AN: Glad y'all are digging this one. It's certainly fun to write. Given Ben's heritage, I think there is definitely room for a bit of a scoundrel in him.

On borrowed heels, Rey totters after Ben, embarrassed but glad when he offers a strong forearm as they walk up a beautifully mosaiced stairs, then surprises her by easily sliding his larger hand into hers. She hasn't quite got a handle on walking in three-inch heels, which leave her woefully shorter than the man next to her. As they pass the high stakes room, she desperately wants to communicate to Finn where she is going (not that she knows the final destination), but there isn't any time without obviously blowing her cover and jeopardizing the mission entirely. Furthermore, she is still reeling from the fact that Kylo Ren - Ben - is the Garibaldo.

How was it possible?

How could the Supreme Leader steal from his own Order?

Why was he…?

There will be time for that later.

Must you listen in?

He glances down at their entwined hands. With physical contact, it's nearly impossible to ignore you. As I have mentioned in the past, you are in need of a teacher.

I-

Foreefo is dangerous. I don't need you blowing my cover.

Then why bring me along at all?

Aren't you here to make contact with me?

I-

The pair walks towards what appears to be a wall, when a door becomes visible and they follow the local, a male creature who seemed closely related to the somewhat intimidating Crolute she had known on Jakku, inside. In an unknown location without her quarterstaff or lightsaber, Rey feels extremely vulnerable. This 'Foreefo' wears weapons of many varieties, in direct violation of the no weapons policy Canto Bight is known for.

You have the Force.

So do you.

And using it in this situation is not called for. Following the creature's action, Rey takes a seat at the table next to Ben. I feel the need to remind you - do NOT give away my identity. There are plans in progress I have worked too hard for.

Does anyone know you're here? Hux?

Now is not the time.

"Garibaldo. I admit, your reputation precedes you." The voice is wet and Rey has to force herself not to react. Certainly, she'd seen her share of creatures on Dakku, but this one gives off a chilling vibe. As if sensing her distaste, the male looks at her and, ignoring her presence, asks Ben, "Is she for sale? She would make a charming addition to my collection."

Before Rey can react, Ben snakes an arm around her midsection, bringing her flush against him. There was no mistaking the intent of his protective posturing. "Some things I share, others I do not. Now, can we talk of the trade? I grow bored and would like to get back to the tables."

More like running the First Order. They must know you are missing.

Enough.

"What you seek to sell comes with a price."

"Tell me something I don't already know."

"How did you come to find these plans?"

"A man has to have his secrets," Ben answers, his finger running down Rey's arm. She knows he is doing it for effect - but isn't sure if it was for her benefit of the creature across the table.

You really need a teacher.

Now is not the time, and I'm not interested in being tutored in that way.

She isn't entirely certain, but senses a slight blush at the top of Ben's high cheekbones.

The creature grumbles and says, "Anyone caught with these plans will be instantly killed by the First Order. In fact," he begins toying with a particularly lethal looking blade, "They've heard of you. For all the trouble you've put them through, maybe it's just easier to collect the bounty on your head."

Ben goes completely still.

This is not new information.

Truly?

Did you not think the exploits of the Garibaldo would not reach your precious Order?

I…

"Heard of who?" Rey affects an innocent tone, doing her best to lighten the situation.

"Girly, your man here is highly dangerous."

"Are we going to do the deal or not?" Ben asks. "I've got other buyers lined up."

No, you don't.

How do you know?

Other than I can see what's going on inside your head? You have obvious tells.

Let me know about them some other time. Foreefo looks as if he's about to leave, when Ben places a hand on her leg. Help me.

I'm not going to offer myself!

No. The answer came back immediately, and Rey takes strange comfort in what appears to be some sort of possessive reaction. I meant, can you try and ease this situation?

Fine, but I hope something is in this for me. Starting with an explanation.

"Come now gentleman," Rey says using a tone she barely recognizes. "Can't we all play nice? I'd hate to ruin such a lovely evening. Everyone needs to stop being so growly." She finishes her reprimand with a pout, which to her seems utterly ridiculous.

The dealer looks across the table and says, "Fine."

"At the price we agreed?" Ben asks.

"About that."

"Yes?"

"I'll need another favor from you before I release the funds." Rey can't help herself, she looks at Ben and finds him staring back at her.

Gruffly, Ben asks, "What?"

"There's a valuable weapon of mine which I recently lost in a card game. I want it back."

"This was not part of the negotiations."

"No, but if you want to see the money, you'll do as I say…"

Just give me the plans. Walk away. It's not as if you need the payment.

The plans are false. I know who the end buyer is. This is a setup.

What?

I was going to… To donate the money to the Resistance.

Really?

Yes, now will you help me?

Rey quickly searches his mind and finds Ben is telling the truth. There is a concern in his dark stare. She reaches down to grasp his hand in response.

"Fine. What do I have to steal for you?"

AN: One of the translations of Garibaldo is 'prince of war,' which seemed accurate. Also, reviews make me happy!