to leave her cheeks, “I, um… I’m going to stretch my legs with a walk.”

Stepping past him she still cannot look directly at him as she presses the button on the control panel to lower the boarding ramp. “You’re welcome to join me.”

Glancing to Vince she offers a small smile as she steps forward walking down the ramp and assuming he will follow continues talking. “Refueling is scheduled for tomorrow morning and I scheduled a maintenance crew to double check the engines and hyperdrive; a necessary precaution.”

Taryn is quiet as they walk across the docking bay and follow the paved walkway which leads them to a rather crowded marketplace.

 

[LoganDarkHolme]

“I, um… I’m going to stretch my legs with a walk. You’re welcome to join me.”

Vince smiled, he couldn’t help it, watching the blush creep up her face, even in the dim light of the loading ramp he could see it, god how she looked beautiful…………..Vince shook his head suddenly and frowned again sighing, was he seriously that lonely? Bah..screw it….. Vince nodded however at the offer to join her, He’d been to Balamak only a few short times, and never actually had the chance to really enjoy anything or the sights of many of the planets he’d been too because he’d always been running errands or missions or other things.

“ahh.yea, umm..think I will, Axum was nice but yea, starting to get itchy for civilization again”

Grabbing his cloak he slung it around his body and tied the sash shut, just an automatic gesture he tucked the hood down low around his head, as he stepped off the ramp the sudden glare of the sun forcing him to wince slightly then the first rush of heat steals his breath, with a muttered oath he quickly realizes now why Taryn dressed so light, he’d suffer heat stroke in his cloak and turned around, muttering to himself he threw his cloak over a cargo container then walked back out,

“Refueling is scheduled for tomorrow morning and I scheduled a maintenance crew to double check the engines and hyper drive; a necessary precaution.”

Vince nodded again “yea, good idea, It just felt too real, I don’t know” Vince frowned again, then shook it off, with a shrug “whatever, “ As Taryn moved ahead of him he couldn’t help admire the way the dress fit her, and clung to every bit that really mattered…………Vince slapped himself in the forehead to clear the thought, When taryn looked at him with a Speculative glance he smiled nervously ”umm…..bug?”

With a stupid grin Vince curled a hand through his hair then tied it into a ponytail, He’d dressed down in Casual Robes but knowing that they were in the Mid-rim would probably be recognized for what he was but at this point Vince really had nothing else to dress in so he’d had to settle, figured he would find something to buy now that he was able to use his considerable Credit stock here

 

[SiaKlynn]

Taryn Nalani

The brightness of the sun reflects against Taryn’s pale skin as she walks out from the docking bay and pauses as she hears a slap. Turning her head the chin length black hair is a stark contrast against her pale skin and in the sunlight those pale green eyes appear nearly translucent. Raising a questioning brow Vince claims he swatted a bug. A smile breaks across her lips and then a light laugh follows, “Come on… “

Turning her attention ahead they walk at a casual pace joining the flow of the busy city street. Taryn runs through a mental list of the supplies they’ll need to buy. Some fresh food as well as plenty of freeze dried or dehydrated food stuffs for long trips through hyperspace; those meals aren’t the most appetizing, but offered the necessary nutrients. As they slowly walk by a shop advertising tea and other gift items in writing on the window she pushes through the door wanting to restock. Speaking with the shop owner she selects four different mixtures and has them wrapped up. Walking back out into the street the bag dangles from her hand as they walk to the next vendor.

In the next hour they visit several vendors and Taryn haggles for the best prices on the supplies they need and arranges for the purchases to be delivered by tomorrow afternoon. The conversation between she and Vince is light and pleasant while they roam from shop to shop. “I think if we can manage to avoid any complications we should be ready to leave by tomorrow evening.”

She comments as they turn the corner of a street and find another lined with more shops, many competing with sales on the latest fashions. Many of the shops are actually two seasons behind the fashions on Coruscant. Not that Taryn would have any idea what the latest fashions are, but generally even in the mid-rim the fashion trends took time to arrive.

“As exciting as I’m sure this has been for you…” she continues, “I’m sure you have some of your own errands.”

Taryn’s steps come to a halt and she rests a hand on Vince’s arm, “Go do your shopping and I’ll meet you back at the ship.”

Her fingers squeeze his arm gently before turning to walk forward then pauses to look over shoulder, a hint of a smile on her lips, “Stay out of trouble.”

Leaving him on his own the Jedi Master trusts that this time he will stay out of trouble and disappears into a shop two buildings down.

 

[LoganDarkHolme]

Vince smiles as they leave the ship, closing his eyes briefly he lets the heat of the planets sun warm his skin, a shiver racing through his body before he opens his eyes and makes his way with Taryn into the throngs of people. As they move around slowly Vince feels himself able to relax for what has to be the first time in his life. He’d been tense, but he’d always been tense, waiting for something to happen. But here, with Taryn, he just felt………………Vince sighs, following Taryn into one of the shops the scents of tea hit him and he rubs his nose, never having been a tea kinda guy the smell just bothered him, but he hid his discomfort, he was with Taryn, no big deal.

For the next hour or so they wandered around, Vince strayed a few times but quickly caught back up as he looked over things, He couldn’t remember any time he’d seen taryn relaxed around him, or this happy, and he couldn’t help but smile himself. This was too good, this felt like a dream, had he just really been injured? Unconscious somewhere after a fight he couldn’t remember? Maybe Kolto induced recovery dream? Vince slapped himself again lighter this time, Nope still hurt……damn

“As exciting as I’m sure this has been for you…I’m sure you have some of your own errands.”

Vince roused from his thoughts catches himself before runs Taryn over. Blinking back to concentrate he looks to Taryn “what hun?”

“Go do your shopping and I’ll meet you back at the ship. Stay out of trouble.”

Taryns hand on his shoulder soothed him and he smiled nodding gently seeing Taryn turn and walk away he glances down at his Chrono to check the time, turning on his heel he moves around, he’d seen a Machine shop back a ways that had parts he was looking for, making his way back through the mass of moving body’s he slid into the shop, a Rodiarian female met him at the counter and welcomed him, with a nod Vince moved around the shop, Checking out pieces, metals, power cells.

Vince looked around, picking up what he needed. Although he’d made a crude replacement lightsaber he missed his Saber Staff, Mid-rim worlds were famous for carrying parts and supplies most Core world systems wouldn’t trade or deal in because of the many applications such parts could be used for. Gathering what he needed or could find in the shop he thumb’d the confirmation control on the payment register and walked from the shop securing the parts to his pack on his hip, looking around he smiled.

 

[SiaKlynn]

Taryn Nalani

Vince calling her “hun” did not go unnoticed, but it goes without comment and they part ways to explore the city on their own. Taryn strolls through the streets of Dorum enjoying being surrounded by civilization. The shop owners are openly friendly answering questions and making idle chit chat while also trying to sell their wares. It’s a shame they won’t be on Balamak more than another day. While sitting on at an outdoor table of a café Taryn observes the people going about their day, living their simple life. It’s something she’s always found attractive and perhaps in time she’ll have that life now that she’s left the Order. Of course there is Vince and she’s not certain that is a life he wants and she can’t leave him, not for now.

The Order will likely still command Cal to come after them to take Vince into custody. That confrontation needs to be avoided for as long as possible. In time, she and Vince will return to Coruscant but not for the foreseeable future. Then there is the matter of Alura, his former Sith Master; will she not try to find Vince? Eventually he will have to face her again as well and when the time comes he’ll be tested. Raising the mug of sweetened pepper tea Taryn takes a careful sip and tries to see the future paths, but they are muddled with too many decisions yet to be made.

Taryn returns to the ship a couple of hours later and drops the packages on the bed in her quarters. The tea and her datapad leave the room with her as she walks through the ship to the galley. Tucking the tea away in the cupboard she doesn’t see Vince or sense his presence aboard the ship. She hopes he’s managed to enjoy the afternoon as much as she had. Curling onto the couch with the datapad Taryn brings up a novel to quietly read and wait for Vince’s return.

 

[LoganDarkHolme]

Vince wandered the streets, letting his mind, his worries drift for a while. He smiled, moving around through a few shops, he again found a beautiful Necklace in one of the shops and bought it instantly, having traveled so far and wide he recognized what the necklace was worth and had to keep from telling the Jeweler just how badly he had been undercutting himself. Walking from the shop he looked skyward, seeing the sun was beginning to set and he checked his Chrono.

“damn, later then I wanted, “ sigh “better get back, something tells me Taryn will come looking soon” finished muttering to himself he again pulled the necklace out from his pouch, the intricate weaving of the metals, Cortosis, and Beskar metals had been blended almost completely seamless, and the gems were of top quality, the sparkle of the gem giving away the fact it was a rare Corusca gem made it absolutely priceless, good thing the jeweler was dumb as a brick….his loss…. Vince slid the precious gift into his pocket as he passed the scanners and into the Docking Bay. Reaching out he sensed Taryn was already on board, back from her trip he smiled and ascended the ramp into the ship, closing and sealing it behind him.

Moving to his bunk he laid his bag and pouch out on his bed he showered quickly and changed into loose fitting plank sweat pants and a tank top, toweling off his hair he let his nose guide him to the galley where he found Taryn with her tea and her thoughts, with a smile he slid into a chair gracefully

“hey, how was your day?” Vince smiled “I uhh..didnt kill anyone today” Vince tried to make a joke of it, hoping to lighten the mood and shrug off his own feelings of unease and hesitation Deciding just to man up he reached into his pants pocket and pulled out the small box the necklace was packed in.. leaning forward his smile remained “so I umm…..well..i I know this is a little forward, and maybe awkward. But I found this today, and want you to have it

He opened the box and presented it to her


::::::::::::Hyperspace – Balamak System:::::::::::::

Alura dropped from Hyperspace securing the throttles he quickly scanned the planet, as the planets orbital Defense towers radio’d her she transmitted the false ID records she’d found in the ships computer, with a smirk she was granted landing rights. Reaching out she tried to Sense Vince, the slightest tremor of the force, but she barely felt anything back, he’d been shielding, trying to hide, but she would find him, it would take her at least a day to scuttle the planet and find her wayward lover but she would find him

 

[SiaKlynn]

Taryn Nalani

Sleep took over shortly after Taryn curled up on the couch to read. At first the sleep state was peaceful, but then images began to take hold. She finds herself wandering the streets of Balamak, but they’re void of people and every shop window is dark. She's searching and calls out for Vince, but the only sound is the echo of her own voice. The blue skies are soon covered by dark gray clouds casting shadows in the alleyways. A breeze blows through the air but it’s neither cold nor warm. Taryn sees something move out of the corner of her left eye, turning to face whatever is there she sees a figure slip from the shadows, it takes form in a woman, Allura.

Her hand reaches for her lightsaber, but it’s not there. The Twi’lek woman smiles as she ignites her red blade and prepares to strike. When Allura lunges forward with her blade raised Taryn dives to the left and rolls out of the way. The scene slows and she can’t move fast enough as Allura ditches her lightsaber to instead physically assault her by grabbing her hair and whipping her around. Taryn reaches up to push the woman away, but she wraps her hands around her neck and begins to squeeze. Gasping for air as she tries to pull Allura’s hands from her throat her vision begins to darken and all she can see are a pair of red eyes and a sinister voice tell her, "He's mine. You're a fool to think you can take him from me."

Gasping, Taryn’s eyes pop open and she quickly sits up; it takes a few moments to realize she’s alone aboard the Fading Dawn. Leaning back against the couch she steadies her breaths and replays the images from the dream, it’s a warning and Taryn knows they’ll be seeing Allura soon. Standing to her feet she can sense Vince and wonders when he got back, walking into the galley she brews some of the pepper tea she purchased. When she returns to the common area Vince is freshly showered and sitting down in a chair. Pausing mid sip she smiles at him taking a moment to inconspicuously admire his tone arms as she sits down on the couch and sets the steaming mug of tea on the table.

“Hey, how was your day?” He asks with a smile and then adds, “I uhh..didn’t kill anyone today.”

It was his way of lightening the mood between them and despite the morbid joke Taryn smiles and then laughs softly, “I knew I could trust you. My day was pleasant… a little shopping and light conversation with a few local shop owners.”

She didn’t tell him about the dream, not wanting to worry him or put him on edge, at least not yet. There is a silence between them and she notices that he seems a little uncomfortable or perhaps nervous. Titling her head to the side she watches him shift in his chair and then pull free a small box. As he leans forward she does as well curious about the box.


“So I umm…..well...I I know this is a little forward, and maybe awkward. But I found this today, and want you to have it.”

He then opened the box to reveal a beautiful, yet simple, necklace. It was perfect and sweet of him to think of her and yes, it was perhaps a little awkward as the silence returns. There is a mixture of feelings Taryn isn’t sure she’s prepared to admit. Lifting her gaze to meet his, a smile touches her lips, “it’s beautiful...”

She didn’t care whether or not the gift is appropriate or if it was wrong of her accept it. She could feel something between them and she didn’t want to complicate it with the protocol of what she should or should not do. Reaching out she takes the box from his hands the tips of her fingers brushing against his. “Will you help me put it on?”

Removing the necklace from the box she sets it aside and stands up holding the necklace by the chain. When he takes the chain she turns around and waits for him to place it around her neck. Staring down at the pendant fingertips lightly brush against the small glittering Corusca gem, “This is generous… and unnecessary, but I appreciate the sentiment.”

Turning around she looks to Vince then reaches up lightly brushing her lips against his cheek, her warm breath whispering against his skin, “Thank you.”

Taking a step backwards her face feels hot and she asks softly while shyly looking away, “How does it look?”