AN: The survivors are my own creation, everything else belongs to Lucasfilm...
From Scratch
Chapter 25
Jacen had just finished dressing and was about to go find something for their breakfast when he suddenly stumbled, falling to his knees as a pain tore through his head. No! his mind cried, every instinct screaming at him that something was terribly, terribly wrong. NO!
"Jacen!" Tenel Ka knelt next to him as he clenched his hands in his hair, seeming as if he was going to pull it out. "Jacen! What is wrong?"
"You... you don't feel that?" he gasped, pain lancing from his head to his neck and arcing through his body. It was a thousand times worse than anything, than any pain, he'd ever been forced to endure in Vergere's care.
"No. What is it?"
"Something's wrong." He gasped out, curling up tighter, his arms wrapping around his middle. "So wrong..."
Tenel Ka bent, grasping one of his arms and bodily forced him to his feet. Throwing his arm around her shoulders and helped him to the bed. Jacen settled quickly, curling back into a ball, his head nestled in her lap a he began to shake. She slid her hands through his hair, unsure exactly what she could do. She'd never seen him like this before. "Jacen?" she asked concerned, his silence unnerving her, beginning to frighten her just a little. What was the matter with him?
Slowly, ever so slowly, Jacen seemed to get control of himself, almost as if his shaking was some kind of defense. His hold on her didn't loosen at first but he raised his head after a few moments. She looked at him concerned. "Jacen? Are you alright?"
He nodded, but there were strain lines around his eyes and mouth that hadn't been there before and his brown eyes reflected the agony he could still feel. Carefully, he pushed himself to a sitting position. "We have to leave." He told her softly. "We have to get to the surface. Something is incredibly wrong; I'm needed."
She blinked, nodded, and rose, moving straight to the packs and began to replace everything they'd removed in the last day. "We should head out then." She offered.
Jacen watched her stunned. "That's it? No question as to who needs me, as to where we're going?"
"Questions waste time," she told him softly, closing her pack. "You had best pack, my love, or I will out distance you. We will have plenty of time for you to explain while we walk."
He smiled, pushing himself off the bed and quickly setting it to rights as Tenel Ka slid her pack on. She packed some of his things as he tidied, it wouldn't be right to simply leave the room as it was, and he packed his dirty clothing separately before closing it. "Do we have everything?"
She nodded. "I was very thorough. We can leave."
Jacen bent his head, stepping close to give her a kiss, her lips sending the waves of agony he was still feeling into the darkest recesses of his mind and he reluctantly pulled away. "We're going to be traveling quickly. I'm needed at the well of the World Brain. If you'd prefer I can meet you back here."
She arched an eyebrow, saying nothing and he found a grin. "Sorry, I had to offer. Let's go."
She followed him out of the room and through the house to the front door. "Do you know where we are going?"
Jacen nodded. "I do now." He told her softly. "But I can't explain how. Still trust me?"
"Always."
Jacen reached for the door panel before snapping his fingers. "A note. We have to leave a note."
Tenel Ka pulled her datapad from her pack and handed it to him. "There is no datarod, but if you leave it on, it should hold your message."
He arched an eyebrow. "I've used a datapad before." He replied dryly. He quickly typed out a message, a short explanation with no details, and a sincere thank you to Chell and the community along with an apology. As a final note he added a small invitation to Vola and Flynn to join them, should they be able to pick up their tracks. Opening the door, he planted the message on the outside of the building before leading Tenel Ka away.
Their path took back roads and they encountered no one; the sounds of some kind of celebration or gathering could be heard in the distance as they neared some of the higher planes. Looking down, near the outskirts of the settlement, they could see a large gathering in the square where they'd been married. Tenel Ka placed a hand on his shoulder. "We will return," she told him quietly, "To repay our debt."
Jacen nodded, but didn't look at her. "I don't know that we'll ever be able to. Come on, we have to get there. The sooner the better."
"Are you in pain?"
He finally met her gaze and she could see the pain he was suppressing. Not only suppressing successfully but without outward strain. "Pain doesn't mean the same to me as it once did, Tenel Ka. I'm fine."
"Very well. Proceed."
Jacen smiled faintly and led the way into the caverns above the settlement. Varying his route so they couldn't be tracked backwards without a high degree of difficulty, his pace was quick. Tenel Ka easily kept up, careful to leave their trail as undisturbed as possible yet with enough evidence that Flynn or Vola might be able to track them.
They moved swiftly, more swiftly than their previous day's journey burdened with Nicha's body, and almost twice as fast as the cautious pace they'd traveled at two days ago. And Tenel Ka wondered if she was going to pay the price when they finally stopped for the night. She was already stiff, and though speed was essential, she couldn't help but wince when she took a stride that was a shade too long.
Jacen seemed to notice and slowed his pace accordingly, "I'm sorry to push you into this."
She waved it away. "Necessity does not leave room for comfort. Quickly. We mush continue. I will be fine."
He looked back at her, his expression amazed and grateful all at the same time, "You're incredible," he said sincerely before picking up his pace again.
She didn't respond, simply increased her pace to match his. They were both fit and quickly moved into territory that was decaying. It was also obvious the Yuuzhan Vong had been in the area. The couple traveled for hours, not even stopping for food, simply eating on the run, as Jacen entered very familiar territory. Darkness, impenetrable and deep surrounded them completely, and only the map in his head guided Jacen.
Tenel Ka followed him through the Force, and that was a small guide, as his presence seemed to be dwindling as they stepped further into the darkness. She followed, stretching out and finding it eerily disturbing that she could feel only parts of the world. As if the World Brain of the Yuuzhan Vong had gained control of only half the available resources the world had left. It was frightening on a level she'd never experienced.
"Tenel Ka?"
She felt him stop and stepped close at his whispered voice. "I am here." She kept her tone low, matching his. "Is something wrong?"
"I have to stop using the Force." He told her gently, his hand reaching out to grasp hers. "I have to communicate with... with Yuuzhan'tar. But I have to do it while we move. Stay close."
"I can follow you by sound," she offered, feeling a little strange at having to be led around.
"No." Jacen squeezed her hand. "You won't." And then he proved it by stepping soundlessly into the darkness, pulling her along.
Jacen stepped deeper into the darkness and cut himself off from the Force completely, allowing his Vong sense to emerge. Pain tore through his body, not nearly as intense as before, but enough that he had to concentrate to tramp it down. He found himself silently thanking Vergere for the lessons she'd taught and had to admit there was a wry kind of irony to it. My friend, he sent silently, looking for the sentient core of the planet, You have need of me?
A feeling of urgency and fear came back to him so strong he almost took off at a dead run, heedless of the consequences. Only the tug on his arm kept him in check. He felt the pain, saw images of destruction and confusion. The World Brain needed him, needed his support and abilities, and he couldn't fail. I'm on my way, he sent back silently, adding a feeling of support to it. He felt the comprehension, the understanding, of his circumstances from the Planet and smiled. He'd be there soon, very soon, and from the feel of it, the World Brain was terrified for its life. They had to hurry.
They traveled further together in one day than they had in two with Flynn and Vola, and for that, Jacen was thankful. Tenel Ka never complained, though he was certain she was hurting, and his respect for her grew. She didn't have the training he'd had to deal with pain, but she certainly knew how to suppress it if need be. They emerged onto the planet's surface about ten miles from the Well of the World Brain and Jacen sucked in a sharp breath. Night had fallen. On the horizon was the indication of large blazing fires roaring out of control. Tenel Ka looked around surprised. "Where are we?"
"Ten miles from the Well of the World Brain; our destination."
She nodded, taking it in stride. "Do we have time for something to eat and a few minutes to rest? Or do you wish to continue on tonight?"
Jacen focused in the direction they were going to be heading before shaking his head once. "No, not tonight, but we should get there sometime early tomorrow morning." He turned to face her as she shrugged out of her pack. They were in the remains of a building, three walls and a roof that were now organic blocking them from any of the elements that might strike. And to Jacen, it smelled like rain. He dropped his pack and went to her as she stood, discreetly rubbing the inside of her thighs.
"I'm sorry," he murmured, pulled her into his arms. "I didn't mean to push you as hard as I did today."
She shrugged, tilting her head to accept and return his soft kiss before stepping away. "We are not done," she informed him. "My discomfort can wait."
Jacen chuckled. "Even now you have to think practically. Did it ever occur to you I feel like a heel for doing this to you on our honeymoon?"
She blinked. "Honeymoon? This?" she waved her hand around them.
He shrugged. "Well, we were married yesterday, technically speaking this is supposed to be private time for you and me."
She blushed softly. "I am aware of that. I do not think I will be able to..." she trailed off. "It would be distinctly uncomfortable."
"I know." He pulled her close again, this time smiling when her arms went around his waist. "I love you." He whispered softly.
"And I you." Her hug was fierce, tight, but far too short as she reluctantly lifted her head from his chest. "We must find fuel for the fire." She told him. "I do not know if we will be warm enough otherwise."
Jacen sighed. "Ever practical. When we get back to Hapes we can go to one of those luxury hide aways you royals seem to have in abundance and have a real Honeymoon."
Tenel Ka laughed softly, drawing his gaze. Every smile, every laugh, made him look at her anew. She seemed changed, different somehow, by the night before. And it was a change he wanted to get down on his knees and thank the Force for every time she loosened up a little. His heart tightened in his chest as she spoke, her eyes glittering softly. "I would like that very much. However, I do not think it would be appropriate for you and I."
"Oh really?" he grinned. "Pray-tell what do you think would be appropriate, your highness?"
Her smile slowly died into just barely a smile as she met and held his gaze. "The village." She told him seriously. "Where we are expected to be nothing more than what we appear. Where we have privacy and freedom and are not limited by our stations." She swallowed hard. "I do not wish to worry about listening devices or holonet reporters. I wish to spend my time alone with you and only you."
His head bent and he kissed her lingeringly, making her sigh softly before lifting his head. "We'll have that, I promise you. If I have to kill every man, woman and child on Hapes to do it."
She arched an eyebrow. "That would not be advisable."
He grinned. "I know. Seriously, Tenel Ka. I promise, when we can finally settle down for a few minutes, we will have a real Honeymoon."
She tilted her head, kissing him softly before stepping completely out of his embrace. "Come, we must make camp."
He reluctantly agreed and, leaving her to organize, set off to find something dry enough for firewood. But with every step he could feel the agony of the burning world on his nerves. If he slept at all tonight, he'd be amazed.
Tenel Ka watched Jacen silently as he prepared their meal. The man seemed bent on doing everything, or almost everything. At least she'd had the chance to set up camp. Building a small fire, setting out their utensils and finally laying their bed. Once he'd returned he'd prepared the creature he'd caught, and was currently checking it. He hadn't let her help, even when she'd offered. Privately she was thankful for his attentive nature; it gave her the chance to eliminate the aches and pains from her limbs. She was currently seated on the thick layers of blankets, stretching out her legs. As good as the ache was, it was distracting.
"What is this Well of the World Brain?" she asked finally, her curiosity getting the better of her as she stretched one of her legs out to the side.
Jacen didn't look up or at her, simply continued to chop the roots he'd dug up for their meal. A small pot of water was carefully stewing over the flames, bubbling while he added more of the greens. "Do you remember what I told you about my time with Vergere?"
"Yes."
"The Well of the World Brain is where the planet's brain is situated; it's a crater containing the nervous system of Yuuzhan'tar. The dhuryam I helped, and almost betrayed, now controls this planet. It is the World Brain and its wishes are what cause certain things to go right or wrong. From my understanding, the Well of the World Brain was blocked when Ganner sealed the entrance. I guess something must have happened now, with so many of the warriors gone anyone who wants to dig to the World Brain would now be almost unchallenged. I can only assume that its safety has been compromised."
"Why would it call you?"
He lifted his head to find her bent at the waist, her left leg stretched out to the side, her upper body flush with her leg, and his mouth went dry. She seemed to be working out her soreness in a manner that was unintentionally provocative. He blinked, trying to remember her question as the firelight caught the highlights in her russet hair. "Uh. Why?" he repeated, licking his lips as he tried to collect his train of thought. "Why... right. Because I helped it once and I've saved it once. I'm connected to it in a way that's almost as intimate as what we share." He smiled. "I have certain abilities that enable me to deal with its problems in ways it can't. We're friends, if you want to call it that."
"You are its champion," she rationalized evenly, straightening before she shook out her leg and curled it inside before stretching out the other and repeating the same stretch. She caught the flash in his eyes, recognizing it for what it was.
"Something like that." He agreed.
"And if we must communicate with the Yuuzhan Vong, if they are indeed attempting to gain access to this World Brain? Do you speak their language?"
He paused. He hadn't thought of that, he'd been too focused on getting to the Brain itself. "You know I don't. I'll just have to try and get a message across empathically."
"Or find a translator."
"Are you offering?" he grinned, arching an eyebrow.
"I do not speak it fluently, that would be inadvisable."
"You speak Yuuzhan Vong?" he asked incredulously.
She inclined her head. "I have a minimal understanding of their tactical vocabulary. I have had to learn many languages in the last years."
"You never cease to amaze me." Jacen sat back on his heels, stirring the soup pot. "But if not you, than who?"
"Vola."
He eyed her. "Vola's back at the village with Flynn. She'd never get here in time. The trek would take too long."
"I do not think so." She contradicted, laying her head on her knee as she looked at him. "I believe I have the ability to contact Flynn and impress upon him a sense of urgency. I could get Vola and he to come quickly."
Jacen moved the pot to the side of the fire before standing and coming to crouch in front of her. He looked down at her, concerned. "Would you rather not be alone with me, Tenel Ka?"
She straightened slowly, meeting his gaze evenly before her hand shot out to grab the front of his tunic. Twisting in the fabric near his throat, she tugged, throwing her weight backwards and dragging him down. Jacen sprawled atop her, caught completely by surprise and unable to roll away to save her as she kept a firm grip on him. Note to nose, she searched his eyes. "I would have preferred to stay with you, alone, in Chell's home," she said softly. "But you, we, are needed. If I was confident in my ability to act as a translator I would not have suggested calling Vola and Flynn to help."
Jacen tried to push himself up, to ease his weight off her, but she curled her lower legs around his calves, trapping him in a distinctly intimate position against her. He swallowed hard. "Tenel Ka, you're legs... we shouldn't..."
She slowly released his shirt, placing a finger over his lips and cutting him off. "We have tonight to be alone again, Jacen."
"But you're sore..."
She shook her head. "It will pass. A minor discomfort is a small price to pay."
Slowly, he pushed himself up on his forearms, looking down at her. "Tenel Ka..." he was obviously struggling with her invitation, however circumspect she phrased it.
She arched an eyebrow. "You would deny me? Refuse me after last night?" her hand slid down the front of his chest, teasing the fastenings.
"I would refuse you because of last night," he returned. "I don't want to hurt you."
She curled her hand around the back of his neck, tugging him downwards. "You will not."
Her eyes closed as he groaned softly, unable to help himself from claiming her lips again. She nibbled on his lower lip, making him gasp softly as she teased with her teeth and tongue. Sliding his hands into her hair he tilted his mouth across hers, sealing their lips together in a barely controlled, passionate kiss. She responded eagerly, almost like a child with a new toy to play with, and he slowly pulled back. Control would be good right about now. He opened his eyes, stroking her hair back from her face. "You're incredible." His words were whispered sincerely as she opened her eyes. "But we haven't eaten all day and dinner should be ready. If you're hungry for food?"
She arched an eyebrow, reluctantly releasing him. "Some," she admitted.
Jacen chuckled, pushing himself to his feet before helping her to hers. They crossed to the fire and he deftly checked their dinner. It was perfect, if slightly overcooked. Serving them both quickly, they settled down beside the nearest wall just as thunder suddenly rumbled overhead.
"Rain," Jacen said unnecessarily. "I've missed thunder storms."
Tenel Ka took a sip of the soup, "Will our ship be find in this weather?"
"Still wanting to go home?"
She smiled faintly. "It is a matter of duty, not want."
He accepted it with a nod, before they began to eat in silence. The roof over their heads was solid and managed to withstand the rain as it suddenly began to fall in sheets of water. The distant glow of fires began to die out as they watched, snug in their small room. They both went back for seconds; hungry after eating little in the last couple of days.
Finally they set their bowls aside and Jacen slid an arm around Tenel Ka's shoulders. She placed her head on his and watched the rainstorm. "Would you like me to contact Flynn?"
Jacen sighed, "I suppose I don't have a better idea. Go ahead."
She closed her eyes, falling back into the Force as Jacen held her securely. Jacen was quiet as she contacted her cousin. Why was it that he felt so content when he was holding her in his arms? What was it about her that made her essential to his life, other than being his other half? He shifted his hold on her, bending his head to the side and resting it gently on the top of her head. The World Brain needed him, but Tenel Ka needed him too, in a distinctly different fashion. She needed him to bring a little chaos into her neatly ordered life. Chaos and emotion. He smiled, turning his head to place a kiss on the top of her head.
They sat together for long minutes, Tenel Ka unmoving as she communicated, or tried to, with her cousin. Jacen finally scooped her up in his arms and carried her to their bed. He was tired; it'd been a long day. She was deep in her Force trance as he set her down on the blankets, and carefully, Jacen undid her armor and placed it to the side, slipping her into the shirt, his shirt, she'd set out to sleep in. Smothering a yawn, he stripped down before crawling in beside her and pulling her close. He was gently stroking her hair when she finally came out of her trance.
"Did you reach him?"
She blinked, looking around surprised. "Where am I?"
He grinned, "I put you to bed, I'm tired."
She arched an eyebrow. "You are tired so you put me to bed? Your reasoning is... strange."
He chuckled, bending forward to place a kiss on her nose. "No, I just want to snuggle with you. Did you reach Flynn?"
She nodded. "I did. The impression I received was one of acceptance and urgency. He will bring Vola; they should be here by tomorrow afternoon. Will that be soon enough?"
"It'll have to do."
She curled closer, turning into his body with a soft sigh. "It is just you and me."
He closed his eyes as she nuzzled his shoulder, gently kissing his hot skin. "Tenel Ka... are you sure?"
"I have never been more certain," she replied quietly, tilting her head to his.
He groaned, capturing her mouth, and submitted to her will. For once he didn't feel like fighting it, like doing the 'right' thing. And she encouraged him.
From Scratch
Chapter 25
Jacen had just finished dressing and was about to go find something for their breakfast when he suddenly stumbled, falling to his knees as a pain tore through his head. No! his mind cried, every instinct screaming at him that something was terribly, terribly wrong. NO!
"Jacen!" Tenel Ka knelt next to him as he clenched his hands in his hair, seeming as if he was going to pull it out. "Jacen! What is wrong?"
"You... you don't feel that?" he gasped, pain lancing from his head to his neck and arcing through his body. It was a thousand times worse than anything, than any pain, he'd ever been forced to endure in Vergere's care.
"No. What is it?"
"Something's wrong." He gasped out, curling up tighter, his arms wrapping around his middle. "So wrong..."
Tenel Ka bent, grasping one of his arms and bodily forced him to his feet. Throwing his arm around her shoulders and helped him to the bed. Jacen settled quickly, curling back into a ball, his head nestled in her lap a he began to shake. She slid her hands through his hair, unsure exactly what she could do. She'd never seen him like this before. "Jacen?" she asked concerned, his silence unnerving her, beginning to frighten her just a little. What was the matter with him?
Slowly, ever so slowly, Jacen seemed to get control of himself, almost as if his shaking was some kind of defense. His hold on her didn't loosen at first but he raised his head after a few moments. She looked at him concerned. "Jacen? Are you alright?"
He nodded, but there were strain lines around his eyes and mouth that hadn't been there before and his brown eyes reflected the agony he could still feel. Carefully, he pushed himself to a sitting position. "We have to leave." He told her softly. "We have to get to the surface. Something is incredibly wrong; I'm needed."
She blinked, nodded, and rose, moving straight to the packs and began to replace everything they'd removed in the last day. "We should head out then." She offered.
Jacen watched her stunned. "That's it? No question as to who needs me, as to where we're going?"
"Questions waste time," she told him softly, closing her pack. "You had best pack, my love, or I will out distance you. We will have plenty of time for you to explain while we walk."
He smiled, pushing himself off the bed and quickly setting it to rights as Tenel Ka slid her pack on. She packed some of his things as he tidied, it wouldn't be right to simply leave the room as it was, and he packed his dirty clothing separately before closing it. "Do we have everything?"
She nodded. "I was very thorough. We can leave."
Jacen bent his head, stepping close to give her a kiss, her lips sending the waves of agony he was still feeling into the darkest recesses of his mind and he reluctantly pulled away. "We're going to be traveling quickly. I'm needed at the well of the World Brain. If you'd prefer I can meet you back here."
She arched an eyebrow, saying nothing and he found a grin. "Sorry, I had to offer. Let's go."
She followed him out of the room and through the house to the front door. "Do you know where we are going?"
Jacen nodded. "I do now." He told her softly. "But I can't explain how. Still trust me?"
"Always."
Jacen reached for the door panel before snapping his fingers. "A note. We have to leave a note."
Tenel Ka pulled her datapad from her pack and handed it to him. "There is no datarod, but if you leave it on, it should hold your message."
He arched an eyebrow. "I've used a datapad before." He replied dryly. He quickly typed out a message, a short explanation with no details, and a sincere thank you to Chell and the community along with an apology. As a final note he added a small invitation to Vola and Flynn to join them, should they be able to pick up their tracks. Opening the door, he planted the message on the outside of the building before leading Tenel Ka away.
Their path took back roads and they encountered no one; the sounds of some kind of celebration or gathering could be heard in the distance as they neared some of the higher planes. Looking down, near the outskirts of the settlement, they could see a large gathering in the square where they'd been married. Tenel Ka placed a hand on his shoulder. "We will return," she told him quietly, "To repay our debt."
Jacen nodded, but didn't look at her. "I don't know that we'll ever be able to. Come on, we have to get there. The sooner the better."
"Are you in pain?"
He finally met her gaze and she could see the pain he was suppressing. Not only suppressing successfully but without outward strain. "Pain doesn't mean the same to me as it once did, Tenel Ka. I'm fine."
"Very well. Proceed."
Jacen smiled faintly and led the way into the caverns above the settlement. Varying his route so they couldn't be tracked backwards without a high degree of difficulty, his pace was quick. Tenel Ka easily kept up, careful to leave their trail as undisturbed as possible yet with enough evidence that Flynn or Vola might be able to track them.
They moved swiftly, more swiftly than their previous day's journey burdened with Nicha's body, and almost twice as fast as the cautious pace they'd traveled at two days ago. And Tenel Ka wondered if she was going to pay the price when they finally stopped for the night. She was already stiff, and though speed was essential, she couldn't help but wince when she took a stride that was a shade too long.
Jacen seemed to notice and slowed his pace accordingly, "I'm sorry to push you into this."
She waved it away. "Necessity does not leave room for comfort. Quickly. We mush continue. I will be fine."
He looked back at her, his expression amazed and grateful all at the same time, "You're incredible," he said sincerely before picking up his pace again.
She didn't respond, simply increased her pace to match his. They were both fit and quickly moved into territory that was decaying. It was also obvious the Yuuzhan Vong had been in the area. The couple traveled for hours, not even stopping for food, simply eating on the run, as Jacen entered very familiar territory. Darkness, impenetrable and deep surrounded them completely, and only the map in his head guided Jacen.
Tenel Ka followed him through the Force, and that was a small guide, as his presence seemed to be dwindling as they stepped further into the darkness. She followed, stretching out and finding it eerily disturbing that she could feel only parts of the world. As if the World Brain of the Yuuzhan Vong had gained control of only half the available resources the world had left. It was frightening on a level she'd never experienced.
"Tenel Ka?"
She felt him stop and stepped close at his whispered voice. "I am here." She kept her tone low, matching his. "Is something wrong?"
"I have to stop using the Force." He told her gently, his hand reaching out to grasp hers. "I have to communicate with... with Yuuzhan'tar. But I have to do it while we move. Stay close."
"I can follow you by sound," she offered, feeling a little strange at having to be led around.
"No." Jacen squeezed her hand. "You won't." And then he proved it by stepping soundlessly into the darkness, pulling her along.
Jacen stepped deeper into the darkness and cut himself off from the Force completely, allowing his Vong sense to emerge. Pain tore through his body, not nearly as intense as before, but enough that he had to concentrate to tramp it down. He found himself silently thanking Vergere for the lessons she'd taught and had to admit there was a wry kind of irony to it. My friend, he sent silently, looking for the sentient core of the planet, You have need of me?
A feeling of urgency and fear came back to him so strong he almost took off at a dead run, heedless of the consequences. Only the tug on his arm kept him in check. He felt the pain, saw images of destruction and confusion. The World Brain needed him, needed his support and abilities, and he couldn't fail. I'm on my way, he sent back silently, adding a feeling of support to it. He felt the comprehension, the understanding, of his circumstances from the Planet and smiled. He'd be there soon, very soon, and from the feel of it, the World Brain was terrified for its life. They had to hurry.
They traveled further together in one day than they had in two with Flynn and Vola, and for that, Jacen was thankful. Tenel Ka never complained, though he was certain she was hurting, and his respect for her grew. She didn't have the training he'd had to deal with pain, but she certainly knew how to suppress it if need be. They emerged onto the planet's surface about ten miles from the Well of the World Brain and Jacen sucked in a sharp breath. Night had fallen. On the horizon was the indication of large blazing fires roaring out of control. Tenel Ka looked around surprised. "Where are we?"
"Ten miles from the Well of the World Brain; our destination."
She nodded, taking it in stride. "Do we have time for something to eat and a few minutes to rest? Or do you wish to continue on tonight?"
Jacen focused in the direction they were going to be heading before shaking his head once. "No, not tonight, but we should get there sometime early tomorrow morning." He turned to face her as she shrugged out of her pack. They were in the remains of a building, three walls and a roof that were now organic blocking them from any of the elements that might strike. And to Jacen, it smelled like rain. He dropped his pack and went to her as she stood, discreetly rubbing the inside of her thighs.
"I'm sorry," he murmured, pulled her into his arms. "I didn't mean to push you as hard as I did today."
She shrugged, tilting her head to accept and return his soft kiss before stepping away. "We are not done," she informed him. "My discomfort can wait."
Jacen chuckled. "Even now you have to think practically. Did it ever occur to you I feel like a heel for doing this to you on our honeymoon?"
She blinked. "Honeymoon? This?" she waved her hand around them.
He shrugged. "Well, we were married yesterday, technically speaking this is supposed to be private time for you and me."
She blushed softly. "I am aware of that. I do not think I will be able to..." she trailed off. "It would be distinctly uncomfortable."
"I know." He pulled her close again, this time smiling when her arms went around his waist. "I love you." He whispered softly.
"And I you." Her hug was fierce, tight, but far too short as she reluctantly lifted her head from his chest. "We must find fuel for the fire." She told him. "I do not know if we will be warm enough otherwise."
Jacen sighed. "Ever practical. When we get back to Hapes we can go to one of those luxury hide aways you royals seem to have in abundance and have a real Honeymoon."
Tenel Ka laughed softly, drawing his gaze. Every smile, every laugh, made him look at her anew. She seemed changed, different somehow, by the night before. And it was a change he wanted to get down on his knees and thank the Force for every time she loosened up a little. His heart tightened in his chest as she spoke, her eyes glittering softly. "I would like that very much. However, I do not think it would be appropriate for you and I."
"Oh really?" he grinned. "Pray-tell what do you think would be appropriate, your highness?"
Her smile slowly died into just barely a smile as she met and held his gaze. "The village." She told him seriously. "Where we are expected to be nothing more than what we appear. Where we have privacy and freedom and are not limited by our stations." She swallowed hard. "I do not wish to worry about listening devices or holonet reporters. I wish to spend my time alone with you and only you."
His head bent and he kissed her lingeringly, making her sigh softly before lifting his head. "We'll have that, I promise you. If I have to kill every man, woman and child on Hapes to do it."
She arched an eyebrow. "That would not be advisable."
He grinned. "I know. Seriously, Tenel Ka. I promise, when we can finally settle down for a few minutes, we will have a real Honeymoon."
She tilted her head, kissing him softly before stepping completely out of his embrace. "Come, we must make camp."
He reluctantly agreed and, leaving her to organize, set off to find something dry enough for firewood. But with every step he could feel the agony of the burning world on his nerves. If he slept at all tonight, he'd be amazed.
Tenel Ka watched Jacen silently as he prepared their meal. The man seemed bent on doing everything, or almost everything. At least she'd had the chance to set up camp. Building a small fire, setting out their utensils and finally laying their bed. Once he'd returned he'd prepared the creature he'd caught, and was currently checking it. He hadn't let her help, even when she'd offered. Privately she was thankful for his attentive nature; it gave her the chance to eliminate the aches and pains from her limbs. She was currently seated on the thick layers of blankets, stretching out her legs. As good as the ache was, it was distracting.
"What is this Well of the World Brain?" she asked finally, her curiosity getting the better of her as she stretched one of her legs out to the side.
Jacen didn't look up or at her, simply continued to chop the roots he'd dug up for their meal. A small pot of water was carefully stewing over the flames, bubbling while he added more of the greens. "Do you remember what I told you about my time with Vergere?"
"Yes."
"The Well of the World Brain is where the planet's brain is situated; it's a crater containing the nervous system of Yuuzhan'tar. The dhuryam I helped, and almost betrayed, now controls this planet. It is the World Brain and its wishes are what cause certain things to go right or wrong. From my understanding, the Well of the World Brain was blocked when Ganner sealed the entrance. I guess something must have happened now, with so many of the warriors gone anyone who wants to dig to the World Brain would now be almost unchallenged. I can only assume that its safety has been compromised."
"Why would it call you?"
He lifted his head to find her bent at the waist, her left leg stretched out to the side, her upper body flush with her leg, and his mouth went dry. She seemed to be working out her soreness in a manner that was unintentionally provocative. He blinked, trying to remember her question as the firelight caught the highlights in her russet hair. "Uh. Why?" he repeated, licking his lips as he tried to collect his train of thought. "Why... right. Because I helped it once and I've saved it once. I'm connected to it in a way that's almost as intimate as what we share." He smiled. "I have certain abilities that enable me to deal with its problems in ways it can't. We're friends, if you want to call it that."
"You are its champion," she rationalized evenly, straightening before she shook out her leg and curled it inside before stretching out the other and repeating the same stretch. She caught the flash in his eyes, recognizing it for what it was.
"Something like that." He agreed.
"And if we must communicate with the Yuuzhan Vong, if they are indeed attempting to gain access to this World Brain? Do you speak their language?"
He paused. He hadn't thought of that, he'd been too focused on getting to the Brain itself. "You know I don't. I'll just have to try and get a message across empathically."
"Or find a translator."
"Are you offering?" he grinned, arching an eyebrow.
"I do not speak it fluently, that would be inadvisable."
"You speak Yuuzhan Vong?" he asked incredulously.
She inclined her head. "I have a minimal understanding of their tactical vocabulary. I have had to learn many languages in the last years."
"You never cease to amaze me." Jacen sat back on his heels, stirring the soup pot. "But if not you, than who?"
"Vola."
He eyed her. "Vola's back at the village with Flynn. She'd never get here in time. The trek would take too long."
"I do not think so." She contradicted, laying her head on her knee as she looked at him. "I believe I have the ability to contact Flynn and impress upon him a sense of urgency. I could get Vola and he to come quickly."
Jacen moved the pot to the side of the fire before standing and coming to crouch in front of her. He looked down at her, concerned. "Would you rather not be alone with me, Tenel Ka?"
She straightened slowly, meeting his gaze evenly before her hand shot out to grab the front of his tunic. Twisting in the fabric near his throat, she tugged, throwing her weight backwards and dragging him down. Jacen sprawled atop her, caught completely by surprise and unable to roll away to save her as she kept a firm grip on him. Note to nose, she searched his eyes. "I would have preferred to stay with you, alone, in Chell's home," she said softly. "But you, we, are needed. If I was confident in my ability to act as a translator I would not have suggested calling Vola and Flynn to help."
Jacen tried to push himself up, to ease his weight off her, but she curled her lower legs around his calves, trapping him in a distinctly intimate position against her. He swallowed hard. "Tenel Ka, you're legs... we shouldn't..."
She slowly released his shirt, placing a finger over his lips and cutting him off. "We have tonight to be alone again, Jacen."
"But you're sore..."
She shook her head. "It will pass. A minor discomfort is a small price to pay."
Slowly, he pushed himself up on his forearms, looking down at her. "Tenel Ka..." he was obviously struggling with her invitation, however circumspect she phrased it.
She arched an eyebrow. "You would deny me? Refuse me after last night?" her hand slid down the front of his chest, teasing the fastenings.
"I would refuse you because of last night," he returned. "I don't want to hurt you."
She curled her hand around the back of his neck, tugging him downwards. "You will not."
Her eyes closed as he groaned softly, unable to help himself from claiming her lips again. She nibbled on his lower lip, making him gasp softly as she teased with her teeth and tongue. Sliding his hands into her hair he tilted his mouth across hers, sealing their lips together in a barely controlled, passionate kiss. She responded eagerly, almost like a child with a new toy to play with, and he slowly pulled back. Control would be good right about now. He opened his eyes, stroking her hair back from her face. "You're incredible." His words were whispered sincerely as she opened her eyes. "But we haven't eaten all day and dinner should be ready. If you're hungry for food?"
She arched an eyebrow, reluctantly releasing him. "Some," she admitted.
Jacen chuckled, pushing himself to his feet before helping her to hers. They crossed to the fire and he deftly checked their dinner. It was perfect, if slightly overcooked. Serving them both quickly, they settled down beside the nearest wall just as thunder suddenly rumbled overhead.
"Rain," Jacen said unnecessarily. "I've missed thunder storms."
Tenel Ka took a sip of the soup, "Will our ship be find in this weather?"
"Still wanting to go home?"
She smiled faintly. "It is a matter of duty, not want."
He accepted it with a nod, before they began to eat in silence. The roof over their heads was solid and managed to withstand the rain as it suddenly began to fall in sheets of water. The distant glow of fires began to die out as they watched, snug in their small room. They both went back for seconds; hungry after eating little in the last couple of days.
Finally they set their bowls aside and Jacen slid an arm around Tenel Ka's shoulders. She placed her head on his and watched the rainstorm. "Would you like me to contact Flynn?"
Jacen sighed, "I suppose I don't have a better idea. Go ahead."
She closed her eyes, falling back into the Force as Jacen held her securely. Jacen was quiet as she contacted her cousin. Why was it that he felt so content when he was holding her in his arms? What was it about her that made her essential to his life, other than being his other half? He shifted his hold on her, bending his head to the side and resting it gently on the top of her head. The World Brain needed him, but Tenel Ka needed him too, in a distinctly different fashion. She needed him to bring a little chaos into her neatly ordered life. Chaos and emotion. He smiled, turning his head to place a kiss on the top of her head.
They sat together for long minutes, Tenel Ka unmoving as she communicated, or tried to, with her cousin. Jacen finally scooped her up in his arms and carried her to their bed. He was tired; it'd been a long day. She was deep in her Force trance as he set her down on the blankets, and carefully, Jacen undid her armor and placed it to the side, slipping her into the shirt, his shirt, she'd set out to sleep in. Smothering a yawn, he stripped down before crawling in beside her and pulling her close. He was gently stroking her hair when she finally came out of her trance.
"Did you reach him?"
She blinked, looking around surprised. "Where am I?"
He grinned, "I put you to bed, I'm tired."
She arched an eyebrow. "You are tired so you put me to bed? Your reasoning is... strange."
He chuckled, bending forward to place a kiss on her nose. "No, I just want to snuggle with you. Did you reach Flynn?"
She nodded. "I did. The impression I received was one of acceptance and urgency. He will bring Vola; they should be here by tomorrow afternoon. Will that be soon enough?"
"It'll have to do."
She curled closer, turning into his body with a soft sigh. "It is just you and me."
He closed his eyes as she nuzzled his shoulder, gently kissing his hot skin. "Tenel Ka... are you sure?"
"I have never been more certain," she replied quietly, tilting her head to his.
He groaned, capturing her mouth, and submitted to her will. For once he didn't feel like fighting it, like doing the 'right' thing. And she encouraged him.