The day started out peaceful at least for most but not in the palace.
For the Emperor Nick was in painful despair as the date of his wife Kaden's death approached.
Why this year he felt it more keenly than before he did not know.
The grief seemed as fresh as when he first heard the news.
The pain ripped through him at the thought of how he missed her.
Maybe it was because before he still had James and Jael and could take comfort from them but now they were gone as well.
That added fresh pain as he thought of them.
Then he had Athena with him but now she was also gone and he was alone.
Alone with grief and pain.
No beloved wife. No loving children.
Alone.
The pain ripped through him again.
He got up from his bed and paced.
Not being able to stand it anymore he got dressed and headed for his study.
He closed the study door behind him and locked it.
He walked over to one of the shelves and took down a small, precious box.
The contents were all he had left of his and Kaden's life together.
That and his memories.
He hadn't been able to look at them before, it had been too painful.
But now for some reason handling the items in box gave him some comfort.
It was as if Kaden was near him as he touched the box. He could almost feel her presence nearby as if she were still alive.
He bowed his head struggling to hold back his tears he refused to let them fall even with him being alone.
Most of the things in the box were familiar but he picked up one item he discovered something he had never seen before, an envelope with his name on it in his wife's handwriting dated the day before she left, it falls out of her favorite book of poetry.
It was a letter from Kaden, her last letter written right before she left on her trip.
The trip where she lost her life where her ship was attacked by pirates and it exploded.
Leaving nothing behind her except grief and pain of her loss.
Nick's hands trembled as he held the letter trying to get up the courage to open it and read what was in it. Finally his curiosity won out and he slowly opened the envelope and withdrew the the few precious sheets of paper.
He started to read.
The first sentence caused him to draw a breath of surprise and pain.
Beloved, I hope you never have to receive this letter because is it will have meant that I did not survive my trip.
I hope I can tear this up without you ever seeing it.
But if you are reading it Beloved one then my death was no accident despite what you may have heard to the contrary.She knew she might die.
Why didn't she say anything to me?. He thought. He then answered his own question.
Because I wouldn't have let her leave or insisted that I go too.
But how did she know or who was after her? He looked at the letter again maybe there was a clue in it.
I have several close calls lately so I decided to investigate who was trying to get rid of me and why. That is why I went on this trip. I didn't say anything before because I didn't want you to worry and I wasn't sure that the close calls weren't just coincidences. But the information I got so far tells me they are not. The trail has finally led to Chofin, the Capital city of Carratos . I have the information I have is that I might be able to find my answers there on Carratos. There is a person in the old part of Chofin that may be able to help me, her name is Kyna Ambriosnus. She owns a flower shop there called Neti's Gardens in the inner city and from the information that I got she seems to know everything that goes on Carratos. I have already contacted her and I hope she has the information by the time I see her in person. She was rather guarded in her message but I believe she was just being cautious because of the Empress Athena's spies. She also warned me to be very careful on my journey both here and back home. In case you are wondering if she can be trusted I know she can because I have known her for a long time and she is an old friend. From the little that she said I know she is worried about my safety. I must leave now Beloved. I hope to see you soon and this letter will never be seen by you. That I will be home and this will be torn up never to be needed. Be well my love I will always be with you if you keep me in your heart as you are in mine. May The Force be with you.
All my love,
Kaden.
Nick sits stunned for a moment from the message in the letter clutching it in his hand but oddly comforted from Kaden's farewell.
When he first read Kyna's name he felt the rage built him sure at first that she was the cause of his wife's death until he read the next sentences.
Then the rage was snuffed out as if it was never there leaving him puzzled.
When he reads about Athena's spies.
Now my spies, he thinks.
Why would she be concerned about Athena's spies?
In what would be considered a private matter? He knew Athena's ruthlessness and felt a sudden chill. He looks down at the letter he was both puzzled and chilled by its contents.
But one thing he was sure he needed to talk to this Kyna person to find out what she had said to his wife and why she was worried about Athena's spies.
He carefully folds the pages of the letter and puts its back in the envelope.
He tenderly puts it into an inner pocket of his robe.
Its very presence a comfort to him.
If this Kyna had a shop on Chofin she should be easy to find. He thinks.
He turns on his computer and punches the information from the letter into it.
The person's name and the shop's name.
A short time later the address of the shop appears on the screen and its exact location in the city.
Hmmm, this not too far from the palace. He thinks.
He looks at his chrono and the time shows 4:30 am, very early morning.
I could catch her as she comes into her shop before there are too many people about.
I don't want my private business known.[/i]
Making his decision he turns off his computer after transferring the information to his datapad.
He puts his datapad in his pocket. He gets up and walks to the door.
He unlocks it and exits the room.
Closes and locks the door behind him.
He strides down the hall.
He pulls the hood of his cloak down to hide his face and then stealthily exits the palace.
He doesn't want encumbrances of guards for this encounter.
No witnesses, no distractions.
Neti's gardens backroom early morning...Kyna is there already unusually early even for her with Kennis and the children.
But she couldn't miss this visit she waits impatiently for her friend to appear.
It has been too long since they saw her.
I hope she is well and has found who is behind these attacks. She thinks.
The children were excited to see their mother.
James was running around the room like a small X-wing.
Jael is dancing around happily saying
"Mommy is coming! Mommy is coming!" James takes up the chorus too.
And Kyna smiles at their enthusiasm.
Kennis chuckles.
"Well why don't we go out to the gardens to look for her coming?" Kyna says. Her suggestion is answered by loud cheers of agreement from the children.
They exit out the back way of the shop into one of the side entrances of the gardens belonging to the Garden Cafe.
Jael is talking excitedly to Kyna as James runs ahead. He disappears into the gardens.
Kennis follows behind them on the watch for trouble her hand on her blaster.
Her cool blue eyes watchful and her long dark blonde hair braided around her head up out of the way.
She is ready for action if needed.
Jamie! Wait! Jael yells as she takes off after her younger brother.
Jali hurry! He yells back as he runs toward where the cafe has its tables.
Children! Children! Slow down! Kyna calls after them, she smiles and shakes her head as she hurries after them with the help of her staff.
Kennis is close behind her.
On a rooftop of a nearby Warehouse...
He has traced her here he smiles finally he will be able to fulfill his contract and retrieve his reputation for always getting a target.
He takes out his laser rifle and prepares to wait.
He clenches his weapon for a moment then relaxes.
She won't survive this time. I don't know how she got away the last time but she won't again.
Her and her brats.
I will get them all. He thinks with satisfaction.
No one will stop me this time. In the garden James running ahead suddenly stops and sees something through the Force.
He grows pale at the vision of his father in danger.
His father is about to be shot and killed by someone.
No! Daddy! He thinks and realizes he recognizes where it is and runs there to warn his father.
Daddy! Daddy! He yells as he runs.
Kyna behind him shares a similar vision only seeing both of them being killed.
She says to Jael
Stay here until I tell you it is safe. Don't come until I call you. She then takes off after James trying to stop him from endangering himself and his father.
Anyone seeing her would have been amazed at someone her age being able to move at such a speed.
Kennis follows at her heels her blaster drawn.
Jael swallows and cautiously follows them at a distance not quite disobeying Kyna.
The hooded figure of Nick walks along the now deserted main street that goes in front of several warehouses on his way to the Neti's gardens shop.
He checks the address and sees that he is almost there. Just as he turns into the courtyard of the complex that houses the flower shop when he hears the voice of a small child calling frantically
Daddy! Daddy! Nick stops and draws a sharp breath full of pain as he turns around in the direction of voice.
That sounds just like James but that can't be, James is dead. He thinks just as the figure of a small child runs into his legs causing him to stagger as the child hugs his legs.
Daddy! Daddy! the child sobs.
Don't be dead! When James runs out into the open the assassin smiles finally he will get them both.
He is too far away to hear what James is yelling and assumes the cloaked figure is his target.
He squeezes off a shot knowing the person won't have time to dodge it being distracted by the child.
He then aims another shot at the child and waits for the hooded figure to fall so he can have a clear shot at the child.
Kyna appears just in time to hear James and to see the laser blast go off.
NO! Kennis! The roof! She yells as she jumps at Nick and James knocking them both to the ground just in time so the shot goes over their heads just missing Kennis's head who was behind Kyna as it hits the doorjamb.
The assassin curses.
Missed! I can't have missed. He curses again as he re-aims.
Kennis is already moving in the direction of the warehouse where the shot came from.
She does a Force jump and pushes off the walls using them as she jumps back and forth between the warehouse and the back of the shops to make her way quickly to the roof.
She reaches it just as the assassin aims again.
I wouldn't do that if I were you. She says as she ignites her lightsaber with a snap-hiss its green blade shines brightly.
He turns around startled nearly dropping his rifle at the sight of the lightsaber.
A Jedi? He thinks. What is a Jedi doing here on Carratos?Kennis smiles a wicked smile easily reading the assassin's mind.
Who said I was Jedi?
I really hate people shooting at me. You nearly singed my hair. I hate singed hair. She says as she lifts her lightsaber to strike at him.
He yelps and dodges to one side taking his rifle with him as the lightsaber cuts the air where he just was.
He frantically pushes the button on his belt to activate his jet pack.
He is just in time and lifts off the roof out of range as Kennis's saber stabs the spot he had been in.
It has missed him by inches.
Drat! Missed. Kennis glares at the now disappearing figure of the assassin.
Mother is not going to be happy with me. She thinks.
She checks around to see if he left anything behind then makes her way back down off the roof.
Are you alright? Kyna asks Nick as she picks up the sobbing James and grabs Nick's arm.
She drags him unresisting into the shelter of a shop out of the line of fire while trying to comfort James.
Shh, shh Jamie lad its alright he is safe. Don't cry. Before Nick can answer James he hears someone yell
"NO! Kennis! The roof!" and he is knocked to the ground and the sound of a laser blast follows shortly afterward.
He lays there momentarily stunned that he hadn't sensed danger.
He feels confused at what happen unusual for him and allows Kyna to drag him to safety.
He blinks down at Kyna trying to gather his thoughts to answer her question.
He finally says.
Yes, I'm fine. The child is alright? He asks anxiously.
Not knowing why he cares other than the child reminds him of James.
That thought gives him a momentary twinge of pain.
Why did he call me Daddy? He adds trying to figure this out.
Kyna picking up his pain she gives him a sympathetic look.
Yes, he is alright just frightened.
He thought you were going to killed.
We are sorry you got caught in the middle of our trouble.
This is not the first time someone has tried to kill him. She says.
In answer to second question she tries to dance around it while giving him a measure of the truth without endangering them all.
She knows it is probably useless but has to try to divert Nick's attention from the truth.
That is because he thinks every man your age and coloring is his father. She says not looking at Nick but James.
After all it not quite a lie, she thinks.
James did do that when he first came to stay with me but he hasn't done that for a long time. She knows very well James knows that this is his father.
Your trouble? Nick asks.
The shots were meant for the child? I thought they were... he starts to say startled that she thinks that the shots were not meant for him but the child.
He also starting to get angry that someone would try to kill a little child.
Kaden is not going to be happy about this, she thinks as she pats James on the back trying to calm him down.
She is glad that the kids are wearing their disguises and are not easily identified.
Or there would be a problem. She watches Nick from under her lashes.
A major problem. He would insist that they be with him she was sure. And that would not be safe for any of them but especially not for the children, she thinks.
Her thoughts and Nick's comment are interrupted by Jael timidly saying.
Can I come out now? Is it safe yet, Kyna? Nick gives an indrawn hiss of pain at Jael's voice and involuntarily closes his eyes as it sounded so much like his daughter.
The daughter that was the child of his heart if not of his body.
Although he loved both of his children, Kaden's daughter always had held a special place in his heart. She one of the many reasons he had asked Kaden to marry him.
So he could be Jael's father.
But they snap open when he hears Kyna's name.
He looks at her for the first time.
This is the person he had come to see.
Already he knows that Kaden judgment had been correct as usual this person someone he could trust. Her actions so far had made that very clear.
But is Kennis who answers her not Kyna.
Yes, it is safe for now.
Sorry but he got away. He had a jet pack. She says to Kyna.
I nearly got him too. Jael comes into the room and stops when she sees Nick her eyes go wide in surprise she looks at Kyna for explanation not sure if she should acknowledge to him, he is her father or not.
She looks somewhat pleadingly at Kyna.
Kyna shakes her head and quickly says.
This man nearly just got shot by accident, they were after your brother, Jali. But they are both alright. Kyna says gently.
Jael pales when she hears that but her color returns when she hears they are alright. She asks in a trembling voice.
And Mommy? Is Mommy alright? She is fine and far as I know she hasn't come yet. Don't worry she is still safe. I would know if she wasn't. She reassures Jael.Jael gives a sob of relief and hugs Kyna burying her face in Kyna's side wanting to hug her father but is using Kyna as a substitute.
Kyna tries to comfort both of the children at the same time.
Nick listens puzzled something is going on here, what he is not sure.
He picks up on the only thing he did understand.
Their mother is in danger too? He asks watching Kyna's expression.
Her lips tighten in anger.
Yes. She says in a tight clipped tone.
That is why the children are with me. We hoped that they would be safer. She says to Kennis.
I need you get the children out of here. It is no longer safe for them here. She gently pushes Jael toward Kennis.
Go with your cousin.
I will let your mother know what happened.
Don't worry you will still get to see her it will just not be here.Her reaction satisfies Nick.
She cares about them. That bodes well for him.
She probably be willing to help him for Kaden's sake.
Is there something I can do? He asks.
You are Kyna?
I was looking for her.
I had something I needed to ask her about my wife, Kaden. She shakes her head.
I thank you for the thought but that might not be wise.
Their mother is taking care of it.
She will not be pleased about this.
We thought we were being careful it has been more than a year since the last attempt.
Yes, I am Kyna.
You were?
What did you want to ask me about Kaden?
Is it about her letter? Nick gives her a startled look when she mentions the letter.
Yes, how did you know about that? She mentioned it when she visited me. She was hoping you wouldn't find it before she got back and destroyed it. She answers.
She tries to hand James over to Kennis, but he doesn't want to go.
No,I want Daddy! He says with a mulish look that mirrors his father's at his most stubborn.
He then startles them all when he jumps suddenly from Kyna's arms into Nick's.
Nick automatically catches him and holds him close. James arms go around his father's neck hugging him tightly.
He is crying.
Daddy! I love you Daddy. That is too much for Nick to take he fiercely hugs the child back.
He feels very protective of this child who reminds him so much of his own son.
Somehow by comforting the little boy his own pain lessens.
And he says just the right thing though he doesn't know it.
I know, I love you too.
But you need to go with Kennis you are not safe here. Promise me that you listen to her and do what she says.
Do you promise? James nods.
Yes, Daddy I promise. Then Nick reluctantly hands James to Kennis.
And as they leave Jael suddenly turns back.
She runs over and gives a very surprised Nick a hug.
Thank you for helping my brother. She says.
Then whispers very softly so only he will hear.
I love you, papa. Stay safe. She then runs out again.
He returns her hug and says to her first comment.
You're welcome. The second comment leaves him speechless all he can do is watch her leave.
He turns to Kyna about to demand an explanation.
Kyna watches them sympathetically.
That was well done. She thinks but says.
Thank you. We won't have trouble with him now. Like his father he never breaks his word. Kyna shakes her head at Jael's unexpected hug to her father but understands the need of Jael to be hugged by Nick to make sure he was really unhurt.
She really misses her father.
They were very close.
Now what did you want to know about Kaden?
Do you mind if we go somewhere and sit down? She walks toward the gardens leaning on her staff as she walks.
She leads him to her favorite spot under a large flowering tree and sits down on a bench under it.
She lays her staff down next to her.
Please sit.
Now, how may I help you?Nick follows her after her feeling confused in to the gardens, he looks around amazed at the beauty of this spot.
He sits down across from her on the bench.
It is about this. He says as he tenderly takes out the precious letter he found earlier.
May I see it? She holds out her hand to take it.
He reluctantly hands over the letter.
Then watches her face as she reads it.
This is the first time he has really looked at her.
He has never seen such a beautiful older woman.
He can't determine if she looks like an old woman with a young face or a young one with a older face.
Her snow white hair gently frames her face and her face is smooth as a young girl's, her dark blue eyes calm and wise.
But he knows he has never seen a woman with such a serene, beautiful face.
Young or old.
Oddly she reminds him of his old Jedi master, though she looks nothing like his master.
She finishes the letter and looks up to see him watching her. She folds the letter and hands it back to him.
He takes it and tenderly puts it away.
Then wait for her to say something.
You want to know about Athena's spies and what that had to do with what Kaden came to see me about? She finally says in a soft musical voice.
Yes. He says past the lump in his throat at the mention of Kaden's name.
Please. I must know.Kyna gives a sigh.
Alright, but you are not going to like it. Kaden contacted me a few weeks before she came to see me.
She had a few close calls and thought maybe some one was trying to kill her.
She knows I have many friends in all walks of life and might be able to find out something.
She was going to come and see me anyways so she just added this is to the original reason for her visit.
A few days before she was to come I found out something from a mercenary friend of mine.
She is more a private investigator than bounty hunter but she hears things in the course of her work.
Some one had put out a hit on Kaden and the source of the hit was no ordinary one.
She traced the source back to the Imperial palace here on Carratos.
In particular the ...As she was speaking Nick gazes intently at her and when she mentions the Imperial palace a chill goes straight through him.
He shudders.
He finishes her sentence in a dead voice.
His expression bleak.
...the Empress Athena.Yes, I'm sorry. I know how you felt about her. She says in a voice full of sympathy.
She hesitates a moment knowing there is more he should know but reluctant to add to his pain.
On seeing her expression he says,
There is more isn't there?Yes. She says even more reluctantly.
Tell me. He says in a grim, flat voice.
After Kaden found out she left to go back home she wanted to tell you what happened and on the way back her ship was attacked.
We tried to get a hold of you but by the time we could find you, you were with the Empress.
Then several months later we received word that another hit had been put out by Athena for... He swallows trying to talk over the sudden lump in his throat.
The children, James...Jael...for them as well? He asks in a voice full of pain.
She sadly nods.
Yes. The children too. We tried to reach them to get them to safety but just as we got to there we saw the explosion and knew we were too late.
You see they were all in the Athena's way.
She wanted you and she knew would never have you if Kaden and the children were still alive.
Their love protected you from her darkness engulfing you.
But with them gone you were vulnerable to it. He feels the pain and rage building inside him.
His beloved wife and children gone because of one he thought had loved him.
If Athena were still alive and here he in his rage would gladly have killed her himself.
He closes his eyes and bows his head fighting against the pain and the tears that the information brings.
He clenches his fists trying to regain his control.
He knew what she had said was true with them gone he hadn't cared to the fight the darkness.
And now it was too late.
They were truly gone and he was alone in the darkness.
Kyna looks at him with concern, she gets up and puts a hand on his shoulder.
Warmth and healing light flows from her hand into him slightly lifting the darkness within him.
He grabs onto the light and comfort in desperation.
Nick? She says softly.
Other side of the Garden a few moments before.Moving along the alleyway under cover and ever watchful Kaden Owabi in disguise walks toward a side entrance of the Garden Cafe gardens to meet with her children after months of being away from them.
She eagerly looks forward to seeing them.
Her beautiful face covered by her armored helmet.
She wears the disguise of a bounty hunter.
What better way to find a hunter than be another hunter. She thinks grimly.
As she gets closer to the garden she suddenly is uneasy.
Something is not right.She reaches out cautiously through the Force for Kyna and the children trying to figure out what caused the uneasiness.
She senses Kyna nearby but not the children.
She senses someone is with Kyna.
Someone full of darkness but somehow familiar. She frowns. She draws her blaster and moves quickly to where she sensed Kyna in the gardens.
If something happened to the children whoever did it would pay.
She would make sure of that.
As she draws closer she see Kyna talking to someone with his back to Kaden.
She senses the person with Kyna is the one that she sensed before.
The one full of darkness, pain and rage but somehow familiar.
She frowns again at that.
Who is it? And where are the children? She looks around they are definitely not there.
She moves closer so now she can hear what they are saying.
She draws a breath of pain when she recognizes the man's voice and hears what they are talking about.
Ad'ika. Nick. She whispers softly under her breath.
What is he doing here?
And where are children? She thinks as she looks around for them.
She realizes she is still holding her blaster in her hand and holsters it.
The movement alerts Kyna someone is there.
She looks up in time to see Kaden standing there.
Her eyes widen in horror.
<<Kaden?!>> She says mentally to Kaden forgetting that she still has her hand on Nick's shoulder and with them being in this close contact he would be able to hear her as well.
She moves away toward Kaden breaking the contact with Nick but it is too late he has heard her.
Kaden? He thinks hopefully. He looks up to see what looks like to him a Mando in full armor standing there.
The hope dies and anger flares in him at first thinking this one of Athena's mercenaries come to finish their job until Kyna speaks to him.
Please excuse me, I must speak to the children's mother she doesn't know what has happened here. She then approaches Kaden and takes her arm.
She draws Kaden away from where Nick is sitting.
They speak in voices too low for him to hear as she quickly explains what has happened to Kaden.
He looks after them feeling confused.
He could of swore he had felt Kaden but that was impossible and he thought he had heard her name.
He drops in his face into his hands despair.
I must be losing my mind.
I'm starting to hear and see things that aren't really there. He thinks in agony.
He roused by a light touch on his shoulder; concern and love for him flows into him from it.
He looks up expecting to see Kyna standing there but it is the person in Mando armor,the children's mother.
He looks at her with a dazed expression on his face. The pain, the despair and loss is plain to see in his eyes as he looks up at her.
He can't see her face but he can feel her concern for him increase; it is like a tangible thing.
<<Ad'ika.>> [/i]
He hears in his mind, its Kaden's voice.
He blinks thinking he is now hearing things.
When Kaden speaks to him out loud, concern can be heard in her voice even with the helmet's speaker masking it from identifiable as Kaden's.
Are you alright?For once he doesn't reject the comfort that is flowing from her and answers her honestly.
He seems almost compelled to do so.
Somehow knowing that she will know if he were lying.
No. I am not. He says his voice full of pain.
She grips his shoulder with a squeeze of comfort.
Her love for him flowing into him.
I'm sorry. I grieve with thee.He doesn't know why but her simple words opens the floodgates of his grief and he starts to shake.
She puts her arms around him and he cries his pain and grief into her shoulder holding her tight around the waist.
He felt as if it were Kaden holding him.
She lightly and tenderly strokes his hair there are tears in her eyes too though they can't be seen because of her helmet.
She gently rocks him as she would one of their children.
Shh, shh, We will make it alright again.While they are occupied with each other Kyna leaves for a few moments to retrieve some things to give to Nick that she has been saving for him. She is in time to hear Kaden's words of comfort to Nick.
She says softly to Kaden.
You two need to talk but not here. You should tell him. He could help.Kaden frowns at that as she absentmindedly rubs his back with her hand.
He is still clinging tightly to Kaden shaking from the emotions ripping through him.
He seemingly is oblivious to their conversation though he hears them.
I don't know....He has access to information we don't. Kyna insists quietly.
Kaden still is unsure that telling him is wise.
Nick is lying quietly in her arms his head against her shoulder listening and feeling strangely at peace for once in a long time.
Tell me what?
What information?He softly says as he reluctantly sits up.
He feels slightly embarrassed for crying on the shoulder of someone he just met.
Her arms fall away from him breaking their physical contact making him feel suddenly bereft.
He looks from Kaden to Kyna.
He suddenly wishes that he could see Kaden's face so he could see her expression.
Kaden studies her husband's face and inwardly sighs she knows that look.
His curiosity has been aroused and he won't give up until it has been satisfied.
This is all Kyna's fault for mentioning this in front of him. She thinks looking at Kyna who does not look the least bit repentant.
But maybe she is right now is the time. The Force knows that I have missed you, Ad'ika. She thinks.
Kyna to Kaden trying to convince her to tell Nick the truth and seemingly ignoring his questions:
It was one thing when you were injured and couldn't defend yourself.
He has the right to know.
He was nearly killed today because of this.
Do you want that on your conscience? No. I wouldn't. Kaden sighs and says in a small, defeated voice.
Kyna to Nick who is looking at Kaden with concern then he looks at Kyna when she speaks.
You two have much in common.
The kind information only the Empress or Emperor would have access to like who Athena's Hands were.Nick stiffens at the mention of the Empress's Hands. Her special assassins now his.
His face pales at the thought they were part of this.
He remembers what she said earlier about Athena and feels sick.
You are right now is the time. Kaden finally says with a sigh.
But not here.*She then turns to Nick and asks*
Is there somewhere we can talk privately and not be interrupted?Nick thinks a minute and nods.
Yes, I know of somewhere we can talk. My ship the Lover's Dream is docked close by we can use that. He inwardly frowns.
I don't know why I suggested going to the Lover's Dream I haven't been back there since the last time with Kaden. He thinks with the sharp pain that always accompanies the thought of his wife's absence. But does an inward shrug.
What does it matter now? She is gone and not coming back. He thinks with a weary sigh.
Come on it's not far from here. He says as he walks slowly to the door and waits for Kaden to join him.
He doesn't notice being lost in his painful memories, Kaden's sharp, then suppressed gasp at the mention of the ship's name. She then follows him to the door as she passes Kyna, Kyna leans over and whispers to her as she hands Kaden damaged three holo-vids and a small package.
I would tell him everything if I were you. He will take it better if comes from you. Kaden gives her a sharp look and says.
I will think about it. She then takes the items.
They then leave together for the
Lover's Dream.Kyna looks at them as leave and hides a smile. She knows how this will probably turn out if they are alone together.
And about time too. They need each other. She thinks.
Nick and Kaden walk side by side both lost in thought. Kaden longs to take his hand in hers the way they use to do. Nick is lost in the past missing her and wishing she was walking there beside him now. A short time later they reach the secret hanger where the
Lover's Dreamis being kept. He deactivates the alarm and opens the door. He motions Kaden to precede him and then follows her in. He turns on the lights and closes the door behind them, locking it. He walks over to the ship and lowers the ramp then motions for her to go aboard. He follows her on board and raises the ramp. He then walks to the private lounge attached to the only bedroom on board.
This way. She raises an eyebrow unseen by him when she sees where is taking her slightly amused by the situation.
He gets straight to the point.
Alright what is this all about? Then seeing she still has her helmet on says in an irritated voice.
Take that thing off I like to see who I'm talking to.
I wear it for a good reason. I will unarm myself if you will unarm yourself too. *She snaps back. And seeing him frown about to refuse says firmly.*
I'm not playing games my life is at stake. If I'm going to make myself vulnerable to you I want to be sure I'm not going to be attacked. Seeing she is not going to back down about this Nick's respect for her goes up. Oddly it reminds him of something that Kaden would do and he agrees. She lays down the damaged holo-vids and the package on a table she then starts to remove her armor. He begins to unarm himself while watching slyly then admiringly as she removes her armor. When he finishes she has removed everything except her helmet. She is wearing a skin-tight black pants and top under her armor that reveals every curve and line of her body. He can't help but stare at her, the feeling of familiarity strengthens. Under her helmet she smiles amused but pleased at her husband's reaction to her outfit.
You can look but only my husband can touch. She says to tease him. She gives him an appraising look at what he is wearing. Black pants and under tunic that perfectly shows off his muscular body. Nick blushes embarrassed to be caught staring at her body and looks away but looks back at her with a surprised expression at her next comment.
Though you are kind of cute. Her tone is teasing. He blinks thrown off balance by the comment and her teasing tone.
She glances at his pile of weapons and armor and notices one thing is missing. She puts her hands on her hips and taps her foot very Kaden-like.
I said all your weapons, one is missing. *She indicates the pile of other weapons.*
The gold and sapphire dagger you always wear in your left boot. He stares at her shocked then down at his left boot. He had forgotten it was there. It seemed so much a part of him since Kaden had given it to him he didn't realize it was there anymore. Not looking at her he starts to say.
How did you...? His head snaps up when he hears what she says next in a voice that changes from the electronic one of the helmet to a voice he hadn't heard for a very long time. As she removes her helmet and drops it on top of her armor along with the silver and amethyst dagger that is the gold dagger's twin. The daggers they had exchanged as wedding gifts to each other so long ago.
I have seen you put it there often enough Ad'ika since I gave it to you.He stares momentarily stunned into the beautiful and anxious eyes of his wife. Not even aware that he has moved Nick bridges the distance between them and pulls her roughly into his arms. He cover her lips with his own. He kisses her as a hungry and thirsty man that has been without water and food too long and her lips were the food and water to satisfy them. He drinks deeply of her lips and hungrily kisses her. He hold her tightly to him reveling in the feel of her again in his arms. He is unaware of the tears of joy streaming down his face.
She just as hungrily and thirstily returns his kisses, wrapping her one arm around his waist and the other around his neck. Running her fingers through his hair caressing him. Her body arches into his as he deepens his kiss.
Finally and breathlessly they come up for air. Nick buries his face in his wife's neck inhaling the intoxicating scent of her hair and skin. The scent of her. The scent that he has missed so long and never thought he would have again. Her hands caresses his hair and the muscles in his back as they hold each other tightly. She murmurs his name softly making it a caress and endearment.
I've missed you Ad'ika. He says huskily at last.
I love you Kaden. I know. I have missed you too, Dearest One. She kisses his cheek and gently wipes the tears from his face.
I love you too Nick. She pulls away from him slightly and he tightens his grip not wanting to let her go yet.
Ad'ika I still need to breathe. She says teasingly as she lightly caresses his cheek with her fingers.
He turns his head so he can kiss her palm, then reluctantly releases her.
Sorry Ad'ika.I know Ad'ika, you forget how strong you are sometimes.She moves away but takes his hand in hers and smiles up at him. She walks over to the small couch in the lounge and he willingly follows her. They both sit down on the couch. He pulls her into his arms again so she resting against his chest. She goes unresisting into his embrace. He kisses her forehead and lightly strokes her hair. She lays her head against his shoulder with a contented sigh. She reluctantly says after a few minutes.
We need to talk Nick. There are some things you need to know.Yes, I have a few questions. The children? Are they alive too aren't they? He asks hopefully.
They were with Kyna today weren't they? Jaime and Jali are James and Jael, aren't they?Yes, they were there to see me you being there was a surprise to us all. She hugs him.
A nice surprise. He give her a gentle kiss on the end of her nose.
Good. He says with a smile.
You were a nice surprise too.How did you and the children survive? I thought you were dead. He involuntarily tightens his hold on her at the thought, she lightly strokes his chest with her hand and he relaxes again.
She briefly explains what happened to her and children; her face is solemn. Some of it he has already learned from Kyna; some of it is new. He listens intently when she finishes he is looking grim. His anger at what was done to her and the children is evident in his face. She lays her hand on his cheek gently stroking it until the tension in his expression relaxes. He lays his hand over hers on his cheek and turns his head so he can kiss her palm again.
I wish I had known. I wish I had been there for you, Kaden.I know Nick. You didn't know. She smiles softly when he kisses her palm.
He then quietly tells her of his experiences since they have been parted. He bows his head sadly; ashamed at of some of the things he has done. That he now regrets. When he sees the look of disappointment in him on Kaden's face. A look he hopes he will never to see again. He can't meet her eye. He begins to shake as tears of shame slide down his face. She gently strokes his hair as he talks trying to comfort him. Then when he begins to cry she puts her arms around him stroking his back as she did earlier as she lets him cry his pain, shame and regrets into her shoulder. She knows that he needs to release these emotions so he can begin to heal his emotional hurts. After several minutes his crying lessens and finally ceases. He lays with his head quietly on her shoulder drawing comfort from her embrace his pain drained away from him. He feels curiously calm and peaceful; the first time in a long time.
She then lifts his chin with a gentle hand so he looks her in the eye. She gently and tenderly wipes his tears away. She searches his face and is satisfied with what she sees there. She then says seriously.
That is not like you, Nick. You are better than that. It hurts me when you do this to yourself. Please, don't ever do it again.He silently vows to himself to do everything in his power to not disappoint her again to do things that will make her proud of him. He then says to her.
I will. I promise. He looks her in the eye when he says it.
I know. It is alright Ad'ika. I forgive you. You didn't know. That is the past. It is done. What is more important is what do you now. She knows she needs to do something lighten the moment so he knows that she has truly forgiven him. Then they can move on to other things. She immediately hits on what will do that. Something she knows he will like, something they both will like. Her lips curve in a mischievous, wicked smile and her eyes twinkle.
But I need something from you now to seal your word to me.He watches her face as she speaks and a feeling of relief flows over him at her words of forgiveness. He raises an eyebrow at her last comment and when he sees her smile.
Oh? And what would that be Ad'ika? He can't help it he smiles too when he sees her expression.
Kaden, what are you up to? He thinks as he picks up from her the feeling of mischief and teasing. Her grin widens when she catches his thought and he hears her mental laughter.
Oh, nothing too hard, Ad'ika. It seems to me we need to become re-acquainted after being apart so long. She looks significantly at the bedroom door then back at him her eyes twinkling.
Don't you? She reaches up and pulls his head down to her for a kiss.
I like the way you think, Ad'ika. He says when he sees where she is looking and his grin grows larger. His eyes start to glow with the love and passion he feels for her. His arms go automatically around her and he tightens his hold on her drawing her closer to him when she kisses him. They share a long, passionate kiss then he scoops her up his arms and carries her triumphantly into the bedroom. Her delighted laughter is heard as the door closes behind them with a soft swish. Her laughter is joined moments later by his joyful laugh.
He lays her down gently on the bed. He then lays down next to her after first pulling off his boots and shirt. He lightly brushes the hair back from her forehead and kisses it. With a twinkle in his eyes he says remembering her earlier teasing comment.
You're kind of cute too. I would like to touch you as well as look at you. May I touch you Kaden? He his voice is deep with passion.
Kaden laying on the bed watches her husband half undress. She hungrily eyes his muscular form as he lays down next to her. She lays her hands on his chest lightly caressing it as he kisses her forehead. She looks up at him and smiles when he says
"You're kind of cute too." But when he asks if he May touch her, her mouth suddenly goes dry and there is a sudden lump in her throat. She looks at him longingly, as says in husky voice.
Yes. Please, touch me again, Nick.A bright light comes into his eyes; he leans over her and gives her a deep kiss. His hands caressing her as he slowly undresses her.
......A while later.....In the afterglow of their "re-acquaintance"; Kaden snuggled against Nick's side rolls up onto her side so she can look at him. She leans over him to kiss him and the ends of her hair brushes against his chest. Nick smiles up at her, he tenderly brushes her hair away from her face as he returns her kiss. His face has a look of peace, contentment and love. His other arm encircles her waist, his hand lays lightly on the small of her back absentmindedly caressing it. His arm automatically tightens around her waist when she begins the kiss and his other hand drifts down to cup the back of her head, his fingers entangled in her hair. Her kiss is gentle and teasing and he responses in kind. When the kiss reaches its natural end; she continues with a series of light, caressing kisses along his jaw until she reaches where the jaw meets his ear. His eyes are half-closed with pleasure from the kisses and a slight smile curves his lips. Both his hands are lightly caressing her back and shoulders.
A wicked gleam comes into her eyes as she deliberately leans over and gently breathes on his ear and then gives him nibbling kiss on his earlobe.
His eyes fly open in reaction and he gives a groan of pure pleasure. His arms tighten around her in response to her caress.
Kaden..You know what that does to me. His voice comes out as a deep growl of passion thoroughly aroused.
Her answer is another caressing kiss this time along the top of his ear.
He lets out another aroused groan.
How that drives me wild? Her answer is a wicked little chuckle in his ear.
Yes, Nick I know. She gives him another light, caressing kiss along his ear. Eliciting another groan of pure pleasure from Nick.
I like driving you wild. I like the things you do to me when I do. I am having my way with you. Ad'ika. She gives another wicked chuckle in his ear.
His response is a swift one. He flips her over onto her back, trapping her beneath him.
Is that so? And I'm going to have my way with you, Ad'ika. His voice comes out as a deep growl. His eyes large and dark with the passion she has aroused. Her lips are curved in a smile, pleased with his reaction. He then does things to her that drive her wild.
......A long while later......Kaden lying next to the now sleeping form of Nick rolls up onto her side to watch his face as he sleeps. His face is peaceful and happy. She brushes the hair back from his face and tenderly kisses his temple. His lips are curved in a faint smile which becomes more pronounced when he feels her caress and kiss. She gives soft sigh. She knows she has to leave but she doesn't really want to go. She knew had to leave while he was still asleep or he would not let her go. She reluctantly gets up and tucks him in. She then quickly picks up her clothes. She then just as quickly dresses. She sits down next to Nick on the bed and lightly touches his arm just as he is about instinctively to reach for her. At her touch he settles down again and drifts back into a deeper sleep. She knew from experience that whenever they had been apart; the first few nights they were together again, Nick would reach for her every once in awhile in sleep as if to reassure himself she was still there next to him.
She would only have a few minutes to do this or would he wake. She leans over and picks up his clothes and lays them on a nearby chair still touching his arm every few moments. She gets up and goes to the closet and pulls out some clothes, a cloak and a bag for her armor. She goes and stores the clothes and her armor in the bag. She lays it next to the lounge's outer door. She searches quickly and finds some paper, an envelope and a pen. She then walks back into the bedroom and sits down next to Nick again. She touches his arm just as he starts to rouse again, he settles quietly again at her touch. Kaden sitting with her hand touching his arm lightly caressing it as she writes a goodbye letter to her husband.
When she finishes writing, she folds the letter and puts it in the envelope. She writes Nick's name on the front. She gives another sigh hating to be apart from him but knowing it was necessary. She couldn't stand if something happened to him because of her. She had been so close to losing him that day she couldn't allow that to happen again. She leans over and gives Nick a quick kiss on the lips then walks into the other room. She goes over to where his armor is and takes his dagger slipping it into her boot. She takes her dagger and walks over to the table. She lays the letter on the table and lays her dagger over the top of it. She puts on her cloak and pulls up the hood. She takes one more look around and walks over to the lounge door. She picks up her bag and with one backward, longing look toward the bedroom door, leaves. She quickly walks off the ship, setting the ship's alarm as she does so Nick would be protected. She then leaves the hanger.
She starts to walk out of the hanger she stops short when she sees who is waiting there for her leaning against a small cargo transport.
Kennis? What are you doing here?
Kennis looks up and smiles.
Hi Kaden. It took you long enough. That must have been some talk you had with Nick. Kyna thought you might want a ride to the spaceport. You are leaving aren't you?
Kaden nods.
Yes. I'm leaving. Her voice sad and resigned.
Kennis gives her a sympathetic look. She opens the door for her and Kaden enters. Kennis closes the door behind her and gets into the driver's seat. She closes the door and starts the transport. She drives quickly to the spaceport. Kaden tells her briefly what happened and what she wants them to do in regards to what to tell Nick. Kennis nods and reassures her they will. She lets Kaden off at the spaceport and gives her a hug then leaves. Kaden returns her hug then quickly walks to her partners' ship the
Skeebeetle and boards. A short time later the
Skeebeetle after getting clearance leaves Carratos. It jumps into hyperspace as it clears the planet's atmosphere.
.............15 minutes after Kaden leaves the Lover's Dream .................Nick reaches for Kaden and not feeling her presence starts to stir. He doesn't wake at first because she sometimes would get up to use the refresher so would be gone for a short time. So her absence doesn't wake him yet. Several minutes pass and he reaches for her again. When he doesn't feel her this time he jerks awake. He looks around confused at first where he is. He runs his fingers through his hair. Was she really here? Or was it a dream? He sits up. He frowns when he sees his surroundings. This wasn't his bedroom in the palace. Where was he? It looked familiar. He looks around again and the memory comes flooding back, he was on the Lover's Dream. It must have been real wasn't it? But where was Kaden? He looks around and he is alone. She had been here hadn't she? He gets up and realizes he is undressed. He sees his clothes on the chair and quickly gets dressed. He first checks the refresher to be sure she isn't in there. Empty. He then walks into the lounge.
He looks around his armor and weapons are neatly piled on the couch with the letter that started all this on top. No sign of hers. Gone. She is gone. She can't be gone. A feeling of despair washes over him at the thought. He sits dejectedly next to his armor and runs his hands through his hair.
Now what do I do? Maybe Kyna will know something. He thinks hopeful. He sighs and begins to put on his armor and weapons. He tenderly puts the letter in his tunic pocket. He frowns when he notices that his dagger is not with the rest of his weapons. I was sure I put it here, I think. He looks around and for the first time notices the dagger on the table. But not his dagger, hers. He stares at it for a moment. He swallows it HAD been real. His heart lifts slightly at the sight of it. He hadn't been dreaming. She had really been there in his arms again. He picks up the dagger. That is when he notices the letter under it. A letter with his name on it. Another letter from Kaden? He hesitates a moment then snatches it up. He eagerly opens it and begins to read it.
My dearest heart,
Know that I love you, Nick and always will.
And leaving you now is the hardest thing I ever had to do.
I long for the day when we can be together again.
But it is too dangerous for you to be with me now.
I could not bear it dearest one if you were hurt like you nearly were earlier.
My heart freezes at the thought.
Please Beloved don't look for me for your own safety as well my own.
And please don't badger Kyna either for my whereabouts.
She doesn't know where I am.
I haven't told her on purpose.
But if you have any information or need to get a message to me she will see that it gets to me.
She can be trusted. She took us in when we had no other place to go. She loves us as if we were her family.
And the children adore her.
I will try to have her arrange for you to see the children soon when it is safe to do so.
I know they miss you as much as you miss them.
I left you the holo-recordings and the package that she gave me as we left.
There are three holo-recordings. Two are from the assassin. One was left for me and the other for the children.
They were meant to be destroy by the explosions but we were able to recover them.
They both name the one who was behind the hits.
This you already know.
The other recording is of so-called the pirate's attack.
It is hard hearing and I would not want you to suffer through the hearing of it.
You need not listen to any of them dear one as they would only anger you to no purpose.
But I leave them with you as evidence to do as you will with them.
The package is from me. It was meant to be your anniversary gift from so long ago.
It was meant to be surprise then but I think it may comfort you now.
When you see and hear it think of me and know that I love you.
I have left you my dagger and have taken yours with me.
I find that I need something of yours near me.
I hope you don't mind Ad'ika.
I must go now dear one. I will give you one last kiss, Ad'ika and then leave. And remember this Beloved:
"Our joy is your sorrow unmasked.
And the selfsame well from which your laughter rises was oftentimes filled with your tears.
And how else can it be? The deeper that sorrow carves into your being, the more joy you can contain.
Is not the cup that holds your wine the very cup that was burned in the potter's oven? And is not the lute that soothes your spirit the very wood that was hollowed with knives?
When you are joyous, look deep into your heart and you shall find it is only that which has given you sorrow that is giving you joy.
When you are sorrowful, look again in your heart, and you shall see that in truth you are weeping for that which has been your delight.
Some of you say, "Joy is greater than sorrow," and others say, "Nay, sorrow is the greater."
But I say unto you, they are inseparable.
Together they come, and when one sits alone with you at your board, remember that the other is asleep upon your bed.
Verily you are suspended like scales between your sorrow and your joy.
Only when you are empty are you at standstill and balanced.
When the treasure-keeper lifts you to weigh his gold and his silver, needs must your joy or your sorrow rise or fall. "
We have had our sorrow Dear one and soon will have our joy again.
All my love, Your Ad'ika
Kaden.
Tears are his eyes when he finishes the letter.
He folds it up and puts it back in its envelope.
He tenderly puts it with the other one.
He picks her her dagger.
He kisses it and puts it in his left boot.
I will find you again Ad'ika and we will be together. Nothing will part us again.
He vows. His heart is sad but full of hope. He knows they will be together someday.
He looks at his chrono. 7:30 am. Three hours since he has left the palace but his whole world has changed.
He gets up and leaves the Lover's Dream for Neti's Garden to see Kyna then to the palace.
The End or is it the Beginning?
