Burning Shadows
Chapter 13
As Yumikaya sat in her quarters reading a book detailing Mandalorian sparring techniques, IK-TO's voice echoed through the intercom.
" The ship is ready to depart Kaya. We await your command. "IK-TO spoke calmly as usual before Kaya stood happily and returned the book to the shelf it came from before walking to the bridge. Upon entering the bridge, Yumikaya noticed two of the Dragon Assault Droids standing on either side of a large throne in the middle of the room. The two droids were different from the ones she had seen in the caverns. The two standing guard were larger, Had a Mandalorian Heavy Repeating Blaster Carbine on both shoulders and held two of the Mandalorian Cortosis Weave Vibro-Axes. As Yumikaya sighed in awe of the much more menacing looking version of the Dragon Assault Droids, IK-TO spoke softly.
" These two droids are your personal guard. They will be protecting you no matter where you are from now on. They will stand guard outside your quarters while you are on the ship. When on the bridge they will stand at your side. When in battle they will fight by your side. These two droids will always watch over you. I have transferred all data regarding personal programming and settings to the terminal in your quarters. You may program them however you see fit. By your command we shall depart the hangar. "IK-TO beamed with pride as he motioned his hand to point to the throne. " The Equilibrium is yours now. This throne is yours and yours alone. From here you can command the resources that are now at your fingertips. "
Yumikaya walked slowly toward the throne and upon standing in front of it, The two guard droids each moved one of the axes in front of the throne before the deep mechanical voice they were programmed with echoed around the bridge. " Hold for identity confirmation. "
Yumikaya froze as a blue beam scanned her head to foot. After a moment the droids beeped softly before speaking again. " Identity confirmed. Yumikaya Graceblade. Rank - Mando Cabur. Welcome home. "
The droids motioned the weapons back to they're sides as Yumikaya sat down on her throne. The throne was jet black with gold floral design up the side and Mandalorian runes denoting the Mandalorian code and tenets down the back.
" Mando Cabur? And Graceblade? "Yumikaya turned to IK-TO and tilted her head slightly as he explained.
" Ah. Tis the highest rank one can have before becoming Mandalore. It means Mandalorian Guardian. It is equivalent in rank to the Republic and Imperial Ranks of Supreme Commander and Minister of War i believe. Until or If you become Mandalore, Your current rank will signify that you are the defender and protector of the Mandalorian people. But you will have to challenge any current Mandalore and defeat them in honourable combat to achieve the title of Mandalore. "IK-TO spoke plainly but informative as Yumikaya twirled a strand of her hair between her fingers as she thought deeply for a moment. " Oh and Graceblade is your family name. "
" My.. Family name.. I always wondered what my last name was... "Yumikaya looked to IK-TO as he walked to a nearby terminal. " Where is the current Mandalore IK-TO? "
" Currently the Mandalore is a man known as Artus Lok. He is named Mandalore the Vindicated after defeating the previous title holder Mandalore the Lesser in the gladiatorial arena of Geonosis. His ship currently occupies space in orbit of Dromund Kaas. Have you any plans to confront him? " IK-TO spoke calmly as he turned to face Yumikaya.
" Not right now. I have other priorities to see to first. Such as seeing this wonderful ship fly. Begin takeoff procedures. "Yumikaya sat back comfortably in her throne as a rumble came from above the ship. Two massive hangar doors groaned and creaked as they opened and years of snow fell into the hangar. The snow hit the ship shields and simply slid off as the hangar doors opened fully.
Meanwhile
" Are we expecting earthquakes today? " Zanira spoke cautiously before Kalina shook her head before falling to the ground.
" I don't think Hoth has ever had earthquakes. At-least none that i have read about or heard about. " Satele Shan spoke calmly as she maintained her footing while the rumbling continued.
" What could it be? "Yumitaya's soft voice pierced the silence as the tremors slowed and eventually stopped.
" Something tells me we are going to find out.. "Kalina pointed toward the horizon as what looked like a small ship could be seen in the light of the setting sun.
The Equilibrium Bridge
IK-TO walked past Yumikaya's throne and came to a halt at a nearby terminal." The hangar doors have completely closed. The surface would have experienced minor tremors but nothing severely dramatic. We are approaching your mothers position. We should come to a stop overhead within the next five minutes. "
" Excellent but keep her steady IK-TO. I don't want to cause a panic. Bring us to a full stop overhead. And prepare a holocall please. I want to speak with mother the moment we arrive. "Yumikaya spoke excitedly as she leaned back comfortably.
" Oh before I forget, We have detected several panicked transmissions bouncing between outposts of both the Republic and the Empire. Apparently The Equilibrium is causing a stir among the local military population. " IK-TO chuckled softly as he pictured what the panicked soldiers would be doing. " Also Kaya. In the time it takes us to get there I have prepared a holodisk that will teach you to speak basic greetings in Mando'a. "
" Thank you IK-TO.Does it detail greetings? " Yumikaya asked softly as IK-TO handed her the holo-disc.
" Yes it does. Do you have a specific one in mind? " IK-TO turned away and walked back to the terminal he was attending as Yumikaya spoke.
" Well I want to greet my mother in Mando'a. " Yumikaya smiled slightly as she put the holo-disc into her throne holo-projector.
" I do believe you will learn enough to form a basic greeting Kaya. " IK-TO continued working at the terminal as Yumikaya read the through the first few greetings and translations that she was looking for.
Five Minutes Later
" That ship is HUGE! Where did it even come from? "Yumitaya had a look of terror and uncertainty on her face as a beep came form the nearby holoterminal.
" A holocall? Should we answer it? "Satele Shan looked to Zanira.
" It would be polite wouldn't it? " Zanira walked over to the terminal and pressed a button that accepted the holocall. After a moment, A holoprojection of Yumikaya sitting on a large throne appeared.
" Su cuy'gar buir. " Yumikaya smiled happily as Zanira spoke.
" Su cuy'gar ad. Are you alright? When did you learn Mando'a? Where are you? "Zanira looked relieved to see her daughters face as Yumikaya spoke.
" Look up. "Yumikaya giggled playfully as Zanira gasped after looking up quickly.
" You are aboard that ship?! Why? "Zanira spoke cautiously as Yumikaya giggled.
" This is the Equilibrium. My ship. I'm taking her into orbit. I will wait for you there. "Yumikaya smiled as the holocall ended and the Equilibrium ascended into orbit.
A Few Hours Later
" I can't wait to see this ship. There must be so many rooms to explore! "Yumitaya squealed excitedly as Zanira smiled and patted her head tenderly.
" Indeed. I wonder though... "Zanira spoke softly and trailed off as Aratarus spoke.
" You wonder if she is ready for this. If she is ready to face the galaxy. "Aratarus placed a hand gently on Zanira's shoulder as she sighed softly.
" I can't lose her again... And i can't bare to see the galaxy tear her down... I just... "Zanira turned to face Aratarus as a tear slowly rolled down her cheek.
" All we can do is be there for her. We cannot change or prevent the things she will face. We can only support her in everything she does. "Aratarus smiled as Zanira hugged him gently before looking out of the view-port to see the Equilibrium getting closer.
Meanwhile
" Can we launch yet? And have we got any information on that rumbling? " Seranya spoke calmly as technicians ran around the hangar she was standing on Ilum.
" We are close to launch. Engineers say they just need to configure the systems and we can depart. From the sensor data we gathered it appears that the rumbling was caused by massive hangar doors opening and closing. Our scouts went to check out the location but it's just an empty hangar. The thing that astounded them was the size of the hangar. They say it is large enough to fit at least twelve of the ship we are repairing. Sensors detected a ship of the same size moving into high orbit a few hours ago but we couldn't pinpoint its position. "The technician walking with Seranya spoke plainly but had a clear tone of curiosity and concern in his voice.
" Gonna be hard to miss a ship that size. Get us off the ground! I want to find that ship before it disappears. I have... "Seranya was cut off as her lieutenant entered the room.
" A bad feeling? The last time you said that you nearly blew up the armoury. "The lieutenant laughed heartily as Seranya sneered at him playfully.
" Wise ass. Now get moving. We need to get off the ground as quickly as possible. "Seranya stood up and walked toward her personal quarters as the technicians and engineers continued to work.
Equilibrium Bridge
" Your family has arrived. The transport that brought you to Ilum has also landed in our hangar bay. Shall i go and guide them to the bridge? "IK-TO spoke calmly as Yumikaya smiled.
" They are finally here... Yes please guide them to me IK-TO. "Yumikaya smiled brightly as IK-TO bowed and left the bridge
Yumikaya sat and pondered the Force signature she had sensed earlier. As her thoughts wandered, Yumikaya thought how strange it was that she felt the signatures pain. It seemed so unusual... But she couldn't figure out why.
Equilibrium Hangar
" Greetings. Welcome aboard the Equilibrium. If there is any way to make your stay more comfortable please do no..."IK-TO stopped mid sentence as Yumitaya tapped his arm gently.
" Sorry to interrupt... But... Where is Kaya? "Yumitaya looked up at IK-TO with longing in her eyes before IK-TO spoke.
" Ah yes. Kaya awaits you on the bri... "IK-TO stopped as his commlink beeped softly. After pressing the button to answer, IK-TO spoke softly. " IK-TO speaking. "
" IK-TO i.. I have retired to my quarters. Please get my family some food. I need some time alone before seeing them. "Yumikaya's soft voice echoed out of the commlink before IK-TO responded.
" Ofcourse Kaya. I will see to their needs at once. Please let me know if you need anything or want to see your family. "IK-TO spoke gently before Yumikaya answered.
" Thank you IK-TO. I will call on you if i need anything. "Yumikaya ended the call before anyone could speak.
" What's wrong with Kaya? She sounded so sad. "Yumitaya looked up at Zanira as IK-TO spoke.
" Kaya felt a presence within the Force earlier today which caused her significant pain. She has been quite unlike herself since. I will check on her once i get you some food. "IK-TO bowed politely before turning toward the exit to the hangar. " This way please. "
After following IK-TO and taking in the various wonders that decorated the ship, Each person ordered some food from the synthesizers. As everyone sat down to eat, IK-TO's commlink beeped and he walked out of the dining hall before walking down the hallway and entering Yumikaya's chambers.
" Is there something i can assist you w.."IK-TO stopped abruptly as a blur streaked past him and tackled Yumikaya.
" Kaya! I missed you so much! "Yumitaya held her sister lovingly as tears streamed down her cheeks. " You sounded so sad when you called IK-TO.. Why did you sound so sad?! "
" It's ok Taya. I'm alright. I've missed you to little sister. " Yumikaya hugged Yumitaya tenderly before wiping the tears off her cheeks. " I'm so glad your here. "
" Mom and Kalina and Satele and cousin Ara are all here too... Why didn't you come and see us when we got here? "Yumitaya continued to cling to her sister as she spoke.
" I needed to be alone for a little while. But we can go and see everyone now. Want to show me the way? " Yumikaya smiled as Yumitaya nodded happily.
Dining Hall
Everyone sat and talked while they ate their food. After a while the exit to the dining hall opened and Yumitaya ran in excitedly. As Zanira looked up, She noticed that an ignited pink light-saber was following Yumitaya.
" Taya... Why is there is there a lightsaber following you..."" Zanira and the rest of the group looked toward Yumitaya as a soft voice came from some beside Zanira.
" Good question. Why is my lightsaber following Taya? "Yumikaya's voice sounded like it came from beside Zanira but when she turned to see her daughter, No one was there.
" Personally i think that my lightsaber is following her because i want it to.. But that's just me. "Yumikaya giggled as again when everyone looked around, Yumikaya was nowhere to be seen.
" Kaya where are you? "Zanira spoke calmly but had notes of longing in her voice as she turned around to look for Yumikaya. As Zanira turned, Yumikaya materialised in front of her.
" I'm right here. " Yumikaya spoke softly.
" Kaya! Where did you learn to use stealth like that? I couldn't see anything.. Not even an outline or silhouette. I'm so proud of you. " Zanira smiled as she hugged Yumikaya lovingly .
Yumikaya sighed softly as she lost herself in the feeling of being held by her mother again. After a few minutes, Yumikaya pushed away gently. " I have someone I would like you all to meet. "
Yumikaya closed her eyes for a moment. As Zanira watched, A tall woman with long white robes and tied back blonde hair materialised before her. " Hello. "
" Kaya... Why is there a Force Ghost here? " Zanira stepped back instinctively as the woman spoke.
" My apologies. I did not mean to startle you. My name is Meetra Surik. I bonded myself to Kaya. " Meetra Surik spoke softly as Satele Shan gasped.
" Meetra Surik... The Jedi Exile... " Satele Shan looked toward Meetra Surik in astonishment as Zanira spoke.
" Why did you bond yourself to my daughter? " Zanira crossed her arms slowly.
" Well contrary to popular belief, Being dead is far less exciting than Jedi think it is. Being one with the Force is great and all but it is a very lonely existence. " Meetra Surik sighed sadly but smiled as Yumikaya spoke.
" I couldn't say no... " Yumikaya smiled before sitting down at the table where everyone was eating.
" I understand Kaya. Now then... IK-TO said something about a Force Signature? " Zanira sat next to Kaya and put an arm around her gently.
" Yes. I felt someone reaching out... But it was full of pain... It gave me a headache sensing it. " Yumikaya rubbed her head gently as she leant against Zanira.
" Is it coming from the planet? " Satele Shan spoke softly as Yumikaya shook her head slowly.
" I can't tell. It's like something is... I don't know... It's... Hazy... " Yumikaya sighed painfully as she placed a hand on her forehead and did her best to resist sensing the presence.
" Hmm. Perhaps we can all help you focus on it later and pinpoint the location. " Zanira spoke softly as Yumikaya yawned lightly. " But for now you need sleep. "
" I would be happy to guide you back to Kaya's personal quarters if you wish to carry her. " IK-TO bowed politely before Zanira nodded and picked Yumikaya up gently.
Late Afternoon
" It isn't just me right? She is exhausted. What did they put her through down there..." Kalina stroked Yumikaya's
hair gently as she slept soundly.
" They taught her what she needs to know to start her journey. It is arduous and trying but... She survived. " Zanira smiled and kissed Kaya's forehead.
" Zanira... Your going to tell her right? " Kalina looked to her best friend with curiosity and concern in her eyes before Zanira sighed heavily.
" Not yet. She has other concerns. " Zanira raised her hand as Kalina motioned to speak. " I will tell her everything when the time is right. Not before. She has too much on her mind already without that as well. We will let her sleep and clear her mind before any more information that may upset her. "
Kalina sighed and nodded before standing and following Zanira out of the room. As the door closed, Yumikaya opened her eyes and sat up slowly with a curious look on her face. " Tell me what..." After sighing softly, Yumikaya laid back down and slowly fell asleep.
Next Day
" So how exactly do we all focus on this signature and find it? " Yumikaya looked at her mother curiously before putting a spoonful of breakfast into her mouth.
" Basically all of us who are Force Sensitive meditate. We focus on you while you focus on the Force signature you have been sensing. Together we should be able to locate the origin of this signature. Finish your breakfast then we can get to work. " Zanira smiled as Kaya mumbled incoherently and nodded.
As Yumikaya finished her breakfast, Yumitaya walked in and sat beside her before hugging her gently.
" What are we going to do today Kaya? " Yumitaya giggled as Yumikaya coughed from the surprise of being suddenly hugged as she was swallowing the last of her breakfast.
" Taya! " Yumikaya nudged Yumitaya playfully.
" Sorry sis... Didn't mean to surprise you. " Yumitaya smiled happily as Yumikaya hugged her lovingly.
" Ok girls time to find this Force signature. But where might the best place to meditate be? " Zanira twirled a few strands of her hair through her fingers as she thought quietly.
" My quarters should be big enough. We can meditate there. " Yumikaya smiled as Zanira nodded.
" Off we go then. Taya go and find Satele please. " Zanira smiled as Yumitaya jumped up and skipped out of the dining hall happily.
Yumikaya stood and walked out of the hall with Zanira and walked slowly toward Yumikaya's quarters. Every so often, Yumikaya would stop and stare at one of the decorations.
" This ship is so beautiful. I haven't even seen every part of it and I adore it already. " Yumikaya sighed contently before continuing. " I'm glad everyone is here. I'm so glad our family is together again. "
" Almost... " Zanira turned away slowly. As she did Yumikaya grabbed her arm gently before speaking.
" What do you mean? We aren't all here? " Yumikaya looked up at Zanira curiously as she smiled.
" It's ok sweetheart. We can talk later. For now lets find that Force signature. " Zanira pulled away gently as she continued walking to Yumikaya's quarters. After a few moments wondering what her mother meant, Yumikaya ran to catch up.
As she entered the room, Yumikaya saw Satele Shan and Yumitaya waiting for them.
" What took you so long? We have been waiting for ages sis! " Yumitaya ran over to Yumikaya and tackled her playfully. As the two girls laughed and rolled around the floor, Satele Shan moved to stand next to Zanira.
" This is going to hurt her isn't it? " Satele Shan leant against Zanira's shoulder gently.
" I would love to say no... But yes. It will. If sensing it on her own gives her a headache... All of us focusing on it may well cause her immeasurable pain. " Zanira sighed softly before calling to the two girls and sitting down.
The four of them sat across from on another before Zanira spoke. " Kaya I know this might hurt you... But I need you to open yourself to that signature. I want you to focus on it as much as you can. And Taya... No matter what happens I need you to stay focused. "
Yumikaya and Yumitaya both nodded nervously before closing they're eyes. After taking a deep breathe, Yumikaya opened herself to the Force and focused on the signature she had sensed. Waves of pain bombarded her as Satele, Zanira and Yumitaya focused upon her.
" I see... Space... A rock? … No.. An asteroid field..." Satele spoke softly while keeping her eyes closed.
" And... A ship? Yes... A ship. It's... floating..." Yumitaya spoke as Yumikaya cried out in pain.
" I see... A door... It's... sealed... " Zanira spoke softly before Satele continued.
" I hear a voice... Coming from within... " Satele spoke cautiously as a soft voice echoed into they're minds.
" Please... Help me... "
Yumikaya screamed loudly before falling unconscious and collapsing.
Zanira moved forward and lifted Yumikaya's head gently as she stirred. " W... What happened..."
" It's alright sweetheart... It was too much for you. Your alright now. " Zanira stroked Yumikaya's head gently before helping her sit up. " Did anyone get a clear location? "
" I did. I know where she is. " Yumikaya spoke softly before pressing the button on her commlink to connect to the bridge. " IK-TO is there an asteroid field nearby? "
After a few moments, IK-TO's voice came through the commlink. " Yes there is. "
" And there is a large gas planet on the other side? " Yumikaya spoke slowly but had a tone of caution in her voice.
" That is correct. From the records we have in our systems the planet appears to be called Cala. The asteroid belt lies between Ilum and Cala. The belt is called Kess Bela. " IK-TO spoke informatively as usual before Yumikaya stood and walked toward the door.
" Set a course for the asteroid belt. I'm on my way to the bridge. Scan for life forms and ships the moment we arrive. " Yumikaya clicked off her commlink as she left her quarters.
After sitting in astonishment for a moment after the door closed, Satele, Zanira and Yumitaya left the room and walked quickly to catch up with Yumikaya. As they entered the bridge, The ship turned and the engines powered up.
" We will arrive shortly. Sensors have been set and are ready. " IK-TO spoke plainly as the ship accelerated.
Within a few minutes, The asteroid belt was visible from the bridge.
" Scan the asteroids IK-TO. I want to know if anything is out there. " Yumikaya sat in her throne comfortably as IK-TO activated the sensors.
" The sensors have detected a single ship. It appears to be a small transport. Severe hull damage. Life support systems are operational but minimal. One life form aboard. " IK-TO spoke calmly as Yumikaya stood and walked toward the view port.
" Can we bring it aboard? " Yumikaya turned and faced IK-TO.
" Indeed we can. Powering up the tractor beam projectors. The transport will be aboard momentarily. Medical droids are en route to the hangar bay. " IK-TO faced Yumikaya as she nodded.
" I want to know the moment whoever it is awakens. Please keep me informed IK-TO. " Yumikaya walked off the bridge as IK-TO bowed deeply.
" Of course Kaya. " IK-TO spoke softly as the bridge door closed.
" K.. Kaya? Wait! " Yumitaya motioned to follow her sister as Zanira placed a hand on her shoulder.
" No. Let her be alone for a while... Kaya needs some time to herself. " Zanira looked down sadly as Yumitaya shook her head and ran after Yumikaya.
As Yumikaya walked into her quarters, She felt a tug on her arm. When she turned around, Yumitaya was holding her arm tightly and had tears streaming down her cheeks.
" Kaya... Why.. Why do you still have to try and do everything alone? We are here for you.. I am here for you. So stop it! At least talk to me if yo... " Yumitaya stopped speaking suddenly as Yumikaya hugged her. As Yumitaya stood silently, Yumikaya sobbed.
" I have always been alone. It's all I have ever known until now. I don't... " Yumikaya cried as Yumitaya looked up into her sisters eyes.
" Then let me help you. Your my big sister! I don't want to see you cry anymore! I don't want to see you in pain or alone or anything! I want you to be happy... I want to help you to be happy.. " Yumitaya stepped back and put her face in her hands as Yumikaya spoke.
" Y... You promise? " Yumikaya sobbed heavily as the truth that she was truly wanted finally set in.
" I promise! Your my sister and you always will be! Nothing can change that! " Yumitaya cried as she put her arms around Yumikaya and hugged her tightly.
" Taya.. " Yumikaya looked down at her little sister slowly.
" I'll always be with you big sister. You never have to be alone again. I promise! " Yumitaya clung to her sister tightly as Yumikaya hugged her.
" I've been so unsure... I didn't know if anyone really wanted me and even when I got here I still doubted it. I...I'm... " Yumikaya broke down into tears as Yumitaya smiled.
" You idiot big sister. " Yumitaya smiled as Yumikaya cried.
A Few Hours Later
Yumikaya and Yumitaya were sleeping lightly as IK-TO's voice broke the soothing silence in Yumikaya's quarters.
" Kaya? Our guest has awakened. She appears to be quite panicked. " IK-TO stopped as a crashing sound echoed through the intercom. " And is breaking the medbay. "
" I am on my way IK-TO. Keep everyone out of that room. " Yumikaya got up slowly and got dressed before leaving her quarters sleepily.
As she approached the medbay, What looked like part of a console flew out of the room and slammed into the adjacent wall followed by a very panicked female voice. " STAY AWAY FROM ME! "
Yumikaya yawned hazily as she stepped into the room and was hit by a wave of Force energy. As she fell backwards, Yumikaya heard a gasp and the corridor went silent.
Yumikaya stood slowly and stretched out before walking back into the room. " Come on... At least be gentle... I only just woke up... " Yumikaya sighed sleepily as a soft voice filled her ears.
" I.. I am so sorry. I didn't realise it was you... You.. You heard me when I called out for help... You saved me.. " The soft voice was... strangely soothing. Almost... enchanting. After rubbing her eyes, Yumikaya looked to where the voice was coming from and gasped in surprise at what she saw before her. A young female with long flowing silver hair, white eyes with no pupil and pale moonlight white skin looked at her with a look of deep concern on her face. " I... I didn't hurt you did I? I didn't mean to I swear! "
The young female looked almost fearful as Yumikaya stepped forward. " Your... Your an Arkanian... "
" How.. How do you know that?! " The young female stepped back quickly before realising that her back was against a wall.
" I met a few Arkanian's when I was little. When... " Yumikaya trailed off for a moment as memories of her tormented childhood filled her mind. " When I was a slave.. " Yumikaya turned away quickly as tears slowly filled her eyes.
" A.. Slave... " The young woman sat down slowly. " Your just like me... "
" What do you mean? " Yumikaya wiped her tears away and turned to face the young female before she looked down as the young female responded.
" I was a slave on my homeworld. I.. I am not a pure blood Arkanian. I am half human. " The young female looked up at Yumikaya, Almost as if she was expecting hatred or being scolded.
" And what is so wrong with that? I am a human. " Yumikaya spoke calmly with a smile before IK-TO spoke up.
" That is not technically correct. You are in fact half Miraluka. " IK-TO spoke plainly as always before noticing that Yumikaya was shooting him a death stare.
" You have been scanning me... " Yumikaya had a tone of scolding in her voice as IK-TO chuckled softly before briskly walking away down the corridor. " That droid... "
" So you really are like me … " The young woman had a glimmer of admiration and longing in her eyes as Yumikaya turned to face her.
" What's your name? " Yumikaya's tone was soft and gentle as the young female turned away quickly as if she were ashamed of saying it.
" M.. My name.. " The young female gasped loudly as Yumikaya sat down in front of her and looked at her curiously. " M.. My name is Atali.. Atali Syona... "
Yumikaya smiled happily before speaking. " It's nice to meet you Atali. My name is Yumikaya Graceblade. But you can call me Kaya. If I may ask... What happened to you? "
" W.. What do you mean? " Atali spoke nervously as Yumikaya turned and pointed to a set of clothes draped over a chair next to the medbay bed. The clothes were stained red in several places.
" You were bleeding. And your ship was heavily damaged. What happened? " Yumikaya spoke softly as she turned back to face Atali.
" I... um... " Atali sighed softly before turning away from Yumikaya. Yumikaya gently placed a hand on her shoulder and spoke soothingly.
" It's alright. Your safe here and your not going to be in any trouble. I was just curious. But it is ok if you don't want to talk about it right now. For now get some rest. The droids here will make sure you are taken care of. " Yumikaya smiled as she stood and walked towards the door. As the door opened, Atali spoke suddenly.
" Wait! Your not going away right? " Atali had a tone of confusion and longing in her voice as Yumikaya turned to face her.
" This is my ship. I have no reason to leave. When you are healed you are welcome to come and see me if you like. " Yumikaya smiled once more as the door closed.
" She seems really nice... Kaya... I wonder... " Atali thought to herself as a medical droid helped her back into her bed before cleaning up the mess she had made.
A new person appears but does it mark the start of disaster or is it simply another pleasant surprise?
Read on to find out!
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