The disturbing view of the Zakuulan Knights shriveled and hollowed out bodies was something he was not expecting to see. Hung in a row and strung together like dried bantha meat, their bodies were wrapped in countless wires and long flexible pipes. Thankfully Arcann was not amongst them. Besides the dead, there was no one around. As his eyes followed the wires and pipes, he noticed they all gathered at the base of a machine standing against the back wall.

They used these people as batteries to fuel the machine, he thought as he stepped closer to examine the peculiar contraption. The round-shaped metal machine which had an unmistakable aura of the Force around it looked and felt like a gateway to hell.

He had never seen anything like this before. This was neither Jedi nor Sith technology, he was sure of that. The machine was far too advanced to be neither of their creations.

Whoever made it was someone exceptionally intelligent, with endless resources, he thought as he placed his gloved hand on its smooth surface.

Then he quickly pulled his hand away feeling the heat of the metal.

This was definitely not intended for the good of mankind, he anxiously thought, as his eyes roamed over the machine. There were no markings of any kind on the contraption that he was able to identify. Although the metal was hot to the touch, the machine looked to be turned off or disabled. There were no buttons or anything on it, for that matter, that he could have used to turn it on.

Then he turned around and looked at the table in the middle of the chamber.

Amidst the many different tools, something caught his attention. Stepping closer, he approached the table and picked up the object. As he held it in his hand, his thoughts went back to the time when he was just a padawan in the Jedi Academy. Amongst the many things he had learned, there was one specific subject that amused him the most. Although this ancient group of aliens was extinguished, he always found their knowledge and powers fascinating, to the point that he wished to meet them one day. However, he knew this was not possible, or at least not until now, he thought puzzled, staring at the object in his hand.

Placing the medallion into his pocket, he took one more measuring look at the room, and then he walked into the cave and headed back out. He had to warn Vaylin and everyone else of the possible danger that can strike at any moment.

On Zakuul, Vaylin gazed at the bright blue sky, as she lay in the soft grass of the clearing that she loved to visit when she was young. She hadn't been here for a long time, but today she felt like she wanted to visit the place that gave her nothing but good memories. As the warm afternoon air caressed her skin, she plucked off a piece of grass and rolled it between her fingers. Then placing the juicy end of it into her mouth, she started to chew on it. The sweet taste of the weed brought up many forgotten memories of her childhood.

How many times did she come here with her brothers to play hide and seek? How many times their careless laughter echoed through the woods as they tried to catch each other?

These sweet memories were the only ones she wanted to remember. Everything else she tried to forget. Especially the things she had done while she was under Adraas's spell. Every time she thought about him, Vaylin wanted nothing more than to barge into his cell and strangle him. After realizing what Adraas did to her, she looked at everyone around her with skeptical eyes, hoping that no one else had this kind of power over her. So far, he resisted the torture, therefore, they were unable to make him talk. Vaylin desperately needed to find out who supplied the information to him that turned her into a mindless puppet. When the perpetrators are revealed, she would execute them with great pleasure.

She couldn't bear the thought to be used as her father used her. Since his passing, Vaylin felt relieved. He was gone and this thought always brought a smile to her face.

"Good riddance…. father." She amusingly said gazing at the chewed up piece of grass. Then she flicked the grass away and placed her hands on her stomach. A small smile appeared on her face as she slowly rubbed the front of her gown. She had never thought that she could be happy after what her father and her mother put her through. As the memories of her mother came into her head her smile quickly turned into a frown.

Vaylin was certain she was alive. She hoped to meet her again and punish her for what she had done. Although it had been a while since they've seen each other, Vaylin was not able to forgive her for leaving her on Nathema. The memory of her mother's anguish scream still rung in her ears as she boarded the shuttle that hovered over the runway of the sanatorium when she attempted to make things right.

"It was too late...mother." Vaylin whispered plucking another grass from the ground. "You were too late."

Taking a deep breath, she tightly wrapped the grass around her finger thinking about how she would love to see her again and strangle her like this piece of weed, she thought with anger. "One day we will meet again." She murmured. "And then I will show you the same agony I had to endure for years and years in that horrible place."

Then, Ven Zallow's handsome face enveloped her mind. With a childish smile, she let go of the grass and placed her hand back over her stomach.

She couldn't wait to tell him the good news. About a week ago, she noticed something different. This pleasant feeling brought nothing but pure joy to her, which greatly surprised her. Vaylin's peculiar blissful attitude also called attention to some of her advisors, giving her appraising looks. For once in her life, she was a pleasant person to be around and others have noticed that too. They wanted to engage in a conversation with her, instead of steering clear like they have done it on so many occasions. She didn't understand why this was happening.

While meditating one night, to her surprise, she discovered something amazing. The small, rapid heartbeats of the fetus were music to her ears, as she sat crossed legged in her meditation chamber smiling to herself.

Soon she was going to be a mother, and she couldn't wait to have this child.

"Mothers are supposed to protect their children." She vowed thinking about how life is going to be once the baby arrives. "I would never let you out of my sight."

While Vowrawn explained to him about the danger that was lurking in the shadows, and also about his plans, Arcann intently listened to his words. He had no doubt the Sith was being reasonable. He had a feeling that the attack on Byss was not a coincidence. They were lucky to leave the planet alive. Then his eyes landed on the other Pureblood Sith, who stood there with folded arms watching Arcann with great interest. Beside him stood another, taller Sith in full armor covering every inch of his muscular body. Although his face was hidden behind a mask, Arcann was able to sense his penetrating gaze. Sitting at the table was the other Sith who saved his life, and next to him sat a dark-haired female Jedi. While Vowrawn spoke, she turned to her mate and whispered something into his ear.

Arcann recognized her being the one who was kept in his father's trophy chamber. The Jedi, Adraas wanted to marry, he thought, as he observed them. He wondered who she was and why Adraas wanted her so badly. She was easy on the eyes, but that wasn't always the main reason for someone to want somebody as Adraas did. There was something else and Arcann wanted to know what it was. If he had to seek an alliance with them, he wanted to make sure there were no secrets kept from him. After all, he was still the Emperor and any final decisions had to be approved by him and no one else.

"Do you agree?" Vowrawn asked.

"I certainly do, yes." Arcann replied staring at Vowrawn. Then he added. "With a few conditions."

A small frown appeared on the Sith's face as he asked.

"What conditions?"

"If we are going to be allies, these need to come off." Saying that he lifted up his right hand that was connected to his ankles by long chains. "There is no need for these chains." Then he added. "I'll give you my word to unite our forces into one strong army to fight against the enemy."

"As you wish." Vowrawn said beckoning to the guards to remove the restraints.

After they removed his chains, Arcann touched the back of his neck and asked. "What about the device?"

"That will stay in until you have earned our trust." This time Marr spoke up.

"Fair enough." Arcann replied with a slight frown. He was not happy to have the device within him, but he understood their doubtfulness toward him.

"What else?" Vowrawn asked.

"I would like to see my mother." Arcann said.

"I can arrange that, no problem." Vowrawn replied. Then he asked. "Anything else?"

"If I must stay, I would like to stay somewhere else besides the prison cell." Arcann replied. "Can you provide me with housing, and possibly with a new arm? I promise you I won't run away."

Folding his arms behind his back, Vowrawn looked at him and then turning to the others he asked.

"What do you say to that?"

"As long as the device is in him, I have no problem with his requests." Marr said.

"I say let him see his mother." Scourge said with a sly grin. Then he added. "Give the man an arm. Look at him, I feel bad to see him like this."

"I would love to invite you to stay at my house, but my father is not truly fond of you." Malgus said with a grin. "I don't want to displease him."

"No need for that." Arcann said looking at Malgus. As he was about to say something again, this time Satele spoke up. "Lana can take you in. Now that her parents are no longer with us, she moved into their mansion. There is plenty of room in that house."

The mention of Lana made Arcann's pulse instantly elevate.

"That's not a bad idea." Vowrawn said scratching his chin. "She can keep an eye on you and on your mother."

"My mother?" Arcann asked. "She is with Lana?"

"Yes." Vowrawn replied.

Suddenly, the conversation between him and Lana came into Arcann's mind. As he realized that Lana was misleading him when he asked about his mother, Arcann cracked a smile. I'll get you for that, he thought with a shrewd smile. His thoughts on Lana were disturbed by Marr's voice.

"I'm going to escort you to the holonet to make a call to your sister. And tomorrow morning, I'll take you to Lana and to your mother."

"Thank you." Arcann said respectfully nodding.

"And as we have already discussed, I am leaving for Csilla." Scourge said.

"Very well." Vowrawn said looking at Scourge. "May the Force guide your way on the journey." Then he added. "Looks like our meeting has concluded. If you don't mind, I'm going to leave now."

With a mischievous smile, Scourge asked.

"Are you visiting the Revanites again?"

"Indeed." Vowrawn replied with a frown. Then he swiftly left the chamber before anyone else asked another question.

"Leave the man alone." Marr said to Scourge. "If you have noticed, since her arrival, he is in a much better mood than he usually is."

"I know." Scourge replied with a wide grin. "I'm just pulling his leg."

"There is nothing wrong with him liking someone like her." Satele said as she stood up and walked around the table. "She is a nice person and I like her."

"I'm not saying that there is anything wrong with that." Scourge said gazing at Satele.

"What is going on?" Arcann asked confused.

"Don't worry about it." Marr said as he gestured Arcann to follow him. "These are things better left alone." He added with a smile.

When Vowrawn reached the Revanites camp, he went looking for Sidonie. He had been visiting the camp more often since her arrival and it caused some unwanted attention. But today was the day when he wanted to ask her to have dinner with him. She had been surprisingly nice to him and he hoped that she would accept his invitation. He found her talking with a few Republic soldiers. When she noticed him, she excused herself and approached him with a smile.

"What brings you here today?" She asked with a mischievous glint in her eyes.

"I came to see you...of course." He replied gazing at her.

Pulling up one of her dark eyebrows, she asked.

"And what can I do for you?"

"Well." Vowrawn started. "Perhaps, you can accept my dinner invitation."

"Hmmm." She said with a sly grin. "Sounds tempting."

"Is that a yes then?" He asked with anticipation.

"Are you cooking?" She inquired.

"Yes, of course." He replied.

For a few seconds, there was an awkward silence between them and then she said.

"What are we waiting for?" With a flirting smile, she added. "I'm famished."

Hours later, both of them feeling exhausted and sweaty, slumped down on top of the covers breathing hard and heavy. Turning to Vowrawn, as she tried to catch her breath, she said.

"Oh… I almost…forgot...how awesome… you were."

Pushing up on his elbows, and as he caressed her face, in a hushed tone he said.

"I missed you."

"You did?" She asked with confusion. "Why would you miss me after what I did to you?"

"That night was an unforgettable night for me." He said with a cunning smile. "How could I forget a woman like you?"

"I know, right?" She said with a grin. "I'm not easy to forget."

Gazing into his eyes, she asked. "So, what are we going to do from now on?"

Pulling her closer, he planted a soft kiss on her lips and then he said. "We would live like there was no tomorrow."

"Are you going to cook every night?" She asked as she twirled her finger around one of his tendrils. "I like your cooking."

"With pleasure." He said and then rolling her body beneath his, they resumed their exciting night.

While Sidonie and Vowrawn enjoyed each other's company, Malgus on the other hand was getting tipsy at Nico's place. He didn't know what brought him here tonight, but he had to talk to someone.

"I've just got here and you're already whining." Nico said while he sipped his drink.

"I needed to talk to someone." Malgus slurred. Then in a more serious tone, he added. "Don't you ever call me a whiner...smuggler."

"Alright." Nico replied. "I'll take it back." Then he added. "So what's the deal with you and Jace?"

Cradling his head, Malgus let out a frustrated sigh and said.

"Satele likes him and considers him a good friend. Lately, they're spending an awful lot of time together."

"Do you think something is going on between them?" Nico asked as he poured another drink into Malgus's cup.

"No." Malgus replied gazing into his cup. "She would never do that to me. She loves me."

"Then why do you care if she wants to spend some time with her friend?" Nico asked. "You know, she knew him way before she met you. He is someone from her past. Let her have some fun with him. If you know she is faithful then you shouldn't worry about this at all."

"I know… I know." Malgus murmured into his cup. "But still, it bothers me so much that sometimes I feel like going into the Revanites camp, and strangle him with my bare hands." Saying that he crushed the empty cup with his hand.

"Whoa." Nico exclaimed. "You need to chill out my friend. If you kill him, Satele would never forgive you, you know that right? She could just pack up everything and you would never see her or your child again. Is that what you want?"

Malgus knew he wouldn't be able to execute the plan he had planned in his head, over and over again. His jealousy over Jace was getting to him and he needed to do something about it before he reached his 'no turning back' point.

"I don't know what to do, Nico." Malgus said gazing at the floor. "One minute I want to strangle him, then the other minute I want to confront Satele about him. But I'm afraid if I do that she'll get upset."

"Are you afraid of her?" Nico asked with disbelief. "That tiny woman is making you tremble with fear?"

Letting out a frustrated sigh, Malgus looked into his eyes and said.

"You don't understand. She is changing. She has developed some crazy mood swings that are driving me crazy. Some days she is all lovely and nice, then the next day she is like your worst nightmare. I'm so lost Nico, I don't understand this."

"Well, she is pregnant." Nico replied suppressing a smile. "It's natural for her to act that way." Then he added. "It's her changing hormones and your baby that's doing this to her."

Lifting up his hands in defeat, Malgus said.

"I know, but every time I try to talk to her, either she is complaining about something or there is always something in her mouth."

"That's not a bad thing." Nico said with a mischievous wink.

"Nico!" Malgus growled looking at his amused expression.

"Alright, alright." Nico said. "I get it." Then he added. "So what are you going to do about Jace? Do you have a plan?"

"No, I don't have one." Malgus replied with a frustrated expression.

"But I think I might have one." Nico replied leaning forward.

"What do you mean?" Malgus asked puzzled.

"You told me that he attacked you on the day of his arrival. Apparently he has a grudge against you. I think the best thing would be if you two would let off some steam by some good old fashioned brawl." Nico replied with a wink.

"A fistfight?" Malgus asked feeling amused. "You're joking, right?"

"Not at all my friend." Nico replied as he stood up and walked to his closet. While he searched in the closet, he asked.

"Do you remember the drug from Lehon?"

"Of course." Malgus replied with distaste. "How can I forget?"

"I happen to have a spare bottle in my suitcase." Nico replied and then he walked out of the closet with a small bottle in his hand.

"What are you up to?" Malgus asked with suspicion, looking at the bottle.

"If you and Jace are going to settle this with a fight, you need to be fair to him, and take some of this." Nico replied offering the bottle to him. "The rest you can keep and use it to analyze it if you want to do that." With a devious grin, he added. "Of course for a good price."

From his face, Malgus's attention landed on the bottle. This was the last thing he wanted to see or hear about right now. This drug had caused much heartache and brought up some memories he wished to forget. But if he wanted to let out his frustration on Jace, he had no choice but to take Nico's advice into consideration and take the drug.

After placing some credits in Nico's hand, Malgus took the bottle from him and asked.

"When?"

"Go home and take it before you go to bed." Nico replied. "It will knock you out, and Satele would think you just had a tad too much to drink." Then he added. "In two days, meet me at Lana's estate. It will give me enough time to talk to her about letting you two use her property for your dispute and enough time to talk to Jace. I have a feeling he is not going to turn me down."

"Deal." Malgus said. Then he stood up and was about to leave when Nico said.

"Make sure Satele doesn't know about this. I don't think it would be a good idea if she found out about what you're planning to do."

"Don't worry. She won't know." Malgus replied and then he stepped out and headed back home.

The following morning while Malgus was still asleep, Satele got up and walked downstairs to eat some breakfast. She wasn't thrilled about him coming home in the middle of the night smelling like booze. Satele didn't mind Nico being here, she even found him a pleasant person to be around, but he was not the greatest influence when it came to drinking. Malgus rarely drank and she wasn't surprised that he was still passed out from last night's shenanigans. She wondered what they were talking about that took him so long to get back home. Then her thoughts went to Lana and Arcann. She hoped that with her intervention, they'd make up and possibly get to know one another better. Her heart went out to Lana, and she wanted her friend to be happy again. While Satele was having breakfast at home, Lana also had breakfast with Senya. Then the doorbell rang and she heard Marr at the front door.

"Good morning. We came to see Lana."

"This way my Lords." The servant replied gesturing them to step inside.

As soon as they walked into the expansive, modern kitchen, Senya let out a small gasp seeing her son again.

"Arcann." She said with an amazed expression.

"Mother." He said as she rushed to embrace him. While the two of them were reunited, Lana approached Marr and then she said.

"Thank you."

"Anything for you Lana." He said with a warm smile. Then he added. "Keep an eye out for them, and report anything suspicious to me."

"I will." Lana replied looking up to his masked face.

"Soon we will have more company visiting Dromund Kaas. We need to be ready." Marr said, and then saying farewell to them he left the house.

"Would you like some breakfast, my Lord?" The servant asked looking at Arcann with great fascination.

"That would be nice." Arcann replied.

After the servant placed his plate in front of him, she left the kitchen.

Reaching up, Arcann removed his mask and placed it on the table.

"I'm so happy to see you again my son?" Senya said with a warm smile.

"I'm happy to be here, mother." He replied. Then his eyes found Lana's and a sudden tingle was felt all over his body. Lana must've felt the same because she swiftly turned her attention back to her plate, quickly finishing her food.

After breakfast, while Senya was in the refresher, Arcann was about to put the mask back, when Lana reached over and placed her hand on his.

"You don't need to wear it at my house." Then with a sly smile, she added. "I don't mind seeing your ugly face."

"Thank you, Lana." Arcann said with a mischievous grin shaking his head. "You never cease to amaze me with your straightforwardness."

"My house, my rules." She added with a flirty smile.

"What else do I have to do to obey by these rules of yours?" He asked as he gently rubbed his thumb over the top of her hand.

The gesture felt innocent, even friendly, but Lana knew better. Swallowing hard, she pulled her hand out of his, and as she stood up, she said.

"Let me show you to your room and then I'll show you around."

"So this is going to be my room?" He asked looking inside the lavishly decorated guest room once they reached it.

"Yes." She replied standing behind him. "Do you like it?"

"I'm pleased enough." He replied and then he turned around and looked at her.

"Where is your room?" He asked.

"Why do you want to know that?" She inquired.

With a mischievous smile, he said. "Just in case I have a bad dream."

"You have your mother to comfort you if you happen to have one." Lana replied folding her arms in front of her chest.

"I'm too old to seek my mother's arms." He said gazing into her crimson eyes.

"I don't think you'll ever be too old for me." Senya's voice was heard behind Arcann. Then she added. "You were always the needy one, isn't that right my son?"

Turning to face her, Arcann looked at his mother and with a frown, he said.

"Thank you, mother."

Senya wasn't blind to see that her son was head over heels for Lana. Although she didn't know Lana for that long, however, she could sense the inner struggle within her when Arcann was around. She was certain there was an undeniable attraction between them that was hard to conceal. Nevertheless, she was happy to see them together and hoped their relationship will eventually turn into something more than just friendship.

The next day after Senya left the house to go to see Sidonie and the Revanites, Lana and Arcann were getting ready to leave as well.

They headed toward an old training facility that she used to use as a young child when her parents found out about her Force sensitivity. The metal building at the edge of the property was abandoned for a while now. However, today was the day when this place that stood dear to her heart was to be put to use again.

"Are you sure they are coming?" Arcann asked looking around the darkened building.

"I'm sure they'll be here soon." Lana replied as she turned on the lights.

"Hmmm, not bad." Arcann murmured looking around the training facility.

"My parents built this for me and I made very good use of it." Lana explained. "I loved to come here to release my pent up anger." She said laughing.

"What's funny?" Arcann asked looking at her.

"There was this kid who loved to bug me." She started to say. "I asked him several times to leave me alone, but he was not a great listener. One day I had enough of his bullying and I decided to invite him to my birthday party." With a wicked grin, she added. "You should have seen his face how happy he was to be at the party. While everyone was having a great time in the house, I lured him out and brought him here."

"What did you do to him?" Arcann asked with great interest.

"Well." She said with a sheepish smile. "The only thing you need to know is that he never bugged me again."

"I can't imagine that you would hurt someone for fun." He said stepping closer.

"Let's say it was a fun-filled birthday for me." She chimed.

"Do you think we can train here together?" He asked searching her eyes.

"I don't see why not." She said stepping closer to him.

There were a few awkward moments of silence as they stared into each other's eyes.

Lana sensed he wanted to kiss her and she was even going to let him when the door opened again and Nico walked in accompanied by Jace.

"Good morning everyone!" Nico shouted clapping his hands. "What a nice morning we have."

"Hey, Nico." Lana said. "Great timing."

"Oh." Nico said as he abruptly stopped looking at them both. "Did we just disturb a lovely moment?"

"Don't be a smart ass." Lana said staring at him.

"I apologize my Lady." He replied with a wink. Then he turned to Jace and said.

"This is Jace, he is one of the toughest and best Republic troopers I've ever met."

Nodding his head toward Jace, Arcann said. "Nice to meet you."

Jace already knew who Arcann was and was not thrilled to see him here. However, it was wise to stay on the Emperor's good side. Arcann was a powerful Force user and Jace was aware of his own strength, which couldn't measure up to his. One wrong move and he could end up dead. However, today he had an opportunity to take his anger and frustration out on the man who gave him and his brothers nothing but pain and heartache. As Nico informed him, Malgus was just a regular man like him and he was looking forward to having his revenge.

"Where is Malgus?" Nico asked looking at Lana. "How come he is not here?"

"I'm sure he'll show up soon." Lana replied. Then she looked past Nico and saw Malgus walking in.

"Speak of the devil." She chimed watching him approaching them.

As Jace turned around, his eyes locked onto Malgus's. He had to restrain himself not to rush at him. Malgus also locked eyes with him feeling the tension already building up in the back of his skull. He was ready to pounce on this man and was itching to start the fight.

"Ahhh." Nico said looking at Malgus. "Finally you have arrived." Then jokingly he added. "For a second, I thought you had changed your mind."

"You should know me better." Malgus replied with a grin.

"Alright then." Nico said as he stood between the two men. "The rules are." Saying that he lifted up his right index finger. "This is not a fight to the death. Take it as a morning exercise." Then he lifted up his middle finger and said. "No weapons are allowed. This is purely a good old fashioned boxing match." Turning to Jace, he asked. "I guess you had plenty of them during your training, right?"

Nodding in agreement, Jace looked from Nico to Malgus while his hands curled into fists.

Then lifting up his ring finger, Nico said. "Whoever taps out first is the looser. And you have to respect that no matter what. If you happen to go overboard, I have Lana and Arcann here to stop you. Do you understand?" He asked looking at them both.

"Yes." They replied in unison.

"Alright then." Nico said stepping away from them. "Let the fun begin."

"This is going to be interesting." Lana said folding her arms in front of her chest, watching the two men staring at each other.

"Who do you think will win?" Arcann whispered to her.

"Honestly?" She said as she bit her lower lip. "I have no clue."

Pulling his top over his head, Malgus discarded it to the floor and waited on Jace to make the first move.

Also taking his top off, Jace was ready to attack his long time enemy.

"I've been waiting for this opportunity." Jace said staring at Malgus.

Lifting his pale, muscular arms to the side, Malgus beckoned him as he said.

"Then what are you waiting for soldier?"

Within seconds, Jace reached Malgus and threw a powerful right hook at his right side followed by another one that caught him on the side of his head. Malgus absorbed the trauma swallowing the pain. Pain was just an illusory sensation that his mind could shut down if it needed to, he told himself. To his surprise, Jace's first moves were proven to be fast and strong. Malgus barely evaded the next move, as he was about to land another blow on him. As Jace swung his arm around, he left himself open for a second, giving Malgus the opportunity to reach in.

As he slipped to the side, he drove his knee into Jace's abdomen, instantly knocking the air out of him. As Jace staggered back, Malgus swiftly spun around, and with a roundhouse kick, he sent the stunned soldier flying through the air.

With a loud thud, Jace landed on his side. For a few painful seconds, everything around him went blurry. As his vision cleared, he watched Malgus rush toward him in slow motion. As he reached him, Jace swung his foot out and kicked the side of Malgus's right leg, just below the knee, causing Malgus to lose his balance. Then he quickly jumped to his feet and smashed his right elbow on the bridge of Malgus's nose, instantly breaking the skin and bone.

There was a loud crunching sound, followed by Malgus's agonizing grunt as the sudden taste of blood enveloped his mouth and nose. The last time he tasted his own blood was on the dreadnaught, courtesy of Adraas. The memory of that day and Jace's smug face was enough to drive him mad.

Never underestimate your opponent, he bitterly thought as he straightened up and rushed at the soldier. Jace threw up his forearms and waited on the inevitable impact that Malgus was bringing at him at full speed. As soon as Malgus reached him, he stepped to the side and pushed Jace's elbow down and away, caught his head, and rolled him onto the floor.

Landing on top of Jace, Malgus quickly mounted him and then repeatedly punched him in the face and throat, breaking skin and bone, slowly turning Jace's face into a raw bantha burger.

Before he was about to lose consciousness, Jace managed to land a blow in the V under his ribs where the sternum ends. Instantly, it paralyzed Malgus's diaphragm and he gasped and doubled over. Quickly, Jace caught Malgus's wrists, and as he pushed up, a loud, anguished roar left his blood-crusted mouth, driving Malgus's arms up, and away from his face. Using one of his legs, he quickly wrapped it around Malgus's torso, and with great momentum; he rolled him down to the floor and started to squeeze him as hard as he could.

"Fascinating." Lana said with awe, watching them struggling against one another on the floor. She knew Malgus since childhood and this was the first time she had seen him close to being defeated.

"Should we intervene?" She asked looking at Arcann.

"Not yet." Arcann replied. Secretly, he enjoyed the fight. He was curious to see if a Force user like Malgus without his powers was strong enough to defeat a well-trained soldier. He wanted to see the outcome of this fight, and so far it looked like the soldier was getting the upper hand. Then a sudden memory of his brother invaded his mind as he looked at the men's entangled bodies. Growing up, they loved to play wrestling games and heroes of imaginative wars that they always won. It was amazing to have his brother in his life, but he was gone and the weight of the guilt Arcann felt since Thexan's passing was still crushing his weathered soul. He had no idea if he could ever forgive himself for what he had done. Then he heard Nico's excited voice.

"Looks like we have a winner."

By twisting and turning his body, Malgus managed to get out of Jace's hold, and now he was lying on his back holding Jace in a headlock on top of him. As his neck was being squeezed, Jace bitterly realized he was on the losing end of this fight. He held out as long as he could, but the pressure on his neck was just too much to take. Putting his pride aside, he tapped on Malgus's elbow a few times, signaling him to end his suffering.

Reluctantly, Malgus loosened his grip on Jace and then pushed him away. Breathing heavily, both men were sweaty and bloody as they sat on the floor beside each other.

Arcann smiled on the inside. For a few short moments, he thought Malgus was going to lose. However, he proved to be a great fighter, making him proud. Although he wasn't Thexan, still they shared the same blood, now like brothers, and Arcann hoped to get to know him a little better.

Stepping closer to them, Nico looked at Jace and then Malgus and with a wide grin, he said.

"I hope that you are both satisfied and after today's brawl, this will never happen again. Unless Jace wants to do a re-match." Looking at Jace, he asked. "Jace?"

Shaking his head, he spat out some bloody saliva and said.

"No, I'm good."

"What about you Malgus?" Nico asked looking at his blood-drenched face. "Are you satisfied?"

"Satisfied?" He asked looking up to Nico's face. "My momentary satisfaction will end as soon as I go home. And believe me, I'm not looking forward to doing that." Thinking about facing Satele gave a sour taste in his mouth. Now, after everything was done, he regretted this fight a little, thinking about the consequences. No, he thought with a wicked grin glancing at Jace's torn up face, it was still worth it.

That afternoon when Satele got home, she found Malgus in the Zoo feeding the animals. His back was to her as she approached him. But when he heard her, he turned around causing Satele to gasp in horror.

"What happened to you?" She exclaimed. "Who did this to you?"

"I got into a fight." He said looking at her horrified expression.

"A fight?" She asked confused. "With who?"

"With Jace." He replied.

"What?!" She shouted. Then she worriedly asked. "Did you kill him?"

Malgus didn't reply, but instead, he reached into the bucket and threw another piece of meat into the cage.

Satele's widened eyes followed the meat as it landed on the ground in front of the animals. Swallowing hard, she licked her lips, and then she said.

"Please tell me this is not him."

"What are you talking about?" Malgus replied throwing another piece of meat to the animals. Then, a sly grin appeared on his face when he realized what she meant. Holding up a piece of meat, he asked. "This?"

Satele's eyes grew dark as the anger started to take over her. As her breathing became ragged, her hands curled into fists looking at Malgus's smug expression.

She was about to strike him when he said.

"He came pretty close to kicking my ass. He is a great soldier and he knows how to fight. We need people like him. I'm glad he is on our side."

"Where is he?" She asked puzzled, as she slowly calmed down.

Nonchalantly shrugging his shoulders, Malgus replied. "He is definitely not in this bucket if that is what you thought."

"You bastard." She growled and then playfully punched him on the right shoulder. A burst of small laughter left her mouth and then her face became serious as she said.

"So tell me what happened before I kick your ass."

Putting the bucket down, he swiftly grabbed her by the waist and as he pulled her closer he said.

"Not before I get my kiss."

"I'm not sure if you deserve one." Satele said looking at his swollen nose and lips.

"All right." He said searching her eyes. "I'll tell you everything that happened, and then I'm going to get my kiss."

"Your overconfidence is going to get you killed one day, you know that right, husband?" She said with a mischievous smile, shaking her head.

With a wicked grin, he replied. "We'll see about that."

"What is going on?" Senya asked while they were having dinner. "What did I miss?" She asked looking from her son to Lana.

"Don't worry mother." Arcann replied. "It's nothing."

"Oh, I see." She said gazing into her son's eyes.

"Just tell her." Lana said suppressing a smile. "She'll find out anyway."

"What are you talking about?" Senya asked putting down her fork. Then with a suspicious glare, she looked at Lana and asked.

"Are you pregnant? Because if you are, I'm going to be one happy grandma."

"Excuse me?" Lana blurted out as she spat some of her food back onto her plate.

"Mother?" Arcann exclaimed. "Of course she is not pregnant. Why would you think that?"

"The way you look at this woman is a sure sign of your affection toward her." Then she added. "I'm old but not blind."

"Mother...please." Arcann said in a reprimanding tone. Then he added. "We were talking about something else."

After they told her what happened between Malgus and Jace, Senya shook her head and said.

"I understand. It's a man thing. They always have to prove themselves worthier than the other." Shaking her head, she added. "I will never forget when you and your brother used to beat up on each other when you were young." Taking a deep breath she resumed. "I miss those times. I wish we could just go back in time and make things right."

Lana knew exactly what she felt. She also wished for the same thing. Then her eyes landed on Arcann who quietly stared at his plate. She couldn't imagine how he was able to carry on after killing his twin. It must've been a terrible burden to live with. Lana felt sorry for him.

"When is your sister coming?" Senya asked looking at Arcann's stern face.

"Soon." He replied. Then turning to his mother he said. "I'm not sure if it's a good idea for you to meet her."

"You don't think I can handle my own daughter?" Senya asked with an accusing stare.

"You don't know her. She's changed." Arcann replied. "She is a different person now who hates you with a passion. The last thing I need is an unnecessary family feud in the middle of all this."

"So, you want to keep me away, is that what you're saying?" Senya asked feeling hurt and disappointed.

"Yes, mother." Arcann replied gazing into her eyes. "At least for now." Then he added. "I didn't tell her about you being here. Please let's keep it this way until you two are ready to meet."

"As you wish...my son." Senya said as she stood up and grabbed her plate.

"Leave it." Lana said. "I'll clean up."

"Alright." Senya replied putting her plate back on the table. "I'm going to retire for the night. Good night." She said curtly and then she walked out of the kitchen leaving Arcann and Lana alone.

"Are you finished?" Lana asked looking at Arcann's half-eaten plate.

"Yes." He said pushing the plate away from him.

Getting up, Lana gathered everything from the table, and after cleaning the plates off; she placed them into the sink and started to wash up. Tonight she gave the servants their well-deserved break. She didn't mind helping around the house as long as she didn't have to do laundry or clean the windows.

While the warm water ran down her hands, she felt Arcann standing behind her.

"I would love to give you a hand, but as you can see, I only have one." He said with slight mischief.

"That's alright." She replied as she soaked the dirty dishes into the soapy water. "I'm perfectly capable of doing this."

"I can see that." He replied leaning against the counter watching her.

"You can go to bed now." Lana said rinsing off some of the dishes.

Suddenly a huge lightning strike ripped through the darkness outside, making Lana jump. Then the very familiar sounds of raindrops started to bash against the windows.

"I could." Arcann replied. "But I don't want to go...alone."

"Are you scared of a little storm?" Lana asked with a wicked grin glancing his way.

"Terrified." Arcann replied, and then he placed his hand on her arm and turned her to face him.

Leaning closer, he ran his fingers down the side of her face, and then, cupping her face into his hand, he pulled her closer until their lips hovered only inches away from each other.

"May I kiss you?" He asked gazing at her lips.

Lana's pulse instantly accelerated being this close to him. She wanted to say no, but she knew it would have been against her true wishes. She wanted to do more than just kiss him. She wanted to feel all of him on her, within her and this alluring thought made her body tremble.

"Yes, you may." She replied mesmerized by his lips.

Gently, he kissed her and then pulling her closer, he pressed his body against hers. Letting go of the dishrag, she wrapped her arms around his neck and returned the kiss with passion.

Her lips tasted wonderful. Holding her tight, he ran his hand down her back till he reached her backside.

Beneath her pants, her body felt just as he imagined it, firm and soft.

Then another lightning strike crashed through the night, lighting up the kitchen with its blinding white light. Breaking the kiss, Lana panted hard as she said.

"We better get out of here before someone sees us."

"My room?" He asked gazing into her eyes. "Yours?"

Grabbing his hand, she pulled him toward her room. As soon as they stepped in, she locked the door and then turning around she stared at him.

"Are we really going to do this?" She asked with anticipation. He was already here in her room and there was no backing down now.

"You seem a little unsure." He asked stepping closer. Then he asked. "Have you been with someone before?"

"Not exactly." She replied biting her lower lip.

Puzzled, he asked. "What do you mean?"

Lana felt no shame telling him what she did with one of Nico's finds. After she was done talking, Arcann cracked a smile and said as he pulled her closer.

"There's no comparison to a real man." Then he added as he planted a kiss on her lips. "I'm glad I'll be your first."

After undressing each other, he laid her down on the bed and as his eyes roamed over her beautiful naked body, his excitement started to grow, which she noticed right away.

"May I touch it?" She asked with curiosity, propping herself up on her elbows. She had never seen a naked man before and she was curious how it felt when it was touched.

"If you want to." Arcann replied with a smile kneeling in front of her.

Beneath her fingertips, the skin felt smooth, and warm but also hard and extremely arousing, she thought, running her hand up and down his length. Suddenly, the memory of Lyrna's teachings came to her mind about how to please a man.

With one quick push, she shoved him back on the covers.

"Whoa." Arcann said surprised. "What are you doing?"

"You'll see." She replied with a wicked grin.

Wrapping her fingers around him, she started to move her hand up and down, while with fascination she watched his face, showing nothing but great pleasure.

"Am I doing this right?" She teasingly asked.

"Hmmm…. yes." Arcann replied with a moan.

"How about this?" She said licking her lips, as she picked up her pace.

"Hmmm." Arcann made a low growl in his throat. "Not bad at all."

"Not bad?" She asked as she leaned closer. "How about now?" Saying that she wrapped her lips around him and slid his length into her mouth.

"Ahhh." A deep moan left Arcann as she licked and teased him. Every time she moved her head, his body greatly trembled from the bliss she was giving him. Also, by doing this, her own excitement started to stir within her body. She couldn't wait to feel him inside her.

Arcann knew if she didn't stop, he would not be able to stop his climax that was getting nearer. Then he felt a sharp pain.

"Agh..Lana." He cried out. "Your teeth."

With her mouth full, she mumbled something, and then as she let him go, she said.

"Don't worry, I'm not that crazy."

Leaning his head back on the pillow, he let out a big sigh and said.

"That's good to know."

Then he said as he beckoned her. "Come here. I want to do something for you."

Crawling up his body, she pressed her lips to his and while his hand explored her, his mouth found her earlobe and sucked it in, gently nibbling on it.

Having only one arm was a disadvantage, however, it didn't stop him from exploring her body. While his mouth teased her ear and neck, he cupped one of her perfectly shaped perky breasts into his hand and started to knead it, enjoying her smooth skin beneath the palm of his hand. Then he grabbed her by the waist and pulled her further up until her breasts were aligned with his head.

"Beautiful." He said in a hushed tone gazing at her light pink erect nipples.

"You like them?" She asked with amazement.

"Why wouldn't I?" He asked as he sucked one of them into his mouth. "They're wonderful." He said as he switched from one breast to the other. "And taste delicious." With a mischievous tone, he added. "Better than your cooking."

"Ouch." She said feigning hurt. "I'll get you back for that."

"Oh, I hope you do." He said as he drew a slow, sensual circle with his tongue around one of the nipples.

Then he looked up to her flushed face and said.

"I want you to sit on my face."

"Sit on your face?" She asked confused.

Nodding his head he said.

"I want to show you that an ugly face like mine can make you smile."

First, Lana didn't understand why he wanted to do that. Reluctantly, she placed her bottom over his face. As he started to tease her private parts, the amazing sensation she felt took over her body. Tightly holding onto the headboard, she started to moan and whimper every time he touched her down there. This feeling was so amazing she started to get louder.

"Lana." Arcann said. "Be quiet. You're going to wake my mother up."

"Ahhhh." She panted hard. "I…don't care. It feels just too damn good."

As he resumed his teasing, Lana felt her orgasm was slowly building up within her. She knew that soon she was going to reach her peak, and this time it was not done by some pleasure machine, but by a real man and not just any man, but Arcann himself, and that was even more exciting.

Moving her hips back and forth, her climax came crashing down on her with an astonishing sensation that left her in awe. The pleasure was so intense, she nearly cracked the wooden bed frame holding onto it, while her whole body shuddered above his face. Trying to stay quiet, she smothered her cries by covering her mouth with her hand. She didn't want anyone to barge in here and see them like this. Then as her orgasm dwindled, she slumped down on the bed beside him and broke out in laughter.

"What is so funny?" He asked, wiping his mouth with the back of his hand.

"You were right." She said as he pulled her closer. "You did make me smile."

"I told you." He said with a mischievous smile pulling her hips up to his.

"Now." He said placing himself at her entrance. "I'm going to show you something else that will make you smile even more."

"Oh." She panted. "I can't wait."

"Just do me a favor." He said as he slowly entered her. "Hold me up, would you?" Saying that he gestured toward his stump.

Pushing her palm against his left shoulder, she let out a small whimper as their bodies merged. The mixture of pain and ecstasy that rushed through her was astonishing. As he started to move his hips, Lana felt lost within the sensations.

The tightness of her sex felt impeccable. It had been a while since he had been with someone. However, Arcann was perfectly capable of staying in control of his body. He was able to last for hours, but being with Lana was somewhat different. He liked her. She was not like the others, and he had a little difficulty to keep himself in check.

"Does it feel good?" He asked gazing into her eyes.

"Oh… yes." She moaned. Then with a sly grin, she added. "But my arm is getting numb."

"Ok…hold on." He said suppressing a smile. "Let's try this then."

Flipping her to her stomach, he mounted her from behind. Then while he resumed his moves, he propped himself on his elbow and planted kisses on the back of her neck and shoulders.

The way he twirled his hips as he moved in and out of her and feeling the sheets rubbing against her sex was so amazing, Lana couldn't get enough of him. The slow build-up within her core felt wonderful, making her feel dazed. Now she understood why others enjoyed this type of intimacy.

"Do you think I can make you smile again?" He breathlessly whispered into her ear.

"Yes." The sheets muffled her reply. "Just don't stop please."

"I won't." He said picking up his pace.

Before she reached her climax, he quickly raised her backside up and while kneeling behind her, he re-entered her again and kept on going until her muffled cries enveloped the bedchamber.

Lana's thighs and arms greatly trembled as she came undone again and again. It seemed like not just her body, but also the whole bed and the room moved with them. Then before he reached his orgasm, Arcann swiftly pulled out, and with a deep, satisfying growl, he finished on her backside.

Feeling out of breath, he reached down and pulled one of the sheets up and cleaned off her back, and then tossed the sheet to the floor. Then his attention turned back to her enticing backside and with a mischievous grin, he smacked her, turning her pale skin to a deep shade of pink.

"Ouch." She said lifting up her head and looking back to him. "Why did you do that?"

"I wanted to do it while we were doing it but I wasn't sure if you'd like it or not." Arcann replied.

Getting up she turned around, and as she enfolded her arms around his neck, in a hushed tone, she said.

"Hmmm...I think I would like it."

"I'm glad you approve." He replied. Then she silenced him with a kiss.

In the kitchen below, holding a cup of water, Senya let out a smile looking toward the ceiling. Swiftly, she gulped down the water and then re-filled her cup.

As she walked back to her room, and while shaking her head, she murmured.

"I might be old, but not blind."

To be continued...