Disclaimer: All characters belong to Bioware and LucasArts, I didn't create the Star Wars universe, it's just where I daydream.
This is my take/twist on the background or between the lines story from a great game.
Prologue
Endar Spire
Carth stood in front of the computer watching the life-signs of the Endar Spire's crew wink out, one after another. The Sith troopers who had boarded the Republic starship out numbered the survivors five to one. He guarded the last of the Endar Spire's escape pods and tried to aid the survivors. Soon, there was only one escape pod and one other crew member left. She was nearby and moving closer.
Clever, she's overloaded the power conduit in the next room and dropped all the Sith soldiers between our locations. It won't take this scout, Trin Lenstar, long to reach me here, now. I'll have just enough time to download her service record.
She burst through the hatch as Carth disconnected his datapad from the computer. "You've made it just in time! There's only one active escape pod left. Come on, we can hide out on the planet below!"
"Yes sir." She immediately secured herself in the escape pod.
Carth hit the pod release and tried to reassure the young woman. "We'll make it," he said confidently.
Trin grinned weakly at him. "I'm just glad I haven't had my breakfast yet, Sir," she confided.
Carth chuckled.
Their entry into the atmosphere coincided with the Endar Spire's destruction. The escape pod descended like a comet, crashing in the Upper City of Taris.
Chapter 1
Taris
The smell of smoldering plastics choked Carth, as he regained consciousness. He was hanging from his safety harness; Trin lay below him moaning in pain. He released the catch and landed awkwardly to one side of the wounded woman. Carth popped the hatch and took a quick look around. Thank the force, we've hit the planet's night side. He stuffed anything potentially useful into his pack with the first aid kit and rations. Carth released the moaning woman from her harness and threw her over his shoulder; she was heavier than he expected. How much gear is she carrying? The crash had knocked out the nearby streetlights. Scattered hand lights bobbed about in the darkness. He dashed to the closest building and blundered inside. With the last of his strength he somehow found an abandoned apartment and managed to seal the door from the inside before falling to the floor.
Sunlight streamed in the window. Bemused, Trin watched the dust motes dance and weave; she reached groggily for them. I am so thirsty. She tried to sit up but as soon as she moved her injured head, an explosion of pain sent her back to oblivion. Her arm fell with a thud onto Carth's chest and woke the exhausted Republic officer.
Carth sat up abruptly; he examined his surroundings warily. Carth moved Trin to one of the beds. He pulled out the emergency supplies and tended to her injuries. Don't die. Don't die. The sparsely furnished apartment he stumbled into displayed obvious signs of being unoccupied. There were no personal objects anywhere and most of the odd collection of furniture was bolted to the floor. There was a battered workbench, a long metal table flanked by two wooden benches and two low beds with relatively clean mattresses. A couple of loose mismatched chairs rounded out the decor. The fresher had running water, but the medicine cabinet was empty. Whether it was good luck or the Force they'd somehow made it to safety, at least, they were safe for the moment.
Carth examined his new companion. She, like many of the new enlistees, looked like she'd been pulled out of nursery school to serve the fleet. These baby faced youngsters made Carth feel as though each of his 38 years was a decade. He read her service record as she tossed and turned on the bed. She was Trin Yerda Lenstar, a single, 25 year old, female, scout, with no dependents whose home planet was Deralia. She spoke numerous alien tongues and had visited many of the rim worlds before enlisting three years ago. She had also received a grade of excellent in both marksmanship and hand-to-hand combat. This was her first combat mission. Prior to being transferred to the Endar Spire, at the Jedi council's request, she worked the supply runs to remote colonies and settlements. Supply run duty is reserved for noncombatants and soldiers on light duty due to injury. Why was a freshly minted recruit assigned to those runs? The fleet wouldn't waste talent like hers on milk runs and how did the Jedi council know her? Something about her doesn't add up.
He looked over at the petite woman. She had a strong chin and a pert freckled nose; she was quite lovely. She doesn't look much like a soldier. When he'd checked to see if she had any broken bones he noticed regularly shaped scars on her ankles, wrists and the back of her neck. He wondered, but chose not to investigate, where else she might have these strange scars. There was no indication on her service record of an injury sustained in the line of duty. Strange.
He made two forays out to buy supplies and scout but for most of two days he watched over her as she tossed and turned on the bed, never quite coming to. She muttered urgently in strange languages and occasionally cried out or whimpered. He was greatly relieved when she finally regained consciousness.
Trin woke from a strange dream, there was a Jedi and a dark cloaked figure on a starship, fighting. She blinked owlishly at the ceiling before rolling onto her side and sitting up cautiously.
Carth stood up and took one step forward, then stepped back and stood at ease with his empty hands visible. "Good to see you up, instead of thrashing about in your sleep. That must have been one hell of a nightmare. I was wondering if you were ever going to wake up."
She turned her head towards his voice and stared. He is even more gorgeous close up.
"You've been slipping in and out of consciousness for a couple of days now, so I imagine you're pretty confused." He walked over and offered her his hand. "I'm Carth, one of the Republic soldiers from the Endar Spire. I was with you on the escape pod, do you remember?"
She nodded and took his hand reverently. He helped her up to her feet.
Carth looked at her doubtfully. "Are you sure? You seem a bit groggy."
Trin examined the floor. "Um, I'm not much of a morning person," belatedly she added, "Sir."
Carth nodded and replied, "At ease soldier, we're going to have to forget rank to blend in around here, call me Carth. Your gear is over there, the fresher is through that door and there's some water and ration bars on the table. I'll give you a few minutes to get organized."
Trin grabbed her pack and a ration bar. She went into the fresher, closed the door and leaned on it. Carth Onasi! She had traded away a plum duty assignment for a workout time that coincided with the commander's. She blushed as she remembered choosing activities based on the view. Errom, one of the other scouts, had teased her about panting after the commander. She'd accused Trin of daydreaming about the impossible to avoid the probable. Suddenly Trin remembered passing Errom on the bridge. She had stopped to close Errom's sightless eyes. The significance of their presence here on Taris hit home. Errom, most of the ship's compliment, the other scouts and many friends had likely died in the attack. All thoughts of her silly crush fled. She washed and changed quickly.
Trin was all business when she returned to the room. She sat down and looked at Carth. "What are we up against?" she asked.
Carth was glad to see she'd pulled herself together. He briefed her on their situation. "We're on the planet of Taris. It's entire land mass is covered in buildings, sort of like Coruscant but badly rundown. The tops of the towers and their connecting platforms are called the Upper City. The lower floors of the buildings and the interconnecting hallways down there form the Lower City and the closed support columns and bases in the ground form the Under City. Taris is under Sith control, their fleet is orbiting the planet; they've declared martial law and a planetwide quarantine. Despite the Sith's efforts they really only control the Upper City. Apparently the Lower City is overrun by warring swoop gangs and the Under City contains only outcasts, slavers and vermin— nothing of any value to the Sith. I saw on your service record you understand a remarkable number of alien languages. That should come in handy while we're stranded here on an alien world. There's no way the Republic will be able to get anyone through the Sith blockade to help us. If we're going to find Bastila and get off this planet, we can't rely on anybody but ourselves. I believe Bastila was on one of the escape pods that are rumoured to have crashed in the Under City. For the sake of the Republic war effort, we have to try to find her."
Trin was having some trouble focusing. "Bastila? She's the one from the Endar Spire, right?"
"That smack to your head did more damage than I thought." Carth frowned worriedly then explained, "Bastila's a Jedi. She was with the strike team that killed Darth Revan, Malak's Sith master. Bastila's the key to the whole republic war effort. She has a talent called battle mediation that allows her to affect the outcome of whole battles. The Sith must have found out she was on the Endar Spire and set an ambush for us in this system. Darth Malak would be delighted to get his hands on Bastila. He's not even half the tactician the Revan was; that's his big weakness. But if he could turn Bastila to the dark side "
Trin shook her head. "What do you know about the Darth Malak?"
"Malak escaped the trap that killed Darth Revan, his Sith Master. With the Revan's death, Malak became the new Dark Lord. Right now the Republic is the only thing keeping Malak's brutal fist from crushing the entire galaxy— and it won't be long until even the Republic falls to the Sith fleet."
"Where did the Sith come from?"
"Malak and the Revan were once both part of the Jedi Order, but they were young and headstrong. Against the wishes of the Jedi Council they went to battle the Mandalorians on the Outer Rim."
Trin vaguely remembered a stream of injured civilians landing on her home planet. "I remember the Mandalorians. When they attacked a planet in our system refugees fled to my home planet." Memories of the endless wounded threatened to overwhelm her. It had been a brutal dose of reality.
A week after Trin's thirteenth birthday, four pallets were moved into her hospital room. They had various tenants over the weeks that the hospital remained crowded. But only one was memorable; the baby. Her mother wailed and screamed as though her heart had been ripped out until the orderlies dragged her away. The poor little baby lay there, dead, until morning when the nurses came around. I stayed up all night watching her, hoping she'd take a breath, hoping she'd wake up. In many ways those events marked the end of what little childhood Trin had experienced.
Carth nodded. "Thanks to the Revan and Malak we defeated the Mandalorians, but the Republic was weakened. The Revan, Malak and a substantial portion of the fleet chased the remains of the Mandalorian forces into uncharted space. Most of us thought they were destroyed or lost out there. They returned at the head of a massive Sith invasion fleet about four years ago."
"You keep saying the Revan, why?"
Carth grimaced. "My—" he swallowed convulsively, "In the fleet, we called Jedi Revan, the Jedi or the Revan.Because we thought no one else could have led us to victory. Later the Revan became almost a curse." You should know that.
Trin sat quietly for a few moments. "It all sounds vaguely familiar but it's as though I'm looking at a picture that is slightly out of focus."
"It's probably the head injury."
"Well no sense on dwelling on it. Any idea where we should start looking, Sir?" then at his frown she said, "I mean, Carth".
He winked as she tried to use his name casually. "Trin, our lives may depend on passing as normal stranded off-worlders. I'm Carth and you're Trin, no salutes or sirs, okay?"
She nodded. "Okay, Carth."
"And I want your input, this mission stands a much better chance of success if we work together."
"Well then, Carth, the sooner we start looking for Bastila the sooner we'll find her. Let's go."
"Good idea. We can use this abandoned apartment as a base and we can probably get some equipment and supplies here in the Upper City. Just remember to keep a low profile and we should be okay. I've heard some grim stories about the Sith interrogation techniques. They say the force can do some terrible things to a mind. It can wipe away your memories and destroy your very identity. But I figure as long as we don't do anything stupid we should be okay. After all they're looking for Bastila not a couple of grunts like us."
Taris turned out to be a pretty grim place. Bigotry against aliens was common in the Upper City; the local crime lord, Davik Kang, had unofficial shares of all the businesses; and apparently the lower you went to worse it got. They soon discovered that, since they couldn't control the area, the Sith were restricting entry to the Lower City.
Carth and Trin spent the day talking to locals. Ironically, they were invited to a party by a couple of Sith junior officers. Carth accepted for them both.
Against Carth's wishes, Trin earned 300 credits in the dueling arena under the moniker The Mysterious Stranger. She switched to playing pazaak with the card sharks in the local cantina after that and managed to bring their total funds up to nearly 1,000 credits.
She promised to help their neighbour, Dia, straighten out a problem with some man named Holden, who'd put a bounty on her head for defending herself from his belligerent advances. Dia put them in contact with an arms dealer who sold them weapons and armour.
They bought some supplies and local clothing from a more legitimate store then ditched their republic equipment before heading back to their base late that afternoon.
Carth grimaced. "As much as I hate the idea, I think this party is too good an opportunity to pass up."
Trin nodded with obvious reluctance.
"At the very least we should be able to pick up some information. I'll work on the woman, Junior Officer Sarna, do you think you can handle her partner, Yun?"
Trin was terrified, she could handle anything but—mingling. She'd avoided parties with her crewmates and she trusted them. But she couldn't let Carth down. "Sure I know his type." Yeah I know his type, male, never had much to do with them up close and personal but I could pick one out of a line up. I am in so much trouble.
Carth smiled grimly at the Sith woman and tried not to let his disgust show, after all she'd been very helpful. If she whines about how tough it is to be a Sith or how the locals, that they have subjugated, do not appreciate them —Gods this woman is annoying. Still she's told me where to find some unsecured Sith melon head uniforms, I suppose that's worth putting up with her drunken pawing. He glanced down at her as she swayed into a potted plant then managed to land on a soft couch. She complained of the attrition in the search parties and ranted drunkenly about monsters called Rakghouls that haunted the Under City and the sewers. Her speech soon became so slurred Carth could no longer follow it, then her voice faded away entirely and she fell asleep drooling on his shoulder.
By the time he'd disengaged himself from Junior Officer Sarna, several other people lay draped over furniture or sprawled on the floor. Couples were negotiating their ultimate destinations in the darker corners of the room.
Carth glanced over at Trin. The Sith officer, Yun, had her cornered and she looked terrified. She can fight in the arena without breaking a sweat and now she's unnerved?
Trin's drink tumbled off the arm of the couch onto Yun as he lunged at her. "I'm so sorry," she twittered nervously.
Yun smiled indulgently. "Don't worry about it, baby, my fault." He got up and proffered a lazy self-assured smile. "Don't go anywhere, I'll be right back."
Carth wandered over and sat down. "Are you okay?"
"Who me, of course, woman of the world here, I can handle this " she stuttered nervously.
Carth began, "You don't have to do anything—" but he didn't get to finish his statement because as Yun reentered the room, Trin hopped up into Carth's lap and locked her lips on his.
They vaguely heard Yun wander away.
Carth's attention was wholly consumed by the soft, sweet woman he held.
Trin was overwhelmed, she'd dreamed of being in his arms but the reality left her dizzy.
For a while they lost track of time and the other party guests. As Carth nuzzled Trin's warm neck and tried to control his long denied desires he finally noticed that the room was dead quiet. The rest of the revelers had passed out or moved on to private pursuits. He took a steadying breath and drew back his head. With as much clinical detachment as he could muster he said, "It's safe now. We can stop the show."
Her eyes flew open; she blushed crimson and leaped off his lap.
Maybe it wasn't a show for her either. But Carth repressed the feelings and desires savagely. Don't be stupid old man. It was the situation, not me, stress and abstinence, not real feelings. Get back to work.
Carth glanced over at her. She is such an endearing combination of innocence and wisdom; she is skilled and knowledgeable but strangely naive. The look of confusion and longing was replaced by the misery of rejection then she quickly turned and searched the apartment.
Trin was horrified and humiliated, of course it had been an act, for the Sith, no doubt to protect her. How could I think a man like that would be at all interested in an inexperienced young fool, like me? She put on a professional face and helped Carth search the apartment.
He wanted to reassure her but his habits and goals held him back. It's better to not trust, better to reject any closeness now. If she is as innocent as she seems then it will be less painful in the long run, if she isn't The threat hung in his mind.
They found two Sith uniforms of appropriate sizes. Then they decided that this was likely the best time to check out the rest of the apartments in the building. It seemed to them that breaking and entering into Sith officers' apartments was more an act of war than petty theft, besides they needed the credits.
As they walked back to their base Trin's naturally bubbly personality reasserted itself. She felt a need to do or say something to put the incident behind them. Trin preceded Carth into the privacy of the dark, quiet apartment. "I'd like to know more about you, Carth".
"Me? Well, I've been a star-pilot for the Republic for years. I've seen more than my share of wars—I fought in the Mandalorian wars before all this started. But with all that I've never experienced anything like the slaughter these Sith animals can unleash. Not even the Mandalorian's were that senseless. My home world was one of the first planets to fall to Malak's fleet. The Sith bombed it into submission, and there wasn't a damn thing our Republic forces could do to stop them!"
She wished she'd picked anything else to ask. "I'm sorry, Carth. This must be very painful for you."
He said angrily, "I'm just a soldier, I go where the fleet Admirals tell me to. I follow orders and I do my duty. It just—" he stopped and sighed before continuing in a calmer tone of voice, "doesn't seem right that doing that means I failed them!" Suddenly he said savagely, "I didn't."
Once again Trin tried to back away from the conversation. "I'm sorry Carth. I didn't mean to upset you."
He sighed again. "I know. Don't worry about it. I just—must not be making much sense. I'm not accustomed to talking about my past much." He grinned, "At all actually."
"Me either," said Trin.
"Now why is that?" asked Carth, "You must have had some friends in the crew."
"Just a few. My best friend is—" she lowered her head as the tears slipped down her face, "my best friend was Errom. We hadn't known each other very long but we just hit it off right from day one. We daydreamed together about—" Suddenly Trin's chin shot up and she looked right at Carth as though she needed to remind herself to whom she was speaking. She blushed.
Carth laughed loudly, tears actually came to his eyes. "Don't worry, I knew Errom, I can imagine what you discussed."
Trin smiled through her tears. "I miss her, there were so many—" she trailed off.
Carth sobered. "I know Trin, I know," he said softly, "Errom was on the bridge, she fought bravely but I saw her go down."
Trin nodded. "I saw her when Trask and I passed through the bridge then Trask threw himself at that Dark Jedi." She stared morosely at her hands.
"We should get some sleep. I'll take first watch."
Trin nodded.
Carth watched her as she crossed the room; her unconscious grace was intoxicating. She curled up near the top of the bed like a small child. She's a study of contrasts. Undeniably, she's a very sexy woman but she's also childlike and naïve. I wonder if she's cultivated that.
Despite her obvious skill and the day's activities Carth couldn't help but notice some things didn't add up. Her previous assignment seemed even more ludicrous in the face of the extraordinary skills she had displayed. She played pazaak like a card shark and bested three veterans of the dueling ring. He shook his head. Why have the Jedi taken special interest in Trin? What secret is she harbouring?
Trin was in the grip of a dream. She was with Marco on the supply ship. She was holding him, her hand on his smooth muscular back, his head rested on her warm breasts and they rocked, as he sobbed. He never did find out it was her first time. He had been numb; he'd watched several crewmates tortured to death by the Sith; he lost his right leg below the knee to their persuasions. Then he'd been rescued. Marco had been numb for months; he'd just wanted to feel something, anything. Trin knew it wasn't love, it wasn't even lust, it was desperation that had driven him into her arms. For her it had been compassion and curiosity. It had still felt good, very good. Afterward, as she was basking in the afterglow, he cried. He felt so guilty for surviving. At the time Trin hadn't understood.
Trin tossed and turned in her sleep again. She emitted a long low moan that didn't sound like it belonged in a nightmare. Carth flushed, her femininity was hard to ignore. In the last few years, Carth had made sure there were no emotional entanglements in his life. The occasional encounter in port was with women who understood, it was strictly physical. His crewmates were off-limits as far as he was concerned; too many complications. Yes that's what Trin represents—too many complications.
Trin's moans turned to sobs, then she muttered sorrowfully, "Oh Marco."
Carth's face went blank in remembered pain. I'm not the only one who lost loved ones to the Sith.
When Carth went to wake Trin, she reacted to his tap on her shoulder like she'd been scalded. She jumped up, ready to do battle. "Your watch", he said mildly. He clenched his jaw and resolutely turned away from the glorious sight of her in a battle crouch, hair streaming down her back wearing very little in the way of clothes. The sweat glisten on her bare stomach and her nipples stood out through her light shirt. If she had leaped onto his lap at that moment— Carth headed to bed, alone. He didn't have much luck sleeping.
Trin dressed quickly and sat down. The chair was warm; Carth had been sitting in it. She put her feet up on the table and remembered her dream. I understand Marco, now I understand. The guilt was crawling around in her belly like a giant worm. Why did I survive when so many fine people died? Carth had been in many battles, perhaps, in the morning, she'd ask him how he dealt with the aftermath.
They grabbed breakfast and packed up to head to the Lower City. Trin flopped down at the table. "Carth, can I ask you a question?"
"I'm all ears beautiful," he replied lightly. He was determined to keep things friendly, today.
She smiled. "I like the sound of that."
He grinned. "Which? The fact that I'm all ears or the beautiful part?"
She grinned back playfully. "Carth, are you flirting with me?"
"Not really. Just a habit. You have something you'd rather I call you by?"
Miffed by his indifference she said coolly, "How about my name?"
He frowned at the change in her tone of voice. "Don't get yourself in a twist over it, gorgeous. I didn't mean anything by it."
Didn't mean anything! Hand a man a shovelShe shook her head briskly. "Forget it. Let's get back to my questions."
What is her problem? He smiled in a conciliatory manner. "All business today, eh? Are these questions really necessary?"
She was a bit confused. "Not if you have a problem with it."
"No. No, I don't have a problem with it, really. Go ahead and interrogate me."
Exasperated Trin replied, "This isn't an interrogation. I never said that."
He grinned at her, at being able to bait her. "No, I was just joking, though you do seem to be full of questions! It's rather refreshing to be honest." He suddenly became very serious. "Let me ask you something first. I've been going through the Battle on the Endar Spire over and over again in my head, since we crashed. Some things just don't add up for me. Maybe you could tell me what happened—from your perspective."
Trin frowned. "I woke up, the ship was shaking. Trask Ulgo, my bunkmate, rushed in to grab his gear. You called for all hands to defend the bridge. On the way to the bridge Trask and I encountered three or four boarding parties. When we got to the bridge it was deserted. That's when you gave the abandon ship command. Trask and I ran for the starboard escape pods but we were intercepted by a Dark Jedi." Trin lowered her chin to her chest in sadness. "He—Trask threw himself at the Dark Jedi and yelled for me to run. I followed my orders." She gulped. "I made my way through to the escape pods to where we met." Trin frowned. "I guess what it comes down to is that I wasn't in a position to know what was going on, really."
Carth nodded. "Neither was I, to tell the truth, I was on board as an advisor for the most part. The battle began so fast, it's anyone's guess what actually happened. We lost the ship and a lost of good people—and for what? In the hopes that the Jedi powers would save us somehow. Not that Bastila had much of an opportunity to act. We didn't choose that battle, it was forced on us. I'm just as surprised any of us survived. Some to think of it, its more than a little surprising that you happen to be here, isn't it? Just what is your position with the Republic fleet, anyway?"
"I'm a scout! This was my first combat mission."
Carth eyed her suspiciously. "Why were you working supply runs anyway?"
She bristled at the implication she'd done something wrong. "How do you know about my previous assignment?"
"I am—was a special tactical fleet advisor to Bastila on this mission. I had complete access to all the crew's records."
"It took me a while to convince them I could handle a regular position. I had been released from the physical therapy about two weeks before I enlisted. It was my final round of rehab after the last of several surgeries designed to repair faulty bones and joints." She showed him the scar on her wrist. "It took about six months for my medical records to catch up with me, my doctors and the fleet's verified I was fit for active duty but some big wig up the line wasn't convinced. Satisfied or do you need to see the rest of my scars?"
He seemed unperturbed by her painful admission. "Well, that makes some sense. Still— it seems strange that someone who was a last minute addition to the crew roster is one of the survivors."
She couldn't believe what he was saying. She yelled, "Are you implying that I had something to do with the attack?"
He looked right over her head at the door. "No. Well—maybe. Don't get me wrong, it just seems odd that someone Bastila's party specifically requested to transfer aboard happens to survive."
Trin sputtered in surprise. "Why would Bastila request my transfer?"
Carth replied, "The Jedi requested numerous things when they came on board—hell they practically took over the ship as far as I could tell," he replied with resentment, "I'm probably wrong and this is probably nothing, I know. I learned a long time ago not to take things at face value, however. I hate surprises."
"What the hell do you mean by that?"
Carth jutted out his chin. "I mean I have to expect the unexpected. Just to be safe."
"Are you always this suspicious?"
Carth tried to placate her, "Look, it has nothing to do with you personally. I don't trust anyone and I have my reasons. And, no, I'm not going to discuss them. So can we just keep our mind on more important things?"
Trin clenched her teeth. "First, you tell me you suspect that I betrayed my vow to the Republic by arranging an attack on the Endar Spire. Then you say lets keep our minds on more important things. Look you cold bastard don't tell me a superior officer doubting my honour is not important." She was shaking with rage. Trin grabbed her jacket and headed out the door.
"Where are you going?" he bellowed out into the hall.
"Out!" she hollered back, "And if your not here when I get back, don't worry I'll understand."
As she stomped down the hall in full fury she noticed other tenants pulling their heads in. Their nearest neighbour, Dia, stepped out into the hall in front of Trin. "You want to talk about it?" she asked.
"No, thanks for asking. He's just such a bantha brain," Trin replied and wiped her face.
Dia smiled. "Men can be like that. You don't have to stay with him, you can bunk with me until the quarantine ends."
Trin grinned. "That would put his whiskers in a knot. Sorry Dia, I need to go cool off. Thanks for the offer but it's just not possible, I'm stuck with him."
Dia eyed Trin's bruises and suggested tentatively, "Trin, there's a very good doctor that has clinic not far from here. His name's Dr. Zelkar. He never charges more than you can afford—I thought you might"
"Thanks Dia, I may look him up." In a falsely bright tone Trin explained, "I'll be down in the Lower City today. I'll get Holden off your back. You must be pretty bored stuck up here to resort to worrying about Carth and I having an argument."
Trin wandered down to the cantina. The walk cleared her head. So your hero turned out to be a paranoid, frigid, nerfherder. Grow up. We have a mission; put aside your personal feelings; get the job done. You're not likely to be working one-on-one with him ever again.
Trin bought two caffas and headed back to ground zero.
They met at the door of the apartment building. She gave him a cup of caffa and he gave her a pack of equipment including the Sith uniform in her size. They called a truce; there was no discussion; they both knew the mission was the priority.
"Carth, there's a medical facility nearby, I'd like to go pick up some supplies," Trin said in a carefully neutral voice.
"Good idea," replied Carth coolly.
At the medical facility they made a terrible, wonderful discovery. The head medic, Dr. Zelkar, was hiding injured Republic Soldiers from the Sith. The soldiers he were so badly injured that they wouldn't survive. Carth watched Trin closely as she walked from one bacta tank to the next examining the shattered remnants of soldiers, scouts, pilots and technicians. Yes, that was it examining the people; memorizing their faces; reading their tags; and looking for friends. At one tank she stopped and rested her head on the glass.
Carth walked over to her. "Someone you know?" he asked gently.
She nodded. "Her name is Grenta. Not a friend. In fact if you'd asked me a week ago I'd have told you I hated her." Trin was suddenly overwhelmed with emotions she had no desire to share with Mr. Suspicious. "We're wasting time," she said gruffly, "There's nothing we can do for them, lets go." She turned away abruptly and headed out.
Carth matched her coldness with coldness and followed her out the door.
They bought some medpacs, stimsticks and antidote pacs before heading down to the Lower City. Dr. Zelkar told them about the Rakghoul disease that ravaged the Under city. Dr. Zelkar explained, "The disease destroys parts of the brain. Victims lose most of their higher brain functions. At the same time testosterone production skyrockets. The poor folk that survive an attack become may contract the disease from bites or scratches. There is no cure but before the Sith arrived I was part of a joint Tarisian-Republic medical team that was testing a serum. It seemed to halt and even prevent the disease. Sadly, all my research was lost when the Sith seized control of the planet and the Republic facilities."
Impulsively Trin promised, "We'll get it back for you, doctor!"
"What, no! No, no, no. I am merely trying to convince you to stay away from the Under City, it's dangerous. Disease can fell the most skilled soldier," he warned.
Wearing the Sith uniforms they'd managed to pass the Lower City guard without incident. They changed back into their own armour in the elevator on the way down. The Lower city was a slum and a war zone. Immediately upon leaving the elevator they witnessed a battle between the Black Vulkars and the Hidden Beks, the two most prominent swoop gangs. The Vulkars bested the Hidden Beks easily then turned on Carth and Trin for the crime of standing in the hall. It had been the first of many fights that day.
Carth set the food they'd picked up at the Upper City cantina on the table. Trin was next door sharing the good news, that Holden had removed the bounty on her head, to Dia. They'd decided not to eat at the Cantina due to Trin's growing reputation as The Mysterious Stranger. She had insisted on fighting another duel to replace the money she'd spent helping Dia today.
As he watched her duel, he'd listened to the fans comments. One of them claimed she was a dancer turned duelist. Carth smiled wryly; she had been a dancer, briefly. At the Javyar's Cantina, the only Lower City neutral gathering spot, they'd split up to work the crowd. He'd nearly fallen over as he passed into the bounty hall to find her putting on a dance show with a strange Twi'lek. Her movements were smooth, dexterous and more than a little erotic. He ducked behind some of the others watching. It turned out she'd volunteered to help the Twi'lek with a job interview. Carth shook his head at the memory of that dance.
She'd found Holden and paid him 200 credits to take the bounty off Dia's head. Holden turned out to be a courier that worked for the local crime lord, Davik Kang. He'd bragged about Davik's ship the Ebon Hawk, "It's the fastest ship in the galaxy and I'm Davik's new pilot. As soon as Davik gets the Sith's access codes we can pass through their automated defenses and get back to business. None of their light fighters will be able to keep up with the Hawk."
Later they'd run into Mission Vao and Zaalbar, a young Twi'lek street urchin and a Wookiee. Trin bought them lunch in Javyar's Cantina. Zaalbar ate an amazing amount of food but didn't say much. Mission ate little but she spoke a endlessly. When she and Trin started talking it was all Carth could do to keep up. Mission seemed to know everyone and everything in the Lower City but she spoke at lightspeed. It was like—it was like watching two teenage girls gossip about bounty hunters, crime lords and gang wars.
Mission explained, "The Lower City isn't usually this dangerous. It's all 'cause of Brejik, the leader of the Black Vulkars. Brejik used to be second in command of the Hidden Bek gang. When Gadon Thek lost his eyesight in a swoop bike accident; everyone expected him to step down; Brejik started acting like he was already in charge. But Gadon surprised 'em all, he decided Brejik wasn't ready to lead and didn't step down after all. He and Brejik had a huge fight, and Brejik left. Gadon thought of that scum-bucket as a son. Brejik and his supporters joined the Black Vulkars and quickly took over. Then Brejik ordered the Vulkars to attack anyone who wouldn't support them. Wham bam—we get a gang war."
"Why didn't the authorities step in?" Trin asked.
Mission waved a hand dismissively."The only authority down here is Davik Kang and his toughs. The government's happy as long as we all stay down here."
"Then why didn't Davik step in?"
"Why would he, so far, his payments haven't been disrupted. Between Calo Nord and Canderous Ordo he can keep a bunch of little swoop gangers in line."
"Calo Nord?"
"Mmmhmmm, he's a big time bounty hunter. He looks a bit like a walking mushroom, 'cause he's short and wears this strange puffy white hat. But nobody messes with him. I've seen him kill people for trying to talk to him while he's eating."
"Nice. What about Canderous?"
"Canderous is a Mandalorian. He's tougher than he looks and he look's like a tank. He doesn't kill people outa hand for being stupid but he does beat them to a pulp."
"How restrained of him," Carth said drily.
"The Vulkar's are starting to get big heads though. They really think they'll be taking over after the Swoop Race."
"The Swoop Race?"
Mission did a double take. "The Great Taris Swoop Race! You've never heard of it? It's in two days and it's a huge event. That's why there are so many off-worlders here. It's one of the major races on the swoop bike circuit, the prizes are usually huge. All the racers have to be sponsored by local gangs." Mission's headtails curled close around her neck which Trin knew indicated nervousness. "The smaller gangs are laying low, until they see who ends up on top. The gang whose rider takes the race will get most of the small gangs on their side. But Brejik stole the Bek's prototype swoop engine so I dunno what's going to happen now."
"Are you a Hidden Bek, Mission?"
"Nah, don't get me wrong they're nice. Gadon has treated me very well, I'd have had some real problems after my brother left without his support. I thought about joining them, when I was old enough. But me and Zaalbar are a great team, we don't want someone breaking us up or telling us what to do."
"We're trying to find someone who may be hiding in the Lower or Under City."
Mission looked inquiringly at Trin.
Trin leaned closer and in a low voice said, "Someone that landed in an escape pod here or in the Under City, a woman."
Mission shrugged. "Must've landed in the Under City, I haven't heard anything. You should go talk to Gadon Thek, he'll deal honestly with you."
They took Mission's advice and contacted the Hidden Bek gang. That's how they finally learned of Bastila's fate. She had been captured by the Vulkars and was a prize in the Great Taris Swoop Race. Gadon Thek, the leader of the Hidden Beks, offered to sponsor Trin in the race if they'd retrieve their prototype swoop engine accelerator from Vulkar base.
Carth was brought back to the present when the door slid open and Trin entered.
Trin smiled. "Dia's headed home. She insisted that I take this as a reward. " Trin plunked an energy cell for a vibroblade down on the workbench. "It's a really good one."
Carth shook his head in amusement. "Eat first."
She sat down at the table and ate. "Carth, I want to discuss something with you."
He looked at her. "You do? Fair enough what do you want to discuss?"
"I'd like to know now if we have a problem." She replied.
"I knew you wouldn't understand where I was coming from." Carth sighed. "Look you are probably one of the most skilled women I've ever met. You've saved my butt more than once and I'm lucky to have you here to help me, no question. But that doesn't mean I'm going to stop watching you or being wary. I'm not built that way. Period."
She asked angrily, "Why are you so hostile? What did I do to deserve this?"
He regarded her emotionlessly."You—you haven't done anything, yet. But there's no guarantee that you won't do anything in the future. I've been betrayed before by people and I—well, it won't happen again."
"Of course it won't happen again if you never trust anyone!"
"Look—I'm not trying to insult you. This is just the way I am, no need to take it personally."
She leaped out of her seat, she seemed to be almost vibrating. "Don't tell me not to take it personally, you hairless Wookiee!"
Carth laughed."Hairless Wookiee! All right sister, just—just—just calm down before your head explodes." He turned to look out the window.
She marched around the table to look him in the face. "Don't tell me to calm down, you ignorant Bantha!" Her eyes sparkled, her face was flushed and her chest heaved in righteous indignation.
Carth thought she looked delicious and he goaded her a little more. "Is that your idea of an insult? Come on, sister, take your best shot."
She sputtered for a moment. "Gamorrean pig-man!"
He put a hand over his heart. "Oh, ouch. I think you hurt my man-feelings with that one."
"Don't patronize me."
"Wouldn't think of it. Feel better now?"
She couldn't stay angry with him. "Maybe a little."
"Good then maybe we can talk reasonably about this. All I've been trying to say is that this isn't personal. If you're smart you wouldn't trust anyone, either—not me, not Bastila and especially not yourself."
Trin hugged herself. "I wouldn't want to live life like that."
Carth turned his head away from the sight of this woman/child in need of reassurance. He said curtly, "Not all of us have the luxury of choice. I'm conditioned this way, sorry." Sorry? What made me say that?
She looked up at him. Trin was sure he was unaware of the painful grimace on his face. She said gently, "You sure you don't want to talk about it?"
He became irate again. "No, I don't want to talk about it! What I want to do is save the galaxy, if that's even possible."
Trin sighed. "Sorry."
Carth turned around and with his back to her said, "Why is whether I trust you or anyone so damned important to you? Why—Why do you care? Can we just drop this—for now."
Trin went round the table and sat down. Carth turned back to face the table. He picked at his meal.
Trin cleared her throat. "So tomorrow we head for the Under City."
Carth nodded.
"This crime lord, Davik Kang may be a problem."
Carth nodded again. "He has some tough muscle working for him," he said reflectively, "I've heard of that bounty hunter, Calo Nord, I don't relish the idea of facing him down to get to that ship."
"What about this Canderous Ordo?"
Carth frowned. "I don't know anything about him personally, but he's a Mandalorian. The Mandalorians are born with a weapon in one hand." He gulped a mouthful of the raw ale they'd ordered. "I'm surprised he's here on a backwater planet. If Davik is really a member of the Exchange then perhaps Canderous is using him to get into the organization."
"What is the Exchange?"
Carth looked at Trin with surprise. "Deralia must be some bucolic backwater planet if you've never heard on the Exchange. It's an interplanetary criminal organization. It practically governs a number of worlds including this one, normally. "
After dinner Trin used the energy cell to upgrade her vibroblade while Carth installed the alarm they'd bought on the door and then they both turned in.
As it happened, Canderous of the clan Ordo had also noticed them. Specifically he'd noticed Trin. Canderous was looking for someone; he was looking for an accomplice. He wanted off of Taris. He had watched her fighting the Vulkars in the Lower City and caught her duel on the vid-screens. She didn't just fight she performed a dance of death. Each move was precise, graceful and measured. She never used more force than she needed to get the job done.
Canderous asked around, knocked a few heads and discovered their purpose. They were republic soldiers searching for a comrade. I know where their quarry is hidden, it's a good test. If this Mysterious Stranger can rescue her friend then she'll be looking for a way off planet. That will be the right time to approach her.
Trin lay in bed looking at the ceiling, she heard Carth roll over yet again on his bed. "Carth, are you awake?"
Carth sighed. "Yes, what's on your mind?"
Trin took a deep breath. "I just want to talk with you."
Carth grinned in the dark. "Oh? You want to argue some more, is that it?"
Trin got up and wrapped herself in a sheet. She padded over to Carth and sat on the edge of his bed. "I'm always up for a good fight."
Carth sat up and leaned back on the wall at the head of his bed. Trin tried not to stare at his bare muscular chest. He smiled at her in the dim light that filtered through the window. He chuckled. "Can't say I've ever met a woman quite like you before. You're really something." He smiled reassuringly, "What's this all about?"
She gathered her courage. "Your good opinion matters to me. But somehow I've done something to make you doubt my dedication to the Republic. I don't understand why you doubt my honour."
He grimaced and put his head in his hands. "Honestly Trin, this isn't about you. I just don't trust easily, and for good reasons—which are my own."
"But we have to work together, Carth, so it has plenty to do with me."
He shook his head, leaned back and looked blindly upward. "Ahhhh. Damn it. I suppose I won't get any rest until I talk. You want to know why I don't trust anyone? Fine, here goes. Five years ago the Jedi had just finished the war with the Mandalorians. The Revan and Malak were war heroes and I was damn proud to have served in the fleet. It was a complete shock when they turned on us invading the Republic while we were still weak. Nobody knew what to think, least of all me. Our heroes had become brutal conquering Sith—and we were all but helpless before them. Think about it—if you can't even trust the best of the Jedi, who can you trust?"
Trin nodded."I suppose you can't. That must have been hard."
He shook his head, "I—it wasn't even that. There were others good, solid men; trusted men who turned on us and served their cause. Malak, the Revan and the Sith deserve to die for what they did. But the ones that fled the Republic and joined them are even worse. The dark side has nothing to do with why they joined the Sith." He clenched his fists and growled. "They deserve no mercy!"
She was taken aback. "You say that with such—hatred."
He deliberately relaxed against the wall again. "I know. I—should apologize to you for that." He pulled one of her cold hands between his larger calloused ones. "I've become so accustomed to expecting the worst in others that I— and you've done nothing to deserve that." He absentmindedly rubbed her hand to warm it.
Trin was paralyzed. His hands were so warm. His touch sent tingles up and down her back and started a warm flush low in her abdomen that rose through her body until her face was flushed.
Carth's gaze moved from the ceiling to Trin's face. "I'd rather not talk about it."
They sat in silence for a few moments.
Carth looked closely at Trin. "This isn't what's keeping you from sleep. What else is bothering you?"
"The battle on the Endar Spire was my first."
He nodded encouragingly.
She looked down. "I thought I would feel angry or sad."
He pulled her other hand into his and rubbed warmth into it as well. "And how do you feel?"
Trin failed to hold back the tears, "I feel—I feel guilty. I feel guilty for being alive. Errom, my friends, even Grenta are dead and I'm here. Why didn't I die, too? Trask—" She sobbed.
Carth pulled her into his arms without comment and let her cry.
"I don't think I'll ever feel alive again." She said dully.
Carth tightened his embrace. "Don't say that. Your first kill; your first battle; losing a friend the first time—each of these are signposts in a soldier's career. You had a them all rolled into one event, it'll be hard, but you will recover."
Trin wiped the tears off Carth's chest with the sheet she'd brought. Carth gasped at her gentle touch. Shyly she kissed his shoulder. Carth grabbed her arms and said hoarsely. "This—this isn't a good idea, Trin."
"Please Carth, I just want to feel alive. I'm not asking for anything more than tonight." Her hands pushed him back against the wall. He groaned; he knew this was wrong but he'd been watching her. He finally admitted to himself; he'd been lusting after her. He remembered her workout in the gym, how her firm body moved. She'd seemed oblivious to the admiring glances of her male shipmates. She had been the object of frustrated speculation in the locker room. But now she was here, with him.
"May the Gods forgive me." He said as pulled her into the bed with him. He slipped out of his pants then slowly undressed her. He savoured the sight of her beautiful body, he touched each of her surgery scars, caressing her gently until she clung to him. He tried to be gentle but it had been so long.
Ecstasy, it hadn't been like this with Marco. His touch heated her skin, somehow under his hands her scars became focal points for pleasure rather than a source of shame, and his caresses filled her with a burning need. A need he expertly met. As they lay panting afterward Trin kissed his cheek and thanked him, she tried to slip out of his bed but his arms tightened. He wants me to stay! She fell asleep in his strong arms.
Carth was shaken by the strength of his need for human contact; he just couldn't let go, not yet. The intensity of their coupling had surprised him. She fell into a deep dreamless sleep. He pulled back a bit so that he could look at her. She looked peaceful for the first time since the crash. He relaxed against her back. One night he promised himself. Two broken spirits had a right to one night, didn't they?
In the morning he slid out of the bed before she woke. He gazed at her peaceful face. He wanted to reach out and touch her again. Instead he went to the fresher and cleaned up. He looked in the mirror and saw—and saw a tired middle-aged man. One night she'd said.
Trin watched Carth walk quietly to the fresher through her eyelashes. One night was all I asked for but I want more. Carth is in pain. He reached out to me against his better judgment. With his help the guilt has receded to arms length. I will heal him, somehow I will heal him.
That evening, safely ensconced in the Hidden Bek's hideout, they awaited the swoop race. Carth brooded. She really is too good to be true. Somehow they'd developed an amazing fighting rapport. When Trin was at his back he knew without any doubt where and when to move. It was the kind of joint fighting style that required many months of training to develop and years to master. Yet in just two days they'd learned to battle together like two halves of the same brain. He shook his head morosely. Yeah, definitely too good to be true.
She did more than battle attackers. The plight of every down and out sentient they met tugged at Trin heartstrings and she acted to help them, all of them, every time. She even found the Rakghoul serum for Dr. Zelkar, rescued a Twi'lek whom the authorities failed to protect after he testified against Davik Kang and saved Zaalber from slavers. When Mission Vao had frantically asked them for their, Trin did not hesitate for a moment. Zaalbar was so impressed with her selflessness that he swore a life debt oath to Trin. I don't know what she'll do with a Wookiee and his tag along Twi'lek after we get off Taris. With Mission's help they snuck into the Black Vulkar's base. They freed a Vulkar slave, slaughtered a bunch of Vulkar thugs and grabbed the stolen swoop bike accelerator.
Trin sent Mission and Zaalbar up to the apartment in the Upper city with the Rakghoul serum and instructions to give it to Dr. Zelkar. But she asked me to stay at the Hidden Bek's base with her, to back her up. Is that all there is to it or is she watching me, too?
Trin was bone tired. Fighting battle after battle had tired her body. She was glad that Carth had had her back. They were a good team. Her heart was also weary, the day had held so many emotional highs and lows, there were so many hopeless sentients on Taris. But her mind buzzed and she could not stop thinking. Her mind flitted from Carth to the pending swoop race and back again.
She walked into the rec hall. Carth sat alone; she joined him. After her drink arrived she decided to tackle the issue she could do something about. "I want to continue our discussion from last night."
He frowned at her. "I thought I said I don't want to talk about it anymore."
"Don't you think you'd feel better if you discussed it?"
He leaned in close so that they would not be overheard. "Listen sister— just because we have—we are working together doesn't mean you get to badger me with constant questions."
"Do we have another problem, now?"
He leaned back and without thought to the consequences he yelled at her. "Blast it if you aren't the most frustrating woman to talk to! Isn't there someone else you can harass for a little while?"
All the conversation in the rec hall halted and the Beks turned to look at their table. The moment of shock was broken when the man at the next table said loudly, "If he doesn't want you, you can come harass me, baby." After a moment of general mirth normal activity resumed.
Trin gave both Carth and the man at the other table a dirty look. "Well, I wouldn't want you to feel harassed. Have it your way." She got up to leave.
"Wait," Carth said irritably, "I didn't mean it that way. Don't go. Dammit."
He grabbed her by the elbow and moved to a booth, further away from prying ears. "I suppose I could use someone to talk to. I'm just not used to it." He looked down into his drink on the table. "And I don't know why you're so interested." He paused for a full minute to gather his thoughts. "When I think of all the men who betrayed us, the one that stands out above all of them is the one I respected the most. Saul."
"You say that name like I should know it."
He raised is eyebrows. "You don't. I thought everyone did. Admiral Saul Karath is the commander of the entire Sith fleet. He's half the reason Malak's done so well in the war. Saul was my commanding officer back when the Mandalorian wars first began. He taught me everything about being a soldier. I looked up to him. Saul approached me before he left—talked to me about how the Republic was on the losing side and how I needed to start thinking about my survival. I know now that he was trying to recruit me into the Sith, but I couldn't have conceived of it then. I argued with him and he got angry and he left. I never saw him again."
"You didn't think he would betray the Republic?"
"Saul was my mentor—he lead us to so many victories against the Mandalorians—even when things looked to be at their worst. I just couldn't conceive of it; he—he couldn't be serious. I was wrong of course, he not only left us for the Sith he gave them the codes to bypass our scanners. I remember waking up as the first of the Sith bombers snuck past our defenses and started destroying our half of our docked ships. I suddenly knew exactly what happened and I could have stopped him. I could have stopped it all."
"So you blame yourself for trusting your friend?"
He pounded his fist on the table. "I blame Saul—not myself. I was— I was stupid; I ignored the danger. He nearly destroyed us all. Look, I've fought Saul for years, now, and if I ever catch up with him—he will regret what he's done. He will regret it."
She reached a hand across the table to him. "Carth, I—I'm sorry that happened to you."
He ignored her hand and all the comforts it implied.
Trin pulled her hand back.
An uncomfortable silence descended on the table.
Carth broke the tension. "So, do you feel ready for tomorrow's race?"
Trin smiled ruefully. "Now that I've looked at the bike up close"
He cocked an eyebrow. "What?"
"A swoop bike is nothing more than a seat bolted onto a large accelerator engine. You gain speed by flying over magnetic accelerator pads and shifting like mad. I'm planning on hanging on for dear life in an effort to survive the race."
Carth grinned. "Good plan."
They finished their drinks in companionable silence, then headed to the room Gadon had provided. Carth stood watch next to the bed while Trin rested. For a second night she slept peacefully.
The following morning Trin headed to the track. The Bek mechanic had installed the prototype accelerator in the bike during the night. She felt an unexpected high being down on the track with the other riders. The prizes arrived, including a cage containing a woman dressed like a joy girl. It was the Jedi Trin had seen in her nightmares. She must be Bastila, I remember seeing her in passing on the Spire but—but why would I dream of her. And why did the Jedi request that I be transferred? Bastila was restrained by a neural disrupter collar.
Trin's first race was actually pretty good. She was early enough in the queue that she held first place for a few moments. One of the Vulkar's racers, Redros, beat her time. Trin was leaning on the race coordinators desk when he returned from his race. Redros sneered at her on his way by. "Don't worry sweet thing, I can make you feel like a winner later."
Trin was livid. I'll show that—that—Vulkar pig-man how to win a race. She wished she could beat the smile off his face with a bat, but the track was neutral territory and she wasn't going to be the one that broke the peace. Instead she rapped on the desk. "I'm ready to race another heat."
On the track she pushed her bike and her reflexes to their limits. She was barely in control of the huge machine. The let down at the end of the race, when she had to stop, was almost painful.
Carth watched Trin's second heat on the monitor. She moved faster, much faster in her second heat. His eyes widened in fear as she careened from booster to booster. If the timer in the corner was to be trusted she was moving at about twice the speed she averaged in her first heat and she was still accelerating.
Canderous also watched the race, he'd seen Trin and Redros exchange words and though he couldn't tell what had been said Trin's expression made the intent of the swoop jock's statement clear. He was impressed. She channeled her anger and ran a tight race, better than any he'd ever seen before. Yes, she'll do, she'll do. If she survives the race.
The race coordinator flashed all the race lights to gain the crowd's attention. Those who didn't speak Huttese huddled around those that could translate. "/The Hidden Bek's third rider has won the Great Taris Swoop Race and set a new track record./" Applause and hisses greeted this announcement. "/Here is Brejik, leader of the Black Vulkars, to present the prize./"
Brejik stepped forward. "People - hear me! Before I present the so called champion of the Beks with her prize there is something you must know: the winning rider cheated."
Trin shouted angrily. "You're a damn liar, Brejik."
He continued without acknowledging that Trin had spoken. "The Bek rider used a prototype engine accelerator, clearly an unfair advantage. I am withdrawing the Vulkar's prize."
The race coordinator protested, "/You can't do that, it's against our most sacred traditions./"
Brejik cut him off. "You old fool, I don't care about your traditions. I am the wave of the future. I am taking back this woman and selling her on the slave market. And nobody can stop me."
A cultured female voice came from behind Brejik. "I might have something to say about that." Bastila had overcome the neural disrupter collar and broken out of her cage.
Brejik shook his fists in rage. "What! Vulkars to me, kill this woman, kill this swoop rider, kill them all."
Bastila knocked down a guard, grabbed his sword and attacked the Vulkar leader. Trin drew her own vibroblade and began to fight the other Vulkars. She missed the security of having Carth at her back.
Bastila was holding her own against Brejik so Trin went after Redros. She was angry. I want to see Redros dead—no, I want to kill the hutt-slime. As she traded blows with him a portion of her mind wondered at the hate. Why am I so angry? I barely know him. He insulted me once.
Between them Bastila and Trin made short work of the Vulkars. Bastila looked down at Brejik's body and said disdainfully, "Well, maybe those bloody Vulkar's will think twice before trying to keep a Jedi prisoner again. And as for you, if you think you're going to collect me as a prize. Wait—I don't believe this! You're—you're one of the soldiers with the Republic fleet, aren't you? Yes, I'm sure of it. How did you end up racing for these swoop gangs?"
Trin was overwhelmed, Bastila was too much; she seemed to radiate energy and emotion. The woman's mood swings were like physical assaults. There was a red haze of anger then a cold douse of shock. The emotional overload was followed by a vision of Bastila fighting on the bridge of a ship, she confronted a darkly shrouded figure surrounded by a nimbus of evil. Trin tried to pull herself together but all she wanted to do was get as far away from Bastila as she could. "What? Oh, it's a long story."
Fortunately Bastila seemed content to carry most of the conversation by herself. "Well, we don't have time for it now. We have to get out of here before the Sith send someone to sort out this mess. Is there somewhere safe we can go?"
Trin nodded curtly. "I've got somewhere safe to go. I was planning to take you there after I saved you from Brejik."
Bastila laughed. "Save me? Is that what you were trying to do by running in that race," she said scathingly, "In case you hadn't noticed I managed to free myself. In fact, it's probably more accurate to say that I saved you. Brejik and his Vulkars would have left you for dead if I hadn't stepped into that fight," with false heartiness she added, "You're lucky I was here to get you out of this mess."
Trin was seeing a red haze again. She swallowed. This woman is poison. She looked at the Jedi, took a deep breath and withdrew into formality. "Yes sir."
Bastila continued, seemingly unaware of the effect she was having on Trin. "We're not out of danger yet we need to get off this planet. I need to know what kind of resources we can draw on. First, are we the only two survivors left from the Endar Spire?"
Trin shook her head. "No sir. Commander Onasi is waiting for us in our base of operations."
Bastila sighed in delight. "Carth Onasi is alive? Finally some good news."
Trin led Bastila to their abandoned apartment in the Upper City, she clenched her teeth against the seething resentment that threatened to overwhelm her. When they arrived in the apartment Carth smiled in relief. Trin was so glad to see a friendly face. Then he opened his mouth.
"Bastila—you're alive. Finally things are looking up. Now we just have to figure out a way to get off this planet."
Trin was in shock. Okay bonehead pull yourself together. Bastila's your commanding officer, Carth's a commander in the fleet, and I—I'm some damn nobody recruit. Good enough until somebody important comes along.
"You mean," Bastila said exasperatedly, "you don't have a plan to get off Taris yet?"
Before they could continue Trin interjected. "Permission to speak, sir." Carth did a double take.
Bastila acknowledged her. "Yes soldier."
"Might I suggest that I obtain lunch for us all. It's been a long morning, sir."
"Yes that's a good suggestion, go ahead Lenstar."
"Trin, wait," Carth called then he glanced at Bastila and back to Trin. He sighed. "Come right back, okay?"
Trin nodded abruptly. She was furious, she marched out of the apartment as quickly as she could manage.
Mission called out, "We'll come with you, Trin." She and Zaalbar followed Trin out the door.
Once the door closed Trin turned to face them and in a tightly controlled voice said, "I don't really want company right now."
Mission looked a little hurt but Zaalbar steered her off in the other direction along the hall. "/We'll stay out here, in the hall, until you return, Trin./"
Trin marched to the elevator. She felt cheated. She had done the work and risked her life and for what—to save her graciousness, the Jedi. She took a deep breath. The Republic needs that spoiled brat. For the Republic, that's what this is all about. I have a duty and I will honour it. Trin sauntered the rest of the way to the cantina. She felt much calmer. Trin arranged a time for her duel with Twitch, the crazy Rodian and the top ranked duelist, they were going to need the credits. She picked up a lunch and headed back to base.
As she left the cantina a tall green Twi'lek stepped in front of her. "Aren't you the rider who won the Great Taris Swoop Race."
Trin answered warily. "Yes, why?"
The Twi'lek grinned viciously. "I have a message for you from Canderous Ordo."
Trin relaxed and motioned for him to continue.
"Canderous wants to meet you at this cantina tonight after the last duel."
"Which duel?"
"Your duel with Twitch."
"News travels fast. What does he want?"
"Canderous didn't say why he wanted to meet you. He only said he had an offer you couldn't refuse. Given his connections, you can see why it would be foolish to ignore his request."
"Thanks for the message. I'll be there."
"A wise choice human. Don't be late, Mandalorians are known for many things, patience isn't one of them."
Carth watched Trin's back as she stomped out the door.
Behind him Bastila continued, oblivious to the feelings of those around her. "What have you been doing all this time?"
Carth turned back to face her. "We've been trying to find you, remember?"
"I see." In her most supercilious tone of voice Bastila proclaimed, "Now, that I'm back in charge of this mission, we can start doing things properly. Hopefully our escape from Taris will go more smoothly than when you rescued me."
Carth shook his head. "I know you're new at this, Bastila, but a leader doesn't berate her troops just because things aren't going as planned. Don't let your ego get in the way of the real issues here."
Her eyes narrowed in annoyance. "That hardly strikes me as an appropriate way of addressing your commander, Carth. I am a member of the Jedi Order and this is my mission." She looked at him sharply. "Don't forget that."
Carth clenched his jaw in frustration.
Bastila continued blithely, "My Battle Meditation has helped the Republic many times in this war, and it will serve us well here I am sure."
Carth slammed his fist down on the table.
Bastila turned to stare at him.
He spoke slowly and emphasized each word. "Your talents might win us a few battles, but that does not make you a good leader! A good leader would at least listen to the advice of those who have seen more combat than she ever will. A good leader also notices the efforts of those around her."
Bastila stopped. She couldn't control her chagrin at having been the one that was captured. Carth and—Trin hadn't needed rescuing, had found allies and I, a Jedi, was dressed up like a joy girl and put on display. This is beneath me. She took a deep breath closed her eyes and silently recited the Jedi code. There is no emotion; there is peace. There is no ignorance; there is knowledge. There is no passion; there is serenity. There is no chaos; there is harmony. There is no death; there is the force.
Carth watched Bastila impassively.
Bastila stated calmly, "Yes—you're right of course! I apologize Carth. This has been a difficult time for me. Of course, I'm happy to listen to your advice. What do you suggest we do?"
"First off we can't get hung up on who's in charge; we all need to work together if we want to get off this rock. Secondly, you cannot treat Trin this way. She has been an integral part of finding and freeing you from the Black Vulkars."
Bastila sat at the table. "Tell me about—Trin."
Carth eyed the Jedi suspiciously. "I'd have thought you'd know all about her, after all, your group requested her transfer."
"That was not my doing. Now tell me what is she like, what did she do. I—I feel I made a poor first impression and I'd like to make amends."
Carth wasn't sure what to make of Bastila, but he filled her in on most of their activities over the last few days. "We crashed in the Upper City five days ago. By the morning of the third day we were both recovered enough to get to work. Trin made some credits to buy supplies by playing pazaak and fighting in the dueling ring under the name The Mysterious Stranger."
Bastila stopped him."Please do not take this the wrong way, but why did Trin fight in the dueling ring rather than you."
Carth shook his head. "I didn't want her to, she went off and fought the first one without warning me. She was convinced that it was more likely I'd be recognized and that she was more expendable."
"Fair points, please continue."
"We managed to get invited to a party thrown by some Sith junior officers where we commandeered a couple of Sith uniforms. The next day we went down to the Lower city where we met Mission and Zaalbar. On Mission's advice, we went to see Gadon Thek the leader of the Hidden Bek gang. He had information about your situation. We made a deal with him: we retrieved his stolen prototype engine accelerator from the Black Vulkars and he sponsored Trin in the swoop race. The following morning we went to the Under City and among other things broke into the Vulkar base and got the accelerator. Trin's original plan was not to win the race but to survive it so that she could engineer your rescue."
"What other things?"
Carth paused. He really wasn't sure how much he wanted to say. "Trin has a talent for drawing out other people's troubles and helping them. At the same time as looking for you she aided many desperate sentients. She helped people that had bounties on their heads escape from the local crime lord's wrath, rescued Zaalbar from Gamorrean slavers, found some Rakghoul serum and made it available to an honest doctor, she helped the downtrodden and desperate everywhere we went—she just never quits, she wouldn't give up on anyone—"
At that moment the door slid open to admit Trin, Mission and Zaalbar.
Bastila went over and helped Trin with the bags of food. "Thank you," she said warmly, "I'm famished; lunch was a excellent idea. As we're eating perhaps we can discuss ideas for escaping Taris."
Trin was so relieved that Bastila was no longer shooting emotional daggers at her that she actually returned her smile.
As they took the lunch bags to the table Bastila said, "I apologize, Trin, for my taciturn manner. This has been a difficult time for me. Carth has, rightfully, pointed out we need to work together." She put the bags down on the table, and stuck out a hand. "Can we start over? I am Bastila Shan."
Trin put down the last bag and took Bastila's hand. "I'm Trin Lenstar, nice to meet you, Bastila."
Over lunch they started planning.
Bastila mused, "I think we'll need some help getting off Taris. Maybe, if we ask around, one of the locals can help us out. We should probably start by asking around in the cantinas."
Trin smiled. "I may have made some progress in that direction already. While I was out a messenger from Canderous Ordo approached me. Canderous wants to meet with me after tonight's duel to discuss an offer I couldn't refuse."
Carth groaned. "Another duel?"
Trin addressed Carth. "We need the credits and now it's a buy to speaking with Canderous. You don't have to come, I can go on my own."
Carth shook his head. "No, I don't think so. You shouldn't be facing a Mandalorian alone under any circumstances but particularly not coming out of a duel. What if you're injured? I'm coming with you."
Bastila nodded. "I agree and I'll come too. I may be able to sense any duplicity on this Mandalorian's part."
She won, again. The fight with Twitch had been difficult; the crazy Rodian had no sense of self-preservation. At the exit Carth jabbed Trin with a medpac
She smiled in relief. "Thanks, I needed that."
Trin collected her winnings and went to find Canderous. He was sitting at a table with a vid-screen. "Nice fight." He noted professionally as she sat down. Carth and Bastila stood behind her chair, like sentinels. Canderous handed her a bottle of Tarisian ale. She took a sip, after her exertions it slid smoothly down her throat.
Canderous had a strong presence and an expressive voice. He was a very large man, tall and extremely muscular. "I saw you in the swoop race. Very impressive. You seem like you know how to get results. That's just the kind of person I'm looking for."
"What are you talking about?"
Canderous grinned. "My name's Canderous Ordo. I work for Davik Kang and the Exchange; the hours aren't great, but they promised me a fortune to work for them and I have nothing better to do. Mandalorian mercs like me are in high demand. But lately Davik hasn't been paying me what he promised. I don't like getting cheated, so I figure it's time for me to break the Sith quarantine and get off this backwater planet."
Trin took another sip of ale. "How do you plan to do that?"
"I've got a plan to escape Taris but I can't do it alone. I need someone I know can get the job done to help me. That's where you come in."
Canderous' voice was mesmerizing and the strong ale she was drinking wasn't helping. Trin was having a difficult time keeping her mind on business.
Carth leaned down and spoke near her ear. "Merc's like this don't have a lick of conscience—They'll betray you in a heartbeat. This could be a trap."
Canderous obviously had sharp ears. He looked menacingly at Carth. "I'm not talking to you. I'm talking to your friend, aren't I."
Trin was in a heightened state: the exhilaration of battle; the Tarisian ale; Canderous' sexy voice; Carth's whiskers rubbing her neck; and something else— some dark vision of Canderous and Carth fighting for—for Trin was confused. I don't want this! She rubbed her forehead and imagined herself physically pushing the vision away. Suddenly her mind cleared. Her perception shifted; everything seemed normal again. Canderous was a dangerous old warrior, Carth a friend she wistfully wished could be more and she could focus again.
Canderous was talking, she'd missed some of what he'd said. "is probably crazy enough to break into the Sith military base. I need someone to steal the Sith launch codes from the base. Without those codes any ship leaving the atmosphere will be disintegrated by the Sith fleet's automated defense guns."
Trin smiled sweetly. "What's in this for me?"
Canderous grinned back at her. "Here's the deal: you bring me those launch codes and I can provide the vehicle to get off the planet—Davik's flag ship, the Ebon Hawk."
Trin's eyebrows rose in surprise. "How are you going to manage that?"
Canderous sat back and shook his head. "Uh-uh-uh. Not yet. First, you bring me the launch codes then I'll tell you the rest of my plan."
"I'll be back when I get those codes from the military base." She said firmly.
Canderous' grin widened. "Good luck - You're going to need it. The entrance to the base is sealed up tight and protected by an encrypted security system. Getting in won't be easy. It'll take a top of the line astro-mech droid to slice through it. Lucky for you I know just the place to get a droid like that."
Trin sighed resignedly. "Where and how much?"
Canderous shrugged. "I don't know how much, you'll have to negotiate with her yourself. Davik was having a droid custom built by Janice Nall. You'll find her at her droid and droid supply shop in the Upper City. Just tell her Canderous sent you and she'll sell you the droid."
Trin narrowed her eyes and leaned forward putting her hands flat on the table. "Why don't you do this yourself?"
Canderous chuckled at the suspicion obvious in her manner. "Normally I would, but everyone knows who I work for. If I broke into the Sith base, they'd send an army down on Davik's estate to get those codes back. That's why I need you."
Trin leaned back nodding. "Okay, Canderous - you've got a deal."
Bastila interjected quietly, "I don't sense any deception from him, which is surprising. This may be exactly what we need."
Canderous leered at Bastila. "Oh, I'm good at fulfilling needs, Princess." Then he returned his gaze to Trin. "I'll meet you in Javyar's cantina, it's in the Lower City. You find me when you've got those launch codes and I'll make sure we both get off this rock." Canderous slipped out of the booth and left.
Carth and Bastila sat down.
Trin sighed. "Even with the winnings from my last duel we can't afford a droid."
Bastila asked, "Do we have anything we can sell?"
Carth shook his head. "Nothing that isn't on our backs."
Trin shrugged. "Pazaak is out, no one in the card room will even talk to me anymore. There's only one option." She stood and headed towards the front of the cantina.
Bastila turned to Carth, he looked ill at ease. "What is she doing?"
"She's gone to challenge Bendak Starkiller. I hate this, but she's right it's the only way to raise the credits quickly."
"I don't understand. Clearly, this is somehow different than the previous duel."
Carth replied, "Starkiller is a Mandalorian thug with a government bounty on his head who retired from the ring when death matches were banned."
Bastila stuttered in shock, "Y—Y—You don't mean she's going to challenge him to a death match. You do. This is barbaric—it's a travesty of justice. I cannot allow her to participate such a heinous spectacle."
Carth grabbed her arm before she could chase after Trin. "Justice is in a little short supply here on Taris. If she takes Starkiller in a death match she can collect her share of the winnings and the government bounty on his head. You won't be able to talk her out of this, she feels it's her responsibility."
"Why would this be anymore her responsibility than yours or mine?"
Carth looked down at his hands in shame. "Because I once objected to all the credits she was giving away to help people. She feels guilty for having put their interests ahead of the mission."
Bastila started to retort in righteous indignation, "Well, she should"
Carth cut her off. "You need to understand that she's fighting Starkiller for the right to save their lives, to cut through the endless misery on Taris. She was right. A victimized woman's life is worth more than 200 credits."
Bastila sat back against the bench. "So, she's exorcising her inner demons by killing this Mandalorian."
"In a way. Trin is a woman of compassion; she can't pass by a sentient in need. Not when it's in her own best interest and not when she can convince herself it won't compromise her duty." Carth fell silent. His thoughts were in turmoil. She's too good to be true, I know I can't trust these—these feelings. I can't trust her. This is just desire and there is no denying she is desirable.
Trin returned to the table. "The duel will be tomorrow morning, we can hit the Sith base in the afternoon and meet up with Canderous before dinner." She grinned. "Cheer up! With any luck by this time tomorrow we'll be off this hunk of rock."
Bastila looked almost offended by her cheeriness. Carth just looked worried.
The crowd roared and cheered. Trin felt relief, no triumph, only relief. She ignored the crowd and limped past Bendak Starkiller's lifeless body towards the exit. Each step released a litany of minor pains, through clenched teeth she chanted, "Never again, never again, never again" As she passed into the shadow of the stadium's entrance hot tears coursed down her cheeks. She'd killed a man for the entertainment of a howling mob and it had been—exciting. I was having fun, I liked it, the cheering, the crowd, the triumph as he slumped to the ground at my feet. She was exhausted, she lurched left against the wall and found she just couldn't keep moving. As she started to slide, strong hands lifted her.
Carth was there, he carried her into the med bay. "It's okay, Trin. It's okay."
She smiled wanly at him. "Made my blood money, got another guilt trip to purge." She mumbled before passing out. She was a mess. The fight had been very close. They'd very nearly lost her.
Carth tried not to think of what she had implied. Was it an invitation? No, that had been one desperate night. We agreed, one night. He shoved the memory into the dark recesses of his mind.
After the medic patched her up, Trin perked up. She seemed unnaturally alert, she was pleased to be past the duel and onto mission related business. She collected her winnings then headed to the Lower City and collected her bounty. Carth and Bastila followed her like a comet's tail.
Everything proceeded as planned. By evening they were heading back to the Lower City to meet Canderous. Trin was running on stimtabs, Carth urged her to rest and recuperate but she couldn't stop. Some second sense told her to hurry; the urgency was palpable like an accelerating drum beat.
She sauntered slowly up to Canderous' table to disguise her limp.
As she sat down, he said, "I figured you'd be back. Neither of us are getting off this planet unless we work together."
He looked at her appraisingly, noting her injuries. Amazing. She was beaten near to death by Starkiller this morning, stormed a military base this afternoon and she's still on her feet. "Now, I know the Sith military base had a break in. I know it was you. I know you've got those departure codes I need. So what do you say? We can join forces and I can get you inside Davik's base—and right to the Ebon Hawk."
Trin nodded. "Okay, but how are you going to get me inside Davik's estate?"
Canderous grinned. "Davik's always looking to recruit new talent. I'll tell him how you won that swoop race. I'll say I brought you in so he could check you out. He'll have you stay at his estate for a couple of days while he runs some background checks on you—that's standard procedure."
Bastila bristled. "This is too risky, we should find another way."
Canderous sneered at her. "You got another plan sister, or you just objecting because you didn't think of it."
"No, I—don't have another plan. I would rather not place my life in your hands, however."
Trin patted Bastila's arm in a placating manner.
Canderous growled, "I can same the same about you. That makes us even. Fortunately, we both want to get off this rock, right?"
Trin nodded and motioned for Canderous to continue.
"While Davik's checking you out, we steal the Ebon Hawk and escape Taris. Come on—I've got an air speeder nearby to take us to Davik's estate. The sooner we're off Taris the better."
Trin looked closely at Canderous, she put out her arm. After hesitating a second, he clasped her wrist in a warrior's grasp. With a surprising show of strength, she grabbed his wrist and pulled him towards her. "I, Trin Lenstar and you, Canderous Ordo, will capture the Ebon Hawk and escape this death trap of a planet, together."
Canderous saw the warrior in her eyes, he saw respect and he saw trust. She was offering to be his comrade in arms, to guard his back and she was asking him to do the same. In a voice gruff with strange emotions he replied, "I, Canderous of the clan Ordo, and you, Trin Lenstar, will capture the Ebon Hawk and escape Taris." He paused momentarily. "Together."
"Witnessed," snapped Carth grimly.
Bastila looked inquiringly at them all.
Trin released Canderous' arm. "Bastila, you'll stick out like a sore thumb at Davik's. Why don't you head back to the base and prepare Mission and Zaalbar to leave. Take my commlink. Carth will call you when we're on our way."
Bastila nodded and rushed off, it wasn't until she was on the way up the elevator in the apartment that she wondered why Trin was giving orders. But even then she knew why she was following them. She's still a natural leader. She's charismatic, intelligent, well-spoken and knows instinctively how to treat people. She smiled grimly and muttered to herself, "It seems clear that apparent youth cannot rob one of such basic attributes."
Carth and Trin followed Canderous to his air speeder and headed to Davik's estate. After tiresome introductions and an informative tour, Davik left the three of them on their own to enjoy the delights of his guest quarters.
Canderous said urgently, "Okay, we're inside. Now all we have to do is figure out a way to get past the Ebon Hawk's security system then we can get the rest of your group and get off this planet. No sense waiting around here the sooner we get off Taris the better."
Trin tapped a finger on her cheek. "I think one or more of us should visit the slave quarters."
Carth raised an eyebrow and said hesitantly, "Um, why?"
Canderous laughed.
Trin blushed. "Well, appetites aside, slaves often have the inside story on a household. We may be able to get some useful information from them."
Carth shook his head irritably. "Fine, fine, let's go."
Canderous sat down and put his feet up. "Call me, when you want something dead."
Trin and Carth headed down the hall to the slave quarters. They were taken to separate rooms. Trin had a lovely massage. She suppressed her sense of urgency and spoke soothingly to the slave. She learned that the former pilot of the Ebon Hawk was being punished for stealing spice, a strong narcotic, from Davik's production lab.
A half hour later she exited the slave quarters to find Carth pacing. "Come on. I mean—I love a massage as much as the next guy, but we're not exactly on vacation here. We need to get going."
As they walked back to their quarters, Trin couldn't resist the urge to tease him. She wrapped her arms around herself and said, "Now Carth, if they didn't make you feel as heavenly as I do I think you should march right back and ask for better service."
Carth's right eyebrow rose at the word heavenly. "What exactly took you so long in there?" then looked away and said waspishly, "No, don't answer that, I don't think I want to know!"
When they entered their quarters, Canderous looked up, saw the looks on their faces and started laughing. After he calmed down, he said to Trin. "So what, other than that Gerig has magic fingers, did you find out?"
"It turns out that a the Ebon Hawk's pilot got caught stealing spice from the spice lab last night and is currently enjoying the hospitality of Davik's torture suite."
Canderous growled approvingly.
Carth grinned sheepishly. "Good job, Trin. Let's go."
Canderous led them through Davik's estate to the torture chamber by a circuitous route designed to avoid premature detection. They destroyed the torture droids and freed the pilot. He was more than happy to share the codes with them.
As they made their way to the hanger Trin's sense of anticipation reached a fevered pitch. Her hands were shaking as she tried to enter the code into Davik's computer. Carth looked at her questioningly.
Trin shook her head and said grimly, "Something's coming. Something bad."
As she finished entering the codes, they heard an explosion outside. Trin accessed the news-net on the computer, it was bad, the Sith were bombarding the planet. They ran for the hangar only to find they were not alone. Davik Kang and Calo Nord had the same plan.
Davik said to Calo, "Damn those Sith—they're bombing the whole planet! I knew they'd turn on us sooner or—well, look what we got here! Thieves in the hangar. So, you figured you'd just steal my ship for your getaway and leave me high and dry while the Sith turn the planet into dust? Sorry, but that ain't going to happen!"
Calo grinned maliciously. "Canderous." He turned to Davik and said, "I'll take care of them, Davik. I've been looking forward to this for a long time!"
"Make it quick, Calo. The Sith mean business. If we don't get to our ships and find somewhere safe, the bombs they're dropping will kill us all."
Canderous concentrated his fire on Calo, while Carth and Trin took down Davik. When Davik fell Calo pulled out a thermal detonator. "You may have me outnumbered and outgunned, but if I'm going down I'm taking all you with me! This thermal detonator will blow us all to bits!" Just then the hanger shuddered under the weight of a Sith missile. Calo yelled, "Damn those Sith! They'll bring this whole hangar down around our ears!" Then the ceiling fell in on top of him. It would have been funny, if they weren't running for their lives.
Trin raced for the ship with Carth and Canderous. Carth fired the engine up and they blazed to the apartment. After picking up the rest of the team, the Ebon Hawk shot skyward. The launch codes got them past the automated weaponry but there was still a fleet out there. Carth and Bastila prepared for the jump to hyperspace. The Hawk had six fighters on her tail. Trin and Canderous ran to the gun turrets. The controls felt right in Trin's hands and the movements of the fighters obvious, easily predicted. She blew all her targets out of the sky then they were safely in hyperspace.
Trin climbed down out of the turret, she felt light headed. She made her way forward to the common area and sat down. Canderous wandered in. She grinned triumphantly to him then her eyes glazed over and she slumped down falling off her seat. A pool of blood formed around her body.
Canderous shouted, "Warrior down."
Bastila and Mission ran down from the cockpit as Canderous turned Trin over to reveal a piece of shrapnel sticking out of her side.
Mission choked back a scream.
Bastila grabbed the first aid kit and pulled out the kolto packs. Canderous pulled off Trin's armour and ripped open the back of her shirt. He grunted in relief, "No organs hit; it's just a flesh wound." Canderous pulled out the hunk of metal and Bastila packed the wound with kolto before she dressed it. Canderous carried the unconscious woman to a bunk. She is so small. In fact she's smaller than either Bastila or Mission. How does so much fire fit in such a small package?
Carth came in as Canderous put her down. "How is she?"
Canderous straighten up. "Worn out I imagine. Was she using stims?"
Carth nodded.
Canderous shook his head. "Between the stims and the battle high she probably was too pumped to even feel the wound. She's lost a fair amount of blood for someone her size." Then he shrugged. "But she's in no danger, now."
Canderous left, he had noticed the tension between Trin and Carth at Davik's estate. It was the type of tension that did not require a third party.
Carth kneeled by the bed and touched her head briefly. No fever this time. He tucked the blankets around her and kissed her hand. Too good, remember, too good to be true.