Let's Reach for the Stars

[Gaja]

It was difficult to figure out life. Sometimes things would get so confusing you forgot, or just didn't even know, who you were anymore, let alone why certain things were happening. Solving that puzzle was difficult, to put it mildly, even for the most educated of scholars let alone a mercenary from Nar Shaddaa. A smirk creped its way back on to his face at the thought of the comparison. It wasn't that he didn't give the topic a fair amount of thought, but in the end he felt that a more appropriate way to go about it was to ask oneself how you should live your life and look at the present and ahead to the future, not the past. Despite his profession and reputation it could be argued that good ol' Yuri was a bit of a philosopher at heart.

And there he was, deep inside a comfortable booth in a restaurant, sitting and enjoying a meal looking up at the stage as an all too familiar tune began. A gentle melody was played on the piano as a familiar voice reached his ears and the ears of everyone in the place. It was a Cartel place, that used to be in Vero's turf, now it was just under Yuri's protection. Still managed after all these years by his childhood friend Xalax who by now was whipping a glass up for the mercenary.

~ Been a fool, been a clown...​

Cigara smoke filled the establishment, and while it may have bothered some in Yuri's opinion it gave the place a certain vibe. Sitting in his private booth like always and enjoying his meal he looked up at the young singer as she sang, her words reaching him like few things did. It was a nostalgic song that reminded him of simpler times. He didn't exactly think of himself as old, but he certainly was no longer that same boy in chains. Everything and everyone changed with time, he thought, even he looked different. Indeed it could be said that Yuri, for the first time in forever looked different. It wasn't that he had some grand suit of armor on or anything silly like that. No. He simply had grown his hair in to a pony tail.

It was as simple as that, not that big of a deal really. But it certainly was a topic that people kept bringing up. Tying it up in to a pony tail the man was mildly amused by how different everyone claimed he looked. And maybe a bit of a change was in order looking back at the last two years. It was shown how fragile the peace really was as the Empire once again chose the war path, the Mandalorian Genocide, Tsu's disappearance and of course Vero's death...

It was certainly a difficult time for the galaxy but as he stopped eating and enjoyed the music and the performance of the artist Yuri was reminded that it wasn't all bad. While he no longer had Tulia or Tsu in his life the man had someone else, someone he cared for much more than himself. His daughter Emma. And even though there were a couple other kids that he picked up over the years and cared for, like Nemo, Emma was his. She simply had a special place in his heart.

But she wasn't the only good thing in his life. He had friends, good friends that he could rely on. And one of them was on his way here as the song continued. He was reminded by the goofy haired prick about his force sensitivity a couple of months ago, but just like all those years ago he still devoted little time to it. Rather with the death of Vero he watched the Hutt Cartel go back to it's former state with ambitions toppling unity and several big families emerging.

To the galaxy it was business as usual, and few dared to mess with them as the Hutt Cartel showed a united front but people on the inside knew that now instead of one figurehead that led them there were several. And knowing Hutts it was a fragile alliance, especially now that the balance was just established.

Yuri himself was, officially, part of no family however he certainly knew all of them and they knew him. Remembering the Grand Council meeting over a year ago things sure changed around here...

 

[Zay]

There were few people in the universe who could get me to drop what I was doing and meet them at a moments notice. Yuri Sharp was one of them. The mercenary was my boss, my mentor, and my best friend. I was basically adopted into the Sharp family a few months ago and for the first time in seven years my life had purpose. Emma was like a little sister to me and Yuri my brother. They were two people I'd kill for at the drop of a hat. Yuri had taken me in when no one else would give me a shot. He'd taken a risk and I could only hope I'd done him proud.

It had been a few since out last meeting. A lot had happened in that time. I'd become an enforcer. Me a kriffing enforcer. I'd met someone who I cared about just as much as I did Yuri and Emma, which was way more surprising then my rank up. Oh and.... I'd been training my connection to the force, like a lot. Nakoma had been giving me the basic's and i'd pretty much picked them up like a flash. My specialties seemed to be telekinesis, and telepathy and I used them daily. Whether it was manipulating Ebony and Ivory or talking to Nakoma. I spotted the joint Yuri asked me to join him at and immediately knew my bro wasn't in a good place. This was one of Vero's old places.

As I entered the lounge the saddest song I'd ever heard came to an end and the band kicked it up a notch. The song put a little
pep in my step as I made my way to the Vip section. Dressed in my formal attire, a black pinstripe suit, solid black button down, red tie and black dress shoes with a red sole, I was turning heads left and right as I walked through the restaurant. As I reached Yuri's private table I smiled and said "Hey mop top, what's happening?"

I took a seat across from Yuri and slapped his shoulder as I did so. I could sense more then see his mood. The force allowed one to see much more then the eye typically allowed. I wanted to help the big guy. I needed to. Yuri had been there for me when I needed him and I'd be damned if I wasn't gonna be there for him. Pulling my data pad from my pocket I opened up my latest Bounty request and slid it across to him.

"This is Daria Kallam. She's the adopted daughter of a higher up in the cartel. She's gone missing. Main suspect is a local P.I. who calls himself Baskervill." I knew Yuri didn't nee the money, but I knew he wouldn't turn down a mission that involved helping a young woman who was lost and possibly in trouble. That hit to close to home for him. "So, what do you say chocolate bear? You gonna join me or am I flying solo on this one?" In all honesty, there would be time to fill Yuri in on all my accomplishments after the mission. the main focus right now was getting him back on his feet.

 

[Gaja]

Offering a soft clap after the song concluded the music was shuffled a bit and a more upbeat tune took over. It wasn't that Yuri was sad, but when a certain man with swagger arrived his spirits were certainly lifted as a big smile spread over his face as he saw Zane in the corner of his eye. The Champios wasn't dressed as flashily as Zane, who moved up in the world judging from the way he dressed. No no, Yuri was wearing simple black suit pants, a blue shirt and an expensive silver watch. He certainly liked watches, and it showed as it was clearly a very expensive one...

Getting back to his meal Yuri didn't give the recently promoted Enforcer any more attention, he was getting enough of that from the others in the place as it was. His smile however didn't go away. Good friends, brothers, had that ability to make you happy and Yuri didn't wish to hide it. He did however wish to finish his lunch. And then came the comment about his hair... Few people had the balls to speak in that manner to Yuri, not that he was offended or anything, it was simply how things were. And while some people in Yuri's position might get upset or angry the mercenary offered a reply, without skipping a beat I might add. "You're one to talk."

There was no need to call for a waiter as one was already on his way to their table as soon as Zane took a seat. Slicing the meat that was on his plate Yuri left the food alone and leaned back in to his chair, fully focusing his attention on Zane. "Nice suit. You wore that to your high school graduation?" Offering some sort of derp face to make his point clear the opening greetings seemed to be out of the way at this point...

The guy just had an energy that drew you in and lifted the spirits, and for that Yuri loved the guy. This time however it seemed that they'd also talk some business as well. Taking the datapad in to his hands Yuri looked at the information that was displayed. As well as a picture of her...

Yuri offered a nod of approval and added a comment. "Pretty girl." Looking the information over it showed that she went missing, but didn't say how. It also didn't say anything about this Baskerville fellow, so Yuri assumed that Zane did a bit of digging on his own. It seemed like the guy was established enough, which made Yuri glad. Not that he thought he was responsible for anything, he was simply glad that Zane was moving forward in this cut-throat environment. Looking the information over the datapad was softly put back on the table and dark eyes moved away from the device and focused once more on the fly Enforcer.

A subtle smile betrayed him. "Heh, even if you asked me to beat up an entire gang because they didn't say hello to you the right way, you know I wouldn't turn you down. Much less for going out and saving some poor girl." While Yuri had the chance to examine the data a waiter stood at their table and asked if he could bring anything for Zane, and offered the same to Yuri. The muscular human simply shook his head to show that he was all set for now and continued.

"So tell me what you got. Let's do this." Offering him a bro fist Yuri smiled at the chocolate bear comment... Oh boy there he went again... Even worse then hearing it in public was explaining it to Emma...

 

[Zay]

As I took my seat Yuri and I traded out usual banter. It was nice to have someone that you could work, and joke with at the same time. The resent influx of wannabe badasses in the Cartel had seriously harshed my mellow. Looking to the waiter I waved him off. The only thing I was hungry for was a little badassery, I was ready to get to work. As it turned out so was Yuri.

"So tell me what you got. Let's do this."

I smirked and held my hand out for my datapad. As he gave it back I swiped right and opened a new tab, from there I accessed a remote server I'd developed to store various information on the bounties I was working on. I pulled up the file I had on this one and read the most pertinent information out loud. "Okay, so the two were last spotted in the Corellian district three days ago, but I've hacked into the Cartel surveillance cameras and I spotted this." I flipped the datapad over for him to see two people meeting the descriptions of broth Baskervill and Daria. "I'll be honest, Yuri, this feels more like two love birds trying to elope then a girl being kidnapped" Turning the datapad back over I continued, "This was taken in the Western Promenade about three hours ago. They seemed to be in a hurry, I'm thinking we should check out the space port first. If they jump planets it'll take me weeks to find them again." I rubbed my clean shaven chin and looked to the veteran.

"I will say one thing. I've looked into this Baskervill guy. He's smart, like real smart. If we arn't careful he'll spot us coming from a mile a way. I wanna talk to them before we take them down." Honestly, something didn't feel right. Baskervill had worked for the Cartel on several cases that fit his code of ethics, As a matter of fact the guy was in good standing. For him to give that up for a woman was really, REALLY out of character. My eyes drifted off for a moment on a tangent of thought, remembering that Yuri was force sensitive i reached out and thought: Hey, you been practicing at all? If Yuri had we would be have a leg up up on the privet eye.

Standing from the table I scanned the room and looked back to my partner. "I'm gonna step out side and get ready, As soon as you come out we can head out. I'll be gearing up." I made my way out of the restaurant and returned to my Hover bike. "N0-0B, power up and open cargo hatch three." The bike came to life and the back hatch opened revealing the GW-16 Rivet-class body armor I'd received when I'd been promoted. I took out the chest gear, and vembraces and removed my jacket. Tucking it in the compartment, I placed my chest gear on and slid the arm-guards over both my forearms. Removing my duel holster from the compartment I clipped my patented black and white pistols on my hips. The modified Manta M13 pistols were my most prized possessions. I closed the cargo hatch and leaned against my bike waiting for Yuri to join me. The party was about to get started.

 

[Gaja]

"But my steak?"

Yuri answered with the saddest of puppy eyes as Zane walked of. He wasn't done with his damn food! It was a sin to waste food this good!!! D:

Seeing that his plight to eat more got him nowhere Yuri figured he could drop the act and got up, moving straight to the back of the establishment with Xalax joining him at the door. Xalax, in case you were not aware, was the manager of the establishment and Yuri's childhood friend. The yellow skinned, tattooed, Twi'lek was a man roughly Yuri's age wearing a suit befitting a fancy restaurant manager. His build however suggested that he was no pushover... "You're leaving already?" Yuri nodded in reply.

"Yeah, got something that needs my attention. Thanks for the food, ow and send a bottle to the singer." The Twi'lek looked back very briefly at the band that had really become a regular at his place. But knowing that Yuri would soon be gone he made sure to say what he had to say. "I'll do that and you make sure you come by more often." Tapping the Twi'lek' shoulder Yuri made a left turn and went in to the back where he changed quickly. He sort of had a few spare clothes in this place, and guns, just in case. He had a few experiences...

Walking out a new man, ready for the job and fitting in with Nar Shaddaa's population the muscular human was all set.

Spoiler: Nousagi

His swoop bike, the Nousagi, awaited him in the back of the restaurant and seconds after Yuri put on a pair of black leather gloves it roared to life. Yuri had it for a number of years now, though he was awaiting the arrival of a new bike that his company had developed. Maybe he'd get to show it to Zane someday...

Taking a seat Yuri was seen of by Xalax as he made a couple of turns and came around the corner to meet Zane. Stopping beside him Yuri wasn't as heavily armored as the younger man but he was certainly armed just as well. "Alright then, lead the way. Let's go talk to our two love birds..." if they could find them. If they were even on the planet anymore...

 

[Zay]

Strider Maloy watched the pair of star crossed lovers with a malice that could petrify Medusa. The Ex-military sniper sat in a crouched position eyeing the two, waiting, watching. It was only a matter of time before his shot would ring out and splatter their sappy love story all across the floor. Picking up his comm he rang Baskervill.

"Baskervill."

"Baskervill, it's Maloy."

"Maloy?"

"That's right it's me, been a little while ain't it." A wolfish smile touched his lips as he watched Baskervill's expression flash from confusion to horror. The little P.I. shit began to pace clearly distressed by the call. But his voice didn't betray him.

"I heard you were back on the streets. lord praise this planets justice system..."

Before he could continue Maloy cut him off, "I didn't phone for an argument. I just wanted to tell you I'm sorry for everything I put you and this planet through, I don't expect you to say anything, but I'ma changed man Baskervill...." The transmission shut down. And the Privet I grabbed his pretty little companion and hurried off toward the interior of the space port. It wouldn't be long now. Looking down at his wristcrono his grin turned into a full smile. "I'll be seeing ya Baskervill."

Yuri appeared from around the corner on his beast of a swoop bike. I let out a low whistle of appreciation and smiled, "One day I'll get my hands on one of those beauties!" I said loud enough to be heard over the roar of his engine. I nodded as the champios signeled he was ready and threw my leg over my bike. The machince came to life. I placed a wireless com in my ear and ping Yuri so we could discuss this case as we mad our way toward the west promende. Something about the whole thing made the hair on the back of my neck stand up.

Punching the throttle forward my bike shot to life. Surging forward like a bolt fired from a blaster. I knew Yuri could keep up, hell he was the one who'd taught me how to drive with style. Weaving in and out of traffic I spoke into the com, "So, while I was waiting for you to finish your dinner I did a little more digging on Baskervill. Turns out the dude is legit. He's been putting away some of the worst criminals on this planet for the past ten years." I went silent momentarily while i dove underneath a speeder that seemed to be stuck in a crawl. "KARKING POODOO SUCKER!" I yelled with a shake of my fist, retuning to the conversation at hand. "His most notable take down was of an Ex-Military sniper named Strider Maloy." The name itself rung a bell in my memory, "I'm sure you'll remember the fear he struck throughout Nar shadda. Dude got out of the military right at the end of the war and went ape shit on this planet for six months. Particularly hunting and killing really hot girls. As a matter of fact this nut job has just been released thank to some bullshab of a loophole" That's when it clicked.

Baskervill, hadn't kidnapped Daria... He was trying to protect her! "Wait, I think I've got something...," Sliding the infor screen on my windsheild to the side I input a few commands to N0-OB and pulled up the file on the girls father... I was right. "Daria's father was the lawyer that helped Baskervill put Maloy away! Maloy is going after the one person that both the lawyer and the investgator that put him away care about!"

This wasn't just a matter of slapping two young lovers on the wrist anymore... this was bout protecting them from one of the most ruthless killers to come out of the war. And I had to admit... that made it all the more exciting.

 

[Gaja]

Gently pressing the eat-piece Yuri answered the call, but before they could exchange any words Zane took of towards their destination. Taking a second to look back at the restaurant/bar/cabaret Yuri revved his bike rather sharply before he too made his way towards the West Promenade. It wasn't that he was nostalgic or anything, he simply liked coming here but ever since Vero's death he barely did... Today was the first time in months that Xalax saw him actually...

Having no time to focus on Xalax or anything else really Yuri's attention was brought to the traffic in front of him as he too made his machine accelerate in a manner that few people would deem sane. But despite the tremendous acceleration and speed he was going at the human was in control, and aware of the traffic around him. Predicting the movements of the other traffic participants, by way of instinct or intellect, Yuri gracefully and with continuity gained up on Zane and ate up 'air'. Partially hiding behind the wind shield the human noticed that Zane's speed was dropping a bit, perhaps he had a problem... And then as they went on Zane filled him in on what he knew. It was interesting, and quite impressive actually, how resourceful the guy had become in just a few short months. Or was he always like that and Yuri only now noticed?

Either way Yuri's attention was divided between Zane and the traffic around them, slowing down a bit to match the speed of Zane's bike he processed what the younger man was saying. As it turns out this Baservill character seemed like quite the guy, unusual for a PI on Nar Shaddaa, and he could back it up. Even Yuri knew of this Maloy character! Right around the time Yuri came back to Nar Shaddaa, after the Battle of Coruscant, and Tsu got pregnant news about that creep started going around. Yuri distinctly remembered sitting in a giant room with the former Grannee Lorda Vero the Hutt and learning about Maloy. Both of them, even then commented on what scum such a creature was and that the galaxy would be better of without him... Shame this Baskervill didn't put him away for good when he got him...

"I've heard of both of them. That creep Maloy is still alive then... If you're right and we do run in to him maybe I'll get to exchange a few words with him..." When Yuri wanted to exchange those kinds of words with someone it was never a good thing. And Zane, more than likely, understood that. But as the two swoop jockeys zigged and zagged through Nar Shaddaa's traffic the elder man spoke up. "But are you really sure? Maybe there's someone new that's bothering the girl and she went to the PI? Or she had a big fight with daddy over whatever?" It sounded convenient what Zane was offering, but was he really right with his guess? It remained to be seen, certainly they'd get their answer when, and if, they caught up with Baskervill and Daria.

There was also the subject of who actually posted the bounty on Daria? Was it her father perhaps?

 

[Zay]

Arriving at the west promenade, I parked my bike and took a quick look around. I'd only been standing for a few seconds when I felt the first explosion. BOOM The ground underneath me shook and I was thrown off balance. Righting my equilibrium and getting my feet back underneath me, I looked toward the billow of fire infused smoke and swore under my breath. Calling my duel pistol's to my hands with the force I took off toward the explosion. Knowing Yuri would be close behind.

"What the frak is going on Yuri?!" I yelled into the com. The noise level in the promenade was deafening. Beings of all different shapes and sizes were calling out for help and screaming in terror. The whine and whir of Planetary security vessels converging on the area only added to the cacophony. The devastation to the area was insane. A massive crater stood in place where the explosion originated and bodies - well - parts of bodies littered the ground. My mouth hung open slack. Even the shabby people of the smuggler's moon deserved better than this.

Rage filled my mind as my gaping mouth turned to gritted teeth. Who ever did this was going to pay. They were gonna pay with their karking life. I looked around for Yuri, "We need to find the girl. I really hope she wasn't caught up in this." Normally, I didn't care about the being I was deployed to apprehend, but this was a different story.

Looking for any sign of where the pair might be, I headed for the spaceport. That's when the second bomb went off. I felt the heat rush past me as the shock wave collided with my body. My feet involuntarily left the ground as I was thrown backward. Landing on my back hard, I felt the air escape my lungs. Holding my breath to expand my lungs and stop the pain I groggily sat up. It was gonna be one of those kinda days, huh?

Pushing myself up slowly I waved off any help being offered and went through a quick physical on my limbs. I felt for my weapons and called them back to me. Holstering Ivory I looked to Yuri, "We need to check the space port before the rent a cops do." Carefully, I took a step and felt no pain. Slightly relieved I continued on. Walking through the basted out traspristeel door I help Ebony at the ready. I could hear crying and coughing, but there wasn't anything out of the ordinary. That's when I heard it, "CLARENCE!!!" The scream pierced through the background noise of the destruction and moving before I had time to think I came upon a good old Rodian stand off.

Maloy gripped the woman tightly to him, pressing the blaster to her attractive face. His other arms griped around her throat. The pretty little dame wasn't going anywhere. A wolfish smile contorted his scared face into a mask of depraved hatred. The kind of malice that only showed up when vengence was about to rear is ungly head. His eyes drank in the desperation on Baskervill's pathetic face. Strider could see the shake in the P.I.'s hands as he aimed his blaster pistol at the man who'd just stole his life away.

Blood dripped from a nasty gash on Baskervill's face as the fear began to set it. "Looks like I've won Baskervill." The P.I. swallowed hard. It was clear he was wracking his brain trying desperately to think of anyway out of this..., but there wasn't a way out. Slowly Maloy's finger pressed down on the trigger, preparing to end this insufferable wench's life, and with it the life of the man who'd sent him to rot in a karking cell. Movement danced just outside of his peripheral view and he chanced a glace. Some Spacer punk and a really buff guy had just joined the party... and worse for wear they were armed. "Looks like she gets to live a little longer, Baskervill." the contempt seemed to drip from his words as he spoke.

Clarence took a step toward them and Maloy pressed the gun hard into her face causing her to scream out, "CLEARENCE!" her high pitched wail was enough to make him want to end her. If the two other nimrods hadn't showed up this would have been over... Then agian, this could be even better. The wolfish grin spreading into a malevolent smile. "Oh ho ho, Your little friends there have me out gunned, that's no fun." His smile turned into a manic cackle that felt far better then it should. Slowly he began to force her away from Braskervill. Carefully, slowly, tenitively. They walked backward.

"You son of a sith! Let her go! This is between you and me Maloy!" outrage burst forth on the P.I.'s face. This outburst only heightening the pleasure of the moment.

I could only watch in horror as the man with the hostage started to ease back. What the hell was I supposed to do? He had my bounty in his arms. Never lowering my weapon I eyed the man with a fury that was palpable. This would be a great time for Yuri to snap into action and shoot the Karksucker between the eyes!

 

[Gaja]

It wasn't long before all hell broke loose. Right after they came to a stop both Yuri and Zane felt the ground underneath them shake. Parking his own bike Yuri had to put some effort to keep it from falling to the side... It was an instinct but also repairing the paint job would be a bitch... But as soon as he was sure the bike would remain upright, he pressed a couple of buttons and was of in the same direction Zane was, obviously his weapons on hand. Unlike Zane however Yuri had only one pistol on his person. A pistol of Kushari design and make and a combat knife inside his jacket...

The knife was mandalorian, so you could say that Yuri liked to rock the hard, and good, stuff. But there wasn't anything, helpful, the two men could do in this situation. All they could really do was watch at the aftermath of the explosion. Death and destruction was the aftermath as Yuri heard Zane through the com inside his ear. Without a doubt they were lucky to have slowed down previously, or they might have arrived a minute earlier and gotten hit by the explosion... and with that thought Yuri's answer was quite clear. Even though he too wasn't in the best of moods now... "Zane! Be careful! This might not be the only bomb..." Not that they had any way of knowing whether there were more bombs, and even if there were more where they were placed. They could really only go forward or turn around and run away. The choice for both men was clear as they continued deeper in to the chaos of screams and smoke...

As if he knew the man could only feel heat and a concussive force push, or rather throw, him backwards. He too was swept of his feet and landed rather hard, though not quite as hard as Zane given that he was further back when it went of... Both men scrambled to their feet and tried to regain their breaths as the realization sunk in, another bomb went of. At this point there was no denying how Yuri felt. He felt like war had begun... And he hated the realization as the urban environment around him scrambled in an attempt to do whatever their instincts told them to... He really didn't focus on the people who could move and run, rather he focused on his boy and what was going on. With this second bomb, a question popped in the back of his mind, were these attacks aimed at them or someone else? Or everyone and no one?

With Zane denying Yuri's help the man checked himself, and despite doing so quite barely noticed the couple of cuts he sustained from the fall and debris... "Yeah, you ok to use a gun?" There would be no time to answer and very little to find out as only seconds later the two man were drawn to the scream of a woman. Both men immediately turned around and were faced with the culprit and their bounty at the same time...

There was no time to say it, but the realization was certainly there. Zane was right. There she was, their bounty, Daria being held hostage with Clarence a bloody mess and the bad guy himself. There were few people as ugly as Maloy, so he too was confirmed by the man on a level that only made him the target. Raising his gun with a calmness that only certain people had Yuri took aim as he held his breath, his eye looked at Maloy but his hands were shaking, the effects of the explosion no doubt. He realized it instantly, but there was also the fact that he knew Daria's life would be lost if he didn't do anything...

A single shot left the barrel of his gun as an armor piercing round missed both Daria and Maloy, but only by a few inches, drawing the attention of the former Alliance sniper. And that was when the man spoke, waking up and leaving any sort of bad feelings behind him that he may have had about Vero's passing and the current situation inside the Cartel. Yuri Sharp was back. "One more step, and I'll kill you both. If you let he go, you get to try and run away." This time Yuri "adjusted" his aim directly at Maloy's head... he wouldn't allow him to take her.

 

[Zay]

A manic smile split the ex-militants lips, "You think you can stop me?" A cackle of a laugh ripped from his lips as the hand that was around her throat was removed. He pushed the woman forward and as his hand reappeared he held a remote detonator in it. Before anyone would be able to respond he depressed the button and made his escape. The explosion rocked the very foundation of the floating promenade. Above the sound of new crackling fire his words echoed, "I'll be seeing you real soon BASKERVILL!" A near skip in his gait as he disappeared behind the smoke and debris.

---

"Son of a--" Was all I got out when I saw the freak push the girl and ignite the next karking bomb. This son of a sithspawn was really starting to piss me off. The explosion happened so quick it would have been impossible for anyone to get a clean shot off on the prick. I'd been knocked to the ground thanks to the tremor and now as I pushed myself up off the floor I knew we had to take this guy down.

Looking to Yuri I jerked my head to the star-crossed lovers and said, "Let's get these two to the med center." I looked at them turning away slightly from my boss, "I've got some questions I need to ask them." I moved to help Clarence and left the woman to Yuri. He was delicate for a ruthless warrior, I knew she'd be in good hands. Putting Baskervill's are over my head I helped the PI up with a groan from the wounded man. "You'll be all right. We're gonna get you and the little lady to the medcenter. I'm gonna have some questions for ya." Baskervill nodded. It was clear the man was pissed. He made his name off capturing the son of a sith who'd just brought the western promenade down on him. If it were me I'd be pissed to.

The trip to the Medical center was uneventful. I was quite the entire time. My mind racking over where and when Maloy would hit next. It was nearly impossible to pin together. I just didn't have enough information. That's where Clarence came in. The PI was laying on a bed with bandages covering his right eye, he'd been diagnosed with a sever concussion and some bruised ribs. Daria was all good. Beside some possible PTSD the woman was unscathed. I pulled up a chair and took a seat next to Baskervill. I stared hard at the PI and opened my mind to the force. During my time as a force sensitive i'd picked up a few things. Telling if people were lying or not was one of them.

"All right, I'm gonna ask you about Maloy, you're gonna answer--" I waited a beat, "truthfully." Clarence only had eyes for Daria, why wouldn't he? I gave him a moment and he turned his gaze to me. "Fine..." he said with some hesitation. Nodding I began my questioning. My questions covered things like, why is he after you? What does he want? How good is he with a blaster. Really just the basic stuff any rent-a-cop would ask. I used these questions to gauge whether or not he was gonna tell the truth. So far, he'd answered every question correctly.

Looking to Yuri I nodded. The big guy and I had taken the time to set up a game plan before entering the room the couple had been given. The nod signified I was ready to start the real questioning. Yuri closed the door tot he room and stood in front of it. The massive human always made a better wall then window and that's exactly what I was looking for right now. Setting my eyes on Daria I said, "Why did your father out a bounty on you?" The attractive dame looked taken aback. "What?!" she said in obvious shock. I repeated the question flatly, I needed to be sure she wasn't hiding anything. Narrowing my eyes slightly I waited for her to answer. She looked to Baskervill then to Yuri and finally to me. "I swear on my life I don't know. My daddy loves Clare. he knew we were getting ready to move in together." I licked my lips and cocked an eyebrow, "Why were you at the Western promenade today?"

Daria shrugged and said, "We were going to a department store. Bassie was gonna buy me some clothes." My already cocked eyebrow shot up a little higher and I looked to Baskervill, "Bassie?" I asked sardonically. Baskervill blushed slightly and interrupted the questioning with a query of his own, "Wait, are you saying you were originally coming for me and Daria?" I nodded. Baskervill swore, "That means Maloy set the whole thing up... He wanted you to find us... he wanted me to feel helpless." His voice trailed off and a deep sadness set in on his features.

I stood from the chair. "Alright, It's time for us to go fishing." The cards were starting to fall into place. This Maloy creep was the psycho killer type, no doubt about it. He'd be in in touch and I wanted to know about it when he was. Reaching into my pocket I produced a little tracer. Holding my hand out I said, "Both of you give me your coms. This guys gonna call and when he does I wanna hear the convo." The both obliged. They didn't really have a choice I was prepared to simply take the devices if necessary. I popped open the back of the devices and placed the tracers. "Alright, when he calls I'll be able to hear everything." I looked to Yuri and nodded again. The boss man opened the door and made his way out. I looked back to the lovers and as I made my way out added, "Oh and Bassie?" he turned his attention toward me a tinge of annoyance in his face. "Don't do anything dumb." With a smile I made my way out. The line was cast, now we just needed the hook to be set and we'd reel this karksucker in.

---

Three days later....


I was laying on Yuri's coach, which was actually twice the size of my normal bed, when the call came in. I shouted to get his attention and activated the tracer. A small holo appeared the voice of Maloy spoke form the tiny projection.

"I see you made it out of there alive, Baskervill." the man's voice sounded like it had been lowered a full octave. The deep rasp of his vocal chords grating together as he strung together his words. "Good I was hoping thoes two morons from the cartel were capable enough to get you out." A deep sneer set in as he spoke, "I'm not done playing with you yet Clarence." His maniacal laugh boomed through the com. Baskervill cut across it, "I'm done playing with you Maloy. Set up the meeting place!," rage evident int he P.I.'s vocals, "Let's finish this you sick freak!" An indignant smirk settled in on Maloy's gruesome features as the terrorist spoke again, "Fine. I'm sending you coordinates, be there in three days at 1200 hours. If you aren't there, I'll kill you, your little woman, her daddy, and anyone else you KARKING CARE ABOUT!" the sudden change in pitch was off setting this dude was off his rocker alright...

With that the call ended. Looking to Yuri I shrugged, "Ive go the coordinates, once we check in with "bassie" We should be good to go. This mission was finally going to come to an end. Maloy's regin of terror was over. That much was for sure. I'd make sure he didn't draw another breath... that's when my wrist com buzzed....

Slapping it on answered with a slightly irritated, "Galla." the voice of Daria came through the line. Her voice was full of emotion, "Clarence is gone! he-he left and told me not to call or send for you he said he knew where Maloy was and was going after him. Please Zane, you have to stop him!" I gritted my teeth, I thought I told him not to do anything stupid....

 

[Gaja]

Yuri's aim was steady but even so he didn't want to risk Daria's life just to catch this nutjob. Rather as he saw Daria getting pushed forward he knew that what followed wasn't going to be any good. He simply felt impending danger as if something really bad was going to happen, and barely an instant later yet another explosion rocked the very floor they were standing on.

More glass breaking, smoke and fire was brought in to their lives as the former Alliance sniper took his leave. Unlike Zane however Yuri's instinctively crouched down and supported himself with his left hand, and almost sprinting forward as soon as he was able to from the shock. His ears were ringing and the smoke wasn't pleasant either but he had the girl in his arms. But not trusting Maloy to just run away he quickly withdrew her to take some cover, and checked the vicinity for Maloy...

Confirming that there was no immediate danger Yuri holstered his gun and tended to the, visibly, shaken up girl. Crouching beside her he tried to calm her down while visually checking for any injuries. Failing to spot any he picked her up, her weight posing no problems for the lifelong fighter, in to his arms and along with Zane took her to the nearby medcenter.

The Cartel Captain didn't say much during the whole ordeal, rather his mind processed what he'd seen so far. Maloy, his action, tactics,words and mannerisms. He'd reflect later on Zane's performance, though suffice to say that Yuri completely trusted the younger man with his life and their teamwork was outstanding.

Zane handled most of the talking, but there was a moment during their chat that Yuri noticed Baskervill looking at him. Suspecting that the PI knew who he was Yuri said nothing really, he simply nodded and left the room first. Next time he'd be prepared... "Nice job back there. Real smooth..." It would have to be enough after that mess of a day. His damn ears were still ringing...

---

The next three days were fairly uneventful with a lot of investigative work, news about the bombing of the Promenade and general hanging out. Zane pretty much moved in and Yuri's daughter didn't fail to notice that. She was quite happy about it too, as Uncle Z indulged her, sometimes, outrageous demands. The young girl learned a lot from Zane and Yuri, like for example that if she smiled and said 'Please' she'd get ice-cream even after dinner. MOSAIC, the droid never let her have that!

Not stopping his life over this event Yuri continued his daily routines, as he was well aware that sooner or later he'd be approached by the Hutt Council and recruited for one of the major clans. He was actually quite surprised that none approached him so far, but then again he wasn't. All the Hutt Lords knew that Vero was the only one whom Yuri would listen to, despite his polite respectful ways during meetings. After all it was Vero himself who brought Yuri in to the Cartel, along with Jack Tamblyn and Lorelei Melrava from the Ona'bak Retrade, which Yuri led at the time...

An imposing sight the man was unleashing on a, special, training droid that held pads for him.

Kicks, knees, elbows and punches...​

The display of technique lacked none of the above as the seconds ticked away and sweat drops met the ground. One after another, the man continued to hit the pads, the hits forming combinations, the combinations chaining together as the intensity and speed of Yuri's movement and strikes went up. The thud of every strike made it clear, you could send anyone you'd like against him. Just don't send anyone you'd like back...

His workout wouldn't last the usual amount of time though, as Zane called him over. Maloy had reached out... Listening in on everything Yuri was glad they had three days to prepare for this. More than enough in his opinion to scout out the place, position themselves properly and take Maloy out before he even knew what hit him. "Good. Where are those coordinates leading?" It wouldn't be so simple however as their planning was instantly interrupted by a phone call from Daria. Even though he couldn't hear specifics Yuri could guess from the tone she spoke in, and Zane's expression that it was nothing good.

His suspicions proved right on the button, and the muscular Captain learned what just happened. "Damn it..." Looking away from Zane and at the big screen on the wall, then outside the window at Nar Shaddaa's skyline Yuri was quiet for a moment. Contemplating where Clarence could be going Yuri was silent, but had a guess. "Zane, please check if there's any record of where Clarence actually arrested Maloy? I'm thinking they might be meeting there. You know, settle it once and for all..." Gliding his palm over his bearded face Yuri figured that they'd be leaving soon too... "I'm going to suit up. Let me know if you find anything. MOSAIC!" The man was of, a very short shower and gearing up for a possible meeting with an elite military sniper...

 

[Zay]

Even before Yuri asked me to I was throwing the coordinates into my datapad's map app. The device seemed to think over the information for a moment and then displayed the location. Tentatively it was in the underbelly of Nar Shadda. Accurately, it was in an abandon sector that was littered with hallowed out structures from the rebuilding of the city planet hundreds of years ago. It was the perfect place to rig a trap.

Looking to my boss I tossed the muscular man his data pad. "I smell a trap, boss." I said flatly. Clarence was walking right into the terrorists trap. Standing from the coach I started to pick up my gear. I'd left my main weapons down stairs, I didn't like having the things around while my niece was about. I'd never forgive myself if something happened to that little girl because of me. My mind briefly drifted to Nakoma and I wondered what she'd been up too. It had been months since our last meeting. I missed her. The time apart was starting to put a strain on our relationship and I knew it would only be a matter of time before she left for good.

Pushing the unhappy thought aside I started checking into the matter proposed by Yuri. The location in question was the west promenade. My eye brows knitted as I showed the information to the boss. "Looks like his last attempt was for real. If we hadn't been there the girl and Clarence would be dead." I had to admit I was a little worried. Baskervill had balls but he didn't seem to have the skills to go against Maloy one on one. Especially if the bastard was hiding in a sniper's nest. Yuri left to get suited up and I did the same. This battle would require full combat gear and A sniper or two.

I'm skilled with snipers. Hell, I'm good with just about anything that has a trigger, but there's a little respect for a man like Yuri who helped build the cartel up on his skill. That was the kinda man I wanted to be. I kissed Ellie on the forehead and told her she'd get some ice cream when I got back. I loved the look of agitation Yuri and MOSIAC got when I spoiled her, but hey, I'm the fun uncle the other two could suck it.

I left the plush apartment and made it down to my bike. I put my gear on and mentally prepared for the battle ahead. It was a strange thing knowing you were planning to kill someone. It was stranger still to know you wanted to kill them. Being a bounty hunter was a tough life... being a bounty was way worse. I'd make it my personal objective to take out the rival that had let this monster loose in my city. It was a slap to the face for the cartel and that wasn't something I'd stand for. Leaning on my bike I waited for Yuri to show up before firing up the engin and taking off. This mission was just about over.

 

[Gaja]

Being in the position and organization he was in it didn't come as much of a surprise that Yuri invested a "healthy" amount in security. Whether he was paranoid and simply careful was up for debate but the fact of the matter was that few people could just barge in his place, Zane being the obvious exception. Whether that meant additional droids or really scary Trandoshan mercenaries mattered little to the man. He had one thing in life that he had to be sure about, and that was the safety of his daughter.

After Tsu just vanished from their lives it had been hard on Yuri, but not nearly as hard as it had been on the little girl. But with time and Zane's arrival in to their lives things changed, noticeably. With the added motivation to not die out there Yuri expression was as serious as it could get. Focused on going to battle and purging Nar Shaddaa of this menace he commissioned MOSAIC to join him and Zane. He wasn't going to take any chances on this one, after all the urban environment in the lower levels of Nar Shaddaa was what he thought about more than Maloy himself.

It was clear to him, and Zane, that this might just turn in to a sniper battle. And while Yuri liked to play fair, he also played smart. There was no honor in dying because you gave some trash an advantage you had no reason to. Now knowing the thread they were up against Yuri's attire was dominated by the color black... Donning the dark camo Yuri checked his gear and gave a few orders.

Spoiler: Cartel Combat Camo

It wasn't going to be a long wait on Zane's part as the elevator doors clicked and opened, revealing Yuri in full on combat gear. Behind him was MOSAIC, and behind them a tall and muscular Trandoshan gentleman. "You have your orders. We'll meet you at the ship." With a pistol, of Kushari make, as his side arm and a combat knife Yuri seemed oddly underpowered for the confrontation they were heading into. One would think that but sure as the sun was to rise was that Yuri wasn't quite done yet. Walking over to Zane, Yuri got on his bike and pressed the ignition button. "You ready? Follow me."

He didn't say much after that, but instead put the machine in to gear and moved outside the building, towards the hangars. It was only a short ride there, where sure enough they once again saw MOSAIC and the Trandoshan. The green skinned alien was loading a crate of some kind, weapons obviously, in to the ship while MOSAIC boarded the ship along with a small white astromech droid.

The ship in question was a Copperhead-class Assault Shuttle, nicknamed appropriately 'The Copperhead'. It had served Yuri for a long time now, and Yuri always made sure that it was in tip-top shape and ready for action. Used during his time with the One'bak Retrade Yuri knew that this was the way he wanted to go in. Stopping outside the ship and waiting for Zane to do the same Yuri motioned for them to load their bikes in.

"We'll get there quicker this way." Besides they would have time to gear up and wouldn't need to go through the traffic of Nar Shaddaa. Seconds later Yuri's bike stopped working and was dismounted by its rider who greeted the Trandoshan gentleman who loaded the large crate earlier. Walking back inside the alien left the two humans and the two droids to their hunt...

They were hunting a dangerous and vile beast indeed. And for that they had three MAGDUS rifles awaiting them. Opening the crate Yuri invited Zane over, meanwhile MOSAIC and the T4 astromech droid got the ship fired up and moving towards their general target area. "We'll be needing these I think. They're better suited for the urban environment and Maloy than the Kushari ones I have. Armor Piercing bullets are there, scopes are here. We've got a bit of time before we get there, I'm hoping before Clarence. Is he still not picking up?" Either way Yuri was getting ready, taking out one of the dark heavy rifles and adjusting the scope and checking the magazine. Regardless of Clarence, they were going in...