Drey’s kind posture went from relaxation to stiff the moment the deafening sound ripped into him. His hands clamp down on the sides of his head to block it. A fruitless effort he quickly realized as he yelled in pain. Scrunched up eyes stared at her before his knees started to give out from under him. The downward fall didn’t last. In moments the force shoved him back, knocking him off his feet and sent him backwards. His arms curled to protect his head from blunt force impact.    

When Drey flew back, Tishombra reached out. He stopped millimeters from the wall. She fought against her own power as the scream died. She relaxed infinitesimally and breathed a sigh of relief let him go to fall to the floor. He flopped down into a stunned heap while she staggered to her feet. She threw back her shoulders and faced the door as it opened.

A trooper looked at Drey’s disheveled figure then at her. “Something just rippled through this section of the ship. Just checking on you Apprentice Ferro.”

Tishombra gave the trooper a blank face.[color=orangered] “I am fine Sergeant Kiel. My thanks.”[/color]

Sergeant Kiel nodded and inclined his head as did Tishombra. He turned and left the door, closing as he left.

Tishombra fell to her knees as the door shut.[color=orangered] “Lock the door on your way out Drey. Please? And I’m sorry again.”[/color] She laughed full of self mockery. She swayed on her knees and fell over on her left side. Her eyes fluttered shut a tear running down her cheek and across her lips.

Drey groaned. Pain nailed deeply into his head as he began to rose upright, his hand held his head. Standing completely up caused his balance to crumble and brought him to his knee. His left arm shot out to keep him from face planting into the ground. Silently, he cursed his stupidity. In a wobbly success, he managed to stand on his own two feet. Drey cast a look in Tishomba’s direction before he managed a nod. Through he couldn’t hear the words through the ringing, he could guess. He snagged up his cracked datapad along the way to the door. A slight limp, but nothing more.  

She looked exhausted as if she hadn’t slept for days. Bags under her eyes that looked like bruises they were so dark. Her skin was ash pale as if she was carved from white marble. Her lightning scar stood out like blood against snow. Her hair pooled around her like a river of blood lit by firelight. 

In her weakest moment, Drey mused how human she looked. So many parallel familiarities to one other individual he knew. Someone who struggled with random powers and the inability to control it. He paused mid-exiting. He turned to look at her, his face no longer angry or upset. 

“Talk with me later.” Drey kept it short, his hearing struggling to return properly. Without wasting much more time, he set the door to lock and wobbled slightly on his march out. He vanished into the crowd of uniform personnel shortly after.  

… … … 

Tishombra woke with a headache. A splitting massive headache.[color=orangered] "You just had to make things complicated, didn't you?"[/color] She pushed up from the floor groaning. Getting to her feet she headed to the shower. After the shower she dressed. This time the black. The sleeveless shirt tapered down in the front and back leaving her sides bare. Her pants hung low on her hips.

She reviewed the personal records of her room from last night. She shook her head as she caught Drey's parting words. Talk. She was not going to enjoy this. Especially if he decided that he was going to put the incident in a report.

She tied her hair away from her face and high on the back of her head. Her bone structure was much more prominent than with her hair down. Curiosity drew her to researching where Drey was quartered. Taking a deep breath she decided that she might as well face the music.

Drey laid face down in his bunk. A cramped little space where he curled up and slept off the effects of the force scream. Already, his headache had subsided and began to lift upright. His legs slide over the edge as they found ground. After the vertigo faded, he began to stand upright. His balance tilted to the left causing him to jerk his arm out in order to catch himself. Some lingering effects still remained even with the hour or so rest he managed to sneak in between shifts. 

Tishombra buzzed the com at the door. Maybe he wasn’t in? She hadn’t checked. That foreign feeling twisting her up inside. She fiddled with her belts hanging over her hips checking her sabers. She’d left the lightsabers stored and locked up. She huffed and stopped fidgeting waiting with a blank look. Well as blank as she could manage. The look didn’t quite reach her eyes.

What she couldn’t see was that she was worried. Impatient and worried.

“Enter, it’s open. Soldier bunks don’t have locks…” Drey said. 

Tishombra opened the door and walked in. Seeing him swaying while standing she winced slightly. It was almost imperceptible. Almost. She swallowed and looked away. Giving him the grace to steady himself. Weakness was not tolerated lightly in the Sith but one didn’t normally look away and not comment or take advantage of it. She watched him out of the corner of her eye.

Drey in a careful and slower than normal matter. Somehow, he forced himself to remain steady on the route to the nearby sink. He turned the knob and splashed some recycled water into his face. The chemical sting managed to clear his mind enough to no longer feel sick when he moved. After gripping the nearby towel, he patted his face dry and turned to face her. 

“All right, permission to speak bluntly and honestly.” He wanted her reaction to ensure she wasn’t going to blast him into a nearby wall. 

Tishombra’s head turned toward Drey.[color=orangered] “I’d like to think that you’d be willing to speak that way with me always. But yes you have it from this moment on with no fear of repercussions. You have my word.”[/color] She moved in and closed the door.

“I’ve been around enough to understand one thing: I’m disposable. In an assault or crowd, I’m no different than anyone standing next to or in front of me. The only reason I stand out is the fact that I haven’t died yet.” 

A moment passed before he finished patting down his face. He hung the towel on the sink edge as he walked toward her. He stopped just outside her personal space before he spoke.  

“Most importantly, never take on my wife’s face again. I never want to replace her, but I do want to move on. What you desire isn’t going to be taken from [i]me[/i],” Drey hoped his subtle hint became clear, but he didn’t intend to provoke or threaten the Sith. He took another breath before he continued his words. 

“Finally, this venture is going to be whatever you want. If it changes, simply tell me and we’ll go our separate ways. No pain, no strings, or anything to hinder our working relationship should happen.” 

Tishombra blinked.[color=orangered] "That's all?"[/color] She blurted out before catching the surprise and swallowing it. She was suspicious of such an open ended relationship. What he said had floored her. She looked away to compose herself. 

“Yes. Truthfully, you would’ve gotten more of a pleasant reaction with a one night stand than that.” Drey boldly commented. 
 
Tishombra glanced back at Drey.[color=orangered] "One night would not have been enough. And now I'm at a disadvantage. I… didn't mean…"[/color] She shook her head.[color=orangered] "I'm not good at… this."[/color]

“I’m going to be on Korriban for a few weeks. What about dinner? Public or private, the decision is up to you.” Drey taking the lead in this, an offer which he felt was reasonable. Sometimes it made a woman feel comfortable to have her options limited while still able to reject or offer something up in exchange. His arms crossed over his chest and waited for her answer. 

Tishombra raised an eyebrow.[color=orangered] "You're sure about this? It's not too late to be smart and say you want nothing to do with a dangerous woman, Drey."[/color] She liked his name. Short and to the point. Surprisingly he hadn't asked for hers yet.

“I’ve done a lot of dangerous things in my years of service. One day I will not survive one of these missions.” Drey then shrugged, his arms still folded. He let a smile break across his serious expression. “At least this one, I might die having some fun.” 

[color=orangered]"You can't be serious. I offended you then almost killed you purely by accident. Neither my intention and yet you're still interested."[/color] Tishombra tilted her head and put her hands on her hips. 

“If you prefer I wasn’t…” Drey stated then turned on heel and began to slowly walk back to his bunk. 

Tishombra raised an eyebrow.[color=orangered] "I didn't say that. I just said… you're loving this aren't you?"[/color] She grinned at his retreating form.

“After working underneath a Darth, you have no idea. This is actually rather fun.” Drey chuckled before leaning against his bunk, now facing her direction. His arms still crossed over his chest. 

“So, which is it? Are you interested to see where this goes or leave it in the past?” 

[color=orangered]"Definitely interested. I just don't know why you'd be. I don't want you to think you don't have the option to walk away…”[/color] She seemed lost in thought, as if far away.

“Truthfully, I’m curious. I’m not a force sensitive, but the idea of it is interesting. Especially in the less explained areas.” He let the words linger a moment and continued. 

“As long as you respect me and keep to the boundaries, this will work. Otherwise, I’ll seek company elsewhere. Simple as that. Is that a deal?” Drey extended his hand as he waited for her reaction. 

Tishombra came back to reality with a shudder and looked back at Drey smirking, eyes still a bit haunted.

“You realize, if I step out of line… you can throw me across the room? I’m the one taking the biggest risk. I can’t fight back should you choose not to stick to our deal.” 

[color=orangered]“Trust me I am aware of that risk level. More than you realize. After all the analogy works when a Master takes on an Apprentice.”[/color] Tishombra’s color drains from her face the far away look back in her eyes. [color=orangered]“The risk level is synonymous.”[/color]

“The choice is [i]yours[/i]. I made mine. Though I will admit, I wonder if you’re able to handle this.” Drey sighed, unsure if he should step forward or stay against the bunk.   

Tishombra’s eyes flashed and she tipped her chin up squaring her shoulders. [color=orangered]“I can handle more than you think. I’m no shrinking violet.”[/color] She held out her hand. [color=orangered]“You have a deal Corporal. Unless you regret your decision already?”[/color] The now familiar smirk was back. The cocky arrogance she threw back at him with the questioning challenge to see if he’d rise to the occasion.

Drey raised an eyebrow, but shrugged off a response. Part of him wondered what he got himself into. He sighed then reached and shook the hand.

“I think my actions speak louder than my words. Just keep in mind, you’re still leading this relationship. I still need an answer and your name.” 

[color=orangered]“My name is Tishombra Ferro. You’re not making this easy you know. I’m not clear on the full meaning of boundaries in a romantic relationship... That is what we’re talking about is it not? I can see you fully enjoying my lack of experience in this situation.”[/color]

“There’s only one way to learn. Experience it, mess up and learn. Then repeat. It’s pretty simple, but the emotions can be crazy. However, I’m not fragile.” Drey stated with a smirk returning to his lips. 

[color=orangered]“Good to know. But in answer to your question. I’d like to see where this goes. Since I’ve already messed up. How formal is this dinner you were talking about earlier?” [/color]Tishombra looks serious since this might actually be serious.

“I say the same atmosphere as when we first met. The one before you tried to fool me. A relaxed, casual setting. Sound good to you?” 

[color=orangered]“That sounds fine. I guess I don’t have to give you heart failure by dressing up.”[/color] She indicates her outfit.[color=orangered] “This is pretty normal, a little on the formal side.”[/color]

“I usually prefer to get out of my uniform for off duty.” Drey stated as he pushed off the bunk, considering if he should shoo her out. He really needed a shower after a long day.  

[color=orangered]“So, what time is good for you? I’m considering washing up before we’re forced to go through routine checks.” [/color]

“I have all the time in the world. Eventually I’ll have to report but that will likely be in person and I’m free for a while. Did you need me to leave?” She indicated the door behind her.

Drey studied her. His face hard to read as he considered an answer. The lust and loneliness encouraged a flirting answer, giving her a choice to explore her options. A deep inhale then exhale quelled the primal desires. Giving into them wouldn’t help the situation and her reaction earlier brought him to question the wisdom of this deal. Having already pushed his luck far too much today, he took the safer road. 

“While I don’t mind being watched, I do share these quarters with others. Your presence might make them think we did something to upset you.” Drey smirk, feeling his answer was acceptable. 

Tishomba nodded. [color=orangered]“That is a valid statement. My quarters? Or…?”[/color] Her gaze traveled over him slowly. She lingered over the span of his hips, the with of his chest and danced over his shoulders. She finally raised her eyes to his and arched an eyebrow.[color=orangered] “Don’t think I didn’t hear the invitation Corporal.”[/color]

“It was always there.” Drey chuckled, not mentioning she messed it up originally. He paused to think and consider it. 

“Where do you feel safest?” 

Tilting her head her eyes blinked questioningly.[color=orangered] “Shouldn’t that be my question to you, as you keep pointing out? I’m the big bad Sith after all. Makes me sound like I’m going to eat you alive.”[/color] She bit her lip to keep the laugh in.

“You can, but doesn’t mean I won’t enjoy it. However, I know I do know the Sith world a bit better than most troopers. I’m assigned to serve underneath a Darth so I get the best and worst side of the world. I also know you work better when you’re comfortable.” He pointed out.  

Tishombra arched an eyebrow suggestively as he stated that he would enjoy being eaten alive. She got very serious at the mention of him serving under a Darth.[color=orangered] “A Darth?”[/color] She tensed a fraction.[color=orangered] “Really, what Darth Corporal?”[/color] Her tone a touch more formal. 

If he was serving under a Darth that had issues with Embrus then he could be a plant. I can’t let Embrus down. I’m not expendable per say but still that would cause issues. I don’t need issues.

“Nyiss. It’s in my records if you kept looking. Reassigned after Lord Sish was killed, any additional reports are in my records. If you look close, I’m not high on the ranking system.” Drey knew that look and the reaction. He held his breath waiting for this thing to stop in its tracks. 

[color=orangered]“Yes we established last night that I was remiss in skimming your records. I shall take your word for it, though. I have heard of her.”[/color] Tishombra relaxed visibly.[color=orangered] “My quarters then.” [/color]She backed up right into the wall. She slid her hand behind her slowly trying to not make it obvious she was paying more attention to him than her surroundings. She fumbled for the button.

“Need me to help with that?” Drey asked, noticing her struggle. 

[color=orangered]“Help with what Corporal?”[/color] She managed to just pull off the innocent look, maybe.

“The button, you seem oddly distracted. I can’t imagine why.” He chuckled, walking over to her. “Maybe I should escort you to your quarters before taking a shower.” 

Drey didn’t deny he almost suggested taking a shower in her quarters, but he didn’t want to push his luck again. 

[color=orangered]“You couldn’t be more wrong about being distracted Corporal. But if you feel that an escort is needed I would never deny you the pleasure.”[/color] Tishombra stated smoothly not missing a beat she smiled sweetly.

“I don’t think you would enjoy the smell of me after work.” Drey teased, letting himself invade her personal space briefly. His hand pressed the button then slowly pulled back. 

Tishombra removed her hand from behind her back as he invaded her personal space and lightly brushed over his hip and across the small of his back to rest lightly in the middle of his back. She looked at him from beneath her lashes. [color=orangered]“It’s called breathe control if you’re that worried about offending me Drey. And yes I have that.” [/color]She lightly ran her nails up and down his spine. She dragged out his name as if tasting it and finding it to her liking.

Drey smirked and turned into her direction. So many things to say, but the place was terrible. He decided to say fuck it and go for the fun. His head leaned in to whisper into Tish’s ear, the words barely audible. 

Tishombra turned her head and laid her lips against his ear.[color=orangered] “Why I do believe I’ll make that bet Drey.”[/color]

Tishombra blew gently into his ear and caught the lobe in her teeth gently for only a moment. [color=orangered]“Willing to make a wager?”[/color] Her lips formed the words softly and against his ear.

“First, we need to make it back to your quarters. Unless you want to give the crew a show…” Drey snickered as he gestured for her to leave first, the door still open. 

Tishombra lightly ran her nails across his back from spine to hip letting her hand fall. She lightly bumped against him to turn in the limited amount of space to get fully out the door. She looked back over her shoulder and flashed him her eyes. They were full of promise and desire their gold color sparkling like a miniature sun. [color=orangered]“Keep up Corporal.”[/color]

She walked out hips swaying as she lead them back down the path that she had started last night. Before she had erred in judgement. Pride goeth before a fall. She threw a look back over her shoulder to see if he was following closely enough.

Drey never missed a step as he followed in her wake. A few curious heads turned into their direction, subtle disbelief and concern at his brazen action. It was obvious to those who could put together the only reason a Sith would take a trooper back to their private room. He ignored their wary glances with a faked innocent smile.  

Tishombra opened the door and ushered Drey in following him in, closing and setting the lock. She turned toward Drey and smiled wickedly.[color=orangered] “Now about that bet…”[/color]

[h3][center]... ... ... ... ... ...[/center][/h3]

Drey glanced at the monitor. The digits blinked the current time and caused him to silently curse. Carefully he began detangle himself without waking her. He mumbled something about wishing he could stay longer as he began to grab his uniform pieces. With skilled practice in hasty dressing, Drey pulled on his boxer, pants and finally his shirt. He carefully sat on the bed's edge while he slipped on his boots. 

His hand reached for the lock before the hairs on the back of his neck rose up. Casually he glanced over his shoulder to spot Tishombra, rolled over and looking at him. 

“Sorry, I tried not to wake you.” Came the simple apology. 

Tishombra grinned and stretched. The sheet slipped but she held it to her. [color=orangered]"I'd let it go but you have somewhere to be. I understand. You could use my shower." [/color]

“If I had time, I would. I feel like we would get going and never get out.” Drey smiled, his eyes hungrily followed her shape through the sheet. He bit his lip then shook from his greed. 

“I’ll take a rain check. I also like to keep the score 3 to 1.” He amused, the number in his favor. 

Tishombra stood the sheet barely covering her hourglass figure accentuating it more than hiding it. [color=orangered]“Well then I guess I’ll just have to catch up Corporal. When do you get off duty?”[/color] She glided closer and he caught a flash of leg, another of hip, torso. She held the sheet barely with one hand.

She reached out and kissed the back of his neck. Her hands coming round his waist and she leaned her head on him nuzzling his shoulder. [color=orangered]“I’ll be here waiting with something for you to eat. If you like.”[/color]

A heavy stir in his blood created discomfort. If urgency hadn’t been a priority than Drey might’ve said fuck it and have another round with her. 

“I work in another twelve hours, then I get about ten hours to myself. I should be eating dinner and sleeping during that time, but... “ His hint was obvious.    

Tishombra decided that he was going to get a little something to hold him over. She ran her tongue along his neck and nipped him. She whispered in his ear then licked it and let him go turning and walking to the bathroom giving him a view as she walked away to the bathroom leaving the sheet at his feet. She turned back her hair pulled over one shoulder and ran a hand up her side lifting it in a wave when it was chest level.

Drey groaned over his neediness. He couldn’t stop himself from watching her leave as his body stepped back, making the view last longer. A sigh escaped his lips before he forced himself to look away. He began to move toward the door and pressed the button. 

“I’m going to get even.” He spoke loudly before he exited.  

He heard laughter. Pure and musical sexy laughter before the door shut after him.