New Chapter up, enjoy. Sorry for the delay.

Nikka POV

I lay in my bed on my ship, lost in thought. It was easy to think on my ship these days, since the only other occupant was my ship's protocol droid, who was currently keeping an eye on our course.

I was on Zakuul when the rescue party managed to escape the planet. It was easy to get news about the evil outlander and how he had almost caused the destruction of a good part of the city trying to escape. What they didn't report on Zakuulan channels was how Vaylin had caused the almost meltdown and how the outlander had actually helped prevent it, causing a citywide blackout instead. My brother had saved thousands of lives.

Bowdaar's contacts on Zakuul really were excellent and I was thankful for the information.

At least I knew for sure that Rio, Lana and the others had made it off the planet. That alone made me feel better, allowing me to actually enjoy my drink and my friend's company. I spent almost a whole day with Bowdaar, before heading towards Odessen. I had to stop at Port Nowhere first to get a few things and to square away some business, but I had a feeling I'd have time. My intuition was telling me not to rush and it had always been right so far.

I hadn't heard anything from Theron, which meant Lana hadn't contacted him yet. No doubt she was in no position to communicate. I'd have to act relieved when Theron contacted me.

I was just about asleep when my holo started beeping. I sat straight up, all thoughts of sleep gone. I took a few slow breaths, allowing my heart to stop racing from being startled, then looked over to the holo. It was Theron. I smiled, then answered the call.

"Did I wake you up?" He asked. It felt good to see Theron, even if it was only over the holo. I hated to admit it, but I had grown very attached to my spy boyfriend. I had loved Corso, but he never made my heartbeat quicken like Theorn did just from a look.

"Almost. Another five minutes and you would have. I'm guessing there's news?"

"There is. They made it off Zakuul. It took a little longer and was a bit messier than they had planned, but everyone got away in one piece. They even got themselves a new toy. Get this, they stumbled across a ship, in the middle of the swamp, that has the power to destroy the whole eternal fleet."

"What?" I didn't need to feign surprise. I hadn't heard about that part. "One ship that can take out the whole fleet?"

"Apparently. Unfortunately, it's not in the best shape, so it will take some time to get it in full working order."

"I'm just happy Rio's alive. Are they on Odessen?"

"Not yet. They only made it to Asylum. Lana says they need to make some repairs before they can make it all the way to Odessen. And...I don't know...it sounded like there was more to tell, but she didn't want to talk over the holo." He shrugged. "I guess we'll get the whole story soon enough. How are you holding up?"

"I'm fine. Better now that I know Rio's alright." I wanted to tell Theron I missed him and that I hated traveling around without him, but I also didn't want to spook him. I wasn't totally comfortable with the words, myself. It was strange, this longing to be with someone. Again, it wasn't something I had experienced with Corso. "I need to fly out to Port Nowhere for a few days, maybe a week, but after that, I'll be heading to Odessen. I'm sure our little rescue party will be there by then."

"There are a few things I need to do before I head out, too. With any luck, I'll see you there in a few days." He paused, looking uncomfortable. "I've gotten used to having you around."

I had to laugh. "I miss you too, Theron. Take care."

"You too."

The holo went dead and I leaned back down against the head of my bed. Rio was alive and reasonably safe and I'd see Theron again soon. There was no reason for my mind to race anymore. I cuddled back down into my covers and fell right asleep.

To Be Continued...