Lost in Space (complete)

[Claire Organa]

Claire stepped back watching the scene before her play out unsure of who would really be the victor. Did the Pirate Captain possess a skill that Andorreth could not defeat? Did he just call her a schutta! Why the dirty old half toothless so and so may a bantha pee in his wheaties every morning!

Claire found herself inching forward as she heard the question the Pirate Captains voice reeked of sarcasm and anger. They knew? Ahead of time? Someone told them I would be here? Oh and the words he spoke stabbed her at the heart of her own fears her lack of ability to protect herself, her staff, the Alderaani people. There was a truth to his words. She didn't have those skills.............yet. Claire in these moments became determined to learn more. She wouldn't be the victim again.

SHE! Claire finally snapped back to the moment, a woman? "WHAT WOMAN!?" She knew she shouldn't have shouted but she had no idea what they were talking about. Claire did nothing but cater to women and a few men, why would a woman be after her?

A blaster bolt was headed for her Claire's mouth dropped open as Andorreth wrestled the intended bolt away from its target into another. Steam poured forth slowly filling the corridor she could hear the thermal detonator that familiar sound she knew what it could do, !"ANDORRETH" she called fearing at that moment they would all die that lives would be sacrificed. Just as quickly as the sound left her everything was muffled. The most amazing thing he had taken the sand covering the detonator, Claire could only watch amazed. How did he do that?

The Pirate Captain his eyes showed pain, rage and hints of desperation. Andorreth held him in place the blade ready to pierce his skin, ready to take his life. The only thing he could do was stare at Claire. Claire filled with fear, the need to know, and a growing deep hatred of pirates stared back at him. She walked slowly forward to where the two were locked together.

"Tell us who the woman is, and you're life will be spared." She meant it in the most generous of ways but she recognized that he wouldn't stop until whatever he had in mind for her came to fruition. A truly frightening feeling to know someone wanted to kill you and yet not know why.

The Pirate Captain laughed, "This isn't over no matter what I tell you or don't tell you. But know this she is coming for you. There is no where you can hides" He began struggling with Andorreth as the blade began to press harder against his skin, he didn't not cry out this time, "My life is forfeit for a greater good" He began laughing was he insane? Without warning he moved in such a manner that two things happened he bit down hard on a tooth foam poured from the corners of his mouth, and he body pressed against Andorreth's blade.

Unknown which killed him first but within moments he was limp the life gone from his eyes and the information he had gone with him.

Claire stepped back she wanted to cry all of this for what! What the Feth was going on!

"The ship should be ours" she whispered backing up more, "Thank you" she didn't know what words to say at the moment, she turned away to wipe the tears that had welled up it was a lot to handle today. She hadn't lost any of her people but she had lost some of her own naiveness about the galaxy and her role in it. She knew she had to protect everyone around her now too, someone after her might think to go after them to get to her. She shook her head gently this wasn't over, whoever was left piloting the ship had to take taken but she couldn't imagine them being very difficult.

[member="Andorreth Vikar"]

 

[Andorreth Vikar]

The Captain shocked me by his actions I hadn't expected him to bite down on a suicide tooth, let alone him impale himself on my blade. Pulling two coins from my pocket I closed his eyes and placed the coins over his eyes "May you find the loss of hate and embrace of peace in the next life that this one stole from your heart Captain." Turning towards Claire I said "Not all wish to embrace peace or accept mercy Ms. Organa, though something you should know...He died believing he was achieving something which is perhaps more dangerous. The tooth he bit down on, I've only seen that in eight individuals ever all of them served someone higher up the food chain. Fact is that him having that tooth containing those chemicals means he was involved with someone in the intelligence industry. Not to mention Ms. Organa, we know that individual is a female."

Sighing I actually didn't funnel the sand back into the container on my waist, nor did I de-activate my aqua saber. Odds were that whoever had been that female operative was still aboard. Speaking into the comms I said "Second team, what are the chances you all heard the Captain speaking with a female while Ms. Organa and I were heading towards the bridge? Also do you have audio of that conversation? We have found out from the Captain that someone else gave him and his crew the Lady Ambassadors' coordinates and travel arrangements. This person was a female....."

Looking towards Claire I gestured towards the hall further on. I saw her gaze locked on the Captains' body and I gently channeled The Force to softly re-direct her face towards the hall and me. Gently using the sands to wrap around her hand and lead her away form the awful scene. We needed to find this person and we needed to do so soon....Patching into the ship schematics I simply locked down all escapes until we found this person. Claire deserved to have justice for this and odds were it'd be someone she either knew or knew of....I didn't envy what she'd have to decide should either be the case.....

[member="Claire Organa"]

 

[Claire Organa]

"It could be that my latest mission has been discovered and they do not wish to see it happen." She couldn't tell him what it was that was part of the conditions set down by those that approached her to undertake this mission. She had tried very hard to hide her steps and watch what she did but it seemed that perhaps someone had found out.

She was guessing of course she could be wrong about it. But what else was there? This not knowing would drive her crazy until she knew. 'Intelligence industry" she realized she would still have to speak with Faith about this. Faith as a former Minister of Intelligence might be able to advise her, or perhaps she would know someone who could help discover the shadow behind this.

She did not realize what was happening as she turned and walked slowly stepping around the dead Captain and heading down corridor.

The Captain of Claire's ship heard the message, did they get an audio...he looked at the men with him as they shook their heads no. They had not been quick enough to think of that their emotions took control more than their logic. "Captain Vikar" he began, "we over heard a conversation not more than 10 minutes ago between two men and a woman when we went to apprehend them they were gone, maybe under the deck plates into the crawl space, or through another passage." Or maybe it had been a set up he looked back at his men, "go back search that room open everything in there look for anything odd"

He nodded to his men to continue on and watch for the woman, "Captain Vikar the Ambassador is a sensitive woman this kind of thing isn't something she handles well." He didn't dare say that Claire wanted people to like her, and couldn't understand why they wouldn't. the Captain didn't know either Claire was a good hearted and intended the best. But then he knew her well and he wanted to protect her as best he could.

Claire looked ahead she didn't hear what the Captain told Andorreth she was too busy thinking how many would be piloting the ship now, 1, 2, or 10. She moved as if still under the influence slow soft steps until she stood in the door of the bridge. She looked around at first she saw no one until she saw a girl with dark obsidian eyes and light green skin she looked like a young nautolan. She was down on her knees hiding behind a chair, she looked afraid.

Claire looked back at Andorreth, "it's a girl." Claire without looking for anyone else stepped in and immediately to her left to see to the girl. As the girl covered her face a blaster bolt was fired from the right. A woman hiding in shadows and behind a console with hair the color of fire tinged with yellow and ice blue eyes. Her skin appeared to be golden brown as if she had spent all her time under the sun.

Claire heard the shot, "BLASTER!" rather than turn she dropped to the floor to roll to her back to get a good look at who was shooting.

[member="Andorreth Vikar"]

 

[Andorreth Vikar]

Taking in what the Lt. had said about Claire I said "Begging your pardon sir but you're wrong about Ms. Organa. She's stronger and more fiery than you or even she realizes yet." Looking back towards Claire I saw she'd discovered a young Nautolan girl. Next thing I knew a blaster bolt missed Claire and hit a console. Claire said blaster in a loud voice but I'd still not de-activated my saber yet. Spinning on my heel I angled my saber in an upwards stroke cutting through the blaster. Flicking my wrist I leveled the blade back at the woman I realized now with cold ice-blue eyes. "I'd recommend not trying anything else like that ma'am..." The child hadn't escaped my notice and I had already started using the sands I carried with me to form different shapes and amuse her for a bit while Claire and I spoke with whom I assumed was her guardian.

Looking at the woman I saw fear but not for herself, for the child. Finally I de-activated my saber and clipped it magnetically to my armor. Looking at the woman I said "Ma'am I promise you this if anyone tries harming that child the sand she's playing with will become a shield for her, as will I. I apologize for startling you ma'am I only acted in defense of this woman." I waited for Claire to take over diplomacy wasn't really my strong suit...

[member="Claire Organa"]

 

[Claire Organa]

[member="Andorreth Vikar"]

Claire laid there for a moment before she moved, slowly she got up on her knees and looked over at the woman who had fired the shot. She gave her a weak smile, "We won't let anything happen to the little girl, I swear. She has such a sweet face she's so beautiful. Is she your daughter?"

The woman shoot her head no as her gaze darted from Claire to Andorreth. "You surely see our position of being on a ship that we don't know and having been attacked several times already we are bit on edge." Claire moved to where she was now standing up.

Claire tried looking around to make sure there were no more surprises. "The Captain is dead." She whispered.

The woman seemed to relax some, "he was an evil man." She looked to Andorreth then to the girl, "her name is Nar'na he brought her back one night when we were on the Wheel." The woman leaned back watching Claire now.

"What's your name? I"m Claire."

The woman smiled, "I'm Feena, but I know who you are. We all know who you are. but you were not supposed to have help" Her gaze set upon Andorreth then back to Claire.

Claire nodded, "He is very helpful, skilled, and as close to a 10 as he can get." She half smiled thinking when he's stepped in as much as he has today he's earned to be called a 10. "Why do you all know me?"

Feena shook her head, "We are not to tell."

Claire bit her lip thinking of what to say, "I can get you a fresh start. My cousin has a center on a planet near Colla IV specializes in relocating folks. I can make sure she helps you. I'd really like to know what is going on." Claire looked back at Nar'na. "Her too no matter what I'll see she's taken care of"

Feena looked at Nar'na it was clear that the woman cared for the child. Her hard stare softened when she looked at Nar'na. "She deserves a chance, she's very bright."

Claire nodded, "Yes I agree she deserves a chance." This was where negotiating could be tricky offer too much they think its a ploy, don't offer enough they think it's not a serious offer. "Feena" Claire stepped forward, Fenna pulled back a reflex of someone who had long been abused who was waiting and preparing to be struck. Claire's heart sank, "I'll take you both personally to my cousin. But I need to know what's going on."

Feena looked at Andorreth, then back to Nar'na who played happily on the floor only when her name was mentioned did she look up. Feena knew that if it was told why that she could some trouble. Could this Organa woman really help as much as she says, or was it all lies just to find out what she knew. What if. She sighed, even if they only took them to Alderaan it would be better than the life she had been living, and Nar'na could be a child again.

"It's rumored that you are working on peace talks between two enemies. Our employer doesn't want that to happen. But now the partner he has, a woman, she wants revenge. Something to do with her family. She says House Organa is responsible for her losing everything. So she's going to take everything from you and your family. But you...she has something special for you. I don't know what you did she never said. She has a pet she calls Tory."

Claire's heart sank, "Tory, are you sure? Have you seen the pet?" It was too much to be just a coincidence. It couldn't be she had to be sure.

Feena shook her head no, "but she calls home often to and asks how her pet Tory is doing."

Claire backed up she felt suckered punched and confused. This wasn't just something she did.This was against her house, her family. Her family she could warn everyone but one. Claire pushed her fear down she needed more information. It was becoming a little harder to be controlled and calm. "Do you know her name, what she looks like?"

Feena shook her head, "she can change what she looks like she has a device like the bounty hunters use." Push of a device and poof she's someone else Feena thought she remembered the first time she saw it. She had been amazed.

"Is she on the ship?" Claire asked trying her best to keep her voice even, Feena nodded, "yes but who knows you've been shipping escape pods out maybe she looks like a man now and is already gone."

She turned to Andorreth, "is that possible?"

 

[Andorreth Vikar]

Looking to Claire I listened to the information being said. When the woman, Feena mentioned the woman's abilities I stirred. Osik, what Feena was describing was NOT good. Feena also mentioned the fear that she could've left already. Then Claire looked to me and asked if what Feena had described was possible. Nodding I said "Aye it's possible Ms. Organa simply a different take on the stealth tech you, me and your crew is equipped with. It's tech that uses passive scans to shift the overall appearance of a person I have scars from people that've used such tech. Thing is that kind of tech can be picked out of a crowd or even the sensors and electronics of a ship to say nothing of the fact I had my crew member aboard the Salvation lock us in here and all the escape vehicles and pods. We've been trapped here since we began Ms. Organa but so has everyone else who means us harm."

Pausing briefly I looked to Feena and the girl Nar'na and asked "Ma'am do you have somewhere that you, the child and everyone else who is a prisoner can hole up while we secure the ship? As it stands I know how to find this spectre of a woman and get you answers Ms. Organa. The crew is being secured and we have only to find this person who wants vengeance for whatever happened from your family or whatever they perceive happened." Looking towards Nar'na I knelt down to her level and pulled open a pocket underneath my armor plates and withdrew a sliver of crystal. "Nar'ika this is a very special stone. It has the ability to calm, bring peace to people. I know you've dealt with things that aren't fair at your young age but this crystal should be able to help you achieve peace. At the very least little one the captain will never harm you or Feena again." Running my hand gently over her head tails I rose again.

Looking towards Claire I wondered if she'd caught my calling Nar'na the Mandalorian equivalant of her name, Nar'ika. Then I asked "So now the hunter becomes the hunted. This woman may have her issues with you Claire but there's nowhere on this ship she'll be able to hide from me. As this is your enemy I'll ask would you like to unleash me and have me bring her to you I promise you I won't kill her nor will I allow her to kill herself. Your call though Ms. Organa, if you do unleash me you'll see why those names were given to me...." I'd earned the name Wraith of Corellia by having caught several criminals that Corellian Command had been looking for for a good while and had brought them all directly to the commander's office with nobody having noticed me and not leaving a mark on them other than the tranquilizer darts that had allowed them to be brought in.

[member="Claire Organa"]

 

[Claire Organa]

There were so many things she didn't know and this new knowledge was disturbing. She absorbed the knowledge [member="Andorreth Vikar"] provided she would remember it. Just like the stealth tech they wore. The ability to be invisible coupled with changing your appearance it was truly scary that someone could possess all of this. She thought of the all the damage that could be done. Amazing.

The would be killer is on the ship. He or she couldn't get out without them knowing.

"We need my Captain here to take control of piloting the ship." She wanted someone else she knew ensuring they didn't blow up, move off, or anything else that could turn into another disaster.

As Claire worked to get the Captain to her location she heard Andorreth call Nar'na the adika form of her name. Claire had studied mandalorian culture and the language when Faith married Draco, and when the Clans settled on Alderaan. She wasn't mando'ade but she could at least make them comfortable after everything taught to her.

Did she want to unleash him, give him free reign to do whatever was necessary to capture the tormentor. She had to understand that this meant he would do what was necessary. Was it worth it to her to have him do so?

The Captain was coming up the hall she could hear his boots hitting the deck.

She knew she couldn't live looking over her shoulder and wondering, "Mar'eyir kaysh, narir meg cuyir vagale at mircir ra gev kaysh." She paused as she tried to form the words in her mind before she said them, "Tengaanar ni tion'jor gar sartamura mies gai" Only someone who knew the language would understand what she said.

Spoiler

Find her, do what is necessary to capture or stop her and Show me why you earned those names

She stepped to be clear of the corridor confident she was doing the right thing.

 

[Andorreth Vikar]

Listening to Claire use Mando'ade I blinked in surprise. Inclining my head I rapped my right fist against my chestplate and said in turn "It will be done m'lady. Turning to face her before I faded into my hunter tendencies I said "Your Lt. was wrong about you Claire, you have a fire I don't think anyone else realizes. Why else would you speak a savage tongue so fluently? Remember Ms. Organa Verd ori'shya beskar'gam. A warrior is more than their armor Ms. Organa also Mishuk gotal'u meshuroke, pako kyore. Pressure makes gems, ease makes decay. I think that your security forces have yet to realize that you've the potential to be a force to be reckoned with on your own."

Winking at her I pulled my helmet back on and locked it in place before I re-engaged the revolutionary face and tapping two fingers to my temple I started running down the hall only engaging the stealth field generator when I was nearly out of eyesight. Claire had unleashed me on this woman. I didn't intend to come back empty handed. Leaning into a corner I set my HUD to begin probing the ship for any tech that was actively using passive scans for bio-readings and with an active low-level power signature for the tech. Smiling I realized I hadn't been the hunter now for at least five years. The fact I'd learned to hunt from a Mandalorian my father had hired was probably why I enjoyed hunting, people and animals. There'd been many trophies of animals at the estate on Corellia. Locking my weapons down I engaged the stun setting on all of my weapons. I'd promised Claire no deaths even if she'd given me the green light to do what I had to I planned on proving why I'd been given those names.

Suddenly my HUD came back with a readout on the tech I was looking for. Sighing at where they were I realized even if Claire's people were to try and take the bridge and control the ship they'd be dead before they could reach the consoles. She was on the bridge, which meant she had no intention of letting anyone leave alive. Fierfeck'la Osik! From what my bio-scanner told me she was simply pacing the bridge. Which meant she expected someone to try taking her, so I'd have to do the unexpected. Backtracking I placed an electroshock mine on the door frame and engaged the laser sensor. Heading back down the hall I hopped up and grabbed the frame of the air vents before jerking down. Heading up into the air vents I moved towards the bridge and remotely locked the bridge down. Even if she could change her physiology she wouldn't be able to maintain the change for extended time.

Engaging the air filter in my armor I simply dropped down into the bridge area and began moving towards her. In the event she noticed me I already had smoke grenades primed to fire down into the bridge. She seemed so...focused though. I heard her speaking to herself about how House Organa would be reduced to rubble and how they'd pay for the pain inflicted on her. I simply took the opportunity and ejecting the blade in my right gauntlet I coated the blade with paralytic poison. Puncturing her skin with a slice along the ribs, one on each leg and one superficial cut along her neck. The blade cut her skin in each place but I'd also coated the blade with a mix of bacta and kolto so that the skin would heal over. Spinning away as she drew a blade and blaster I said "No use ma'am, I already poisoned you. By the time you swing that blade you'll start losing movement in both arms, unconscious in ten seconds tops. You shouldn't have had pirates going after a defenseless cruiser. You should've at least approached House Organa to settle things through open combat, not sneaking around wearing other people's faces to sow discord and chaos."

She dropped to one knee against the deck plates then said "House Organa will burn! Claire Organa will hang from a rope yet!" Sighing I said "No, no she won't and House Organa has more fire and fight than you give them credit for." Then I simply leapt over the top of her and began choking her into unconsciousness. Within a few second she was out and I slapped a pair of electro-shock cuffs on her wrists and ankles. Then disengaging the mines and grenades I'd set I exited the bridge carrying the woman who had issues with Claire. At minimum she'd have answers sooner than later at best Claire would also know why I earned those names and how....

[member="Claire Organa"]

 

[Claire Organa]

She looked over at Feena, "You should maybe hide in the Captain Quarters we'll come get you. You and Nar'na should be safe in there. They are just cleaning up the stragglers now but you shouldn't be here when Captain Vikar returns."

Feena nodded holding out her hand to Nar'na Claire could see the caution still in her shoulders, could see how she moved slowly waiting for something to happen. It would take time but she would get stronger. Claire waited until Feena and Nar'na were not near.

She then looked at the Captain from her vessel, "Captain Vikar has gone off to collect the woman behind this attack." With that Claire could only watch down the corridor waiting for him to return. The monitors around her showed his movements well what she could see of them. He finally settled onto the bridge. She could hear the exchange of words.

The hatred in the woman's voice sunk into Claire like a dry sponge getting water for the first time. It hurt her to the core of her being. She heard it someone wanted her dead from the tone they weren't going to stop.

He was on his way back Claire though frightened for her own safety had a more important question to ask. She could see Andorreth now coming up the hall his prisoner over his shoulder. She noticed the prisoner wasn't moving very much she knew she had to be alive he wouldn't bring back a dead body. Would he? She tried to stand a little straighter her gaze looked up to where his eyes were as he entered she nodded. After watching she knew why he had these titles, how he had earned them.

"She didn't give you much I see" Claire stepped back giving him room to drop his prisoner.

[member="Andorreth Vikar"]

 

[Andorreth Vikar]

Coming back I could see Claire at the end of the hall. She said "She didn't give you much I see." Pulling my helmet off and clipping it against my chest-plate I said "Few do Ms. Organa, though I promised living. If nothing else the belief matters to your people there's respect to be had in that even if I don't happen to agree with the idea of pacifism. My instructor on Corellia used to say pray for the best then after that's doen prep for the worst." Pausing I continued. "You won't see any cuts on her skin but rest assured they were there, I simply coat my blades with paralytic poisons alongside a bacta and kolto mix. She was rendered immobile and the cuts were healed soon after. Wraith of Corellia M'lady, I was known as somewhat of a vigilante with a reputation for bringing in criminals paralyzed and immobile but alive. They frequently never saw me coming."

"Vespera the other name. It means evening star M'lady the name I went by when asked to eliminate enemies of Corellia. That name people knew for the clean kills, again frequently I wasn't seen and I used poison to simply shut down the key systems of their body. As it is I slapped her in electroshock cuffs so she wouldn't try using a blade on you. Also I stripped her of weapons which are now yours." I pulled a small bundle of knives, alongside a holdout blaster and a small concealed dart launcher and slug thrower. Pausing. unsure how to tell Claire I simply said "By the way Ms. Organa, I removed four of her teeth. Each was ceramic and filled with poison to ensure you wouldn't get answers. I wanted to ensure you did get the answers you were seeking Claire, the necessary things are rarely easy or pleasant M'lady." Sinking to a knee I rapped my right fist against my breastplate. "Claire I may not be who you'd look for as an ally but for future reference you need someone to ensure you or your people can hold their home without resorting to violence themselves call me and I will come Ner'vod. Haat, Ijaa, Haa'it."

Rapping my right fist against my breastplate again I looked towards Claire and extended my right hand for her to accept. I didn't make many vows but those I did I fulfilled. Claire was worth protecting, odds were she had her own guards on Alderaan but odds were also high that having a Corellian who was considered one of the Mando'ade couldn't hurt her chances. Not all enemies wore armor, it was better to put a blade in Claire's hands and her not need it than her need the blade and be defenseless. Plus if nothing else....She was a very attractive woman. A little green but still there was a fire in her that I could appreciate.

[member="Claire Organa"]

 

[Claire Organa]

"I had a feeling the stealth was part of the reason for the names." Claire looked down at the woman on the floor as she listened to Andorreth explain the reasons behind the names and she tried not to cringe when he mentioned removing her teeth but still she had to say what she thought, "They are names to be proud of you know. Course you can't wear them on your sleeve like others, and it probably isn't wise to stamp a symbol on your armor to identify them. But they are names that do not bring any shame" She smiled.

What happen next took Claire by surprise he offered his hand, called her sister, and cited Truth, Honor, Vision . Words to live by, words that when uttered stirred emotions of home, duty, and family within her. She reached out and took his hand, "I would like for you to be around more your skills as a warrior would honor my house. I could use someone who possesses such skills as my protector. My position for the throne is quite distance behind many others, I don't have royal guards. I have a detail that it is my decision who is on it, there's a place for you if you really want it." She didn't let go of his hand, "think about it Andorreth. I said I would help with Corellia and I will." That was her promise to him and it wouldn't hurt having a 10 around either.

She squeezed gently and then released his hand. The woman on the floor moved Claire reminded of what had just transpired between she and Andorreth knew she had to admit something to him.

She looked over to her Captain, "I need to be alone with Captain Vikar" He nodded not sure what the Ambassador was up to but for certain he was being left out of things that may affect her safety. He left begrudgingly.

Claire looked at Andorreth, "Earlier Feena mentioned that she" Claire nodded towards the woman, "would communicate to see how her pet, named Tory was doing." Claire took a deep breath, "I have a sister named Victoria, we call her Tory. I haven't seen her in two years I think they have my sister. I need to find out if she does. I can put her in a cell on Alderaan and work on getting information from her I wanted you to know what I am thinking. It didn't feel right to hold it back"

She looked again at the floor this was becoming a grand mess.

[member="Andorreth Vikar"]

 

[Andorreth Vikar]

I was pulled to my feet by Claire and heard her mention not putting marks on my armor. Smirking I said "That's why Mando'ade have paint to conceal certain marks on their armor. The names have marks you'll see in...darker conditions. Evening stars reveal a great deal Claire, as for your offer of help on Corellia I'd be glad to accept your help and honored to accept such a position." As Claire looked at her captain and asked to be left alone with me I tilted my head a bit. As Claire mentioned how the woman I'd captured had referenced Claire's sister as her pet I clenched my knuckles. Women were not pets...I took major issue with that particular thing. Claire then surprised me by saying she planned to keep the woman I'd captured and interrogating her on Alderaan.

Sighing I said "Claire....M'lady Organa, are you sure it's wise to have her interrogated by pacifists? No offense M'lady but.....your people tend to have a thing about refraining from causing harm to others unless it is in self defense. You unleashed me once Claire....I can get whatever you need from this woman you'd be present of course as she is in fact your prisoner. However I think as part of your detail and as Mando'ade I can and will get whatever you need from her. I will not tolerate women being referred to as pets, further I don't allow family to be leveraged against others in order to achieve goals."

Pausing I looked at the woman and back to Claire. Sighing I said "Claire if you insist on returning to Alderaan with this woman as a prisoner you need whatever information this woman has. Therefore I suggest something....you may not like my suggestion but if there's a place on Alderaan that is.....not well known and well concealed I can get whatever information you need. I'm asking if you know of any black sites on Alderaan. We need to find your sister Claire, my oaths include that. I am your blade m'lady use me and unleash me as you see fit."

[member="Claire Organa"]

 

[Claire Organa]

“You’ll be around for a bit so maybe sometime I’ll get to see those marks see if they are equal to the elegance of the titles” She nodded and smiled when he accepted the offer to work with her, “I’m glad you’ll be around still, I know there is more to learn about you and from you. We’ll start with the Corellia thing we’ll be multitasking but it is what I tend to do best. I’ll send a message to ask them to begin looking through records see if they are part of the archives.”

It was the least she could really to help him out to ask him to stay she would pay him and see to it that if he wanted quarters were provided by her apartment in Crevasse City. If he wanted to stay on Alderaan that was a discussion for later not now. They were still dealing with the now and everything that happened could affect tomorrow.

She couldn’t help but laugh just a little when he asked about if the pacifists should interrogate the woman. “You’re concerned the methods may be too easy, with little result.” She nodded that was possible. It was her turn to sigh now thinking on what he was saying.

She knew he only wanted to help and she also understood that his methods might be quicker than using an Alderaan interrogator.

She toed the deck of the ship for a moment as she thought about his question she looked up at him, “I feel certain Clan Ordo would not object to the use of their area. They are family to House Organa and would want the information as quickly as possible” When Claire said family she meant literally family the Aunt of the Queen was married to a retired Field Marshall and with that came a host of cousins to House Organa.

“We will go to Alderaan though and have this ship torn apart looking for whatever they were up to and then we’ll reclassify it, re-register it and claim it for Alderaan Diplomatic Corps. I’ll also transmit that we have your ship accompanying us I’ll get them to sign a berth for it at the Apalis Coast Organa private space port.” These were all just things that needed to be done Claire as she said was accustomed to multiple things at once. It would help to keep her mind busy.

She looked again to the woman, “I don’t understand really. I hope they don’t have Tory that it’s just coincidence. My sister was troubled when she left Alderaan” She didn’t want to say it but she thought it she was into drugs and it would have been easy for them to get her. I hope my sister is alright was all she kept thinking. Then she felt a touch of selfishness I don’t want to be alone with her parents gone Tory was all she had of her family. If. Claire wouldn’t think about that.

“I’d like to go home please.”

[member="Andorreth Vikar"]

 

[Andorreth Vikar]

Taking in what Claire had said about Clan Ordo I stood up straight as a board. Well.....I hand't counted on Ordo being whom she'd had to learn Mando'a from. Ordo was a very old name.....a well respected name. I was impressed with Claire more and more. She'd said that I'd be around for a bit so she may have the opportunity to see the marks and if they matched the elegance of my titles. I couldn't be entirely sure but I could've sworn Claire's eyes sparkled adventurously when she spoke. "Aye Lady Organa, I think that could be arranged." Pausing as she mentioned signing for me to have access to landing clearance at a private Organa spaceport I inclined my head slightly and said "You honor me m'lady, I have another favor to ask though more for your safety than mine....I'm not sure that leaving this prisoner aboard this ship she's familiar with is ideal for your safety. If I'm to accompany you to Alderaan I propose something your men might not like."

Waiting for a moment I said "the men we immobilized on this ship were under the employ of a cruel man who likely took his anger out on his crew. I propose you leave your Captain in charge of these men and instead of stranding them, that you instead offer them employment with you as a crew m'lady. Odds are that they are going to sign on as they'll have a respectable job and the benefit of protection from the woman they were employed to hunt. That kind of mercy will likely make them unshakable allies, also they'll be able to hold a solid defense fro whatever vessel you put them on. Allowing them to serve on this vessel would instill further loyalty and they'd be flying under an honorable flag at least."

The other part of this wasn't something her men would probably like....As the woman who wanted Claire dead was well versed in the ship we were aboard security wise it'd make sense for her to stay aboard my vessel. I'd set her up in the honorary guest chambers and keep the prisoner secured in the brig on triple lockdown. "M'lady the other part is that it makes more sense for me to see you to Alderaan personally. Meaning staying in the honored dignitary chambers aboard my ship, you'd have hot water for a bath or shower and a safe bed to sleep in. This ship as you said will have to be torn apart but you're welcome aboard M'lady."

Programming a jump into the nav-computer from my gauntlet datapad to Alderaan I unsecured the lockdown on the ship we were aboard and said "There's a shuttle waiting in the hangar to get us back aboard the Rogue's Salvation m'lady. I've a jump already programmed to Alderaan for when we arrive aboard the Salvation M'lady. Also my crew will get the brig prepped for the prisoner should you choose to accept my recommended course of action." Silently I waited for Claire to decide one way or the other on what she wanted to do....

[member="Claire Organa"]

 

[Claire Organa]

[member="Andorreth Vikar"]

She wasn't quite sure how to react to everything that he was suggesting. She knew she was tired, that today had been more than one person should be expected to deal with.

It was one thing to say yes take the prisoner, "Andorreth they were going to kill us all, you saw them down that very hall not long ago jump up from the crawl space and try to kill me in what two three different ways?" She wasn't angry, she was somewhere between tired, and scared.

"Oh goodness." She took a few steps away, "You ask me to grant them trust Andorreth they've done nothing other than prove that..." her shoulders dropped she wasn't a fool she knew this and it was better to say to someone I'm giving you a chance to do more. Claire drew another breath.

She raked her fingers through her hair the soft brown tresses fell to her shoulders as she stood there.

Truth be told she would prefer that men turn from this way of life that they find meaning and legal fulfillment doing work. "How could I know that the next time we take this ship out that they won't try to deliver me to whoever is after me and my family? Or maybe we should just let them, maybe it's the easiest quickest way to get an answer to all of this"

Claire leaned against what looked like the communications station. Mandalorians are about honor she knew this she wanted to believe that what he was saying was all for the protection of herself and her family. He wouldn't lie.

A hot shower did sound good right now sleep sounded good right now.

She didn't really care about honored dignitary quarters if it had a bed she could sleep but she knew he was putting forth an effort and that was to be appreciated.

"My crew will hate every moment of it, I'll have to take a couple of them with me." She had not verbally said I'll go but everything she was saying said she was going.

But what about the crew of this ship, she looked around again. "Goddess I hope you are right Andorreth, if you're not. Then I'm a fool and incompetent and may be getting my crew killed." She stood straight and called out for her Captain.

"Captain, talk to the pirate crew. See if any of them would prefer serving House Organa as opposed to carrying on their current career track. Anyone who wants to stay let them, watch them closely, test them if you need to, anyone who doesn't sent them out in the escape pods." The Captain looked at her oddly, "Mam they are cut throats, criminals, in there."

Claire nodded, "Yes but maybe no one ever offered them a chance to do anything different. We are going to be true to our course of what we believe and give them a choice." She again said a silent prayer that she hoped this was not the wrong thing to do. She looked over at Andorreth while it might be easy to say to him it's your fault if anything goes wrong, but the truth is it would be on her. She had the final word on all of it.

He had pledged himself to her service, he wouldn't do anything that broke his word.

"I'll need an officer to accompany me to Captain Vikar's ship with the prisoner. Until we know that this ship is safe I think it is in my best interest to go there for safety. And secure the prison for interrogation until we can reach home."

The Captain looked at her stunned, "Mam I will be lodging a complaint when we return to Alderaan."

Claire nodded, "I expected as much. We'll see what the Queen thinks. Until then I would suggest my orders to be carried out." Claire looked at Andorreth again did her fear show, her concerns, or did he see that the attraction they played with earlier was still there in her eyes. She certainly had read one too many holo novels. Tall dark and handsome bad boys always got the girl.

 

[Andorreth Vikar]

I felt bad for suggesting that Claire put herself at odds with her men. I watched her address her men and felt worse, these were her people. Her Captain probably felt as though she was less safe with me and my band of criminal crew...I waited until she was done talking with her crew. When her captain told her he'd be filing a formal complaint upon return to Alderaan I felt even worse...My intent hadn't been to cause division between Claire and her people. I waited as she had some harsh words towards the captain and when she'd finished I approached the Captain. "Sir my intent wasn't to cause division between Lady Organa and you. I just know that the woman in custody was here before we took the ship and there are likely things left here to cause her harm. Traps most likely, you being here ensures that Lady Organa isn't needlessly ordering an execution of the men we took captive. It shows that you took the initiative to clear the ship so that it'd be safe for her."

Pausing I said "Captain you've seen the sabers I carry and the weapons I carry, the way I handle things. You might not believe me but I'll not allow anything or anyone to harm Lady Organa while she is under my protection I know it's your choice to file the complaint but she's seen so much today try not to think too harshly of her." With that I shook his hand and turned on my heel with one of the officers taking the prisoner into custody alongside us accompanying Claire. Making our way to the hangar we swiftly boarded a shuttle and after ensuring Claire was seated beside me I engaged the systems and took off heading back to the Salvation. Activating the console I tapped out a brief message so that only Claire would be able to read it. "I'm sorry I caused problems between you and your men Claire it wasn't my intent." The woman began stirring and I passed a hypo to the officer and said "give her five units of this please it's a mild sedative for until we get her secured in the brig aboard my ship."

He looked at me and nodded slowly before injecting the woman. Then I saw the hangar open up and the atmo shielding flare up, as we passed through the shielding I activated the landing gear and softly set the shuttle down. Triggering the hangar bay doors I watched on screen as they closed up and the shielding flared back down. Triggering the ramp of the shuttle I stood and offered Claire my hand, looking towards the officer I said "there will be a droid along to help you move the prisoner to the brig I'll look after Lady Organa until then. The droid will direct you to her quarters after that is done."

[member="Claire Organa"]

 

[Claire Organa]

Claire was lost in her own world for the moment, how did people live under a death mark? Did they just pretend everything was great until it wasn't? She shook her head not sure what to think.

Claire looked over and saw the message that Andorreth had tapped out. She looked over at him and nodded, "it was my choice, I'm rash at times." True sometimes she didn't think she just reacted and dealt with the result. It had been working really well for her until today.

"The Captain is a good man" she whispered, "He wants to protect Alderaan, his family, and perform his duties. Last time he reported me was because I had requested that the ship serve dual duty ship some of my clothes and allow me to go to a meeting. And there was the time I was holding a party for some models. And the time Jean Paul and his company came on board. And...well you get the picture it's not the first time, won't be last. Faith will ask me I will answer and we will keep going."

Claire set back some she caught the movement of the woman on the floor. She really wanted to kick her as hard as she could but that would be wrong. Even if it may have felt good.

Back in space she could still see her ship drifting. She should have grabbed some clothes, she laughed to herself. But she had her data pad and that was worth more than comfy pajamas, and clean clothes. But umm...that reminded her about her clothes. She was missing a few. She had taken some off to put on the EVA suit to get to the ship they were on.

Oh..hmm..well maybe a service jumper would be available.

The flight was short as Claire turned to rise Andorreth let the House Organa Loyalist know where to take the prisoner as he offered her his hand. She reached out and took it her eyes were on the prisoner she was still out.

"Is the plan to keep her sedated until we reach Alderaan?" She kept her voice low as they walked out onto the flight deck of the Salvation. Salvation. Interesting name for a ship for she thought as she looked about.

[member="Andorreth Vikar"]

 

[Andorreth Vikar]

Claire spoke to me about how it hadn't been the first time being reported by those guarding her. That admission got a smile from me looking towards Claire as we disembarked I said "So you'be been reported before.... bit of a bad girl then hmmmm?" All joking aside Claire had a bit of a rebellious streak, I approved well behaved people rarely changed much. She asked about the prisoner and if the idea was to keep her sedated the whole time there. Looking at Claire I said "As much as I'd love to constantly keep her sedated on the trip there....if we do that she'll start developing a resistance to the stuff. No, she'll be fitted into a chamber that's triple sealed and happens to sit parallel to an airlock so if she gets out of hand we eject the chamber. It has tethers to the Salvation so she won't just be ejected into space. Though it would serve to remind her of her place and how powerless she is right now."

As we walked I said "M'lady, excuse me. Claire. I'll refer to you as Lady Organa or M'lady around your people but for here and now it seems too impersonal. It hadn't escaped me attention that you'll likely need some clothes at least for the return trip to Alderaan. I'm sorry I couldn't let you grab a bag of clothes when I rescued you, I was more interested in keeping you alive. There'll be a set of athletic shorts and either a t-shirt or tanktop for you in your quarters along with most needed things. Full changes of delicate clothes, there should be something in your size Claire. Go ahead and leave the EVA suit outside you door and a droid will come by and we'll get it cleaned up for you."

As we continued walking towards her chambers I could see Claire's eyes roaming the lines of The Rogue's Salvation. Probably the designer in her evaluating the aesthetics of my ship. It likely wouldn't impress anyone on Alderaan but I'd already impressed Claire based on her decision to come aboard the Salvation. There were many things I actually should be concerned about, one of them being clan Ordo....The person who'd trained me wasn't exactly on good terms with Ordo she'd gone to Corellia to disappear from the galaxy at large. My armor was in fact a representation of her training.... Hit decisively Andorreth, that way your target whoever they are is demoralized and never wants to attack you or those you care for again. Goddesses I missed Seras, she'd had a no nonsense way about her. Clan Ordo, Alderaan security and honor guards, Claire's family....Any one of them could take issue with an exiled Corellian prince wearing beskar'gam suited for assassinations and surveillance bringing Claire home to them...

Sighing I raked my right hand through my shaggy black hair and kept silent. Seras had always been fond of saying that staying silent couldn't do anything other than making people uneasy it was when you opened your mouth things changed. For now I was content to see Claire to her chambers so she could actually get a shower and wear some clean clothes....

​@Claire Organa

 

[Claire Organa]

There was a softness to his voice as he spoke littered with hints of understanding. She looked up at him as they walked he smiled her bad girl antics must have entertained him. "A little I just don't like sticking my pinky out all the time" Claire imitated holding a cup with her pinky up.

"Some of the best friends I have I've made through my Design Company. And we like having a good time. Fashion week three times a year, models, designers, customers just letting their hair down it's an awesome time." Claire shrugged her shoulders.

Her question about the prisoner he answered and made clear why. She had to laugh when he described how her cell worked that idea just tickled the devil inside her. She could imaging going through space and suddenly POP into the darkness would she scream? Would she fear for her life? Or would she just wait for it like an old friend? Claire hoped she'd scream and feel the fear.

She however nodded understanding of how it worked.

"You probably should call me M 'lady or Ambassador some folks are sticklers for etiquette especially I front of my crew." She was surprised someone had not said anything to him already but perhaps for a change they were more focused on staying alive rather than what was proper.

"Yeah when you turned up I wasn't thinking I'd end up taking my clothes off, I was more concerned about my designs and my crew. But I accept the offer of clothes and delicates." His offer of a woman's clothing led Claire to believe he was involved with a woman. And why wouldn't he be? Claire shook her head trying to calm the irrational girl in her going, he flirted when you flirted maybe they are his sister's clothes!

She was looking about ships were an art form too sleek lines, efficient designs, and sometimes they gave her inspiration for a new dress for color and style. All while she glanced over at Andorreth watching him his eyes reflected some of his thoughts something was bothering him. But she liked his shaggy black hair it gave the impression or impressed upon her that he was a handsome man. Strong. Resourceful. Honorable.

As they approached what she assumed as the chambers for honorary guests she had to break into his thoughts. "I'll be sure to put the EVA suit in the hall for the droid. I also need to communicate with Alderaan and with Clan Ordo to give them all a briefing on what has happened. And why we are coming in with two ships that do not bear Alderaan registry." She couldn't say thank you to him enough times her offers of help seemed insignificant to his saving her life.

[member="Andorreth Vikar"]

 

[Andorreth Vikar]

I raised my eyes at Claire's comment of how when I showed up she hadn't anticipated taking her cloths off. Well then who knew higher class people could be so improper. Kinda a turn on....shaking my head slightly I looked at her and said "In regards to having your sizes available don't read into it too much. I have a thing about not tolerating slavery, just so happens I was in the position of rescuing a bunch of young women who'd been captured to be sold on the slave markets. I'm an exiled prince with nothing but money I got new clothes and multiple versions of things they needed. I learned to be prepared."

Smiling slightly as Claire looked at me as though evaluating me, she spoke of ensuring the registries were in order and taking care of needed things. Nodding I said "Then I'll leave you to it M'lady Organa. By the way If you're interested in it then way dinner will be prepped by yours truly everyone else has already eaten but I figured I'd extend the offer of decent food and company For when you'd finished with your business and taking care of necessities."

Looking to Claire I gently rapped my right fist against my breastplate. Inclining my head slightly I said "By your leave M'lady." Then turning on my heel and headed to my quarters to strip out of my armor and grab a shower. As I entered my quarters I activated the remote bridge controls and after sending my transponder signal to the ship Claire's crew was aboard I engaged the jump towards Alderaan and began stripping out of my armor and clothes to grab a shower. Odds were that Claire would want a decent meal while we headed to her home I could at least do a little more for her. I mean odds were she hadn't had anything to eat since before waking up to being attacked. Heading into the shower in my cabin I hit the hot water and began getting a quick shower odds were after saving Claire's life I'd be treated to some kind of spa day or something but for now a hot shower and meal with Claire would suit me just fine...

[member="Claire Organa"]