The Arcadia Chronicles

“Out of my way!”

Zac ordered as he pushed past the personnel at security. He moved past the numerous consoles and banks of computers to a far wall. Reaching up he entered his personal seccode and the door slid open with a hiss. Everyone in the room had turned to look at Zac. By now they had all learnt that their employer had been kidnapped and had spent many hours trying to locate her and uncover any piece of information that may be useful. Without waiting for the door to open completely Zac strode into the room. He looked around searching the racks for the appropriate equipment.

“Wow, there’s enough fire power in here to take out a small army. Where did you get all this stuff?”

Zac flashed Han an annoyed look.

“I don’t have time for this Solo. Grab what you need and let’s get moving.”

Scanning the racks, Zac pulled down a number of weapons, including some hand blasters, rifles, pulsars and grenades. He filled a knapsack with the smaller equipment and hung the larger pieces over his shoulders.

“Will you check this out Chewie? An LGT-752! This thing is state of the art. I didn’t even think they were in circulation yet.” Han leaned closer into the wookie, “They must have some connections. Boy, does this bring back some memories.”

A mischievous smirk appeared on Han’s face as he thought about his past and the type of money a haul like this could fetch. The wookie growled and grunted in reply as Han pulled numerous guns from the racks and handed them to him, his smile widening with each new discovery.

“Sir, there’s a message coming in for you. I think its them.”

Zac looked up to see Jenkins standing in the doorway. Dropping the knapsack on the floor he handed the weapons to him and brushed past him to stand at the console. A young controller looked up at him questioningly.

“Sir?” she asked.

Zac took a deep breath then nodded. She patched him through. The screen flickered for a moment, then a middle-aged man with steel grey eyes appeared. They glared at each other for a long time, then the man started to laugh. The anger flashed across Zac’s emerald eyes, setting his jaw and knotting the muscles in his body.

“Where is she?” he growled at him.

The man stopped laughing and stared at Zac

“You know where she is. Come and get her.”

Zac nodded slowly, “I am going to kill you. You know that don’t you?”

The man smirked, “We’ll see,” he replied and was gone.

Zac stared at the space where the man’s face had been, trying to control his raging emotions.

“Sir, I want to come with you.”

Zac locked eyes with Jenkins. He studied him for a moment considering his request. Jenkins was young and headstrong, reminding Zac of himself at that age. He had blond straight hair which he kept cropped short, hazel eyes and at twenty-three was still a half a head shorter than Zac but he was smart, fast and resourceful. Zac could always count on him in a crisis and he was good in a fight.

“Gear up Jenkins,” he said. “We leave in an hour.”

Without waiting for a reply Zac spun around and strode back into the armoury to collect his weapons.

“Let’s go,” he ordered and picking up his gear he strode out waiting for the others to follow.

Han quickly pulled some more equipment off the racks and handed them to the wookie. Pushing past them, Jenkins collected his own gear and then joined the others at the door. Closing the armoury door, Zac entered the code to arm the security system then turned and looked at his companions. He studied each of them for a moment then nodded.

“Let’s do it.”


Luke and Leia were waiting for them back at the house. They had been out collecting their own supplies of medical equipment, food, clothing and other essentials. The supplies were sitting in crates on the floor of the foyer waiting to be loaded onto the ships.

“You know Leia, Zac was right. This is my fault.”

Leia looked up at Luke questioningly.

“This would never have happened if I stayed with her.”

Leia shook her head. “From what you told me Luke, it doesn’t sound like you had much of a choice. Cadi was always very stubborn. Once she got something into that head of hers there was no stopping her. I doubt she would have let you go with her.”

Luke looked uncertain, “Still I should have tried. I could have followed her, kept an eye on her from a distance.”

Leia placed an arm around him consolingly. “Everything happens for a reason Luke. Blaming yourself is not going to change the past. We need to concentrate on the present, focus on getting her back.”

Closing his eyes, Luke nodded, “You’re right Leia,” he said. “Let’s get this equipment loaded so we can get out of here.”

Luke indicated for the waiting droids to begin loading the gear onto the two ships. Earlier Luke had moved the Millennium Falcon from its resting place at the public docks to the landing bay next to Zac and Arcadia’s ships beside the house. The droids shuffled over to the crates and began the unenviable task of moving the heavy loads on board, their gyros whirring and straining. Leia noticed the others returning.

“Here they come Luke. Looks like they picked up a hitchhiker along the way. Any idea who he is?”

Luke studied the young blond haired man walking next to Zac and shook his head. “No, Leia. I have never seen him before.”

Walking back to the house Zac noticed the unsightly conglomeration of patched metal that was parked next to the sleek lines of his gleaming ship. He shared a dumbfounded look with Jenkins then turned to Han.

“What the hell is that?” he asked pointing at the ship.

“That’s my ship, the Millennium Falcon,” replied Han somewhat annoyed. He was getting sick of people taking that tone with his pride and joy.

Zac smirked, “You mean to tell me that Leia flies around in that thing.”

Han nodded.

Zac smiled for the first time in hours, “I would never have believed it.” Han looked at him questioningly, “Princess Leia slumming it! Cadi would love this.” Han glared at him.

“Excuse me sir, did you just say Princess Leia?” Jenkins asked uncertainly.

“That’s right.” Jenkins turned to look into the smiling face of the beautiful woman standing before him. “Hi I am Princess Leia Organa-Solo of Alderaan and you are?”

He stared at her in disbelief, “Um,” was all that he could manage.

Zac placed an arm around his shoulder, “Don’t worry about it Leia, he gets the same way around Cadi. I guess he just doesn’t know how to handle royalty.” Patting him on the shoulder, Zac easily slipped into his formal tone, “Princess Leia may I present Thomas Jenkins. He will be accompanying us on our mission to rescue your sister.”

Jenkins’ eyes widened as Zac’s words sunk in. Looking up at Zac his face was filled with shock.

Leia interrupted him, “It’s a pleasure Thomas. I would also like you to meet my brother, Luke Skywalker.”

Luke stepped forward and offered him his hand. Jenkins shook it still in a daze.

“Welcome aboard,” Luke said with a smile.

“Thanks,” was all that he could manage.

Pulling the weapons off from across his shoulders, Zac handed them to Luke.

“Get them on board,” he ordered. “We leave as soon as everyone’s ready.”

Without waiting for a reply he strode past them and walked into the house. Making his way up the stairs Zac went to Arcadia’s room. Standing at the closed door he leaned his head against it for a moment and closed his eyes. The anger and frustration started to boil to the surface again as he relived the conversation with her captor. Making a fist he pounded at the closed door.

“Damn. Damn. Damn. Damn it. If you’ve hurt her I am going to kill you,” he swore.

Taking deep breaths Zac tried to control his emotions. Standing back from the door he pressed the release then walked into her room. Looking around at the familiar surroundings he made his way into her bedroom then into her dressing room. He scanned the racks of clothes then pulled an overnight bag down off a shelf. Stepping back he felt something underfoot. Looking down he saw her blue swimming costume strewn on the floor. “She must have left it there in her haste,” he thought as he leant down to pick it up. As he took hold of it a rush of emotion choked him. Pulling it up to his face he leaned his cheek against the material, inhaling her scent. Closing his eyes he concentrated on her, willing her to hear him across the vastness of space.

“Hang in there, Cadi. I’m coming.”

A couple of minutes past before Zac had adequate control of his emotions again. Standing up a rush of determination flooded through him. He pulled some of the Princess’s clothes off the racks and tossed them into the overnight bag. Moving to her drawers, he pulled out some underwear and added it to the bag. He then moved into her bathroom. Looking in the cupboard under her vanity he pulled out the cosmetics bag that she always had packed ready for travel. This too he deposited into the bag. Standing up again he surveyed the room, looking for anything that he may have forgotten.

Seeing nothing he made his way to the door that connected his room to hers and walked through. The layout of his room was basically the same as the other two rooms. They all had the curved glass windows that overlooked the balcony but his bedroom was on the opposite side to hers for obvious reasons. Walking into his dressing room, he pulled some of his clothes off the racks and placed them into the bag. He only grabbed a couple of his favourite pieces as his ship was already stocked with his supplies. He turned to leave when he remembered something. Reaching up to a top shelf he pulled down a small case. Entering his code into the panel, he watched the indicator lights turn green. The top slid back and Zac reached in and pulled out two small pyramid shaped crystals. He stared at them for a moment then placed them in his pocket. Looking at the remaining contents, he pulled out a hollocard and stared at the image.

A young Princess Arcadia stared back at him. She was dressed in a flowing white dress that hugged her curves. Her hair was piled on top of her head. The sparkling headpiece glittering in her hair, paled in comparison to her gleaming eyes. Zac smiled then pressed his thumb onto a corner. The image changed. He saw the same young Princess in his arms, both of them smiling, their eyes gleaming as they danced around the floor. He pressed his thumb down again. The image changed again. It was a formal image of him standing next to the Princess, her arm leaning on his, both of them looking serious and regal. Pressing his thumb onto the corner made the image change yet again. This was the last image that was taken that day and his favourite. It was of him standing on the balcony of the palace behind the Princess, his arms around her waist. She had turned to her side and was looking up into his eyes and he was looking down at her. Their faces were full of happiness, of love. Both of them were blissfully unaware of the tragedy that was about to strike.

Running his finger across the card he sighed and placed it back into the case. It was the only pictorial evidence he had from that day. The hollotech had given him the card right after that image was taken. Zac had placed it in his pocket and had forgotten about it until much later. Now it was one of his most treasured possessions. Depressing the key he secured the case and returned it to its place on the shelf. Looking around the room he decided that he had everything that he needed, then turned and left, making his way out of the house and down to his ship.

The others were milling around waiting for his return. He strode down the wide path and joined them.

“Are we ready?” he asked. Receiving nods of assent he indicated the two ships, “Let’s go.”

Han leaned over to Leia as they walked along, “I still don’t understand why we have to take his ship too.”

Zac overheard him and answered for her. “Because my ship has a state of the art medical facility on board. Tell me Solo, does your ship even have a bacta tank?”

Han shook his head conceding defeat.

“We have no idea what sort of condition Cadi is going to be in when we find her. I am not taking any chances Solo.”

Zac glared at him under his brow before turning and climbing up the ramp to his ship. Jenkins followed. Luke made a move to follow but Leia stopped him.

“I don’t think that’s such a good idea Luke.” Luke looked up the ramp and then back at Leia. “The two of you in a confined space for all those hours. You’re just asking for trouble. You go with Han and Chewie. I’ll go with Zac.”

Han looked up at the suggestion. “Hey, you’re my wife and as your husband I say your coming with me.” Leia looked at him in disbelief.

“Whoa,” turning away from his sister Luke started walking towards the Falcon, not wanting to get in the crossfire of this confrontation.

“What did you say?” Leia asked him.

Han hesitated for a moment then thought, “What the hell, I’ve said it now, I may as well follow it through.” He looked her in the eye and said, “You are coming with me.”

She raised an eyebrow at him. “Really?” she asked. “Is that an order, from my husband?”

Zac had heard the outburst as he walked passed the ramp and stopped to listen. Jenkins approached him and opened his mouth to ask a question but was stopped by a gesture from Zac.

“Sh,” he said. “This ought to be good.”

If Zac knew one thing, it was that you can’t order the Organa sisters around. Han had lost this argument from the moment that he opened his mouth. If you wanted the Princesses to do something you had to suggest it or make them believe that it was their idea. A direct order would almost certainly be challenged.

Han nodded, “Yes that’s right. I am ordering you, as your husband, to come with me.”

Zac shook his head and smiled. “Very stupid Solo. Jenkins, get the spare room ready. We are going to have the Princess on board.”

Leia stared at him for a long moment then turned with a huff and strode up the ramp.

“Leia!” Han called after her.

She raised her hand in a final gesture and disappeared into the ship.
“Welcome aboard your Highness,” Zac bowed as she stopped before him. “I am sure that our facilities will be to your liking.”

Leia smiled at him. “It’s easy to see why she is so in love with you Zac. I had forgotten just how charming you can be.”

Zac returned her smile then ushered her aboard. He led her to the cockpit and offered her the co-pilots chair. She sat down and strapped herself in. Zac took the pilots seat and pressed the intercom.

“Jenkins, we’re ready for take off. Secure the hatch then get in here.” Zac started the ignition sequence then pulled the straps over his shoulders. The engines roared to life then settled to a soft growl.

Zac looked across at Leia with a smirk, “This must be a welcome change to that rust bucket you’ve been flying around in Leia. It looks like it should be on the scrap heap. Does that relic even get off the ground?”

Leia laughed. “You’re right Zac it is a relic but the Falcon holds a lot of memories for me. It’s the same ship that they used to rescue me from the Death Star all those years ago. Sure it breaks down more often than not but it has saved our lives on numerous occasions. I couldn’t bear to let it go.”

Zac smiled, “You’re such a romantic Leia.” At that moment Jenkins walked in and sat down in the Navigator’s seat. “Are we ready?” Zac asked him.

“All clear,” he replied.

Leia looked at Zac and he nodded. She moved her fingers across the console then spoke into the microphone.

“Falcon this is Leia, we are ready for take off. What is your status?”

The static hissed at her, “Leia this is Luke, we are going to need a couple more minutes.”

Leia looked across at Zac and shook her head. Loud banging, growls and swearing were clearly heard in the background. Zac raised an eyebrow at her and smirked.

“Looks like you made the right choice,” he told her.

“That’s got it. Luke, tell her worship that we’re ready for take off.”

Zac and Leia exchanged a glance.

“Leia, this is Luke. We are ready for take off. We’ll rendezvous near the Serillian moons.”

Leia moved her fingers across the console. “Copy that Luke. Out,” she said and ended the transmission.

Zac turned his attention back to the flight controls. The engines roared as the ship lifted off the ground, hovering a moment as the landing gear retracted. Zac then lifted the nose and pointed it skyward. The gleaming cruiser rose effortlessly into the darkening sky, speeding past the billowing pastel coloured clouds and reflecting the dying stages of the sunset on its polished surface.


Several hours had passed since Arcadia had been thrown into her cell. On several occasions she had heard footsteps walking past her door but nobody payed her any heed. She had retrieved her top earlier from its resting spot on the bench and had put it on, an obvious yellow stain marking the spot were the blood had been.
Damn it! This is one of my favourite tops.

She felt like a caged animal, pacing around in the confined space. Finally she decided to lie down and try to relax. She was sure that she would need all her strength to get out of this mess.

Lying on the hard cot, she stared at the ceiling, counting the panels. She had already tried to reach them earlier and see if she could crawl out in the ceiling space but it was just too high and there was nothing that she could use to reach them. Everything was either bolted to the floor or to the wall. They had thought of everything. Staring at the ceiling panels made her eyes blur. She rubbed at her eyes then decided to close them for a while.

With her eyes closed the reality of the small room faded into the background. She found herself thinking about her life, about Zac. Being away from him made her realise just how much she missed him. She found herself thinking about the time, a few months back, when she had been dating a popular musician. He had seen her at one of his performances and had instantly found himself attracted to her. He had sent one of his bodyguards to ask her to the after show party, but she had refused.

Unaccustomed to being rejected he had pursued her relentlessly, sending her flowers and expensive gifts daily. She had finally agreed to go out with him after Zac had pleaded with her. Neither of them had been able to get any sleep while he sat outside her window singing love songs to her all night. Zac had been forced to send the secdroids to drag him away.

“Come on Cadi,” he had said, “the guy is obviously smitten. Put him out of his misery.” Smirking he continued, “I’m sure that after one date with you he’ll be on his ship and halfway across the galaxy before dawn. You’ll never hear from him again.”

Laughing Arcadia had punched him in the arm and they ended up in a playful tousle, Zac easily blocking the punches that she threw at him. Finally grabbing her from behind he had lifting her off the ground while he tickled her. They had both collapsed on the floor giggling and had lain in each other’s arms listening to the soulful serenade that wafted in from the open window.

The next day she had taken his call and agreed on a date and to her surprise she found herself having a wonderful time. They went out again the following day and the day after that. Before long she found herself falling for him and that’s when it happened. He had asked her if he could perform at the Andromeda opening. She had refused to sign him pointing out that this was her club, her night, not a forum to further his career. He had said that he understood and that he respected her decision. They had made plans to meet for dinner that night but he never showed up.

Arcadia had been sitting on the lounge waiting, making up excuses for him as the time slowly ticked by, her worry turning into anger with each passing minute. The sound of the door sliding open had caught her attention and she got up to look, a glimmer of hope flashing through her mind. As she turned the corner she saw a young, leggy blond woman with her arms draped around her bodyguards neck. They were in the middle of a passionate embrace. Zac’s shirt was unbuttoned and the straps of the woman’s dress were falling off her shoulders.

As the woman’s lips left Zac’s to move on to his neck, he had looked up and spotted Arcadia standing there.

“Cadi, I didn’t expect you home for hours,” he said. “You remember Sasha?”

The woman had turned and glared at Arcadia.

“Of course,” she said returning her glare. “Who could forget Sasha? How are you?” she had asked.

“Fabulous,” she purred running her fingers through Zac’s hair. “And you Arcadia?”

Grimacing, she had replied, “Just fine thanks.”

Noticing her expression Zac had searched the room looking for her boyfriend. “Where’s loverboy?”

Arcadia raised an eyebrow at him. “I’ll give you two some privacy,” she had said turning. “Enjoy your night.” Picking up her jacket from the lounge she had made her way out onto the balcony then down to the beach.

Carrying her shoes in her hand she had walked along the water’s edge to the rocks, the bitter tears stinging her eyes. She had felt so betrayed and used. She couldn’t believe that he had gone to all that trouble to gain her interest, to win her over, when all along all he had wanted was to perform at the event of the season. She knew that she should have trusted her instincts and not gotten involved but the attention had been so flattering and she did enjoy his company.

Climbing up the moonlit rocks she had tried to erase him from her memory but the pain was still too strong, the betrayal still fresh in her mind. When she reached the outcrop she had sat down and stared out at the shimmering ocean, letting the frosty breeze cool her seething anger. Leaning her head back against the rock wall she had stared at the glistening stars and let the tears roll freely down her cheeks, hoping that their cleansing properties would wash away the pain. She cried until the pain began to subside then wiping the tears away she had closed her eyes and breathed in the fresh ocean scents.

“Hi.”

Looking up she saw Zac standing next to her on the rock, a blanket in one hand and a thermocase in the other.

“Mind if I join you?”

Looking into his eyes she had smiled and stood up.

“What are you doing here, Zac? Where’s Sasha?”

Handing her the blanket he smirked, “I sent her home. I figured you need me more than she does at the moment.”

Smiling, Arcadia shook her head, “She’s going to be pissed Zac. You’ll probably be black listed for a while.” Leaning over, Arcadia spread the blanket out on the rock and sat down.

“Don’t worry about it Cadi,” he said sitting down opposite her.

He opened the thermocase and started pulling things out.

“What did you do Zac?” she had asked as he placed a bottle of champagne and two glasses down on the blanket.

“I’m assuming you haven’t had dinner yet.” She shook her head. “Good, because I have bought along some of her highness’s favourites.” Pulling out containers from the thermocase he continued. “Strawberries to go with the champagne. Marinated, char-grilled baby decapod for starters, then some roast velum and for desert, her highness’s absolute favourite, rich, dark, chocolate mousse.”

Arcadia’s smile widened as each new container was placed on the blanket. “Yum,” she drooled, “Zac, darling, you are such an angel. What would I do without you?”

They had sat on the rock for hours eating, sipping champagne and laughing. Zac made her forget her sorrow as only he could. When all the food had been eaten and the champagne drunk, they packed away the containers and wrapped the blanket around their shoulders. Arcadia sat back against Zac’s chest, his arms around her, as they stared out into the moonlit night, talking softly.

“This is just so perfect Zac,” she said, leaning her head against his cheek.

“I know baby,” he replied. “I could just sit here forever, except I am dying for a coffee.”

Arcadia smiled, “Me too. Your place or mine?”

Laughing Zac kissed her on the cheek then helped her up.

Picking up the thermocase and the blanket they made their way down the rocks and onto the beach. The breeze had taken on a frosty edge forcing them to wrap the blanket around them as they strolled back to the beach house. The leisurely pace and the combined warmth of Zac’s body and the blanket had a tranquillising effect on the Princess. She was beginning to find it increasingly difficult to keep her eyes open.

“I think I might skip the coffee and go straight to bed,” she told him when they entered the house.

Zac had nodded. Turning in his arms she looked into his eyes.

“Thank you Zac,” she said and kissed him on the cheek.

“Any time babe.”

Stepping back from him the Princess stumbled, the combined effects of the alcohol and fatigue making her head foggy.

“Here, let me help you.”

Zac took her in his arms and carried her up the stairs to her room. Smiling, she snuggled into his chest. He helped her out of her clothes and tucked her into bed.

“Zac,” she whispered.

“Yeah babe?” he asked leaning in close.

“Stay with me tonight. I don’t want to be alone.”

Zac smiled. “Sure Cadi.”

Stripping down to his underwear he climbed into bed next to her. She snuggled up into the warmth of his naked chest and kissed his neck.

“I love you,” she whispered.

Kissing her on the forehead and holding her close, he replied, “I love you too. Goodnight Cadi.” Moaning contently she snuggled deeper into him.

“Good night Zac.”

The hiss of the opening door wrenched Arcadia out of her daydream. Pulling herself up on her elbows she stared at the woman who had entered her cell. She was of medium height with brown hair and grey eyes. In her hand was a tray. She walked over to the base of the cot and placed the tray at Arcadia’s feet.

“I bought you some food,” she told her then turned and left the room, brushing past the man standing just outside the door with the gun aimed at Arcadia’s head.

The Princess glared at him, realising that it was the same man that she had shot earlier. She was pleased to see that he too now sported dark circles under his eyes and his jerking movements hinted at a killer headache. “Good,” she thought as the door slid shut again.

Turning her attention to the tray, she folded her legs in front of her and pulled it up onto her lap. The smells wafting from it made her mouth water. Pulling the thermocovers off the sections she studied the meal. There was some kind of soup. A bread roll and butter sat next to it. Removing the next cover revealed a meat and vegetable dish. The second last section held creamy custard laden with fruit. The last thermocover produced a mug of steaming coffee and a bottle of spring water. It wasn’t exactly a gourmet meal but it was a lot more than she had expected. Searching the tray she found a folded napkin containing plastic cutlery.

“Come on Cadi, you didn’t really think that they would give you metal utensils,” she told herself as she picked up the spoon and stirred the soup.

Taking a spoonful she pulled it up to her mouth then stopped. She studied it for a second as the thought that it may be poisoned or drugged entered her mind. Looking up at the door she considered then dismissed the notion. If they had wanted her dead, why would they go to all this trouble? They had ample opportunity to kill her. Her growling stomach ended the debate. She was starving. Without giving it a second thought she put the spoon in her mouth and ignoring the stinging from her wound, she savoured the warm sweet taste of the soup as it rolled over her tongue.

It didn’t take the Princess long to devour the rest of her meal. Everything had been delicious. She was sitting back against the wall sipping at the steaming coffee. They had obviously done their homework as the coffee was made just the way she liked it: strong and sweet with a good helping of milk. She felt better after having eaten. Her mind was clearer and her body felt stronger. The mind numbing effects of the stun ray was almost gone.

The soft thuds of the approaching footsteps caught her attention. Looking up at the door she took another sip of her coffee and waited for it to slide open. The footsteps stopped just outside the door. She heard some shuffling noises then the beeping of the control panel. With a soft hiss the door slid open. The same man was standing there, gun pointed at Arcadia but the woman had been replaced with a teenage girl. She studied the Princess warily for some time before the man nudged her, forcing her into action.

Arcadia watched her from the bed, still sipping at her coffee. The girl entered the room and approached the bed, leaning down she picked up the tray, her eyes never leaving Arcadia. Taking the final sip of her coffee, the Princess held out the mug to the girl, the movement making her flinch. The Princess smiled reassuringly at her.

“It’s alright, here take it.”

Pausing the girl looked unsure until Arcadia encouraged her with a warm look. She leaned across and snatched the mug from her grasp and quickly walked away.

“Oh and give my compliments to the chef,” added the Princess just before the door slid shut again, “Everything was delicious.”

The twin moons of Serillia glowed brightly as the two ships silently glided past them.

“All the coordinates are set, sir. You can make the jump to hyperspace whenever you’re ready.”

Zac checked the navdata then indicated to Leia to continue.

“Falcon, this is Leia. We are ready for light speed. How are you guy’s doing?” The usual static hissed back at her and was finally interrupted by Luke’s voice.

“Ready when you are Leia.”

Zac raised an eyebrow, surprised by the information. “Okay Solo,” he replied, “On three. One. Two. Three.” As Zac initiated the sequence, the glittering points of the stars started to blur then stream as the transition into hyperspace was made.

Zac checked his readouts to ensure that everything was as it should be. All the information was correct and the radar showed the Falcon moving through hyperspace behind him.

“How long before we reach Corellia?” asked Leia.

“We should reach the outskirts of the system in about six and a half hours,” came Jenkins’ reply.

Nodding Leia looked out the cockpit at the swirling colours. “We should probably try and get some sleep,” she said.

Standing, Zac offered her his hand. “Come Leia, I’ll show you to your room.” Placing her hand in his, she stood up and followed Zac out of the cockpit and through the ship.

The state of the art vessel was a marked contrast to the roughly patched Falcon. Leia looked around at the magnificently appointed ship, admiring the style and elegance of the décor. Everything was fresh, new and modern. It really did make the Falcon look like a relic.

“I could get used to this,” she said softly.

Smiling at her, Zac stopped in front of a door and pressed the release. The door slid open silently onto a softly lit hallway. “These are the living quarters,” he told her ushering her through. “There are three fully appointed rooms onboard, two staterooms and a smaller room. At the end of the corridor is another room with ten bunks and a small bathroom.” Leia looked down the hallway as Zac spoke.

“This is Cadi’s and my room.” Leia looked up at him questioningly. “We always share when we are travelling. It’s something we’ve always done. I guess it’s a comfort thing,” he explained.

Leia nodded. “Do you mind if I have a look?” she asked.

“No, not at all,” he replied as he pressed the door release.

Stepping into the room, Leia was surprised by the size of it. There was a large lounge area and over to one side through double doors was the bedroom. A huge bed sat up against a wall, the swirling clouds of hyperspace clearly visible through a large portal. Leia walked past the bed into the bathroom. It too was lavishly appointed with a large circular spa bath nestled into a corner.

Shaking her head, she gave Zac a bewildered look. Grinning at her he explained, “She is a Princess, Leia and a powerful business woman. I guess we got used to the lifestyle.” Stepping back over to Zac she placed a hand on his arm.

“Is Cadi’s ship the same?”

Scratching at his temple Zac replied, “Identical, actually, except for the colour scheme.”

Something on a wall caught Leia’s eye. Walking over, she studied it for a while. Zac followed.

“What is this?”

“It’s a CD player,” he said.

“A what?”

Zac laughed, “It plays music. Look.” Pulling out a small square case, Zac opened it and removed a thin shiny disc. He depressed a button on the machine and a section came out towards him. He placed the disc on it and pushed it closed again. Pressing another button brought the machine to life. Soft soulful music started to sound from hidden speakers.

“Where did you find this thing?” she asked.

“Cadi picked it up during one of her travels. The same place she found the strawberries, I think.”

The music continued to waft through the room. Looking across at Zac, Leia noticed the distant look in his eyes. “What’s wrong Zac?”

“This is Cadi’s favourite CD.” Leia made a move to turn the player off but Zac stopped her. “No don’t Leia. She always plays this when we are onboard. It makes me feel closer to her.”

Leaning across he turned the volume up and then indicated for Leia to follow him. He led her to the next room and showed her around. It too was spacious with a separate bed and bathroom but the furnishings were not as lavish. It looked like it was hardly ever used.

“Make yourself at home, Leia,” he said. “I’m going to lie down for a while and see if I can get some sleep. Call me if you need anything.”

Placing her hand on his cheek she looked into his haunted eyes, “It’ll be okay Zac. I’m sure that she’s alright.”

Smiling weakly at her he took her hand in his and leaned down to place a soft kiss on her cheek. “Thanks Leia,” he said before turning and making his way back to his room.

Closing the door behind him, Zac dimmed the lights then walked over to the CD player and turned it down. Groaning he stretched his tired body onto the bed and stared at the ceiling, trying to relax. The bed felt empty and huge without Arcadia lying next to him. He looked across at her pillow and could almost see her sleeping there, her face so peaceful, so angelic. “Stop it Zac. You need to sleep. You’re no help to her like this,” he told himself sighing loudly. Closing his eyes he tried to clear his mind of all thought and will himself to sleep.

After a couple of minutes of tossing and turning, he sat up and climbed off the bed. “Maybe a hot shower will help,” he thought as he pulled his shirt off and tossed it onto the bed before going into the bathroom and turning the shower on. Removing the rest of his clothes he climbed into the shower and stepped under the steaming water. The liquid warmth raining down onto his naked toned body was a welcome sensation. Leaning his head against the wall, he savoured the feel of the cleansing waters washing over him. Slowly but surely he began to relax, his mind wandering. He half expected to see Arcadia step into the shower with him before he realised that this flight would end without her ever being in his embrace.

He stood under the soothing waters for a long time thinking about her. Remembering the feel off her glistening wet body pressed up against his, the warmth of her touch, the silkiness of her hair as it streamed down her back. He smiled as he recalled the way she looked up at him through her wet lashes before she kissed him and the way she would suck the pool of water that formed in the hollows on the side of his neck.
“Oh baby, I miss you,” he whispered closing his eyes, the emptiness in his soul aching to be filled by her.

Luke Skywalker sat alone in the darkened cockpit of the Millennium Falcon staring out into hyperspace. The coloured lights blinking on the console throwing soft hues of light and shadow over him. Like Zac, he too was unable to sleep. Thoughts of the Princess ran constantly through his mind. He couldn’t erase the memory of the way she looked just before he kissed her. Her long dark lashes, her big brown eyes, her full red lips, that perfect body all lingered in his subconscious driving him to distraction. “And that kiss,” he thought, his body trembling at the memory. He could still feel the soft warmth of her semi-naked body pressed against his bare chest. The sweet taste of her lips and the intoxicating scent of her filled his senses. In less than a day she had managed to entrench herself into his heart.

“Hey kid, what are you doing?” The sound of Han’s voice brought Luke out of his daydream.

“Nothing Han, just staring out into space.”

Han sat in the seat adjacent to Luke and studied his friend for a moment. “Can’t stop thinking about her, huh kid?”

Luke looked up in surprise then smiled, “that obvious huh?”

Nodding his head Han replied, “I’m afraid so Luke. Not that I can blame you. She is something special.”

Grinning at his friend Luke leaned his head back against the seat, “yeah, she sure is.”

“So tell me kid, what actually happened?”

Closing his eyes, Luke smiled as he relived the scene in his mind. “I kissed her Han,” he told his friend simply.

“Hey, good for you Luke,” exclaimed Han leaning across and patting him on the arm. “It must have been some kiss to have you holed up in here by yourself.”

Luke’s smile broadened, “yeah, it was. She is so beautiful Han, so perfect. I can’t get her out of my head. I can still feel her pressed up against me, so soft and warm.” Luke sighed, “if only Zac hadn’t walked in on us.”

Han looked up, “what?”

Luke raised an eyebrow at his friend, “Zac walked in on us while we were kissing.”

Shaking his head, Han finally realised why the tension was so thick between them. “That explains a lot. What happened?”

Shrugging, Luke continued, “He was really hurt and angry. He just turned and stormed out of the room. Cadi went after him. I asked her to stay with me but she said that she couldn’t so I let her go. I waited in her room for her. When she came back she was really upset. She had been crying. I sensed that she was torn, confused. She told me that she needed time alone and then she left. I let her go Han. If I had stopped her or went with her none of this would have happened.”

“This isn’t your fault Luke. You couldn’t have known what would happen. Besides, I was there when Zac got the message from the kidnapper and I got the impression that this is something personal. I think that they would have gotten hold of her sooner or later no matter what we did. I think that she is lucky that it happened now, while we were there. At least now she has us out looking for her. That’s got to increase her chances.”

Luke shook his head and smirked at his friend, “You’re kidding right, with our track record?” Suddenly Luke’s face darkened, “seriously Han, I will never forgive myself if they hurt her.” He rubbed at his temples, “what if she is already dead?”

“Whoa, now Luke. You have to stop thinking like that. She is not dead, do you hear me?” Han grabbed hold of Luke’s shoulders and looked into his eyes. “She is not dead,” he said slowly, deliberately, emphasising every word. “We are going to find her Luke. We’ll get her back. You will get the chance to tell her how you feel about her Luke, I promise you that.” Han stared at his friend until Luke nodded. “Okay kid, let’s get some sleep. I know we are going to need it.”

“I’ll be there in a moment. I need a few more minutes to myself, Han. You go ahead.”

Han studied Luke’s face then nodded. “Don’t stay up too long kid,” he said then turned and left the cockpit.

Luke watched him leave, then turned to stare out of the window again. The loud rhythmic humming of the engines faded into the background as Luke began to concentrate. Using the power of the force, he searched across the vast void of space looking for the Princess, his entire being willing the force to make the connection with her energy.


The lights in Arcadia’s cell slowly began to dim to a soft glow. She looked up from studying her bruised face in the mirror at the ceiling waiting to see how dark the room would become. When it was obvious that the lights would not go off completely she returned her attention to her reflection. The entire right side of her face looked battered. Her lip was still swollen and the redness on her cheek and jaw was interspersed with black in the shape of her attacker’s knuckles. The force of the blow had managed to rupture the veins around her eye, leaving her with a semi-circle of darkness around it. She looked anything but glamorous.

Shaking her head and gingerly touching her face she stated out loud, “no amount of makeup is going to hide this.”

A shimmering in the mirror caught her attention and she slowly stood up straight and stared at it. The shimmering started to glow then transformed into a familiar shape. Arcadia’s jaw hung open as she stared at the reflection in awe.

“Princess?”

The voice emanated from behind her. Spinning around she stared at the ghostly image of Luke Skywalker standing in the doorway.

“What the? Luke?” she looked around the room in bewilderment, sure that this was some kind of trick, a hologram or perhaps she was losing her mind. That’s right, I’ve got concussion or perhaps the food was laced with some sort of hallucinogenic drug.

“It’s okay Cadi, it’s me Luke.” The voice sounded as if it came from the apparition.

“What, you’re a ghost now?” she asked the image uncertainly.

Luke smiled and shook his head, “No Cadi, it’s a Jedi power, something like astral projection. I wasn’t sure that I could find you, but we obviously have a strong connection. It didn’t take me long at all.”

“So you’re not really here?” she asked, tentatively waving her hand through the image, which shimmered and solidified as her hand passed through.

“No not physically, I can’t get you out of this cell if that’s what you mean.”

Smirking playfully at him she asked, “Well what use are you then?”

He laughed softly, pleased to see that she hadn’t lost her sense of humour. He had been shocked to see the bruising on her face when she first appeared before him but was careful not to show it. He was afraid of how that may have affected her but her joking put his mind at ease. She was obviously a lot stronger than she looked.

“How are you holding up?” he asked moving towards her.

She smiled as he approached, “I’m having the time of my life here, Luke. I must make a note to be kidnapped more often.”

He reached up and touched the side of her face. A tingling sensation swept through her cheek as the charged particles of energy making up Luke’s form shimmered against her skin. She closed her eyes for a moment then looked up. Luke’s blue eyes were full of concern.

“Hang in there, baby. We’re coming to get you.”

She nodded slowly as a lone tear trickled down her cheek.

“How’s Zac?” she asked as she brushed the tear away.

Luke paused for some time considering. “He’s worried about you. We all are.” Walking past Luke she sat down on the cot.

“Don’t tell him about my face,” she said, “he can be very reckless. I don’t want him doing anything stupid.” Luke nodded. “Does he know who the kidnappers are?” she asked.

“Yes,” he replied. “The same ones who snatched you when you were a child.”

Nodding she said, “That’s right. Have they made any demands?”

Luke shook his head, “No, but they did contact Zac. They basically told him to come and get you.”

She rubbed at her temples. “That settles it then,” she said looking back at him. After a long pause she continued. “I have been thinking about this Luke. Tell Zac to be very careful. I think they are out for revenge. I think they are using me as bait to bring Zac out here.” Looking up at Luke she continued. “Luke, I think they want us both dead.”

Sitting down next to her on the cot Luke looked into her eyes. For the first time since meeting her he actually saw fear reflected in them. His heart went out to her. She looked so lost and alone, so vulnerable. He could see that all the bravado that she was displaying was just for show. All he had to do was scratch the surface to reveal her true feelings. He longed to take her in his arms and comfort her, reassure her that everything would be alright.

“That’s just not going to happen Cadi. I won’t allow it,” he told her putting as much conviction into his voice as he could.

Looking into the depths of his blue eyes, Arcadia wanted desperately to believe him but she couldn’t deny the ominous feeling in the pit of her stomach. Something bad was going to happen, she just knew it.