Disclaimer: I do not own SWTOR.
AN: Here we are, finally. Chapter Six. I hope you all enjoy, cause its a bit longer than the others. There was kind of...a lot that I felt needed to be put in. So enjoy, let me know what you think.
Chapter Six
"Get down!" Pierce yelled, yanking down a distracted Jaesa. She yelped as she was hauled behind some large boulder as another explosion rocked the battlefield. Pierce didn't hesitate once she was safe and popped up from cover to fire back at enemy forces, taking a few down.
Jaesa's emotions were swimming all over the place. She had never been on a battlefield before. It was intense and she was terrified. She didn't know what to do to help her allies. All she could sense in the chaos was the ever increasing gathering of power on the other side of the base. She knew it was Yoko and she had to get to her but a mass of Republic soldiers and turret fire was holding their army back. Vette couldn't get them offline, which means something had happened to her and that knowledge only added fuel to the fire of her anxiety. "P-Pierce! What do we do?!" She yelled over the cacophony of blaster fire, explosions and screams.
"Let me think!" He snapped at her as he returned fire again, his brain wracking for a solution to their problem. He'd been in this situation so many times but getting out of it was always different. For now they had to get the turrets offline and to do that they had to destroy the generator. An airstrike would be best and save many of their lives. The other solution would be to swarm it, getting many of his men killed in the process but ultimately taking down the Republic base. Of course that was if they didn't have dozens of Sith on their side. Slowly a plan formulated in his mind. "Jaesa! Can you talk to the other Sith in the area? A telepathic link or something like that?" Jaesa took a while to respond. "Jaesa!" Pierce snapped.
She flinched at the harsh tone and finally answered. "Y-yes, I think so. W-what do you need me to tell them?"
"I need you need to gather them together with a few squads and take out that generator to get those turrets offline!" He paused to throw a grenade over his cover and yank down a nearby soldier. The explosion produced several deaths if their screams of agony were any indication. Pierce ordered his small team up to a new position. They were slowly pushing the enemy back but it wouldn't be enough. Jaesa followed them, doing her best to produce Force enhanced shields for her allies. Only when they dug into their new position did Pierce continue, almost out of breathe. "If we just rush it I know we can take it down but hundreds of my men will die! I am NOT gonna be the cause of their deaths! An air strike is out of the question too. No air support will get here in time and I've seen their anti-air turrets. No, we need to get the Sith together and form a wedge! Push forward with those squads behind them as they erect a combined shield and take that thing down! Can you do that?!"
Jaesa thought it all through. Yes, she knew it would work. She nodded and a look of determination crossed her face. If this was how she could get to Yoko, to Vette, then she would do it. "Yes! I can do that!"
"Good, now go!" He ordered as he popped out from cover along with his squad mates at once and rained down hell on the enemies position. Jaesa bolted, using the Force to augment her steps and began to rally the Sith and several squads in positions to do the order. Dozens died all around her as she moved and fought for her life and for her new allies. She couldn't understand how Yoko reveled in this chaos. She never wanted to be on a battlefield again if she could help it.
"Let me go, you dumb nerfs!" Vette yelled again for the hundredth time as she struggled to be released by the few Republic soldiers escorting her. They were surprised at how much strength she had. It took three of them to even keep them moving at a regular pace while she struggled. "Let me go, damn it!"
Kyle snapped and spun around. He had enough of her constant complaining and struggling. At first she seemed delicate and he didn't want to do too much damage when he knocked her out the first time, but now he didn't care. A gods be damned demon was chasing them and he wanted to get as many of his people off this planet as he could. "Shut up!" He shouted and curled his gloved fist and drove into her stomach. Her eyes widened in pain as she struggled to breathe. She passed out seconds later and Kyle caught her and slung her over his shoulder. "Get a move on! We don't have much time!"
Just as he said this a deafening roar shook the building, followed by what seemed like several hundred explosions. It was Yoko and she was dangerously close. "Shit, General! We're running out of time!"
General Faraire grimaced. He knew what he had to do. He never liked sending men to their deaths. But they had to slow her down. The General turned to his soldiers, but before he could speak any orders the two squad leaders came to a decision on their own. They were loyal to the Republic and their General. They knew what had to be done before the General could even tell them. "We will stay back and slow her down, sir. Get that girl out of here."
Faraire was stunned at this declaration. His men had a lot more intelligence than most and he was honored to have had them under his command. "I'm so sorry. We will not let your deaths be in vain."
As one the squads snapped a salute and turned away to barricade themselves down and face their deaths. "Thank you, sir. Its been an honor serving under you."
No more words needed to be said. The General followed Kyle Stryder into the hanger. If they could just get this girl out of here. They could have intel on this monster that destroyed their entire operation almost single handed. Faraire was astonished at the amount of destruction the Empire was willing to go for a single slave. But was it really the Empire that wanted this girl back? Or just the single Sith? This whole situation was beyond normal. Most Sith would just shrug at the loss and get another one. He had seen it before. But no not this time. Yoko assaulted a base of thousands of well trained Republic soldiers. Commandos! To get this one girl back, and she was winning!
He shook his head to rid himself of these thoughts. Now wasn't the time. First things first. Get her off the planet and into Republic space. Then he could think of all the how's and why's to this...anomaly.
"Erecting shield. Add your power to the shield and we can push forward and drive the Republic back. Are you ready?" She asked the gathered Sith. While normally they wouldn't take orders from someone like her. They all knew who she was with and didn't want to risk the Yoko's wrath if they disobeyed. Getting them out of this situation was a bonus that they were willing to follow along. As one the dozen Sith under her temporary command accessed the Force and augmented the large shield in front of them. Jaesa was at the front with five other Sith. The remaining six were taking the rear so they could hold a dome shield over the entire group. In between them were the Imperial soldiers, weapons at the ready, completely trusting the Sith to keep them safe.
"Let's move!" Jaesa order. As one, they all moved forward coming out from behind a destroyed building they were using as cover. Immediately blaster fire rained down on them but the shield held strong. The soldiers under her command returned fire and the blaster bolts went right through their one-way shield, finding targets to destroy. Encouraged, the team quickened their pace, carving a path to the generator.
The soldiers immediately found cover as the Sith redirected the shield towards their enemy. Two broke off to plant thermal charges onto the generator while the remainder attacked the enemy. There was no where else to take cover from the blast so Jaesa and several Sith erected a shield around the generator. Not even a few minutes later the explosives blew and the raging inferno was contained within the shield. Immediately the turrets went offline. The bulk of the Imperial gave a loud roar cry of victory at the sight and pushed forward with renewed vigor. Jaesa watched as they quickly overwhelmed the Republic forces. She wanted to feel sympathy for them, they were her people, but she didn't have time, she had to find Yoko, calm her down before she destroyed everything and then help her rescue Vette.
Without waiting she sprinted off, lightsaber in hand as she entered the space port. The sounds of the battle outside grew dimmer and dimmer as she went deeper into the building. All around her was death. Bodies torn apart, blood forming rivers on the concrete. Debris was scattered everywhere, there was nothing but destruction. "Yoko..." She breathed. A roar of fury was heard deeper into the base. She had to hurry.
She followed her Masters aura, the building power and the path of damage to find her. It didn't take long. Outside the entrance to the hanger was a literal fountain of blood and dead bodies. Jaesa prayed for the dead as she passed them and rushed into the dented in doors to see Yoko reaching out to the departing shuttle, as if willing it to come back. Then she sank to her knees. "No!." Yoko yelled over and over again as she beat against the floor with her fists, forming cracks with each hit. Her lightsaber completely forgotten. Jaesa hurried as she felt the immense power building. It was too much, if she didn't stop her soon she would blast the entire base to rubble, and everyone with it. "Yoko!"
Jaesa watched as the Sith's head snapped up and all that built up power was released. A vortex of energy swirled around her and shot skyward. The shockwave from the release blasted Jaesa back and she slammed hard against the durasteel walls. She barely had enough time and thought to erect a shield to diminish the damage but it still hurt. She gasped as the wind was knocked out of her and she feel to the floor. "Y-Yoko..." She breathed, trying to get her attention. She struggled to regain her breathe as she stumbled to her feet, the energy slowing her progress. She walked forward, one slow step at a time, trying to reach her soulmate. "Yoko stop!" She called again. She hurt so bad but she didn't give up. Not on her.
All around her the durasteel building was crumbling and breaking, being swept up into the vortex of energy. Jaesa shielded her eyes from the smaller debris. Each agonizing step brought her closer and closer to Yoko and after what felt like hours she reached her, throwing her arms around her much taller lover. She began to yell to her master but found that she didn't need to. It was almost silent in the middle of the vortex. "Yoko. Please calm down, love. I'm here."
Jaesa moved to get in front of her and placed one hand on Yoko's heart and the other against her neck. She whispered to her, soothing her like a wild animal. "I'm here, Yoko. Can you feel me? Can you hear me?" She asked as she projected the Force towards her connection with the Sith warrior. She sent waves of love and comfort, showing her, making her feel that even though Vette was gone right now, Yoko still had Jaesa. "I know she's gone, Yoko. I can feel her getting further and further away. But please, be calm. We can get her back. She's already leaving the system but I can still feel her. She's connected to me, to us. Please don't despair and come back to me."
Each coxing and wave of love she sent the power slowly died down. Then finally, everything stopped. The floating debris crashed down, luckily none were above them directly. "Jaesa..." Yoko said after a long few minutes of silence. "I wasn't fast enough." She cried. For the first time, Jaesa saw this strong woman weeping. Yoko flung her arms around the petite human and pulled her as close as she could, cementing it into her mind that Jaesa was really here, safe. She felt ashamed of herself for leaving her to fight on her own, in a life or death battle she had no experience in. What kind of a monster does that to the ones they love? "I...I'm sorry, Jae. I didn't mean..."
Jaesa smiled and held Yoko's head to her breast, stroking her black hair. "It's okay, Yoko. Everything will be okay. I'm here with you, you're not alone anymore." When Yoko didn't respond Jaesa tilted her head up and wiped away her tears. "We will get her back." With those words of comfort, Jaesa leaned in and planted a soft kiss to her masters lips. The reaction was immediate, Yoko's entire body relaxed, her eyes became half-lidded and she responded with a kiss of her own. There was no lust involved, no hasty desire for pleasure. The connection was deeper, one of complete love for the other in a simple kiss. Yoko could feel Jaesa even more, as if their souls were one connected by an invisible bond. The Force had connected them, and she felt it had always been there. How could she have been so blind to it all this time?
It was a feeling she had never felt before, but something she could easily get used. For years her masters had taught her that emotions like love, sympathy, empathy, kindness and the like were nothing but a weakness. She knew now they were wrong, she understood. She understood what true strength was. She had shown it to the Republic when they took Vette from her. Her rage was the result of her love for Vette. Those emotions didn't make you weak. They made you stronger. As Yoko broke the gentle kiss and hugged Jaesa to her chest, she knew she would never forget this moment.
Vette awoke with a groan and a painful ache in her abdomen. "Ugh...feel like I got hit by a speeder." She grumbled as she went to rub her stomach to ease the pain. Her eyes slowly opened and she looked around through blurry eyes. She was in a standard prison cell and laying on the cot. The door was a glowing blue containment field. She sighed. "Back here again, huh?" She sat up and immediately regretted it. The pain in her abdomen intensified. "Oww..." She whined, laying back down, tears stinging her eyes. "What did I do to deserve this?" She asked no one in particular. "Just wanted to help." She pouted, wondering where she went wrong. The memories of the events on Taris repeated in her mind and she couldn't hold back the tears.
She curled into a ball, ignored the pain in her stomach, for the pain in her heart was greater. She should have tried harder. Should have paid more attention. Should have fought back. Though most of all, she believed, she should not abandoned Yoko like she had. She hiccuped and cried. "Yoko..." A sniff. "...Jaesa. I miss you already. Stupid Republic jerks."
As Vette cried in the cell, Kyle Stryder looked on. Why? Why would she be crying over her situation? She escaped from a monster. She was free of the Empire, free from being a slave. He just couldn't understand why she would want to go back. Either way it didn't matter. They weren't going to release her to them. She had information they could use. Question was: Would she give it to them willingly, or not? For now, she needed to be left alone to realize her situation and accept it. With that thought in mind he turned on his heel and returned to his duties.
Vette was too busy wallowing in her own sorrow to notice that Kyle had been there. She thought of her friends back on the Fury. Did they miss her? Probably, she knew Jaesa did. Did Yoko? Was her rampage through the base because she wanted her back? Or was it just because her slave was taken from her? Sometimes she had doubts about how Yoko felt about her. The twi'lek remembered that Yoko had confessed to her. Told her that she loved her and wanted her and like an idiot Vette ran away and rejected her. Was it that moment that made Yoko be cold to her? She wanted to believe that Yoko was coming for her. No one would risk their life so brazenly like she did just for one person if they didn't like that person, right?
The more Vette thought it about the more she was certain that Yoko was razing that base to the ground to get to her. She felt her heart and cheeks become warm. Was it wrong of her to feel...happy, that she killed so many people, destroyed so much, just to see her safe? She couldn't believe that she had been so afraid of her. While she was indeed fearsome, she had to believe that Yoko would rather die a million times over than see her harmed. She had to believe that her Sith loved her more than life itself.
Then something else occurred to her. Jaesa Willsaam. Her friend had told her her feelings about Yoko. How she confessed them and was accepted and returned as well. Something about Force feelings or something. Vette would be lying if she said she wasn't hurt by it. But she supported Jaesa, was happy for her even and she felt ashamed to be feeling any kind of jealousy. She rejected Yoko after all. But...at the war council she was holding onto Yoko's arm. A surge of jealousy and regret shot through her at that moment. Regret for denying her feelings and rejecting Yoko, and jealousy of both the Sith and the former padawan.
Jaesa was a beautiful girl, very kind and caring. The few times they were able to eat a cooked meal, Jaesa had made it, and they were delicious. She was like a caring big sister in some regards and Vette found herself watching her a lot. Jaesa reminded her of Teeva and how she always took care of her. But the way she moved, interacted with others, they way she held herself. Vette didn't know when it started but the more she watched her the more her heart beat faster. Her feelings were confusing to her but the more she thought on these matters the more she came to the conclusion that she loved them both.
Vette sighed and closed her eyes, stroking one of her lekku. It always brought her comfort when she was distressed. This time was no different. Except for one thing. A fantasy of sorts, entered her mind. She saw Jaesa and Yoko standing beside her. Each one holding one of her hands. Their other hands were stroking her lekku like she was doing now. A sense of peace entered her soul at the small dream. She calmed down instantly and instead of crying, she smiled and thought how great it would be to be together again. She really wanted to go home. Home...to Yoko and Jaesa. "She will come for me." She said aloud, knowing they had cameras watching their prisoners. "No, they will come for me."
The sound of footsteps alerted her to another presence. She sat up to see if was that man, Kyle. But it wasn't, it was female with long blonde hair and green eyes. She was breathtakingly beautiful. "Who are you?" Vette asked, a lot kinder than she had intended. There was just something about this woman that put her at ease. She relaxed as the woman came closer.
"Hello, Vette. I'm a friend that wants to help."
Jaesa smiled sadly as Yoko lay on her bed with her, her head resting on Jaesa's surprisingly ample chest. She stroked the Sith's hair in a gentle caress. She wished she could do something for her beyond reassuring platitudes. Yoko couldn't feel Vette like she could. Even now Jaesa knew where she was. Vette was being transported to Coruscant. At least that was the most logical outcome considering the direction the star ship was heading. If it reached the planet they would have no way of getting Vette back.
The young padawan wanted to get Vette back just as much as Yoko did but right now she couldn't help but feel content. Just laying there with her new Master. They hadn't had any good opportunity to just laze. However, while her body was at rest her mind was working.
They had failed to kill Faraire and stop the War Trust. Darth Baras wouldn't be too happy but she could feel that he would be reasonable, if not upset. A plan was formulating in her mind already. All they had to do was tell Baras what had happened. Being a man who didn't leave things unfinished, Jaesa was certain he would send a fleet to support them in their attack to terminate Faraire. With that opportunity they could get Vette back. Lives were going to be lost on both sides, but Jaesa found herself not caring. So long as Vette returned to them.
Jaesa tilted her head and planted a soft kiss on Yoko's forehead. The sleeping Sith sighed and snuggled closer. The human stifled a giggle. She wouldn't say it aloud but Yoko looked really cute when she was sleeping. She would let her rest for now, she would need her strength for the potential upcoming fight. Jaesa carefully reached over to the little table beside the bed and grabbed her holocom. She needed to tell Quinn about her plan.
"This is Quinn." He answered, stern and expressionless as ever, if a bit too loudly.
"Quinn, this is Jaesa. Yoko is asleep so we need to be quiet." She said in a whisper. Quinn's figure nodded. "Can you update me on the situation. Give me your thoughts?"
Quinn nodded and sighed. "May I speak freely?" At Jaesa's go ahead he began. "Yoko did an astounding job at taking out the War Trust, and the Republic base. We had minimal causalities on our side. All in all it was a great success."
"But?" Jaesa wasn't naive enough to know that Quinn was ignorant of the fact that Faraire was gone.
"However, the War Trust member Faraire is still alive. Vette is gone. Lord Yoko is not in a fit state to do much of anything and Darth Baras is breathing down my neck, wondering where she is. Ever since getting back to the ship with the Lieutenant and his personal squad of soldiers we haven't told him anything. It isn't my place." He finished, folding his arms behind his back. "However, since you have contacted me I assume you have something in mind for all of this? Next to me, you are the most intelligent person on this ship." He wasn't trying to boast or put anyone down. Just a statement of fact.
"I do, Quinn." Jaesa then explained her plan to get Baras to send them a fleet of ships to help them chase down Faraire and rescue Vette in the process. "I know Darth Baras could care less about Vette, so telling him what our ultimate goal is or not is irrelevant. He would be more concerned about finishing the War Trust, correct?"
"Yes, you would be correct. I approve of your plan and I will instruct Lieutenant Pierce to ready his squad for a boarding assault. I will inform Darth Baras of your plan and set things in motion. We will need the master in the coming fight, so please, take care of her." With that said he disconnected his comm.
Jaesa sighed and lay back once more. Once they finished resting she would make Yoko something to eat. She must be famished using all that energy. "You know, I'm not some weakling that needs to be coddled." Came the all familiar growl of the Sith warrior. The former padawan just smiled and hugged her master.
"Of course not, love." She said with a happiness only a fool in love could have. Then grinned a little mischievously. "Then I guess that means you can take care of your own food to replenish that energy you used up so carelessly." Jaesa could tell Yoko was blushing only because her red skin got a bit darker. She huffed and turned away from the younger girl and Jaesa giggled quietly.
"I want yours..." She mumbled, more than a little embarrassed to admit that she wanted something from someone.
"What was that, my wrathful Sith?" Jaesa continued to tease.
Yoko growled a warning, but Jaesa ignore it. She knew nothing would happen and Yoko knew that she knew as well. So instead she sighed and said just a bit louder. "I said I want you to cook for me. It's good."
Jaesa smiled and surprised the disgruntled Sith when she climbed over her, face to face, and planted a long kiss on the woman's red lips. "Coming right up, Yoko." She said with a tenderness that almost made Yoko's heart stop. The Sith only nodded and averted her eyes. She didn't frown or glare, which was the equivalent to a smile for Yoko. With another kiss she got out of the bed and made her way for the door. "While you eat I have something to discuss with you, okay?" Yoko nodded, already sensing what it was about. "Good. See you in a bit, love." Yoko watched her go and once she was out of sight, the restlessness reared its ugly head. She was too weak to get out of bed but she tried anyway only to fail.
She growled in frustration and anger. She hated that she was so restless when Jaesa or Vette were away from her. Just being in the other room was enough to set her off. "Be at peace, Yoko. I am here." Jaesa's voice echoed in her mind. Yoko was surprised at first, then she relaxed. Being able to feel everything that was Jaesa inside her very soul. She didn't speak again, nor did Yoko fidget in her bed. She just relaxed and waited for her lover to return.
Yoko was dozing. In that midway of sleep and awake when Jaesa returned. The former padawan smiled at the Sith's relaxed state. She carried her plate of food to Yoko's side, calling her awake. "Yoko. It's ready."
The warrior opened her eyes and sat up, wincing as she did so. It seemed she went more all out than she thought. Her muscles felt like they were torn to shreds. She must have worried Jaesa to death. A sudden surge of guilt shot through her as she accepted her lovers well-cooked meal. "Thank you..." she mumbled, more than a little ashamed and embarrassed of her actions on Taris.
Jaesa, sensing and feeling Yoko's own emotions, sat down next to her as she ate. "Yoko, love. You did nothing wrong."
Yoko paused for a moment, her eyes flicking in Jaesa's direction, before finishing her bite. She wasn't surprised anymore that Jaesa knew what she was thinking. Force-users were...weird like that. "Didn't I though? I almost got everyone killed when I went berserk. Left you alone on a damn battlefield that could have gotten you killed. All because Vette..." Yoko clenched her teeth, her body tightening at the knowledge that Vette was still gone. Her entire being was telling her to get her back. But there was nothing she could do right now.
Jaesa sensed every bit of her inner turmoil and placed a calming hand on Yoko's cheek, soothing the rage. "Be calm, Yoko. You did nothing wrong. You only wanted to get her back the best way you knew how. It was an impressive sight to behold, you know. You are very strong." Jaesa praised, eliciting a flicker of a smile from the Sith warrior. "I want to put your fears to rest, however. I have a plan to get Vette returned to us, safe and sound."
Yoko stopped short in her meal, her head whipping in Jaesa's direction so fast she almost gave herself whiplash. "Plan?" She asked.
Jaesa nodded, her hand going to Yoko's neck and giving it a good rub, just in case. "Yes. Now please finish eating. I will tell you everything you need to know." As Yoko returned to her food, Jaesa outlined her idea. As Yoko listened she felt better. She was glad that Jaesa was with her. In her current state of mind, Yoko believed she would have never formed a plan as good as that. She would have just rushed a fleet of ships with her own starship and die for nothing. Jaesa finished her explanation and Yoko set her empty plate aside. She didn't say a word, just looked up and into Jaesa's eyes. She could see everything in Yoko's eyes. The swirling emotions of excitement, joy, and a profound love for Vette and herself that Yoko probably didn't even know she was showing. Jaesa smiled and leaned forward, placing a chaste kiss on the Sith's lips. Words weren't needed. Everything had already been said, now they just needed to act.
The fleet was rather large for being the remnants of the Republic forces on Taris. Most ships were intact but a few were almost smoldering wrecks. They would have to be scrapped and used for the creation of more ships. The Jedi knew what had happened there, as she did most things. Her connection to the Force revealed many secrets to her. She knew why she had to come here as well. Events were in motion and this was just another step to a future that needed to happen.
She glanced behind her as her Force-mate Nadia Grell came into the cockpit of the Defender class starship. "Why can't I ever sneak up on you?" The white haired girl asked with a playful pout. Shi'ara just smiled as Nadia slid onto her lap. "So why are we here?"
"She has need of me." Came the mysterious as ever reply. A sense of peace washed over Nadia at the sound of the Jedi Master's voice. It was the voice of a goddess among mortals. It wasn't just her either. When Shi'ara spoke, people listened in an almost entranced awe. It wasn't just her voice that drew Nadia in, her body was perfection in her eyes. The way Shi'ara just looked at her with that radiant and perfect smile. Those green eyes shining like gemstones in contrast with her polished white skin. It was enough to make her forgot all her worries and doubts. Nadia loved to play with her lovers beautiful long blonde hair that rivaled any sun. But she did love her voice most of all. Just hearing it wash over her made her body feel like warm honey.
Shi'ara was a very affectionate person as well. Nadia could never get enough of her hugs and kisses. Her hugs were like being cradled in a bundle of warmth and joy, serenity and wonder. Shi'ara made her feel like the most cherished of treasures. Being embraced by the embodiment of the Light Side made her feel like nothing could ever touch her.
Nadia had seen many wonders since traveling with her. Things that she could not explain and she knew it wasn't going to be the end of it. "She who?" Nadia asked, with a slight edge to her voice. She hated the thought of Shi'ara talking with any girl, but for her to seek one out upset her. She knew it was stupid and pointless to think about, but she couldn't help it. The thought of Shi'ara, perfection incarnate, leaving her at all, was soul crushing.
Shi'ara sensed the shift in Nadia's emotions and smiled that sweet smile that Nadia loved. "No need for that, my little Starshine."
Nadia blushed at the pet name Shi'ara had given her. It was endearing. She had asked, once, why Shi'ara called her that. She had said that in her eyes she shone like a star, a light that shone on her world. It warmed her heart to hear it. Just remembering it put her in a better mood. But then she pouted at the assumption that she was jealous. She was, but she wasn't going to admit that even though they both knew she was. "I wasn't..."
Shi'ara stopped her with a soft and gentle kiss. Nadia melted into the kiss, like she always did. No matter how many times they kissed, it was always like the first time. Her soul being encompassed by the warmth of the light. Shi'ara's lips were like soft velvet. As always, when Shi'ara pulled away, Nadia mewled in protest, yet contentment. "You can't hide anything from me, Nadia." She said with a smile. "But, allow me to put your mind at ease. The girl I am going to see is named Vette. A blue skinned twi'lek who was, until recently in company with a very powerful Sith." She explained, remembering the sheer amount of Force power exploding from Taris not too long ago. It was...unreal to say the least. This Sith, Yoko Yoru, was exceptionally dangerous. Yet, there was something she sensed about her, she knew that Yoko would play an important role in the events to come.
"W-Why do you want to talk to her?" Nadia asked, struggling to collect herself from the kiss, though genuinely curious now.
"As you know the Force has shown me many things. There are...events taking place that could use a guiding hand. That's all."
"That's all? What does that even mean?" Nadia complained with a pout. They were supposed to be alone together for a week. Why now of all times?
Shi'ara just smiled at her lovers antics and tucked Nadia in close. The Sarkhai sighed and tried to let the annoyance drain. This was Shi'ara after all. The most loving and kind individual she had ever met. Things would be okay. "That's my girl." The blonde human said with a smile. She closed her eyes and let the ship guide itself closer and closer to the capital ship that Vette was imprisoned on. She knew the three women she needed to speak with were in need of her advice. Everything would be alright.
They came out of Hyperspace facing a fleet of Republic star ships. The Imperial fleet spread out immediately to surround them. Yoko stared at them, glaring with fury. Vette was there, somewhere. "Be prepared, Admiral." She said to the older woman beside her, an Admiral of the fleet she was..."borrowing".
Admiral Sonia Vang did her best not to glare at the Sith. Sonia didn't like the Sith, more often than not they were more like slavers and conquerors than anything else. She sometimes wondered why she didn't defect to the Republic. But then she remembered that she believed in the Imperial government. It was just a shame they were seen over by such...monsters. So to receive news that the fleet under her command was being...commandeered by a Sith, was infuriating. "As you say." She ground out in reply. She had half a mind to blow this blasted Sith to the void once she and her apprentice boarded the Republic capital ship. However, she knew it would be treason and she knew Darth Baras would find out about it and kill her. No, it just wasn't worth it. Better to suck it up, help the Sith with her business and get control of her fleet once more.
Yoko glanced to her right side at Jaesa. "Where is she?" She asked gently, trying to stay calm. They were so close, so very close. But everything could go wrong at anytime. She HAD to be patient, but it was very hard.
Jaesa smiled at her lover for being so calm. "On the capital ship." She pointed to the largest of them all. "Faraire is also there."
Yoko bristled at the name. That man was going to pay for what he had done. "Is she okay?" She managed to ask without snarling.
Jaesa placed her hand on Yoko's red skinned cheek and smiled. "She is fine, Yoko. Brusied and battered from Taris but alive and stable."
"Good." She then turned to the Admiral and said. "Get me a communications channel, I want to make sure they know how dead they are."
Sonia fought a sneer and did what she was told, ordering her communications officer to hail them. It didn't take long for them to respond. Faraire himself appeared on the vid screen. "Ah, Yoko Yoru. I knew you would come."
Yoko glared at the man on screen. How did he know her full name? Not even Jaesa and Vette knew her full name. Until now. "Of course I came. I don't leave things unfinished."
"I believe you. You won't be able to finish your...massacre, however. Do you know what the Treaty of Coruscant is?"
"What of it?" Yoko didn't know what he was getting at but it wasn't going to save him.
"The Treaty of Coruscant was the peace agreement that brought an end to the Great Galactic War. While the Treaty heavily favors the Empire, your little incursion to chase us down is an act of war, Sith. Stand down and return to Imperial Space."
Yoko thought on this. Baras told her plenty of the Treaty and what their actions on Taris would likely cause. But the Republic and the Empire knew war was coming and that wasn't going to change no matter what she did here. Besides, she only wanted Vette back. He triggered these events by taking her and now he was going to reap the seeds he had sown.
The Sith looked up and into Faraire's eyes. All she saw was a desperate man trying a last ditch effort to save himself and his men. It wasn't going to work. She smirked as her eyes smoldered like fire. "I don't care about the Treaty, some stupid piece of paper, General. You stole her from me. I want my Vette back and I'm going to take her one way, or another. Everything is in your hands here. You decide how this plays out. Do we fight and trigger an early war get both of our men and women killed? Or do you let me aboard, take back what is mine, and we wash our hands of this fiasco?"
Faraire paused, Yoko was smarter than he gave her credit for. What choice did he have in the end? He couldn't trigger a war. The Republic were still to weak for that. He was about to reply when the soothing tones of the Jedi Master spoke to him from across the room. "Shuttle her aboard, General. With that girl Jaesa Willsaam."
The General sighed. His gut instinct was telling him not to do what the Jedi said. Maybe it was just fear talking but he had a bad feeling. "Very well, Sith. Come aboard and we can...talk." Yoko grinned in triumph. Finally she was going to have Vette in her arms again. This time, she would not let her go.
Jaesa, Yoko and a select few Imperial troopers waited rather impatiently for the shuttle pilot to reach the Republic capital ship. Yoko was in meditation, trying to keep her rage from exploding forth and killing everyone in her path. Jaesa was proud of her soul-mate for being so in control when they were so close to getting Vette back. The apprentice missed the little twi'lek and it would be great to see her again. She was fun to be with, charming and cute. She wasn't afraid to speak her mind or joke around. Jaesa loved everything about the twi'lek. She missed Vette more than she realized. However she didn't want to be selfish. This was about Yoko, who NEEDED Vette right now. Jaesa could wait.
As they waited, the apprentice began to feel something. The closer they got to the capital ship the more unease she began to feel. Soon, a sense of dread welled up inside her as this other presence she felt began to feel familiar. It was the radiance of the light side of the Force. It's pure essence of warmth. She knew of only one person that had this much power of the light side. The Barsen'thor. Jaesa paled and began to sweat. No, she couldn't be here. Why was she here? The former padawan was basically a Sith now. She was the enemy of the most powerful Jedi in existence, as far as she knew.
She had heard of her before. Heard tales and stories of her accomplishments, had even seen her once. She had learned how to heal the very souls of several Master Jedi from some form of corruption. That kind of healing would have left any normal Jedi dead from one attempt, as if they hadn't eaten or slept in years. But she did it numerous times and lived without so much as a complaint or ill effect. If she was here, they stood no chance if it came to a fight. "Master."
"Hm?" Yoko replied, opening a red eye to stare at her human lover.
"When we get to the ship...please be careful. The Barsen'thor is here." She warned Yoko. At the blank look she received she explained. "Please, Yoko. She could obliterate our entire fleet with her mind if she wanted to. Her connection to the Force is strong, almost as if she was the light side of the Force incarnate."
Yoko's eyes opened and she glared at the human girl. "And? I'm getting Vette back one way or another, Jaesa. This Barsen'thor isn't going to stop that."
Jaesa paled, her lack of understanding scared her. Her rage was clouding Yoko's mind to a real dangerous threat. "Yoko you don't understand-"
"I don't care. She won't get in my way." Yoko growled, putting an end to the conversation. She was much to furious to care about anything at this point. Only the safe return of Vette would calm her down now and no Light Force prodigy would get in her way.
Jaesa frowned and stayed silent. If Yoko wouldn't see the danger then she would just have to keep her safe by keeping her calm. She understood now why Faraire gave in so easily and let them aboard. The Barsen'thor told him to do it, and when the Barsen'thor speaks, you always listened and obeyed. It was almost instinctual. An innate response, like trying to please a goddess, you just did what you were told.
They docked with the ship and Jaesa's fear skyrocketed, her heart hammering in her chest. She didn't know what was going to happen but she sincerely hoped it wouldn't come to a fight. Her earlier plan wasn't going to work. They need to work through this with words not fists. The ramp opened up and lowered to the floor of the starships docking bay and the Imperial troopers poured out. Their black armor and weapons a fearsome sight to behold. Yoko followed after them and Jaesa brought up the rear. Their welcoming party were two Jedi, both female, and a squad of Republic troops. They seemed entirely too relaxed for the tension Jaesa felt. "Greetings, Sith. I welcome you aboard." Came the voice of the Barsen'thor. There was no mistaking it. It was kind but held all the power in the universe in her words.
"I'm sure you do. Where is Vette? I was under the impression she would be here." Yoko growled, her patience at the breaking point.
The Barsen'thor smiled, her green eyes sparkling with kindness and a hint of mischief. "You thought wrong, Sith."
Yoko snarled and whipped out her lightsaber and igniting it. The Imperial soldiers brought their weapons to bear and took aggressive stances. They would follow their Sith leader to do death, whether they were willing or not, they knew this. So if it came to a fight they would fight.
The Jedi giggled at the display, showing no tension what so ever. "Oh, my. So angry. Such a display of power. Wouldn't you say so, Nadia?" She asked, her words not mocking or demeaning, yet Yoko took offense all the same.
Nadia, the pale white haired girl next to her nodded and replied. "Yes, Master Shi'ara. I can sense the power in her. Very strong but ultimately wasted here."
"Indeed." Shi'ara said with a smile. "My Imperial friends, please lower your weapons. There is no need for a fight here." To Jaesa and Yoko's shock, they did as they were told. The Imperial troops lowered their weapons and went back to a relaxed stance, almost indifferent. "Thank you, you may remain here with my allies. Do not worry, no harm will come to anyone, relax, mingle if you like. Now, Sith, if you would just follow me and please remain calm I will take you to Vette. She is not here but in a meeting room on the bridge with General Faraire. I know you and him have something to work out." Without another word she and Nadia turned away and walked to the docking bay elevator.
Jaesa looked at her master. "Please, Master. She isn't someone you want to fight. Let's just get Vette and get out of here."
Yoko glared at her younger lover and followed after the two Jedi. "So be it. Once we take care of Faraire we can leave with Vette."
"Master!" Jaesa said in shock. She couldn't possibly think that Shi'ara was going to allow that right? "You can't, she won't allow it. You can't fight her, please."
"Shut up!" Yoko snarled. "Nothing is going to stop me from getting Vette! If they get in my way I will go through them!"
Jaesa knew she didn't mean what she said, but the words hurt none the less. Being told to stay silent when all she wanted was to help. It was so very painful. So she stayed quiet, a hurt look in her eyes as she and Yoko entered the elevator with the Jedi.
Shi'ara decided to say nothing to this verbal abuse. Yoko was angry. A volatile Nexu if she ever saw one. Even with her immense power and Force connection, Shi'ara was wary of this Sith. If her rage were to unshackle her true potential power...She didn't want to think about it. The feeling of her unleashed power on Taris was warning enough of what could happen. Jaesa Willsaam was in no danger of the red skinned woman, though. She could sense the connection in them. Much like Nadia and herself. She also sensed it in Vette when the young twi'lek thought about either Jaesa or Yoko or even both. The three of them were Force-mates. Soul-mates as romantics like to call it. However they were too stubborn to just accept it and embrace their unity and this is why she was here. To make them see and help them become who they really were.
The elevator came to a stop and the four women stepped out into the hallway. Shi'ara and Nadia led the two Imperials down the hall to the bridge. It was a silent trek, one none of them wanted to break. Jaesa was too scared to say anything, for fear that Yoko would snap again which may cause Shi'ara to step in and silence them somehow. Yoko was too furious to focus on anything else other than the most primal thoughts. Vette is close. Be calm. Vette is here. Be still. Vette is yours. She is waiting. Be calm.Vette was all she could think about. Nadia and Shi'ara just enjoyed the silence and the presence of each other. Their Force minds touching and surrounding one another in a beautiful rapture of warmth.
Shi'ara led them past the doors to the bridge and toward another room. This was where Vette, Faraire, Kyle and a squad of Republic troopers held their position. As they entered and Yoko saw the scene before her, the tension rose astronomically. The Republic troopers were off to the side with Kyle Stryder who glared at Yoko as she entered. In the middle of the room was a table with multiple chairs. It was a spartan room, clearly meant for discussion and not much else. Shi'ara took Nadia aside as Yoko caught sight of Vette on the other side of the table. Yoko stalked forward, eager to get to her twi'lek. She really is like a Nexu. Shi'ara thought. All primal grace and power as she moved. Nadia pouted and the Jedi knew she had heard her thoughts. Shi'ara only smiled and hugged Nadia to her chest, stroking her white hair in apology. It seemed to appease her so she turned her attention back to the scene before her.
Jaesa wanted to follow after Yoko, to run to Vette and embrace her, tell her how much she missed her and loved her. She even took a few steps forward but was quickly overshadowed by Yoko and she remembered that this wasn't about her. It was about them. Even though she knew they didn't do it on purpose, it still hurt. Was this how it was going to be? One or the other vying for Yoko's attention and presence? Was one destined to be hurt forever? Jaesa prayed that it wouldn't be so.
Yoko and Vette stared at each other for a long while when finally the twi'lek took her first step toward her, then a second. Before she could take a third, Faraire who was beside Vette during the whole exchange, grabbed her arm and held her back. Yoko snarled and took an aggressive step forward, her lightsaber almost materializing in her hand and igniting. Jaesa felt the Sith's reaction along with her. She wanted to jump in as well but violence was just going to get them killed. She was NOT going to let that happen. "Yoko, no!" Jaesa surged to her side to step in front of her.
"Not so fast, Sith. First we need to talk." Said the General.
Yoko wanted to shove Jaesa aside and strike this bastard down, but a faint warning in the back of her mind told her not to. Her instinct was warning against it. The desire so strong, yet the desire to protect Jaesa, to get Vette safely out of here. So instead of attacking she sneered but didn't drop her aggressive stance. "Talk. About. What?" She managed to say through her rage. Seeing that Yoko wouldn't do anything dangerous, Jaesa stepped closer and wrapped her arms around the much taller woman's midriff. She hoped that being in physical contact would keep her stationary.
Faraire watched this display of affection and noticed that Yoko was less inclined to attack than before. Maybe he had gone about this all wrong. He shouldn't have taken Vette. All he managed to do was get his men killed on Taris and now put a Jedi Master in position of danger. He sighed. "Kyle, clear the room."
Kyle was shocked. "What? General..."
"You heard me, son. Get these soldiers out of here. The Sith is tense with all these threats. Go and make sure we are ready for departure to Coruscant." Faraire ordered. He glanced at the Jedi who was still stroking her lovers hair. She smiled at him, approving of his order and this made him feel better about his past mistakes. Like he had redeemed himself.
Kyle stood there for another moment then angrily turned away, signaling with his hand for his soldiers to follow him. As the room emptied Yoko began to relax a little more. She was still glaring at the General, lightsaber still in hand, but she had shut it off and breathed a little easier. "Speak." She ordered him. She just wanted to leave with Vette and forget all of this.
"I'm not a stupid man, Sith. I know I've made mistakes, taking the twi'lek among them and I will apologize for that. All I did was get good men and women killed when you came to reclaim what was yours. So I'm sorry." As if to emphasize his apology he let go of Vette's arm and gave her a gentle push in Yoko's direction. Vette didn't need any more of a hint. She all but ran to Yoko and Jaesa. Both of them caught her as she ran into them, Yoko keeping them steady. The trio hugged each other tightly and the feeling of completeness washed over them. Finally they were together again. Whole.
"Vette...I'm so glad you're okay. I missed you." Yoko whispered, her expression and tone soft and gentle, so unlike the hardened warrior the human and twi'lek knew. Yoko didn't stop to think about what she saying, just letting the emotions overtake her. "I thought I was going to go insane without you. I was ready to die here to get you out."
Vette took in her words, let them wash over her and warm her heart. She smiled into Yoko's chest. She was so glad she came to understand her feelings for the Sith. She was thankful for Shi'ara for helping her see it. "That would've been super dumb."
"I'm happy she didn't do it fight her way in here, Vette. It's so good to see you again." Jaesa said, her heart beating wildly feeling the two women she loved in such close physical contact.
Vette turned her head enough to smile the most beautiful and happiest smile Jaesa had ever seen. "I missed you too, Jae." Jaesa smiled in return.
All too soon the happy reunion came to end when Faraire spoke again. "I know she isn't the only reason you are here. You came to finish the job, correct?"
Yoko came back to her Sith sense and looked up and into the General's eyes. She stood up straight, to her full six and half height. Gently pushing her girls behind her she said. "I have to kill you, Faraire."
"I can't allow that, Yoko." Shi'ara declared, now stepping into the conversation. "No one is dying here, not even you. There are things you need to know and those words would be wasted if you were to die."
Yoko turned to glare only to stop when she saw the sheer amount of Light Force power radiating from the woman. Now that her mind wasn't clouded by rage and the need for Vette's safe return, that nagging feeling came back full force. Jaesa's earlier words shouted at her. "Please, Master she isn't someone you want to fight." Yoko never cowed from a worthy fight. But this? Shi'ara was in another plane of power altogether.
Yoko took a step back and lifted her arms to shield Vette and Jaesa. "W-what am I supposed to tell Darth Baras then? He'll kill me. Is that something you're going to allow?"
Shi'ara shook her head, her blonde curls bouncing with each move. "No, he will not. He will be disappointed in you, upset that you came here, but he will not kill you. He needs you and he knows it. Risking your life coming here for love is an admirable thing, Yoko Yoru. Darth Baras is a rational and sensible man. Rest assured you are in no danger of retribution."
Yoko was warring with herself. She never left a job unfinished, she felt she had to kill Faraire here and now. However the staggering amount of power just shining from Shi'ara was enough to quell that desire. Jaesa was right. She was too strong to fight. She was sure that before she could take a step to attack she would be struck down with nothing but a probe of the mind. "Fine. Not like I have much choice."
Shi'ara giggle again, it wasn't mocking but somehow it grated on Yoko's nerves. "You always have a choice. Just some are worse than others." She turned to the General and said. "You can leave now, Faraire. Everything will be just fine now."
The General nodded. "As you wish, Master Jedi. Sith, you wont see me again." He said to Yoko as he passed her. Yoko just watch him pass and leave them room.
The room was silent for a time. Yoko suddenly felt drained from all the tension and her shoulders sagged. Her girls noticed this and urged her into a chair. She sat with a heavy sigh as Vette ad Jaesa snuggled into her lap. Yoko didn't complain, the three just enjoyed the closeness, almost forgetting about the two Jedi. Nadia and Shi'ara stood, hand in hand, studying the trio. Yoko Yoru was a completely different person from what she had seen earlier now that Vette was safe. She had turned from a volatile Nexu to a content house cat. She wouldn't be surprised if she was purring right now from all of the attention. "I hate to interrupt but there are things we need to discuss. Mainly, the whole reason I am here."
Yoko looked up with almost sleepy eyes. "What is it, Jedi?" She said tiredly. Jaesa and Vette were curious but decided to say nothing. They instead focused their attention on Yoko. Jaesa could feel how tired she was and tried to help soothe it by running her hands along her black armor and probing with the Force, letting her presence try and soothe her. Vette just stayed as close as physically possible, knowing how much either of them had missed the other. The attentions were almost making Yoko drunk with sleep. The monster was sleeping.
Shi'ara smiled at this. She was right, Vette and Jaesa were her Force-mates. "Vette, you already know where you stand, right?" At Vette's nod and happy smile she continued. "Good. Jaesa Willsaam. You know who I am, I could feel it when you arrived. Your fear."
Jaesa looked away in shame. "I'm your enemy, Master Shi'ara. A Sith now. I betrayed the Republic, the Jedi, my parents. I..." She was silenced by Yoko's arm snaking around her waist and hugging her close. Jaesa wanted to cry. She loved being with Yoko but she felt so much anguish for turning her back on her her family, The Order, her home.
Shi'ara shook her head with a smile and sat down at the nearest seat, Nadia easily sliding into her lap and snuggling her lover. "You are home, Jaesa. You are exactly where you need to be and who you need to be with." Shi'ara explained gently. "You have betrayed no one. For something so simple as 'borders' between societies means nothing to the Force. We are all citizens of the galaxy are we not? Yet we live as if divided. The Force is everywhere. We were taught that weren't we? We are all connected, Jaesa, the Force wills this. Do you understand?"
Jaesa took in all the advice and wisdom she had just been given. She had to think more on it, but she knew that Shi'ara wasn't lying or trying to give her false platitudes. "I think so, Master Shi'ara. I'll think on it."
"There is more. In the times to come there are going to be many, many lies and webs of deception. Yoko is going to need you to see through these lies so she is not to become an unknowing puppet to those who seek to use her. You will be her eyes. With your understanding of bonds and knowing a person's true nature, you must always act as the glue that keeps the three of you together. Vette may be the soul, but you are the heart." Jaesa nodded slowly, thinking on it all.
"Thank you, Master Shi'ara I will take your words to heart."
Shi'ara smiled. "Good. Now Yoko..."
"Ugh, what?" She complained drowsily. She just wanted to get back and lay down to sleep.
Shi'ara giggled at the grumpy Sith. "I know you wish to leave. But please, listen to what I have to say?"
Yoko sighed and opened her eyes, staring at the Jedi. She noticed how the white haired girl was straddling the Jedi. She found that curious. Weren't Jedi disallowed to fall in love? No matter. "Fine. What is it?"
"You are strong, Yoko. Very strong, but you need to learn to take the strength from those around you. You have friends, loved ones, and you don't need to bear your burden alone anymore. You have trials ahead that will be hard enough. Your life is simply too important to the galaxy and your girls to go at it all your own. Let them be your heart and soul. Let them comfort you and be there to help you fight." Yoko normally would have scoffed and rolled her eyes at any advice, especially ones where she should be careful. Yet when Shi'ara spoke she found herself captivated and attentive. A Jedi trick? Or was it just Shi'ara that captured peoples hearts? Either way she would remember her words and take them to heart. She nodded in understanding, but didn't say anything. "There are trials ahead for you all. No matter what happens, never allow anyone to decide who you are." Shi'ara stood then, lifting the girl in her lap to her arms. It startled Nadia, who threw her arms around the human's neck. "That was all I needed to say. The Republic will cause you no trouble. Safe travels, my friends." There was a sudden influx of Force power then the Jedi's were gone.
The trio sat there staring at the place they once were in marvel. "Did she just..." Vette began.
"She Force Warped." Jaesa explained in awe. She had heard of the technique before. The amount of Force power needed to perform such a feat had to be astronomical.
"Amazing." Yoko whispered. The silence lasted a little longer but soon Yoko realized they had to leave. They were on a Republic ship and the Imperial fleet was waiting. "Come on. We need to go." Yoko moved to stand up and Jaesa and Vette moved to allow her. She ushered them out the door and back to the elevator to the docking bay. They passed numerous Republic soldiers and each time Yoko tensed, waiting for them to detain them or attack them. True to Shi'ara's word, they never did. She rendezvoused you with her own soldiers back at the dropship. They were standing around or sitting, waiting for her to return. "Get aboard, take us back to the fleet."
"Yes, ma'am." The pilot climbed on-board and began the take off sequence while the rest of them settled in. While the soldiers sat in the available seats, though a few offered the three women their own, who declined, Yoko sat rather heavily onto the floor, Vette and Jaesa immediately at her side. She was so drained. She didn't have a clue why. She didn't fight, or exert much of any energy during the excursion. So why?
"You used up to much Force energy keeping your rage down, Master."
Yoko looked up and with a tired chuckle and grin. "What? You can read minds now?"
Jaesa smiled. She wanted to sit next to her Sith and off comfort, but she didn't know how the woman react if she did so in front of the Imperial soldiers. Vette on the other hand wasn't having any of that. She noticed the slight hesitation in Jaesa's movements and pulled her down sitting her next to the Sith while she occupied the space on her other side. To the human's relief Yoko showed no complaint or angry remark. "No, I'm...not quite that powerful to be able to do that. But..."
Yoko looked at her questioningly. "But?"
"I can feel you." She said with a whisper. "I could always feel you. I can see someone's true self remember? I just...know what's wrong I guess. It's hard to explain." She felt embarrassed for not being able to give a good explanation.
The Sith chuckled and slung an arm around the human and tugged, a little harder than intended, to her side. "It's fine, I think I get it." Jaesa smiled and lay her head against the black shoulder plate of Yoko's armor. It was a comfortable silence for everyone on board. The troopers were more than a little shocked to see Yoko so...docile and relaxed, but they enjoyed it while it lasted. As the shuttle flew back to the Imperial Fleet, the Republic Fleet all entered hyperspace and disappeared leaving them alone in the void of space. "Um...Jaesa?"
"Yes?"
"I...I wanted to say..." Yoko stuttered, trying to find the right words to say. "I...I'm sorry for saying those harsh things earlier, like you didn't matter."
"It's okay." "You what?!" Both Jaesa and Vette spoke at the same time. "Yoko how could you!"
"Vette it's okay, really."
"No it's not." Vette slapped Yoko on the back of the head. "Why would you do that, huh?"
Yoko kept her down from the blow and didn't say anything. For once she ashamed of herself. Angry at herself for saying anything harsh to Jaesa. She was warning her of a danger and she completely ignored it and told her off. She deserved to be hit, even to be angry at.
"Vette, stop. It's fine. She didn't mean any of it. She was just so focused on getting you back that she wasn't thinking, I understand." Jaesa calmed Vette down as best she could. The twi'lek huffed and sat back, folding her arms. She knew why she was upset. She loved Jaesa just as much as she did Yoko and she didn't want either one of them to get hurt in any way. To know that one hurt the other was maddening.
She was about to say something else when the two women heard a quiet whisper. "I'm sorry...I'm sorry."
"Yoko..."
"I'm sorry for everything. For the shock collar, for hitting you, yelling at you, ignoring you. I don't deserve you." She hiccuped, then a sniffle. Vette and Jaesa could hear it all, and so could the soldiers. The shuttle was hardly spacious. For the second time with only hours between each other, Yoko was crying. She was too emotionally drained to care and she just looked the floor. She was afraid of seeing their faces, ashamed to even be crying in the first place. She just let it all out. "I've never...felt like this before. I don't know what to do to make you happy I don't even know if I can. I only know how to fight and kill. How could you even want someone like that. I want to get away from you to protect you from me. I l-...I love you when I probably shouldn't."
When she stopped speaking the shuttle was in silence. Yoko brought her knees to her chest and wrapped her arms around them, looking so much like a beaten down child. Vette and Jaesa looked at each other in shock. They shook themselves out of it and leaned against the crying Sith. As one they put their arms around her, offering their physical and emotional support. "Everything is alright, Yoko. Remember what Shi'ara said. You know you can trust me right?" A slight nod from a still hidden face. "Then believe in me when I say Master Shi'ara has the more wisdom than most older Jedi Masters. You don't need to fight alone anymore. Vette and I are with you, no matter what, right?"
Vette nodded. "Of course! We got your back...and..." She looked up at Jaesa, who nodded in return. They both leaned in, heads hers as well as each others and said as one. "We love you, Yoko."
Yoko closed her eyes and enjoyed the closeness of her two soul-mates. She probably wouldn't understand for a long time why they wanted to be with her like this, but she wasn't going to complain. She made a vow to herself, to treat them like the queens they were and never let her rage get out of control around them.
AN: So, again let me know what you think. I feel like I rushed the ending a bit, I was tired and probably not thinking clearly.