The Lion, The Witch and The Wedding

THE LION, THE WITCH AND…... THE WEDDING

ClosedRP

Location: Cathar System

IC: Terrogate, Artifex of Tollere & Mab Bathori

~\*~

Roar-1 jolted when it dropped out of hyperspace upon entering the Quelii sector. The old T-class cruiser was on its way to Cathar for a special occasion. Onboard it carried the newly knighted Cathar, Terrogate and his family.

After everything that had happened the past months, all of them needed a break. It was Mab's idea to have a family vacation and suggested they would visit Terrogate's homeworld. She always wanted to see it but she also believed it was important for him to go home after all this time and make peace with his past.

~\*~

Piloting the ship was the KX-series security droid, K-0R9. Behind him in passenger's seats against the back wall, sat Terrogate with on his right side his betrothed, Mab. Their children were on the lower deck, sleeping as Jovian, the housecarl kept an eye on them.

After a few minutes the navigation system began to beep softly, indicating they had just entered the Cathar system. "We have arrived in the Cathar system" K-0R9 said without looking at the screen of the navcom. "In approximately twenty three minutes we will reach Cathar" the droid added and pressed a button to stop the beeping. He glanced over his shoulder at the couple behind him and asked "where would you like to go?", ready to navigate them to the destination they desired.

Terrogate turned to Mab and smiled as he leant back into his passenger seat, the entire trip he was pretending nothing was wrong but inside he was nervous. He had considerable plans for this family vacation after Mab had first mentioned it but when she mentioned Cathar as the destination he knew she had also chosen the location to make him confront his past. He was reluctant at first, although the planet itself was undoubtedly changed in the four millennia since he had escaped the Mandalorian war; the memories would still be fresh off the invasion. But she had a point, if he was to truly start his life anew as a knight of the Empire then he needed to make peace with his past.

“Where would you like to go?” asked Mabs personal KR series droid that was piloting them. Terrogate unclips his safety harness and walks over to the pilot's chair, looking down and pointing to a spot on the navicomputer mounted to the pilots control console. “Here… Set us down here please K0RG” he said in the usual deep growl of his voice. “The forest, just on the edge of the Vast Velt… Take us Home.” he said the final words as if deep in thought, or recalling old memories long since lost.

When K-0R9 asked them where they wanted to go, Terrogate stood up and walked over to him to point out a location on the navcom. Mab remained seated, the roaring of the old ship's engines made it difficult for her to hear what was said, but she could sense his nerves parsecs away. The Iktotchi knew it wasn't going to be easy for her betrothed, but she was happy when he agreed to go to Cathar.

K-0R9 set the new coordinates and said "we shall arrive in approximately twenty one minutes." The witch stood up "I better wake the kids, I want them to see Cathar when we arrive" she said and looked at Terrogate for a moment, smiling proudly at him. Then she turned right and pressed the doorbell of the lift. Instantly the doors opened and she stepped inside. The witch was excited, she always wanted to visit her lifemate's homeworld, to see where he was born, where he grew up centuries ago. Secretly she hoped there would be echoes of the past she could read, to understand him better.

The lift only took a few seconds until it reached the lower deck and opened again. In the ready room beneath the bridge, she found Jovian sitting on a crate. The housecarl looked up at her when he heard the lift doors open, and instantly stood up. "Mistress, what can I do for you?" He asked politely. "We are almost at Cathar, I'd like the kids to see it" Bathori responded and looked at the open sleeping compartments on either side of the lift. "Ofcourse, I'll…" but Mab raised her hand and shook her head. "I'd like to wake them" and she walked to the bed on which her twelve year old son peacefully slept. Sitting down on the edge she gently touched his shoulder "Kas'sparr.. son.. wake up" her voice was soft, but her hand was cold and made the blue skinned Iktotchi flinch and open his red eyes. "What's wrong?" He asked, slightly confused. She smiled "We are almost there, go get ready." The boy rose up and swung his legs over the edge.

Mab stood up and walked over to the bed where Khara lay. The three year old was also asleep. Again the witch sat down but this time she hesitated to touch the wingless S'kytri. The girl often had night terrors because of what Mab had done to her, she didn't want to scare the child. "Khara… little one…" almost instantly the girl opened her eyes, since that awful night she wasn't able to sleep deep and would wake from the softest sounds. With a smile on her face Mab continued to speak "hey.. good morning sunshine.. let's get ready. We are almost home." Khara returned the smile "yes mama." She was only three, but S'kytri grew much faster, she had the body of a six year old.

The girl jumped off the bed and walked over to Jovian. It pained her to see that her daughter didn't want her to help her get ready. But Mab understood very well that it was her own fault. She stood up and wiped a tear away before anyone we would see.

Moments later, all four of them stepped on the bridge and took place on the seats in the back. They watched as Cathar came in sight. Mab looked at Terrogate and smiled "there it is… your home."

Terrogate sat with his family in the passenger seats as the small star cruiser came crashing through the planetary atmosphere of Cathar. Terrogate held Mab and her daughter's hand as the ship jerked and shuddered on entry. This was normal for the beat up old royal cruiser but every time it happened it still made Terrogate feel queasy in the pit of his stomach.

Eventually ROAR-1 cleared the upper atmosphere and KOR-9 tilted its nose up after which the small craft's stabilizers once again took over. Terrogate looked down and realised had been squeezing Mabs hand without knowing it and he instantly relaxed his grip although he knew she could feel no pain in her ultrachrome hand. “Almost there.. “ he said and then took a deep calming breath. He was feeling anxious all of a sudden. The thought of returning to the site. What would he find? He had made some calls to external sources inside of the house intelligence departments and been told it was under Sith control. Safe for all those citizens of the Empire who would attempt to travel their. But that was not what he was truely anxious about..  The warrior had also made other calls and arrangements for this trip before their departure.

Ones that his betrothed had not been privy to.

Soon after the landing gears of the old T-class cruiser touch down expertly onto the edge of the lush grassy plains of the Vast Velt that bordered the start of the mountainous jungles. The Vast Velt itself was open fields stretching on for hundreds of kilometres in all directions broken only by the occasional massive lone trees that erewere commonly seen across the planet. Flocks of birds flew overhead casting shadows against the morning sun and the weather was pleasant on the temperate outer rim world. A slight warm breeze caused the grass to move like waves across the earth and not a hint of a rain cloud could be seen on the horizon, local planetary time had their arrival at 09:45 hours.

“Common” said Terrogate with a smile looking at Khara who looked excited to be travelling as he unstrapped his safety harness and started to move out of his seat. Once stood up he placed he moved to the blue skinned boy and placed a hand on Kas’sparrs shoulder and looked down while he spoke “Let’s get outside and find a good place to set up camp, then maybe I’ll show you where I grew up.”

* + - * + -

(( update

Roar-1 had just touched down on the edge of the Vast Velt, hidden between some bushes and the tall green grass to avoid any detection. Their first mission was to find a suitable spot for a camp, because it wouldn't be much of a vacation if they remained aboard the old T-class cruiser.

While the KX-series security droid stayed aboard to shut everything down and  secure the ship, the others went outside. Quite fast they found an open space on the border between the Savannah and the Jungle where they would have some shelter next to a rock formation with a slight overhang. By that time K-0R9 had already unloaded the Speeder Bikes from the cargo bay.

~\*~

An hour or so after their arrival on Cathar, Terrogate and Mab would take their kids for a ride on the Vast Velt, leaving Korg and Jovian to finish setting up camp and prepare dinner. ))

The twin speeder bikes roared through the open grassy plains of the vast velt at speeds of close to 300kms an hour. Mab and her son Kas’sparr on her teal, gold and minty green coloured speeder closely followed Terrogate and the young S’kytri girl Khara who was securely fastened to his chest. The lead speeder a Black, Gold and Red version of the twin set Terrogate had purchased for he and Mab when they moved to the remote forest world of Batorine.

The wind against their faces blew their hair back, it felt exhilarating, like they were flying! The Cathar knight suddenly wondered what was going through the child’s mind that was strapped to his front facing forwards. He looks down briefly and sees she is smiling, arms extend like wings and he suddenly feels a deep pit in the bottom of his stomach as he began remembering that night, her high pitched squeal as she woke..

The moment passes quickly though as Terrogate was forced to bank to the right as the earth ahead suddenly revealed a huge hole in the ground about 100 meters away. It was the home of a kiltik beetle heard, dangerous large insects that lived in the Vast Velt and fed of the vegetation and animals of the planet. “Kriff.. I need to stay alert.. damn Mandos and the Ving could have at least rid us of those damn bugs while they were at it.” He thinks to himself. He turns his head and was glad to see Mab had seen the manoeuvre early and followed his line.

To the left of them but still well into the distance was a family of Giant horned hoppers making their way slowly across the grassy landscape. Their massive forms reminded Terrogate of the days when he used to go hunting along with his father for them when they strayed too close to the tree city and started attacking the livestock.

They traveled for almost thirty minutes and the landscape had begun to change rapidly. Vast fields making way for high hills, low caverns and more vegetation, and a sound.. a roaring constant sound. Eventually the Cathar finds what he was looking for.. an area of land  in the distance that rose quickly and pulled into the thick density of the forest. He signaled left and then banked towards it.. the sound getting louder as they approached and the speederbikes started to slowly climb higher..

Before long they arrived at their destination and Terrogate pulled up short then stopped the speeder.. the sound was almost defining for his feline ears and he needed to focus to restrict his range to that of a more friendly tolerance.

Getting off the bike once He stopped him he unstrapped Khara and then lifted her off just as Mab and Kas’sparr caught up to them also coming to a halt.

Terrogate was smiling from ear to ear.. “Sounds like this part of Cathar is still the same!” He said excitedly as Mab parked the speederbike.

Mab's eyes shimmered with excitement when she saw the speeder bikes being prepared. Terrogate had purchased them when they moved to Batorine, but due to everything that had happened the past months they never actually used them.

The children were equally as excited as she was. The moment Kas'sparr saw the bikes he climbed on hers, "brruuummm brrrr brrr" he murmured as he pretended to ride it. Next to the bike stood Khara, jumping, trying to get on behind her brother. A smile appeared on Mab's face as she watched her children. Just as she was about to help the girl onto the bike, Terrogate took her to his bike and strapped her tightly against his chest.

A wave of sadness came over her. Mab wished to bond with her daughter, but she knew it would take much time. What she had done was unforgivable, and each day she felt sorry for it. She tried her best to make things right, and therefore it pained her extra to see that even Terrogate thought it would be better If Khara would stay with him.

Mab watched as the Cathar climbed onto the bike and started the engine. Khara was laughing happily and didn't even look at her. "Come on mom, what are you waiting for?" Kas'sparr yelled from behind her, bringing her attention back to the present. The Iktotchi turned around and saw Kas'sparr was waiting for her on her teal coloured bike. She smiled and walked towards him "scoot to the back" she said. The boy listened and she climbed on the bike.. "Hold on tight" she started the engine and added "I don't want to lose you along the way."

~\*~

Moments later they rushed over the Savannah. "Whoooo Hoooo!!" Mab heard Kas'sparr shout out from behind her.. "I'm definitely going to get myself a speeder bike" the boy said. The witch laughed "are you now?... and from where will you get it?" "Maybe I'll just look Terrogate deep into his eyes" the boy chuckled and then softly added "like you always do to get things done." "Hey, I heard that" Mab said as she glanced at him over her right shoulder. "Woow, what is that?" "Don't change the subject boy, I'm not falling for that." "No seriously, what is that" the boy tapped on her other shoulder and pointed something out to the left. Curiously Mab looked over and saw strange looking creatures with horns, jumping through the tall grass in the distance.  "I think you need to" Mab said as she faced forward again, but before she could finish that sentence she saw Terrogate suddenly banking to the right. Just on time, Mab followed his lead, avoiding a large hole the ground. "Oooh kark" Kas'sparr squealed in surprise and held on tight.

~\*~

When they stopped, the landscape had changed a lot. They were no longer on the grassy plains of the Vast Velt, but in the green hills. The moment the bike stood still, Kas'sparr jumped off and rushed over to Terrogate and Khara. Mab switched the engine off and also joined them. The witch looked around wondering why they had stopped. The Cathar was smiling brightly and said “Sounds like this part of Cathar is still the same!” Sensing his excitement made it clear he was up to something. “Let’s hope it’s still here too!” her betrothed added and looked into her eyes. "What are you up to?" She asked with a grin and moved closer..

Khara had found an interesting stone to play with, and Kas stood further away with his hands resting on his waist, looking at the view of the landscape. Neither of them paid any attention to their parents. Mab continued to move closer, staring into his emerald eyes. "Well… where are you taking us" she softly asked, standing closely in front of him. Her golden eyes had their usual playful twinkle and her cheeks were blushing lightly. The Cathar was much taller than her, she had to stand on her toes to be able to wrap her arm around his neck. Right there and then, everything seemed perfect, she was happy, she was in love. She pulled him in for a kiss, but before their lips even touched Khara stood right next to them "look Mama" holding up a little treasure she had found…

“What are you up to?” Mab asked with a smile as she moved closer, then wrapped her arms around his neck and looked into Terrogates eyes. “Well… where are you taking us?” Terrogate just smiled back at his betrothed and allowed himself to be lost into her beautiful golden eyes. Of course the Iktotchi witch could be very persuasive when she wanted to be but the Cathar was not going to give in and ruin the surprise, not when they are so close.

It was a long shot anyway that the knight was going to find the location that would-be now well over four thousand years old and there was still a possibility that what he wanted to show her was no longer accessible.

Terrogate, still smiling and arms now draped around Mabs waist, leans down to kiss his soon to be bride on the lips and then right before they do “look Mama” said Khara holding up a strange stone.

Terrogate turns his head and his feline eyes pick up a small shine on the dirty rock Mabs adopted daughter held in her small hand. “Hand it over for a moment princess” Terrogate asked letting go of Mab and kneeling in front of the girl.

As the girl hands over the small rock Terrogate takes it and holding it up rubs off the dirt as best he can. Underneath it is a round don't with a marking on it that is unfamiliar to him. He then makes a mental note of it and hands it back to Khara. “Very pretty, how about you put it in your pocket and hold onto it for me. Maybe later we can see if your mommy can find out what it is.”

“Common…” Said Terrogate smiling and standing back up to his full height. “Let's go, it's not far now...”

As the warrior knight led the way through the thick brush, occasionally igniting one of his sabres and cutting a path through high bushes and ferns Mab and the children followed him closely. In approximately ten minutes of walking Terrogate finally cuts past a final large fern branch and then turns off his saber, taking a few more steps forward he stands still with a wide smile on his face looking at what was laid out before him.

As he waited for Mab to join him he reached for her hand, before them in a wide open clearing was a gigantic pool of water easily a kilometre across and it's end was unable to be seen as it narrowed and disappeared off into the thick jungle to the left. The sandy banks were a brilliant champagne colour and the whole clearing was bordered by gigantic rock cliffs. To the right was a rushing waterfall dropping down from a cliff face about 30 meters higher than where the family stood. The sound was loud but the scenery was just breathtaking.

"Look mama" the wingless little S'kytri said, proudly showing what she had found. Mab had difficulty not to laugh about their daughter's timing. Before she could respond Terrogate let go of her waist and  knelt down before Khara. He took the small rock that the girl was holding and examined it. He wiped the dirt and revealed a marking. Mab loved seeing her betrothed interact with the children, they weren't his by blood, but he was their father nonetheless. They needed him but he also needed them. The Cathar told Khara to keep the stone in her pocket, so that later, Mab could try figure out what it was. The Iktotchi frowned, 'I could have a look now' she thought but as he stood up it was clear he didn't want to waste any time.

“Common let's go, it's not far now...” Terrogate said and strides towards the bushes. The witch looked at her son, who had all this time been gazing at the view of the mountains. "Come Kas, this way." She said. Instantly the boy turned and smiled when he saw his stepfather cutting a path through the dense forest. Quickly the blue skinned Iktotchi rushed past Mab and jumped into the bushes, following the large Cathar.

With a smile on her face, and her daughter holding her hand, Mab followed her betrothed and her son. Carefully stepping over rocks and branches, she kept wondering where he was taking them. The witch had no idea, and no intention to try to read his mind and spoil the surprise he had planned for her.

Surprisingly the hike through the jungle didn't take that long. After ten minutes or so, she saw that Terrogate stepped out onto an open area. Kas'sparr, who had followed the warrior closely, pushed the last branches aside and then exclaimed "wooow.. Khara come!" The boy looked down the path at his sister and mom. Khara let go of her hand and quickened her pace to join her brother. "Be careful sweetheart." Mab responded as she pushed the branches aside..

Terrogate held out his hand, and helped her onto the open area. Her golden eyes grew bigger, as she took in the breathtaking view of a lake and gushing waterfall. The sunlight hit the surface of the water, shimmering brightly. Kas'sparr and Khara had already run ahead to the waterline. "Don't get too close, you might fall" she told the kids. "Yeah yeah mom. Don't worry" Kas responded with an annoyed sigh, then he looked at his Stepfather "can we stay here for a bit?"

The Iktotchi witch glanced at the Cathar, and smiled "so was this what you wanted to show me?" She asked and she turned towards him. "It's beautiful" she added as she looked up into his emerald eyes again. "A shame we didn't bring anything for a picnic, this place would be perfect for that." She said and looked over at their children playing on the sandy bank of the beautiful lake.

Terrogate stood for a moment, his heart felt full to its brim. He stood on the golden sandy shore of the lake holding his lifemate's hand as the children played in the shallows, just as he and his siblings had done as children. He missed them now more than he had felt for a long time, his sister, his brothers and his loving mother… And his strong, protective father. As the Knight breaths in the deep fresh scent of running water and greenery he wonders if they could still see him in the after life.. Did they know he had returned to this place with his own family now? And would they be proud of him?  Approve of his choices?

“So was this what you wanted to show me?” Mab said and suddenly the Cathar's attention was instantly brought back to the present. He looked down and met her gaze as she had turned to him also “It’s beautiful.. "A shame we didn't bring anything for a picnic, this place would be perfect for that." she added. Terrogate felt foolish for not having brought the food that he had packed away into one of his speeders small cargo capsules. “I am sorry my stars, It seems I got carried away and left the food on the speeder bike..”

He looked to the ground but then back up to the children.. “They seem happy..” and he wraps his arm around Mab, then leans in and kisses her softly on the lips before pulling away and then pushes out with the force trying to sense any close life forces.. Nothing.. Nothing large or with an intent to harm at least..  “They should be ok to play all along here as long as they stay in the shallows..” he said. “Come on… There is something more I wanted to show you all” he said and then instructed Kas’sparr and Khara to follow he and Mab as he led them along the edge of the lake, heading towards the waterfall.

“It was our secret you see.. No one else even knew it existed as far as I know, not even mother or father..” Terrogate spoke as he walked… “Our hidden spot where we would hide and play. Abbes said it was magic..and we made a pact that one day, we would all bring our own children here to play and share the magic together.” Terrogate was smiling as he spoke but he didn't seem to be aware of how much.

As they got much closer the sound of the waterfall was becoming quite loud, suddenly when they got to about 20 meters away Terrogate reached back and touched Mab’s golden arm, then turned back to look at her. “Stay here a moment, I’ll be right back my love” he said and then stepped very closly to the cliff face, pressing his hands to the rock to keep his balance he began to make his way along the clifface heading towards the waterfall. What may have come as a surprise to Mab, as Terrogate neared the curtain of pouring mountain water he seemed to start moving deeper into the cliff, the path along the cliffs base itself had not led directly under the waterfall like it seemed to do.. but cut in very gradually behind it.. And in an instant the large Cathar warrior was completely hidden from view by the rushing waterfall.

As Terrogate moved behind the waterfall his heart sank and his brow furrowed.. Part of the cliff had collapsed across what looked to be a cavern opening, he would need Mabs help to remove the slabs of rock that was blocking his surprise for her and the children.

He turned around and made his way back along the rock face to where his family were still waiting for him.. “Well… I found it..” he said as he approached them, his clothes were damp now and his mane dropped droplets of water as he moved about and more off his whiskers as he spoke. “But it seems I’ll need your help my love” he said looking at Mab with pleading eyes. Even now not wanting to ruin the surprise, if just for the children at least.

It was obvious that this place had meaning to the Cathar, Mab didn't need to read Terrogate's thoughts to feel his emotions. She knew, before they came to Cathar, that it would be difficult and confronting, that he would remember his past, his family and would realize he was the only one left. Mab kept holding his hand, now wasn't the time to ask about what felt, but she wanted him to know he wasn't alone. He had a family now, two children that adored him and a lifemate that loved him deeply.

After apologizing for forgetting to bring food Terrogate brought their attention to the children, who were playing near the water.  "They seem happy" he said as he wrapped his arm around her. He was right, they were happy, which they hadn't been since she had retired from the Empire. Mab knew all of them had been walking on eggshells around her, trying to avoid triggering her. After all the stress and pain she had caused them, Mab was glad to see them smile, free of worry and full of joy.

Before she knew it, Terrogate leaned in and pressed his lips on hers. It was just a short kiss but it was sweet and loving instantly bringing blushes to her cheeks.

“Come on… There is something more I wanted to show you all” Terrogate said and motioned to the children to follow. "Can't it wait" Kas'sparr said slightly annoyed as he was busy skipping stones on the water. But the moment he saw that they were heading for the water he changed his mind and rushed to keep up with them.

As they made their way to the waterfall, Terrogate explained that it was a secret hiding spot for him and his siblings. And they promised that one day they would bring their own children to this place. The Witch noticed his bright smile as he spoke of this happy memory of his childhood. Part of Mab felt a little jealous, as she never had a happy childhood. Her time on Naboo had been lonely and full of sadness.

Standing before the thundering waterfall, Terrogate turned around and told her and the children to wait. A moment later he disappeared behind the waterfall. Kas'sparr strode towards the cliff, following the Cathar but Mab grabbed him by his collar "ooh no you don't" she said and pulled him back. "Mom!" "Your dad said to wait" she said and pierced into his red eyes. "He might need help" "if he does, he will tell us" the witch let go of her son, who looked at her with a slight pout and a furrowed brow.

Terrogate came back and as he approached them he said with serious expression  “Well… I found it.. but it seems I’ll need your help my love” She tilted her head slightly and raised an eyebrow, wondering what it was he needed her help for. "Ok.. eh… lead the way" she then said. But before following the Cathar on the path she turned to their children "Kas, please watch your sister." "I want to come, I can help" he responded with much confidence. "I know.. but please watch Khara for a moment. We'll come and get you when it's safe." The witch looked at her son waiting for his response. "Ok..but don't be long." Mab smiled and then turned to Khara "Stay with your brother.." the young Sky'tri nodded "ok mommy."

The Iktotchi followed the large warrior down the path, pressed against the cliff. The air was cool and damp, quite pleasant according to the forest witch. Compared to the bulking Cathat, it was easy for her to manoeuvre over the narrow path as it led them behind the waterfall. Moments later she saw what it was, he needed her help for. The entrance to a cave hidden behind the waterfall had collapsed. "I see.." she mumbled as she stepped closer, examining the large rocks blocking the way. "I think... If we move this one" she said pointing at the largest slab of stone in  the middle "the rest should get loose." Turning towards Terrogate she continued "I will try to lift it, removing its weight off the rest, then you can try pushing these aside" she pointed at the smaller rocks beneath the large slab. "When they are gone, I can lower this big boy and everything on top to the ground, and push it away together." She paused and looked at him "What do you think? I am ready whenever you are."

Terrogate nodded in agreement, “sounds like it should work just fine.” He said walking to the other side of the blocked entrance so the two wouldn’t get in each other's way..  “im ready.” He said and closed his eyes briefly in concentration as the power of the waterfall raged in an endless falling wall only a meter behind him. The Cathar breaths deeply, centering his mind and drawing the force into him as he had been trained to do hundreds of times before. His hands raised and palms facing forwards he opened his eyes ready to use telekinesis to lift the several tonnes of broken rock and remove the entrance's obstruction.

Terrogate opens his eyes after feeling the familiar heated power of the force to see Mab had already begun lifting the large top central stone slab. She always amazed him with her ability to command it, even now as they shared a technical rank she still seemed to always have the edge when it came to force ability.

Quickly the Atrifex of Tollere reaches out with the stored energy, bending it to his will and levitating the several dozen smaller pieces of stone and pulling them away from the enterance. As soon as Terrogate had seen them safely removed from under the large centeral rock slab Mab was holding sespended in the air the Cathar moves his arms to the right of him and sends the rocks flying through the waterfall and out into the lake.

Terrogate walked over to the other side and told her he was ready. The waterfall pounded loudly behind them, some thin streams of the freshwater drizzled down the rockface onto the cold stone ground. Mabs eyes glistened as the sunlight shone through the thick curtain of water. She smiled at her betrothed as he closed his eyes to concentrate.

After taking a deep breath, she only lifted her golden arm as the simple prosthetic arm wasn't of much use when it came to channelling the force. All this time she hadn't dared to have her arm replaced, worried that the creature who took her real arm would come to take her children. She hated the way she looked, it upset her to see her own reflection, but she had adapted to living with just one functional arm. The witch used her pain, the scars of her past to channel the force and began to lift the huge stone slab.. It seemed that there were more boulders on top, weighing it down than she had expected, it took a lot of effort to move up.

When the Cathar opened his eyes and saw that she was already pushing the centre stone up, he began to remove the stones underneath. He sent them flying through the satin sheets of water. "Be careful love, our kids are out there" Mab looked at him with wide eyes. Slowly she began to lower the large slab, and now they saw how high the file of rocks on top actually was.

With a soft thumb the rock touched the ground, instantly some of the boulders on top rolled down the pile into the cave floor. "That's halfway done. Now the rest" she said as she took a moment to catch her breath.

Again she lifted her ultrachrome hand, and began to move the rocks on top of the slab, "I could use your help" she said with a grin as she glanced at the Cathar who stood there watching her do the work.

“The children are fine love, I can feel them still in the place we left them” which was some 30 meters away on the rocky bank. After a moment Terrogate snapped to it after realising he had been standing admiring his betrothed's skill and power instead of helping her. “Sorry my stars, I'm ready..” he said and again focused inward, calling on the force once more. He reached out with both his hands and his mind and saw the large stone slab lift more easily with his assistance. Together they raised the massive stone and slowly manoeuvred it out though the waterfall and once cleared they lowered it into the water where it disappeared beneath the gushing power of the waterfall.

The stone now removed revealed an opening that led into he clifface behind the waterfall itself.. The entrance in itself was a pitch black hole about three meters across and just high enough for Terrogate to walk through if he hunched over. He remembered it being a lot bigger in his youth.. but there was also a hint of something familiar emanating from within. As Terrogate turned back with a smile “Mab my love, stay here while I fetch the children.. They won't want to miss this”.

Within a few minutes Terrogate had returned and the four of them stood at the gaping dark hole leading under the mountain, their clothes dampened by the mists of the waterfall crashing down behind them. Terrogate was holding Khara who looked scared and had buried her face into his muscular chest, Terrogate reaches out and feels for any signs of life beyond the entrance but thankfully nothing seems to be inside save the slight hint of familiarity from his youth and surprisingly so more recently.

“Don’t worry my princess.. I’m here to protect you” said Terrogate as he ran his fingers through the young child’s hair. “I don’t need protection!” Exclaimed Kas’sparr boldly. “I’m not afraid.” He added as he stood chest out next to his mother. “Ok… we then perhaps you can go first..?” Suggested the Cathar with a smirk. “Ummm… errhhh… ok..” said the boy, suddenly seeming to lose much of his bravery at the thought.”

Slowly Kas’sparr walked forwards into the dark with Mab and Terrogate following closely behind, Khara still hugging Terrogate tightly. The Cathar with one arm supporting Khara raises his other hand and summons a small ball of flame in front of them that dimly lit the area ahead. His feline sight was good during the dark of night, but not even he could see in the blackness of the cavern.

“My sister, brothers and I used to come here as children.. My tree home was not very far away..” said Terrogate as they walked. “This was our magic secret spot” he added.

(( GM UPDATE -

As the family made their way inside the small passage it wasn’t long until the pitch of black started to give way to the luminous glow of creatures that lined the rock walls.

After about 30 meters of walking the passage opened up into a massive crystal cavern full of all kinds of coloured crystals. The faint hint of the force was present from a spot on the very far side of the cavern. It was magical. ))

Her curiosity had only grown and once they had cleared the entrance all she wanted to do was go inside and see what was so special. But Mab didn't want to spoil the surprise her Terrogate had planned for her and the children. She waited for his lead. Terrogate however turned towards her with a bright smile and told her to wait while he would fetch their children. "They won't want to miss this” he added and disappeared through the waterfall.

Despite the fact that her curious nature was strong, the Iktotchi witch waited at the entrance of the mysterious cave. She did peek inside, but it was too dark for her to see anything. After a minute or two her Betrothed had returned with Kas and Khara. He had picked Khara up as she seemed frightened. The large Cathar warrior tried to calm her and softly spoke to the wingless Sky'tri. “I don’t need protection! I’m not afraid.” Kas'sparr suddenly said as she stood next to Mab. "Ooh we know dear" she said with a smile as she placed her hand on his shoulder. She glanced up at Terrogate and saw he was smirking, "well then perhaps you can go first..?” the witch could feel a sudden tension in the boys shoulder, but he still tried to keep up his brave face "umm ehh ok."

"Lead the way Kas" Mab said and let go of him. With a slow pace the boy stepped into the dark, touching the cold wall to see where to go. Terrogate summoned a ball of fire to light the way and gehad to tell them about his childhood

As they walked further down the narrow passage Mab began to sense something. She sensed life, but not in the way one would expect, there was no beast lurking in the shadows. It was the walls that suddenly came to life, giving off a blue luminous glow. "Whooooh, do you see that?" Kas'sparr asked as he gazed down the tunnel. Khara now also dared to peek up, instantly dropping her jaw in awe. The witch could feel the temperature rising a little more the further down the tunnel they went. It was pleasant as her core temperature was extremely low thanks to Cruor's gift.

After a while the tunnel opened up in a large subterranean chamber, lined with crystals that now also began to glow. Mab stopped at the end of the tunnel looking at the Mystical place her Betrothed had brought them to. "It's beautiful" she softly said and looked at the Cathar holding their daughter. "It's jewels" Khara said, pointing at the colourful crystals that decorated the cavern. "Yes sweetheart they are." "Are those kyber Crystals?" Kas'sparr asked as he walked further into the room.

Khara began to wiggle in Terrogate's arms, it was obvious she wasn't frightened anymore and wanted to be put on the ground. Mab smiled "I have no words to describe this place" she said overwhelmed by everything she saw. "How did you find this place?" She then asked Terrogate, curious about his childhood. "Were you drawn here?" She added as she began to pick up on something. Quickly Mab turned her face towards the far side of the cavern, there was something there. "Are you feeling that too?"

Terrogate smiles bright as the memories of his childhood come flooding into his mind. His eldest brother Strep, his sister Abbes, his other brother Tetè and he would come here often and play. To Terrogate it had always called to him, it felt like magic to him as a small cub and his sister had told him of her similar feelings about their secret cave, but only now he knew the reason as to why he at least felt that way. He wondered if Abbes too, perhaps was sensitive with the force when she was young?

"It's beautiful" Mab said softly. “Yes it is..” said the Cathar pulling himself from his pleasant memories. “I'm just happy I've finally been able to see it again, and to share it with my new family” he added smiling, looking to Kas and then back to Khara who was no longer just happy to be held in his arms. "It's jewels" Khara said, pointing at the colourful crystals that decorated the cavern. "Yes sweetheart they are." replied Mab who, now also seemed to have taken on a weird glow of her own, but Terrogate just assumed it was the light reflecting off of the crystals due to the planet's thermally heated air and decided not to bring attention to the obvious illusion. "Are those kyber Crystals?" Kas'sparr asked as he walked further into the room.

“You know what..” replied the knight “when I was your age Kas I never knew what the force was but I somehow knew this place was special, I could feel it deep within me.. And I now yes.. I do think that there are Kyber Crystals in here.” said Terrogate to the boy. “Why don't you try to find one?” The Cathar added with a grin.. “Oh really!??” replied Kas’sparr excitedly. “Sure.. Just be careful and keep clear of the big hole.” he said as Kas suddenly started moving around looking at each of the crystals trying to figure out which one may have been a Kyber. “That should keep him busy for a while,” said Terrogate with a chuckle.

Khara began to wiggle in Terrogate's arms again, clearly wanting to get onto her own two feet and look at the pretty jewels just like her brother. Terrogate placed the little S’kytri girl down “hold my hand tho ok.” he said to her and she gripped his hand tightly.  "I have no words to describe this place" Mab said smiling. "How did you find this place?" She asked Terrogate, "Were you drawn here?" She added as she turned her head over towards the far edge of the cavern "Are you feeling that too?" she asked..

“Well my brother Strep first brought us here. The falls that is, he said he found it while tracking game with father. We’d been coming here to the lake and the falls almost a full cycle before we actually found the cave behind the waterfall. My sister Abbes found it first actually” The Cathar explained “we were playing ‘prey and pounce’ and she said she just felt that there was something behind the falls that she needed to explore. It was her turn to be the prey and I couldn't find her anywhere for almost an hour. We were getting really worried by the time she actually came out and told us where she’d gone.”

“I feel it my stars, yes… I've always felt it. I just never knew what ‘it’ was.. But now I do… The force is strong here.. Although i don't remember feeling it being this strong.. I guess four thousand years has strengthened it.. Or perhaps I'm more in tune, more open to accept it.” Terrogate, still holding Kharas hand, starts slowly moving over towards the far end of the cavern stopping at every ‘pretty Jewel’ that caught the little girl's eye . “Come on love… Let's explore a bit… There is kyber here I bet.. Let's see if it will allow us to find it.”

Watching the children as they walked further into the large cavern looking at all its beauty with open mouths, brought a smile to Mab's face. When she turned to Terrogate she noticed he was smiling brightly as well, as this place brought back happy memories for him. It was a relief to see him like this, coming to Cathar wasn't easy for him.

Kas'sparr looked excited when Terrogate suggested he'd go and try to find a kyber crystal for himself. As the boy began his search Terrogate turned around at her and said with a chuckle “That should keep him busy for a while." When he placed Khara on the ground he began to tell her about his childhood again, about how his brother found the waterfall, and his sister discovered the cave. “We were playing ‘prey and pounce’ and she said she just felt that there was something behind the falls that she needed to explore" Terrogate continued as they slowly walked down the cavern with Khara between them holding their hands. Their eyes shimmered in the colourful light that came from the many crystals that lined the walls. Mab loved hearing about Terrogate's childhood but she felt guilty for being jealous. She smiled but deep inside it stung as she remembered some of her own childhood.

“Come on love… Let's explore a bit" Terrogate said, bringing her focus back to the present, suggesting that they would try to find the crystal that was pulling at them. The Iktotchi looked at him with twinkling eyes "I'd like that." “you coming with us, Kas? Or are you happy exploring by yourself?” Terrogate asked Kas'sparr who was examining another crystal. The horned Chiss boy looked up "I'm good" he said and walked to another crystal. But Mab could hear him mutter softly "I will find it before they do."

With Khara between, holding their hands they continued to walk down the cavern towards the far end. Mab could sense the pull got stronger as they walked. "You do have to explain something to me" she casually said, pausing on purpose to make the Cathar feel a little nervous and then she continued "Prey and Pounce?. You have to explain that to me." She said with a soft giggle.. "the prey hides.  So when comes the pounce?" The witch was genuinely interested in the game as she herself hadn't played much as a child.

The pull in the force became stronger, Mab knew that whatever it was, crystal or not, they were getting closer. She looked over her shoulder to see where their son was. Kas'sparr was on the other side of the cavern, going in the same direction as them. She wondered if it was luck or if he actually felt something. Suddenly Khara pulled on her arm "mama.. mama."Mab looked down at her, "what's wrong sweetie." "You are sparkly mama…" the girl said pointing at her face, but Mab didn't understand. She looked up at the Cathar. "Is there something on my face?" The witch wasn't able to see for herself, but veins under her pale skin were glowing, even the white of her eyes had a strange glow that only seemed to get more brightly. Mab let go of her daughter and wiped it over her face. "Is it gone?" She asked them..

“You want to know about Prey and Pounce?” Said the Cathar knight with a deep chuckle. “Well first of all it’s not the prey that hides.. it's the pouncers. The aim of the game is the prey counts to 100 and the pouncers hide themselves in the trees and brush. Then the prey must walk through the area and their job is to spot all the pouncers. If they do, they win. The pouncers job is to get close to the prey without being found and then pounce on them without being spotted. If they manage to do this, they win.” The large Cathars eyes seemed to smile as he discussed the rules. “It’s a hunters game my stars. Father used to encourage us to play it all the time. He said it was good practice for the real thing.”

"mama.. mama."Mab looked down at Khara who was calling to her as they walked, "what's wrong sweetie?." "You are sparkly mama…" the girl said pointing up at her mothers face? Mab looked up at the Cathar. "Is there something on my face?" For a moment Terrogate thought he was seeing things again, just the reflections of the crystals that surrounded them growing out of the rock. But as he looked more closely he realised she was actually glowing.. the veins beneath her skin, her eyes… she was glowing in the darkness of the cave..

Mab let go of Khara and wiped over her face with her hand. "Is it gone?" She asked.. “No, said Terrogate, you are glowing…” he said and raised his hand, touching her neck softly.. “Are you feeling alright?”

"You are glowing" Terrogate told her as he touched the skin of her slender neck. Confused Mab looked at him "Glowing?" She didn't understand what he meant, "I feel wonderful" she continued answering his question if she was feeling alright. The truth was she hadn't felt this good in a long time, she was happy and felt at peace, she felt that she belonged. "Honestly I don't understand what you mean,.. I'm glowing??" A nervous chuckle escaped her mouth as she continued "I'm not pregnant."

"Pregnant? Am I going to have a brother?" Kas'sparr suddenly said from behind her. The young horned had noticed his parents had stopped their search for the crystal, and overheard them speak as he approached them curious to see why. "No.." Mab turned around and looked at her son as she continued "I'm afraid not." His face changed, not out of disappointment but because of what he saw. Wide eyes he stared at her "wow.. how do you do that?"

Frustrated that she wasn't able to see what they were seeing let out a deep sigh. "Do what? I'm not doing anything." Finally she raised her golden arm, to use the shiny golden metal als a mirror. Now her own eyes widened as she saw her skin and eyes glowing in the distorted reflection. Confused, she looked at Terrogate, "what is happening to me?" She asked, feeling a little worried. She looked again at the reflection "I honestly feel wonderful.. you think it has something to do with crystals?" She asked and gazed around the cave. It wasn't just the crystals that glowed, also the fungus that covered the walls and small creatures crawling around..

Terrogate marvelled as mab continued to glow in the darkness of the cave, then leant in and kissed her. Kas’sparrs comment had somehow affected him.. Pregnant?... He could only dream of such a thing.. Being a father to his own cub. Not that he didn't love Khara and Kas’sparr like his own, but something about being a biological father called to him.

But it seemed that wasn't the only thing calling in the cavern.. Not far ahead, nestled low to the floor and surrounded by a small puddle of water was a group of crystals.. The orange one in particular was glowing.

“Common… I think I've found something” Terrogate said as he squeezed Mab's hand and the family walked to the end of the Cave. But then something happened that Terrogate did not expect.. As he moved closer, stepping in front of his family and then as he reached his hand out the crystal's brightness suddenly dulled.. “I don't understand…” said the Cathar knight confused..

“Give me a look..Terrogate. I want to see it too!” exclaimed the very impatient chiss boy as he pushed past his mother and sister then stood next to the warrior. To Terrogates surprise the crystal started to light up again… Shining brightly, brighter than it had the entire time it had since Terrogate had first noticed it.

“Ummm……. Kas’sparr…” said Terrogate looking stunned to the boy and then to his mother and back again.. “I think this one is meant for you..”

He drew back from their kiss “Common… I think I've found something" Terrogate said and pulled Mab by her hand. She could feel it too, one of the crystals was beckoning them. "Come Khara" Mab said, still feeling confused by her own strange glow. The wingless S'kytri girl smiled at her mother and followed them to the end of the cave.

There Terrogate let go of Mab's hand and stepped forward towards the crystal lined wall. Kas'sparr stood beside Mab, she felt his excitement growing and it made her chuckle softly. They weren't able to see past the large Cathar but when he reached for one of the crystals he suddenly stopped “I don't understand…” he said, obviously confused and moved aside "What's the matter?" The Iktotchi asked as she looked at the crystals. But before Terrogate could even respond Kas'sparr impatiently pushed his mother and sister aside “Give me a look Terrogate. I want to see it too!” and joined his father at the wall. Suddenly an orange crystal reacted to the boy, and began to light up. "Wow, a jewel" Khara said as her eyes grew bigger in amazement. “Ummm……. Kas’sparr… I think this one is meant for you..” Terrogate said.

The boy's red eyes widened as he looked up at Terrogate. "Really?" He didn't believe it and looked over at Mab. The witch nodded "I think your father is right." His jaw dropped slightly and he turned to Terrogate "really really?" He asked again, still not believing it. He wanted to find that crystal before his parents but never thought he could keep it. "Kas.. yes.. it's obviously calling to you" Mab stepped closer and placed her hand on his shoulder. "You must feel it's call now that you are so close." For a moment she paused, Mab knew she hadn't been the best teacher for her son. "Close your eyes and reach out with the Force.. hear its call, feel it… like I taught you."

To her surprise Kas'sparr looked nervous as he nodded and closed his eyes. Khara giggled when she saw her brother, quickly Mab brought her index finger to her lips to tell the girl to be quiet. "Yes, I do feel something." Kas'sparr said and held his hand closer to the crystal. He had his eyes still closed but the crystal seem to respond by flickering.. He Opened his eyes and looked at his parents again. "Now that you know it is calling to you, you can take it." The witch felt a sense of pride as she watched her son approach the crystal. He reached with his hands, and carefully tried to loosen it. It was obvious he was worried he might break it.

“Woah….” Kas’sparr exclaimed in disbelief as he carefully pulled the crystal loose from it's footing then standing and staring into the orange glowing Kyber crystal.. Terrogate smiled and placed his hand on the boys shoulder. “One day, when you are old enough Kas’sparr, we can make you a lightsaber.” said his father.

“Look Mommy…please… Please I want this one..” said the young girl pointing to a clear crystal next to where Kas’sparr had taken his from.. Terrogate leant down and pulled the clear crystal free from the rock footing, unsure as to why she would pick that one when there were so many other colored crystals inside the cavern.. “Of course darling. But I'll keep it safe until later ok.. We don't want to loose it..” said the Cathar to the young girl. She looked a little disappointed, as Kas’sparr got to keep his one and her was in her step-fathers pocket now.

“Come on, we better get going..” said Terrogate smiling back at Mab who was still glowing. We better get moving if we want to make it back to where my Tree village used to be..”

With pride Mab watched her son taking the crystal, he had grown much in the short time they had been reunited. He was no longer  a street kid, soon Kas would be ready for real training.

“Look Mommy…please… Please I want this one..” Khara suddenly said as she pointed to a clear crystal. "But you already have one sweetheart" Mab said as she watched Terrogate pull the crystal from the rock. The Cathar told her he would keep it safe and slipped it into his pocket.. Instantly Khara looked disappointed. The witch knelt down in front of the wingless S'kytri. "Hey.. you have this one, remember." Mab said and reached for the golden chain around Khara's neck. With her index finger she pulled it out of the collar of her shirt, revealing the blue crystal pendant. It was the crystal her brother had gifted Khara when Mab adopted her. It was a piece taken from the Nexus he had created. Just holding it Mab could feel the energy and wondered if it was a mistake to let her have it.. "But I want that one!" Khara said as she pointed at Terrogate. "I know love, when we are home I will make a necklace for you, to replace this one...ok?" Still a little disappointed that she couldn't hold it, Khara nodded and eventually smiled.

“Come on, we better get going..” Terrogate said, as they had spent a lot of time in the cave. Kas'sparr held his crystal tightly in his hand and looked surprised.. "So we won't go swimming in the lake?" He asked. Mab smiled, "We didn't come to Cathar for just one day, we can always come back later this week." And with those words the family made their way back to the entrance of the cave. Mab's glow began to fade the moment they stepped outside.

Following their own trail, they left.the beautiful lake behind and made their way back to their bikes. "Where to now, dear" Mab winked at Terrogate as she mounted the speeder bike. Kas'sparr hopped on behind his mother.

Terrogate was smiling as he picked the young S’kytri girl and secured her to himself as he mounted the speeder bike, the waterfall, the magical crystal cave was still there.. Even after thousands of year's, it gave him hope as well as a sense of deep inner joy his soon to be wife and their children had gotten to experience it.

“Where to now dear?, Mab asked him as they all mounted the custom speeder bikes once more. Initializing the startup sequence the Cathar looked over his shoulder to his love and their son.. “Now we go home.” he simply said, then started guiding his speeder down the path and put through he way they came back into the grasslands of the Vast Velt.

(( GM UPDATE: It wasn't long before the speeder bikes had entered the grass plains. It was a smooth ride, with Terrogate now paying much more attention to the fields themselves and less attention to the surrounding scenery.

Within less than an hour they were now all standing about a hundred meters below the foot of a massive tree. Their speeds shut off and parked not far behind them. ))

“Whooaaa! That is one big tree…” exclaimed Kas’spaar looking up at the enormous trunk, easily 80 meters across and over a kilometre tall, stretching high up into a thick green canopy, barely visible was the outline of dozens of wooden circular houses and many more bridges that joined the large branches that supported the houses together...

Terrogate squeezes Mabs hand, and then looks to her standing next to him and smiles brightly.. “It seems the tree city survived..?” he said, looking it over and then turning his feline eyes upwards, “it looks to be that there is Cathar living here… Should we say hello?” he asks.

“Now we go home.” was Terrogate's answer to her question. Mab smiled, a surge of happiness went through her body, making her glow as she saw her betrothed. Their trip to his homeworld was doing him good, she was glad that they agreed on going and would treasure every moment of it. "We better get going" she replied and switched the engine on.

Kas'sparr held on tight as they swooshed over the Vast Velt again. The green sea of tall grass, rippled in the wind, rustling softly. Mab tried to imagine Terrogate as a young man learning how to hunt on these plains and hoped that one day he would teach their children.

In less than an hour a tree came into view. They had seen several like it in the distance but were unable to see the true magnitude of it until they made their approach. The speeder came to a halt not far from the tree, Kas'sparr immediately jumped off and excitedly said “Whooaaa! That is one big tree…”

Slowly Mab got off the speeder and stepped next to her son. Her jaw nearly dropped as she gazed up at the massive tree. It was nothing like she imagined when Terrogate told her about his home, it was far bigger and more majestic.

Terrogate stepped next to her and took her hand, squeezing it. The witch looked at him, her eyes were watery from the overwhelming sight and knowledge that this was where the love of her life grew up. When she smiled a single tear of joy rolled down her face. "Mama are you sad?" Khara asked as she pulled on her robes, "no sweetheart, on the contrary, I'm very happy." Mab responded..

“It seems the tree city survived” the Cathar said as he gazed up and noted that there  seemed to be Cathar still living there. "Should we say hello?” he finally asked. Kas'sparr didn't even respond, he eagerly began to walk to the large tree, while Khara yelled "Yess!!" "I guess that is a yes" Mab said with a chuckle. "Slow down Kas, we don't know how they will react to us" she said, remembering the past of the Cathar, understanding they most likely were weary of outsiders. Still holding Terrogate's hand she also began her approach, pulling her life mate with her. She both felt nervous and excited about finally seeing his home.

Terrogate smiles and also starts to approach holding Mabs hand. Inside he was nervous though, it had been over four thousand years but thanks to Mab and the late knight Meliae his mind had been recovered and he remembers the last days of the battle like it was only a year or so ago.

Stepping closer with Khara next to them and Kas moving quickly ahead, Terrogate looks up and sees the spot where he had last seen his sister alive. His breathing starts to get faster and his heart thumps in his chest. The knight lowers his eyes, the memory floods back of the area they are standing on, broken Cathar bodies and burning ground and branches.. Terrogate stops still in his tracks. He didn’t even notice but he was squeezing Mabs golden hand quite tightly now. He turns and looks at his lifemate, anxiety clear in his face.

He needed her right now.. he needed her strength to continue. And then he hears a growling voice ..

“Hey you!! Hold it right there!”

(( GM UPDATE: a thick chested, tribal looking male Cathar runs on all fours  down the tree trunk and drops to the ground then stands before the family. “What’s your business here stranger?”  He says looking at the family suspiciously. He didn’t seem armed..

As they approached the gigantic tree, the tension seemed to rise within her betrothed. His breathing suddenly changed and his grip tightened, if her hand wasn't made of Ultrachrome he probably would have crushed it. "I'm here" she softly said as they continued to walk ahead, but she had a feeling he couldn't hear her.

Suddenly she stopped, frozen he stood there holding her tight. When he finally turned to look at her she saw his struggles to continue, written all over his face. Khara tugged her arm, wanting to join her brother who was still walking ahead of them. The witch let go as she stared into Terrogate's eyes, she felt pain. "I'm here" she repeated with a soft smile, "you're not alone."

Before she could say anything more an unfamiliar voice growled at them from the tree. The witch looked up and saw a Cathar coming towards them. Both Kas'sparr and Khara came running back "mommy!"

The large Cathar dropped down before them, asking them what their business was. Khara grabbed hold of Mab, burying her face in her side whilst Kas'sparr stood next to Terrogate with his bravest face. "We mean no harm" Mab said as she let go of Terrogate's hand, holding her golden claw up to show she was unarmed. "I am Mab Bathori, this is my fiance Jaja Deke" instantly Kas'sparr looked at her in surprise as he wasn't aware of Terrogate's true name, but Mab thought it was best to introduce him with it. "These are our children, Kas'sparr and Khara…" the Iktotchi continued. Khara peeked at the strange man without saying anything, Kas'sparr waved slightly nervous "hi…"

"Jaja has come home…" Mab finally added

Terrogates heartbeat slowed and his face softened as Mab looked into his emerald eyes, into his very soul, trying to reassure him. She could feel his anxiety,  “I’m here, you're not alone” she said to him. The warrior knight took a deep slow breath, prying his mind from the horrors of the past and smiled gently back to his love. He was about to tell her how much he appreciated her, how it was only because of her strength and love that he could be here, that it was her that gave him strength in these times of weakness but before he could manage the words….”Mommy!”

~\*~

Terrogate eyed the Cathar male up and down while Mab introduced the family and then referred to Terrogaye by his actual name. She was one only one of a precious few alive that actually knew his birth name.. Kas’spaar looked up and Terrogate caught his look, the boy was surprised but also trying to put on a brave face. Terrogate placed his large hand on Kas’spaars’ shoulder to try and comfort the boy.

IC : Aries Rivir

For a moment Aries stood still, his eyes fixed on the strange looking family.. A horned single gold-armed woman with golden eyes and facial tattoos, another horned but blue-skinned, red-eyed demon boy and the young teal skinned girl. This was like no “family” he had ever seen, even stranger still was this Cathar that was travelling with them. The male Cathar was extraordinarily large and heavily muscled, even larger than Aries. And Aries was the largest in the surrounding tree cities by at least a half foot. Still, for now they didn't seem dangerous so the treeguard decided to say their peace..

"I am Mab Bathori, this is my fiance Jaja Deke".... Said the woman as she introduced them all. "Jaja has come home…" she finally added.

Aries raises his large hand immediately “silence, please… I've heard enough.” he said sharply as he looked at the group..  The tattooed Cathar moved closer to them, smelling the air and eyeing the four strangers.

“We are a peaceful tribe, we don't want any trouble…” Aries continued, slowly moving forward, noticing the large male reach for a small handle looking thing on his belt. “Though I warn you, I am training in combat.” The threat was clearly there, but his voice remainder soft and cautious.

“You, and the children are welcome here if you are in need travelers.. whoever you are, but I would ask first that you give up your lies”. Aries says, looking at the one who the woman claims to be Jaja and then back to her.. “You claim that this man is a descendant of the Deke bloodline.. I happen to know that is impossible. Who are you really?... Or even better yet… if believe you are who you say.. show me some proof.”

To her surprise the Cathar male before them bluntly told her to be silent, then threatened them by saying he was trained in combat and finally told her to stop lying.

Slightly irritated by his attitude, she furrowed her brow. "I don't like to be called a liar, but hey, I get it, I understand." Mab began as she glanced at Terrogate, hoping he would speak up. "I know it's hard to believe, it's impossible even. But I can assure you that his stories are etched into this tree alongside of his father who died over 4000 years ago." She said as she moved closer to Terrogate and nudged his shoulder.

Then suddenly Kas’sparr stepped forward "My dad was the bodyguard of the Prince!" Mab quickly grabbed his shoulder and pulled him back "sush, Kas.. I think the only one here that could proof who he is, is Jaja himself"

IC: Aries Rivir

Aries looked at Mab, his feline eyes squinted as if trying to peer through fog as she spoke. He then looks to Terrogate and walks forward, starting to circle the couple, looking to the boy and then back to Mab and then to Terrogate.

“I asked you to drop the falsehood, that my house is open to you and your family regardless and yet you still claim to not only know of our ways, but you claim this man here…. This is actually my ancient ancestor? ”

Aries continues to circle. He did not trust the group, no one outside the tree home knew of his ancestral line. The stories themselves had been grown over by the bark of the home tree, and passed mostly into legend.. “Listen, I don’t know what you people want, how you found out about the Deke line or who sent you but I’m not....”

It was then that the large Cathar who this woman claimed to be Jaja Deke finally stepped forwards and spoke.

Terrogate couldn’t keep his eyes off the Cathar, the male was large, heavily muscled just like him. Perhaps only 4 or 5 years his junior, yet he felt familiar. It was an odd feeling, something that Terrogate couldn’t place. The Knight knew he didn’t know this treeguard but he couldn’t deny the sense of overwhelming familiarity about the tattooed Cathar.

Terrogate did his best not to speak until spoken to for fear of causing a fight in front of the children, though he was happy to see Mabs son Kas speak up with such bravery. The Chiss boys mother of course quick to silence the lad, as was her job.

Terrogate was just about to tell Mab not to worry about it. That they would just pass through and leave it be but then….“.... you claim this man here…. This is actually my ancient ancestor? ”

Terrogate froze, his eyes fixed on the man in front of him.. could what he was saying be true? Surely not…? That was impossible.. wasn’t it?

“A warrior's heart” replied Terrogate quickly stepping a bit closer to the large Cathar. He couldn’t think of anything else that could prove his heritage.

”These are the words of my family and my father Juju. Before he and my mother were killed” Terrogate said staring straight into the eyes of the treeguard. “My father was a warrior, as was his father, and his, and as am I.”

“My stars, please give me your ring.” He said, turning to Mab and holding his hand out. My mother Henle was the daughter of the tree city Elder. My brother Tetè and my sister Abbes lived here too. All were killed by Mandalore, along with Abbes' unborn child. Terrogate said, fighting back the tears that were now welling. It had been a long time since he had said their names to anyone. He missed them all dearly, and could not fathom that this person in front of him could possibly be a member of his family somehow. But that was the real question? Everyone had died. Terrogate has seen it with his own eyes...

Mab wasn't intimidated by the Cathar as he began to circle them, it was obvious her words hadn't convinced him. Again, he told her to stop lying and that annoyed the golden horned Iktotchi, but before she could say anything Terrogate finally stepped forward

Khara, still clinging on to Mab, kept peeking at the strange Cathar as Terrogate spoke up. The witch was filled with pride to hear her betrothed talk about his ancestors and smiled.

Suddenly Terrogate asked her to hand over her ring. With a nod she reached for the chain around her neck and pulled the golden ring her betrothed had gifted out of her collar. With only one hand she was unable to unlock the chain, and therefore she knelt "Kas, please help" she asked her son. Without hesitation the boy moved closer to help her as Terrogate continued to speak to the treeguard.

Moments later Mab took the ring from her son and handed it over to her betrothed..

“Thank you Kas” says Terrogate as he takes the necklace and attached ring from his betrothed. The Knight then held up the chain letting the ring hang free in the space between the two males.

The Treeguard had looked stunned since Terrogate had said the ancient words of his family and the man had said nothing while Terrogate continued to name his parents and siblings. He just stood there, eyes wide. Terrogate wasn’t even sure the Cathar had heard him..

Slowly the treeguard steps closer, and raises his hand. His eyes flicked several times between Terrogate and the ring before finally settling on the jewelry, a golden lion's head ring with emerald Jewels for eyes and the family motto engraved into the band.

The treeguard raised his large furry hand and took the ring in his palm examining it.

“I’m sorry, I don’t have anything else to prove to you I am who I claim to be..” Said Terrogate.

IC: Aries Rivir

Aires reached out with an open hand and let the ring rest in his palm. “I’m sorry, I don’t have anything else to prove to you I am who I claim to be..” said the large male holding the chain. “I have ways to see the truth.. said Aries”.

The treeguard closed his eyes and inhaled sharply and as he did so with his other hand he placed it on Terrogates shoulder. Instantly, through his mind flooded thousands of images of this massive Cathars life. Random microsecond sections of memories of Terrogate crashing into his own consciousness. Aires bared his teeth and his heart rate increased instantly, feeling like it would beat out of his very chest.. he could only hold it for about fifteen seconds until he finally let go. And when he did, panting and sweating from the experience he slowly opened his eyes, revealing now tears of both joy and sadness.

Aries then let go of the ring, and embraced Terrogate.

After a moment Aries then took a step back and wiped the tears from his eyes, looking again to the family standing before him. I’m sorry.. my name is Aries. Aries Rivir. My bloodline, stems from the Dekè family line. From your sister.. come… quickly. I need to show you all something.”

Said Aries as he turns and climbs up the tree, disappearing quickly into the canopy above.

Terrogate stood frozen, he couldn’t believe his eyes or ears, this man who has finally introduced himself as Aries had read him somehow? Was he force sensitive? And he claims to be a decedent if Terrogates sister Abbes. Terrogate, shocked and surprised by Aries actions, without even thinking embraced him back. Deep down he desperately wanted to believe this was real but it seemed like a dream.

Terrogate turns to Mab after the embrace, how is this even possible? He asked. Mab had seen his thoughts, his visions of the past.. she had seen through his eyes his sister fall from the tree above… How was any of this possible?

“You saw my memory that day in the tent.. you helped me unlock my past.” He said.. “you saw her fall..” none of this made sense, Terrogate needed to know how this could be. But although it was only several years ago to him in reality it was four thousand years in the past. How did this Aries even know.. there were so many questions..

Within a few moments later a rope ladder drops to the ground next to them..

“Well, what do you think?” Terrogate asked Mab, reaching down and touching Khara back with his hand. The girl still clinging to her mother..

Quietly Mab watched the scene unfold as Terrogate held up the golden ring. The treeguard said nothing but the ring definitely meant something to him. After a few moments the Cathar male took the ring and said he knew ways to see the truth.

Intrigued the Iktotchian witch watched the strange Cathar as he closed his eyes. From his expressions she could tell he was diving into Terrogate's memories, memories she had seen herself. Khara looked up at her "is he hurt?" She asked softly. Mab shook her head and smiled, reassuring her that no one was hurt, but she understood that it might have looked that way as pain and sorrow was written all over his face. But after a few moments the male let go and embraced Terrogate.

Both children looked at the Cathar, confused to what had just happened, but the witch knew he had seen the proof he needed. When the Cathar let go he introduced himself and told the impossible, that he was a descendant of Terrogate's sister. Before any of them could respond, the treeguard, Aries, disappeared.

For a moment Terrogate didn't move, but when he turned to face Mab he a waterfall of questions exploded from his mouth. 'How and why', Mab also didn't understand it. "We only saw what you saw" she responded, "I felt what you felt, I heard your thoughts of that moment… but.." she paused for a moment to collect her own thoughts. Suddenly a rope ladder drops down next to them.  "But you don't know what happened after that fall.. she was with child.. it could have survived." She said.

Kas’sparr didn’t even wait, he immediately grabbed the ladder and began to climb. "Khara, you are next" Mab said. The young girls stepped towards the ladder looking up at it with hesitation. "You will be fine, I'll be right behind you" the girl began to climb, slowly and steady steps. Mab turned to Terrogate "we all know the force works in mysterious ways my love.. everything is possible." She said with a smile and turned to the ladder. Suddenly she realised that this was going to he a challenge with just one hand. "Kriff" she muttered slightly embarrassed and grabbed hold of the ladder.

It took some time and it wasn't the most charming sight, but with help of her cyber jaw she managed to climb the ladder to the top…

"We all know the force works in mysterious ways my love.. everything is possible…….”

The words of his love ran through his mind on repeat as she took the rope ladder and started climbing, closely following the children. She was right he thinks to himself, Terrogate needed to trust his instincts here. He had a strange familiar feeling about this Aries and if there was one thing he’d learnt in his life, it was to trust his gut.

“I’ll meet you up the top love.” said the Cathar looking at Mab struggling along to climb the rope ladder, protracting his sharp claws and after taking a few steps run up he climbed up the enormous trunk of the tree city.

~~\*~~

Before long Terrogate pulls himself up the large trunk and stands on the wooden platform high in the trees and having easily passed the children he waits for them all to arrive and helps them onto the wooden platform.

The tree city was a series of many wooden huts and shacks built into and around the giant tree branches that stemmed from the massive hometree trunk.

The branches themselves at this height extended further still into the air and many of them looked like large trees themselves.

Their foliage mainly growing at the branch tops and merged with the other branch leaves creating a huge canopy to protect the people from the elements and predators.

Although the Cathar could all climb from a young age they had made multiple wooden walkways and platforms connecting the branches and huts so as to more easily navigate the tree city especially when needed to carry items.

Terrogate helps Mab and the Kids up and takes a moment to look around. The place wasn’t busy by any stretch from what they could see, there were a few Cathar women of all ages going about their chores but very few men…only some elderly ones, a couple teens, about six or seven middle aged dressed in the same attire as Aries, and a few much much older males and a female dressed in bone coloured fabric gowns.

There were virtually no children except for some infants clinging to their mothers and many close by had stopped to stare at the family.

The huts themselves counted near on two hundred and spread out all around them clinging to the giant branches of the home tree.

Terrogate Takes a moment to look around and sees Aires approaching from a wooden walkway not far from an older looking hut. Small wisps of smoke rising from a clay flue protruding through the straw roof.

Terrogate looks at Mab.. Khara was hung on tightly around her leg, her hair moving in the treetop breeze. Kas’sparr was standing proud and taking it all in with a word.. which was a change for the boy. He seemed to just be in utter awe of the place. Before Aries had arrived to meet them for a second time Terrogate looked to his betrothed for a sign in her face of what she may have thought of the place..

For a moment, and totally unexpectedly he felt a deep wave of shame come over him…  this was actually very similar to how his city used to look, except there were more huts now, and the rope bridges had now been replaced with sturdy wooden plank platforms. It was primitive.. no technology.. little luxuries flashy lights or currency. Nothing made for ascetics, only functionality.

But… There was also no hunger or homelessness, the local trade was run on a bartering system and anyone with excess was expected to share among the needy for payment of labour, or even entertainment.. The Cathar knight still remembered fondly of Dider the lames stories, as the one legged Cathar joined his family over a hot meal on occasion. A true family…..a community.

“So… what do you think?” Said Terrogate nervously..

Drops of sweat on her forehead shimmered in the sunlight that seeped through the thick canopy. It was a struggle for the one armed witch, she could have used Terrogate's help, but he had other more important things on his mind. She couldn't imagine what was going through his mind, especially after learning that his sister might have survived after all.

Biting down on the wooden step of the ladder, Mab glanced up, Kas'sparr had already reached the top and stood next to Terrogate. Khara was only just half way, as was she, taking slow careful steps. "Mommy… I'm tired" the girl softly said. Mab grabbed the next step and pulled herself up "I know sweetheart, but you are almost there" she managed to say as sweat began to trickle down her face. "Daddy is waiting for us, just a little bit further" Mab added before she bit down on the next step. "Ok mommy.." the girl responded and continued.

"You took your time" Kas'sparr said with a smirk when they finally reached the top. With a wooden step of the ladder between her teeth, the witch wasn't able to respond, so all she did was glare at her son until Terrogate held out his hand to her. Mab grabbed hold of him, and let go with her teeth allowing the Cathar to pull her onto the platform. "Kas…" but Mab never continued her sentence her eyes moved over her son and gazed around the mystical place that was Terrogate's home

She felt a pull and looked down to see Khara clinging to her leg. Hiding herself from all the eyes looking at them. Mab smiled and stroked her hair gently trying to comfort her "don't be afraid sweetie" she said. The little girl glanced up at her, "they're looking." With a chuckle the witch responded "Yes, they have never seen a family like us before." When Mab looked up, Terrogate met her eyes. She could see he felt nervous and wondered if it was because he was about to meet his family or because of something else. “So… what do you think?” he asked her. The witch smiled, "it's more beautiful than you've told me" she responded.

"Follow me" Aires, the Cathar treeguard, suddenly interrupted. Mab turned her head towards him, as saw him motioning to them to follow. "This way" he added as he nervously looked at all the Cathar that were staring at the odd group. She nodded at her betrothed, and he turned to follow the treeguard. Kas'sparr quickly followed, staying close to the two Cathar. Khara and Mab were the last to follow.

~\*~

Aires led them away from the platform, following the walkways and bridges, zigzagging through the village. It was quiet in the village but It almost felt like he was trying to avoid anyone to see them. After a while they arrived at a hut, it was small and primitive like every other hut they had passed along the way. He pulled aside the brown curtain that functioned as a door and motioned to the family to quickly get inside.

Following her family, Mab stepped through the door into a cosy hut. A female Cathar stood on the other end of the room, a small child clinging to her leg. Her eyes wide, obviously confused to see the strangers in her home. Aires entered, closing the curtain behind him and walked over to the female, speaking in Catherese, probably telling her not to be afraid. "This is my wife Sakari and our boy Miko" Aires said with obvious pride. "This is Jaja.. and his..  wife Mab. Their children" he continued.. "Kas'Sparr" Kas said and turned to his sister "and this is Khara." The witch smiled at her son, feeling proud.

"Fiancee actually. We're not married yet" Mab smiled and stepped forward to shake the woman's hand. But when she held out her golden claw, Sakari flinched at the sight and instantly Mab retracted her hand. "I'm sorry.. I.. It's a pleasure to meet you." Aires spoke to his wife again in his native language, Mab didn't understand but she could see the female wasn't happy about it. Then the treeguard turned back to them "Sakari will look after your family Jaja… I'd like you to meet someone.. someone who can make more sense of all of this."

Moments later, Aires led Terrogate out of his home. Without the woman and children with them, the treeguard seemed less nervous as he led Terrogate through the village. Again walking along the many walkways and bridges, climbing up to a higher level. Even without Mab being there, there were plenty of curious eyes that followed them as they walked along one of the main branches. "Where are we going?" Terrogate asked as he kept following Aires.. "We are going to Kadji the wise" the tree guard responded as he climbed up to an even higher level.

The branch they walked on was different from the rest of the tree. It seemed more old and less green as if it was a dying branch. The further they followed it, the quieter it got. No huts, no other Cathar even, the energy surrounding it was strange. After a while Aires stopped next to the green wall of the canopy, the old branch however continued through the green foliage. "After you" the treeguard said and pulled the green aside.

On the end of the old branch, Terrogate would see an old hut surrounded with a magnificent view of the area. Aires walked closely behind him as they walked to the door. "Should I go inside?" He nervously asked. "Yes, Kadji knows you're coming" Aires responded from behind. Slowly Terrogate pulled the curtain aside and stepped into the hut. He looked around, it was primitive like every other Cathar home, but filled with wooden statues of the gods. A fire burning at the centre, with a cast iron pot hanging above it. The strong scent of herbs filled the room as Terrogate moved further, he saw no one one but he knew someone was there. On the other end of the room was another door, a curtain flapping in the wind. Curious to see what was behind it he moved towards it and pulled it aside. "The Temple of Mountain God, is it as beautiful as you remember?" he heard a soft voice say, as he looked behind him he now saw in the corner of a room a very old female Cathar, her fur entirely white. "Welcome home Jaja" she said with an almost toothless smile.

~\*~

Terrogate touches Mabs golden hand in reassurance “It’ll be ok. I’ll be back soon. I promise” he said looking down to Kas and to Kara before looking back up and meeting Mab's golden gaze. He leant in and kissed her cheek, then straightened and smiled politely at Sakari and her boy Miko..”it's a pleasure to meet you..” he added although the annoyed looking Cathar female only glared at him in return. He then turned and joined Aries as he left the hut.

~\*~

Terrogate followed Aires through the tree city, to the next upper level of branches and towards an old looking hut. This hut was built on an equally old looking branch reaching high and outstretched quite a way from the main trunk and the Cathar wondered where they were going.

Cautiously the knight walked past Aires who's face gave nothing away, “should I go inside?" Terrogate asked Aries”. "Yes, Kadji knows you're coming," the large treeguard replied. The warrior then pushed back the curtain and entered the small hut, the sound of old wood creaking and groaning under his feet as he walked.

Inside it was similar enough to any other hut he had been in except for the strong smell of herbs in the air, and all around the circled hut were carved wooden statues.

Terrogate moves closer trying to make out the features of one he reaches up and lightly touches the statue's face.... “The Aether.. the Circle of Gods” he whispers aloud over the sounds of the crackling hearthfire and the flapping of a curtain moving lazily in the breeze from across the room.. . The particular God statue the knight was standing in front of was the Moon Goddess Selari. One of three ruling deities that made up the Divine Trinity.. Three very powerful gods that ruled over the other 12 Cathar gods.. But even the powerful Divine Trinity bowed to the Mountain God, the keeper of wisdom and knowledge. Although it was the warrior god Jaarl his father had instructed Terrogate to form a close bond with, he could not deny that it was the mountain god that had always drawn his interest the most. It was said there was once a way to summon the god itself from the very depths of the earth. A hidden lake and a long lost ritual to be performed by a chosen few.. and to get the mountain gods blessing was to be able to raise him for guidance for the rest of your days, giving you access to the mountain's knowledge. Although Terrogate was unsure how true that was, it was very possible the stories of being able to raise a god were just that. Stories.

Suddenly Terrogate senses another being move in close vicinity to him snapping from his thoughts.. Someone other than Aires who was still waiting at the door.. there was no hint of malicious intent that he could feel as he opened his senses to who may have been watching him..

What was the name Aires had told him again? Kadji? Terrogate assumes whoever this Kadji was.. they were something of a local priest or Shaman and wonders what kind of knowledge they may have had about Abbes during the war now more than four thousand years ago..

The Cathar lowers his hand and moves slowly towards the curtain on the far side of the hut, moving lightly on his feline feet even for a male of his size and pulls back the canvas curtain to see what was on the other side.. Terrogates eyes went wide as he saw it.. Perched high atop a nearby mountain was the surprisingly still standing stone structure of the mountain God in the distance.

The entrance was a large head of an ancient Cathar warrior, it's open mouth served as the doors leading into the temple itself.. Under its chin and leading all the way down the mountain pass were hundreds of stone steps. You couldn't see it from here but Terrogate remembered that each step was carved a piece of the gods' stories.. When he was a boy many priests and zealots would come and spend weeks climbing the stairs and studying the stories of the old gods.

"The Temple of the Mountain God, is it as beautiful as you remember?" said a soft voice from behind him, the knight turned to see where the voice had come from  and instantly saw in the corner of the room an elderly white furred female Cathar. “Umm… It is.. Although I'm surprised it's still standing he said thoughtfully.. There were still so many unanswered questions.. “You're Kadji?” he asked.. The Cathar lady only nodded her head once at the question..

"Welcome home Jaja" she said with an almost toothless smile. Terrogate squinted his eyes and moved back inside towards her.. “How do you know my name?” he asked.. “Because I am the Earth Goddess Arkana…” she replied letting her words linger in the herb smelling air. Terrogate looked at her and tilted his head, unsure what to make of her claim and in several moments she started laughing… A cackling, almost disturbing laugh...

“Silly boy, I know your name because Aires showed me your meeting of course.” she answered again as if it was obvious, smiling and then moving towards the door. “Much in the way you showed him your past.”

“Come…  Sit..” she said to Terrogate pointing to a wooden stool next to the fire. “Aires.. Grandson..You may also join us...” Terrogate looked up with surprise as Aires moved into the hut joining Terrogate next to the fire as Kadji mumbled something to herself.., ”silly boy… and would believe I'm of the divine Trinity…? It couldn't possibly be he…..” her voice trailed off into the other noises of the room.

“Grandmother, the fact that Jaja and his family have come.. I still cannot believe what I saw..” Kadji looked at Aires and scoffed.. “You don't believe it?.. Boy, haven't I taught you anything in our lessons over the years? Seeing.. REALLY seeing is the only way to be sure of anything.. Now, make us some tea....” “Yes Grandmother, of course. You're right, I do not mean to question our gifts from the gods..” Aires said moving to the pantry to collect several ceramic mugs.

“Now.. Jaja” said Kadji shuffling closer to him and squinting to see him up close.. “You have questions.. But before I can help you, I also have questions of my own. Will you allow me to see inside your past as Aires did?” she asked, raising her frail clawed hands near his face.”I could only see your meeting Aires through his mind..” she finished. “Yes, of course..” the knight said, lowering his head and closing his eyes. And then as Aires continued to make the herbal tea, Kadji placed her hands on to Terrogates large head and searched into his past.

~\*~

Within a matter of only a few minutes the elderly Cathar woman releases her touch and lowers her hands slowly to her sides. Terrogate opens his eyes and lifts his gaze only to see Kadji staring at him, near toothless mouth wide open and a bewildered look on her face.. “I…..I…..it’s…….that means.....Wait here!..” she said abruptly and turned almost bumping into Aires who was standing holding her tea causing him to spill some. “Out of my way boy…. I need the tapestry..” she said moving as quickly as she could to a set of open wooden draws.

“Here.. Look here Jaja..…..” she said excitedly as she moved back to the fire now holding a loosely folded large piece of very old light brown material close to two meters long, on it were many hand-sewn symbols and lots of writings all in Catharese stretching down to the very end. “What’s this?” asked Terrogate.. “Why.. It's the story of our family…. And of the gods” she replied excitedly, eyes as bright as the stars on a clear night as she unfolded it getting all the way to the bottom..

She handed it to Terrogate to read and without even needing to look at it she started to recite the story as though she had been the one to write it..

“Our story.. Well…..what is known….Began shortly after the time known as the great darkness, when the tree cities of old burned and our people fell to the first invaders…. It was over four thousand years ago..” Kadji continued and took the tea from Aires.. But her hands were shaking so much now that her tea was sloping over the edges.. She didn't seem to even notice..

“The tree cities were all abandoned after the great darkness, blackened and lifeless for decades they stood idol waiting for the earth goddess Arkana and the deity of birth & rebirth Tzu to heal them from within.....” she continued as Terrogate hung on every word.

“The invaders now gone for some twenty plus years, the Cathar who had once fled the war started to return to our planet and along with the survivors began to repopulate and recolonize our ancestral home.”

Terrogate followed the tapestry, reading the original words and symbols as Kadji recited the story flawlessly.

“It was around this time that a group of traders on their way to Joffa city set up a camp here, at the foot of this very tree. The weather became poor and they were forced to stay many days before the road was dry enough to move their carts again. On their second night they noticed light coming from the mountain God temple high in the hills.

The traders decided to investigate the light high up in the mountain temple, several of them moving camp to the foot of the sacred steps. There they waited at the foot of the temple's steps for several straight days watching the entrance.. But they saw no one either enter or leave the temple mouth for that entire time. So, they then decided to go and see for themselves what, or who possibly could be living inside the old ruins..

After making their way up the sacred steps they finally arrived at the top, and entered the temple of the mountain god. Inside they found a creature.. A Cathar.. A female, about twenty years old. She was mostly uneducated, and starving. Her name was Abbes.”

Terrogate lifted his eyes, looking with shock and disbelief back to Aires and then to Kadji.. “but…. But how can that be?? It makes no sense…?? Abbas died.. And she would have been in her forties by then?” he protested..

“Yes..” said Kedji looking at Terrogate as though she was looking into his very soul.. “\*Your sister would have…” she said cryptically..

“There's more… Look..” Kadji added, still not having touched her tea she continued and pointed a shaky boney finger to the tapestry...

“The girl told the traders about her past as best she could... That she'd been saved by a man, a man who found her very pregnant mother in an open field near a burning tree city. And this man through the power of the gods brought her back from the brink of death.. Just long enough to take her to safety inside the mountain god temple where several priests were in hiding.

Aires, feeling the sensitivity of the moment, places his hand on Terrogates shoulder as the knight feels tears begin to well in his eyes while he followed the story on the tapestry”

“Before she died the pregnant woman, who was already carrying wounds beyond savings even by the priests, told the man her name and that her baby was special. She begged the man to keep her cub safe after he cut it from her body. The man, also able to feel the power of the gods inside the unborn cub agreed and soon after he performed his promise with the help of a temple priest the mothers body gave in completely, dying in the temple.”

Tears were streaming down the Cathar knights face as he heard of his sister's fate.. but also ones of joy and hope.. he said nothing, listening to Kadji as she continued the rest of the story.

The Man quickly named the new cub, a girl.. after her mother and wrapped her in his cloak. He then removed from the dead mothers neck an amulet, the amulet read “a heart of a Warrior.”

He gave the amulet to the priests to look after until the cub was old enough to have it and shortly after departed never to be seen again.. and there they raised young Abbes. The last of the nearby tree city”.

There were others that had been brought to the temple in the days and weeks following. Most died soon after arrival and bodies burnt, the priests performing the traditional dusk rites... The girl told the traders of one male however, who had been found a week after her birth at the bottom of the burnt hometree. He was very badly burnt, blind and due to his injuries he couldn’t speak.. Thankfully the healing goddess Nyarah was watching over him, the man managed to live for nearly a decade with them in the mountain gods temple before he perished. Abbes would visit him often and talk to him, and he would hold her hand with his one good arm and she could tell in his unseeing eyes that he was smiling. She told them she had felt a special bond with the old male but didn’t understand why. She had described him as being large, heavily muscled despite his old age and his eyes… His eyes were as blue as the purest sapphires”

Terrogates heart grew heavy.. feeling like it would explode inside his chest and he raised his left hand to wipe away the tears on his cheek and whiskers.. could it have been who he thought it was.. he dare not say the words.. not out loud. Not now at least.

“The problem was..” continued Kadji.. “The priests were all males, sworn to celibacy and already well into their twilight years..  She cared for them as best she could, but slowly and surely they died out.. leaving young Abbes, now a teenager alone in an abandoned yet dangerous world she did not know. And there she stayed, in the temple halls.. with the ghosts of her mother and the only people she’d ever known. Lighting the fire of the mountain god entrance each night.. hoping someone would come and find her.”

Terrogate couldn’t believe his ears or his eyes.. but there it was… the detailed history written down on what it looked to be, now he thought about it… very similar to the same kind of fabric used in making traditional Sith and Jedi cloaks.. and he couldn’t help wondering if his niece, named after his dearest sister, was once wrapped in this very material…

“What…. What happened to her?…” Terrogate asked, no longer following along with the words and symbols, but looking at the old Sharman Kadji who was looking back to him.

“They then sacrificed her to Khan the god of death and ate her.” she said bluntly and straight faced..

Terrogate furrowed his brow, tilted his head and squinted his eyes at the eccentric old lady, trying to get a read on her.

“Silly boy.. well what do you think happened?” She said letting out a light cackle and finally drinking a sip of her tea.. “ aggrrhhh…. Aires, this tea is cold boy! Here…” she said, handing the ceramic mug to her grandson then turning her attention back to Terrogate who wasn’t sure whether to laugh, be mad or cry...

“Well she went with them of course.. to Joffa city. Little of her life in Joffa city is known, but it is written she returned here ten years later with a handful of colonists looking for a fresh start and also several religious families.. including her own as she had never taken a vow of celibacy and felt a need, a responsibility to keep her bloodline going..

It seems in her time in Joffa she had continued her religious path in the large city, spreading the knowledge of the gods she learnt from the priests who had raised her, bringing hope to many after such a long time in darkness.

Here they started to rebuild the tree city… this very hut is where she and her family first lived…. It is written that each night Abbes would spend outside, looking out to the Mountain god temple.. thinking about her mother, the priests and the burnt man… slowly, over generations the tree city expanded and new people came and with them came trade and opportunities. This hut became the tree city home for the city Sharman.. as it still is today.” She said, bowing her head.

“The home to the daughters of Abbes.” She said finally.. “the keepers of knowledge… and your family.. although it seems I am the last of the daughters….” She said, glancing sharply sideways to Aires.. “for now Grandmother.. for now.” He said, rolling his eyes. “Your Sakari needs to visit the fertility temple Aires.. I’m telling you boy.. I won’t die until you give me a great granddaughter.” She threatened… Aires sighed..”Grandmother you know she doesn’t believe as we do.” Kadji sighed and then turned back to Terrogate who was still trying to process this story..

For a long moment Terrogate couldn’t speak, the story was incredible… unbelievable…yet here it was.. the evidence was written into the cloth in his hands and he folded it back up gently. At the very bottom suddenly he saw a symbol that took his attention instantly.. It was a picture of his sister's amulet.. And the knight's heart swelled with love.. this was the evidence… the proof that everything Kadji had said was the truth.. his sister had survived.. and deep down he had a feeling, at least for a while…so had his father. The greatest man Jaja had ever known, who he and his siblings thought the world of, had somehow found a way to survive and he had known his granddaughter before he died...

“And what of your own family Jaja…” Kadji said, finally breaking the silence.

“He’s not married grandmother, his lifemate… sorry.. fiancée and her children are here though.. They are with Sakari and Miko.” Aires said answering for the Knight who was still dealing with the recent news..

“Well then..” said Kadji smiling wide, exposing her near toothless grin “that is something we shall have to remedy.”….

Meanwhile, Mab and the children were still in the home of Aires. Until now Sakari didn't speak, Mab wondered if it was because she didn't know Galactic basic or if she simply felt overwhelmed by their sudden visit. Khara kept looking at the young boy, Miko, waving at him, hoping to get a response. "You have a beautiful son" Mab said, trying to make conversation. The woman smiled with pride, 'so she does understand me' the witch thought. "Where are the other children? I didn't see any outside." The female smiled, she wanted to speak but now it became clear she was too shy. "Are they in school?" Mab asked on which the woman nodded.

After another awkward silence the woman suddenly stood up and said "come". A little surprised Mab agreed to come and told the children to stay close. Sakari took her son in her arms and walked out of the hut, "where are we going?" Kas'sparr masked his mother who responded "I don't know, i have a feeling she wants to show us something."

Curious to find out, the witch and her children follow Sakari along the walkways to the centre of the tree village. More Cathar were outside now, news of their arrival had obviously traveled fast. Unlike Khara, Kas’sparr seemed to enjoy the attention, he walked with confidence in his step across the walk ways, smiling at the Cathar that looked at them. It didn't take long until they reached what looked like the heart of the village. A large platform was built around the massive truck with a few market stalls selling food. But what caught all of their attention was the trunk itself, there was a large door carved into it, beautifully decorated with images of Cathar warriors on each side. Sakari motioned to Mab to come closer to the doors, as she did so she could hear the voices of children. Inside, in a large hollowed out space, she saw the children all sitting in rows. "This is the school?" Mab asked. Sakari nodded "this is the temple of our village, children study here, the sick are healed here and we come here to pray to the gods" the female said with a strong Catharese accent. Some of the children had noticed them standing at the doorway, their eyes wide in shock, nudging their friends to turn around. It took only a few moments before the entire room looked in their direction. Kas'sparr waved "Hi" he said but before he could embarrass them more Mab pulled him back. "Heyyy" Kas looked at her with a frown. "Not now Boy." Inside the temple the children laughed at the scene, and now finally Khara let go of her mom and dared to look inside.

A white furred teen smiled and waved at Khara, who slowly raised her little hand to wave back. The witch was happy to see her daughter was opening up a little and looked at the teen with a thankful smile. The girl looked different from the others, and somehow when their eyes met Mab felt she would meet her again. "Come, I want to show you more" Sakari touched her shoulder. "Please show the way" Mab responded and before they left the temple she apologised for interrupting their lessons. Their guide led them away from the doors and told them that they would go to the highest levels. For a moment the Iktotchi was worried she'd have to climb more rope ladders, but she was relieved to see that there were normal stairs created to get to higher levels of the village. "This place is amazing" she heard her son say as they followed Sakari.

It took several minutes for them to arrive at what Sakari wanted to show them. High up in the tree, where it was more quiet, carvings covered the trunk. Sakari put her son down on a small platform, Khara instantly stepped towards him with a smile. They seemed to be the same age but she was much taller than him. "Look over here" Sakari said suddenly as she stepped towards the trunk "Come..  look" she insisted. Both Mab and her son moved closer to see faded carvings. "Here" Sakari pointed her finger at a set of carvings "Jaja.. here.." Mab's heart skipped a beat, "This is Jaja's story?" The woman nodded "yes, from here to here" her face changed, there was sadness as it was an abrupt ending to the story. Mab looked at her son "this is your father's story.. he carved it.." Instantly Kas’sparr's jaw dropped in shock..

Terrogate touches Mabs golden hand in reassurance “It’ll be ok. I’ll be back soon. I promise” he said looking down to Kas and to Kara before looking back up and meeting Mab's golden gaze. He leant in and kissed her cheek, then straightened and smiled politely at Sakari and her boy Miko..”it's a pleasure to meet you..” he added although the annoyed looking Cathar female only glared at him in return. He then turned and joined Aries as he left the hut.

~\*~

Terrogate followed Aires through the tree city, to the next upper level of branches and towards an old looking hut. This hut was built on an equally old looking branch reaching high and outstretched quite a way from the main trunk and the Cathar wondered where they were going.

Cautiously the knight walked past Aires who's face gave nothing away, “should I go inside?" Terrogate asked Aries”. "Yes, Kadji knows you're coming," the large treeguard replied. The warrior then pushed back the curtain and entered the small hut, the sound of old wood creaking and groaning under his feet as he walked.

Inside it was similar enough to any other hut he had been in except for the strong smell of herbs in the air, and all around the circled hut were carved wooden statues.

Terrogate moves closer trying to make out the features of one he reaches up and lightly touches the statue's face.... “The Aether.. the Circle of Gods” he whispers aloud over the sounds of the crackling hearthfire and the flapping of a curtain moving lazily in the breeze from across the room.. . The particular God statue the knight was standing in front of was the Moon Goddess Selari. One of three ruling deities that made up the Divine Trinity.. Three very powerful gods that ruled over the other 12 Cathar gods.. But even the powerful Divine Trinity bowed to the Mountain God, the keeper of wisdom and knowledge. Although it was the warrior god Jaarl his father had instructed Terrogate to form a close bond with, he could not deny that it was the mountain god that had always drawn his interest the most. It was said there was once a way to summon the god itself from the very depths of the earth. A hidden lake and a long lost ritual to be performed by a chosen few.. and to get the mountain gods blessing was to be able to raise him for guidance for the rest of your days, giving you access to the mountain's knowledge. Although Terrogate was unsure how true that was, it was very possible the stories of being able to raise a god were just that. Stories.

Suddenly Terrogate senses another being move in close vicinity to him snapping from his thoughts.. Someone other than Aires who was still waiting at the door.. there was no hint of malicious intent that he could feel as he opened his senses to who may have been watching him..

What was the name Aires had told him again? Kadji? Terrogate assumes whoever this Kadji was.. they were something of a local priest or Shaman and wonders what kind of knowledge they may have had about Abbes during the war now more than four thousand years ago..

The Cathar lowers his hand and moves slowly towards the curtain on the far side of the hut, moving lightly on his feline feet even for a male of his size and pulls back the canvas curtain to see what was on the other side.. Terrogates eyes went wide as he saw it.. Perched high atop a nearby mountain was the surprisingly still standing stone structure of the mountain God in the distance.

The entrance was a large head of an ancient Cathar warrior, it's open mouth served as the doors leading into the temple itself.. Under its chin and leading all the way down the mountain pass were hundreds of stone steps. You couldn't see it from here but Terrogate remembered that each step was carved a piece of the gods' stories.. When he was a boy many priests and zealots would come and spend weeks climbing the stairs and studying the stories of the old gods.

"The Temple of the Mountain God, is it as beautiful as you remember?" said a soft voice from behind him, the knight turned to see where the voice had come from  and instantly saw in the corner of the room an elderly white furred female Cathar. “Umm… It is.. Although I'm surprised it's still standing he said thoughtfully.. There were still so many unanswered questions.. “You're Kadji?” he asked.. The Cathar lady only nodded her head once at the question..

"Welcome home Jaja" she said with an almost toothless smile. Terrogate squinted his eyes and moved back inside towards her.. “How do you know my name?” he asked.. “Because I am the Earth Goddess Arkana…” she replied letting her words linger in the herb smelling air. Terrogate looked at her and tilted his head, unsure what to make of her claim and in several moments she started laughing… A cackling, almost disturbing laugh...

“Silly boy, I know your name because Aires showed me your meeting of course.” she answered again as if it was obvious, smiling and then moving towards the door. “Much in the way you showed him your past.”

“Come…  Sit..” she said to Terrogate pointing to a wooden stool next to the fire. “Aires.. Grandson..You may also join us...” Terrogate looked up with surprise as Aires moved into the hut joining Terrogate next to the fire as Kadji mumbled something to herself.., ”silly boy… and would believe I'm of the divine Trinity…? It couldn't possibly be he…..” her voice trailed off into the other noises of the room.

“Grandmother, the fact that Jaja and his family have come.. I still cannot believe what I saw..” Kadji looked at Aires and scoffed.. “You don't believe it?.. Boy, haven't I taught you anything in our lessons over the years? Seeing.. REALLY seeing is the only way to be sure of anything.. Now, make us some tea....” “Yes Grandmother, of course. You're right, I do not mean to question our gifts from the gods..” Aires said moving to the pantry to collect several ceramic mugs.

“Now.. Jaja” said Kadji shuffling closer to him and squinting to see him up close.. “You have questions.. But before I can help you, I also have questions of my own. Will you allow me to see inside your past as Aires did?” she asked, raising her frail clawed hands near his face.”I could only see your meeting Aires through his mind..” she finished. “Yes, of course..” the knight said, lowering his head and closing his eyes. And then as Aires continued to make the herbal tea, Kadji placed her hands on to Terrogates large head and searched into his past.

Within a matter of only a few minutes the elderly Cathar woman releases her touch and lowers her hands slowly to her sides. Terrogate opens his eyes and lifts his gaze only to see Kadji staring at him, near toothless mouth wide open and a bewildered look on her face.. “I…..I…..it’s…….that means.....Wait here!..” she said abruptly and turned almost bumping into Aires who was standing holding her tea causing him to spill some. “Out of my way boy…. I need the tapestry..” she said moving as quickly as she could to a set of open wooden draws.

“Here.. Look here Jaja..…..” she said excitedly as she moved back to the fire now holding a loosely folded large piece of very old light brown material close to two meters long, on it were many hand-sewn symbols and lots of writings all in Catharese stretching down to the very end. “What’s this?” asked Terrogate.. “Why.. It's the story of our family…. And of the gods” she replied excitedly, eyes as bright as the stars on a clear night as she unfolded it getting all the way to the bottom..

She handed it to Terrogate to read and without even needing to look at it she started to recite the story as though she had been the one to write it..

“Our story.. Well…..what is known….Began shortly after the time known as the great darkness, when the tree cities of old burned and our people fell to the first invaders…. It was over four thousand years ago..” Kadji continued and took the tea from Aires.. But her hands were shaking so much now that her tea was sloping over the edges.. She didn't seem to even notice..

“The tree cities were all abandoned after the great darkness, blackened and lifeless for decades they stood idol waiting for the earth goddess Arkana and the deity of birth & rebirth Tzu to heal them from within.....” she continued as Terrogate hung on every word.

“The invaders now gone for some twenty plus years, the Cathar who had once fled the war started to return to our planet and along with the survivors began to repopulate and recolonize our ancestral home.”

Terrogate followed the tapestry, reading the original words and symbols as Kadji recited the story flawlessly.

“It was around this time that a group of traders on their way to Joffa city set up a camp here, at the foot of this very tree. The weather became poor and they were forced to stay many days before the road was dry enough to move their carts again. On their second night they noticed light coming from the mountain God temple high in the hills.

The traders decided to investigate the light high up in the mountain temple, several of them moving camp to the foot of the sacred steps. There they waited at the foot of the temple's steps for several straight days watching the entrance.. But they saw no one either enter or leave the temple mouth for that entire time. So, they then decided to go and see for themselves what, or who possibly could be living inside the old ruins..

After making their way up the sacred steps they finally arrived at the top, and entered the temple of the mountain god. Inside they found a creature.. A Cathar.. A female, about twenty years old. She was mostly uneducated, and starving. Her name was Abbes.”

Terrogate lifted his eyes, looking with shock and disbelief back to Aires and then to Kadji.. “but…. But how can that be?? It makes no sense…?? Abbas died.. And she would have been in her forties by then?” he protested..

“Yes..” said Kedji looking at Terrogate as though she was looking into his very soul.. “\*Your sister would have…” she said cryptically..

“There's more… Look..” Kadji added, still not having touched her tea she continued and pointed a shaky boney finger to the tapestry...

“The girl told the traders about her past as best she could... That she'd been saved by a man, a man who found her very pregnant mother in an open field near a burning tree city. And this man through the power of the gods brought her back from the brink of death.. Just long enough to take her to safety inside the mountain god temple where several priests were in hiding.

Aires, feeling the sensitivity of the moment, places his hand on Terrogates shoulder as the knight feels tears begin to well in his eyes while he followed the story on the tapestry”

“Before she died the pregnant woman, who was already carrying wounds beyond savings even by the priests, told the man her name and that her baby was special. She begged the man to keep her cub safe after he cut it from her body. The man, also able to feel the power of the gods inside the unborn cub agreed and soon after he performed his promise with the help of a temple priest the mothers body gave in completely, dying in the temple.”

Tears were streaming down the Cathar knights face as he heard of his sister's fate.. but also ones of joy and hope.. he said nothing, listening to Kadji as she continued the rest of the story.

The Man quickly named the new cub, a girl.. after her mother and wrapped her in his cloak. He then removed from the dead mothers neck an amulet, the amulet read “a heart of a Warrior.”

He gave the amulet to the priests to look after until the cub was old enough to have it and shortly after departed never to be seen again.. and there they raised young Abbes. The last of the nearby tree city”.

There were others that had been brought to the temple in the days and weeks following. Most died soon after arrival and bodies burnt, the priests performing the traditional dusk rites... The girl told the traders of one male however, who had been found a week after her birth at the bottom of the burnt hometree. He was very badly burnt, blind and due to his injuries he couldn’t speak.. Thankfully the healing goddess Nyarah was watching over him, the man managed to live for nearly a decade with them in the mountain gods temple before he perished. Abbes would visit him often and talk to him, and he would hold her hand with his one good arm and she could tell in his unseeing eyes that he was smiling. She told them she had felt a special bond with the old male but didn’t understand why. She had described him as being large, heavily muscled despite his old age and his eyes… His eyes were as blue as the purest sapphires”

Terrogates heart grew heavy.. feeling like it would explode inside his chest and he raised his left hand to wipe away the tears on his cheek and whiskers.. could it have been who he thought it was.. he dare not say the words.. not out loud. Not now at least.

“The problem was..” continued Kadji.. “The priests were all males, sworn to celibacy and already well into their twilight years..  She cared for them as best she could, but slowly and surely they died out.. leaving young Abbes, now a teenager alone in an abandoned yet dangerous world she did not know. And there she stayed, in the temple halls.. with the ghosts of her mother and the only people she’d ever known. Lighting the fire of the mountain god entrance each night.. hoping someone would come and find her.”

Terrogate couldn’t believe his ears or his eyes.. but there it was… the detailed history written down on what it looked to be, now he thought about it… very similar to the same kind of fabric used in making traditional Sith and Jedi cloaks.. and he couldn’t help wondering if his niece, named after his dearest sister, was once wrapped in this very material…

“What…. What happened to her?…” Terrogate asked, no longer following along with the words and symbols, but looking at the old Sharman Kadji who was looking back to him.

“They then sacrificed her to Khan the god of death and ate her.” she said bluntly and straight faced..

Terrogate furrowed his brow, tilted his head and squinted his eyes at the eccentric old lady, trying to get a read on her.

“Silly boy.. well what do you think happened?” She said letting out a light cackle and finally drinking a sip of her tea.. “ aggrrhhh…. Aires, this tea is cold boy! Here…” she said, handing the ceramic mug to her grandson then turning her attention back to Terrogate who wasn’t sure whether to laugh, be mad or cry...

“Well she went with them of course.. to Joffa city. Little of her life in Joffa city is known, but it is written she returned here ten years later with a handful of colonists looking for a fresh start and also several religious families.. including her own as she had never taken a vow of celibacy and felt a need, a responsibility to keep her bloodline going..

It seems in her time in Joffa she had continued her religious path in the large city, spreading the knowledge of the gods she learnt from the priests who had raised her, bringing hope to many after such a long time in darkness.

Here they started to rebuild the tree city… this very hut is where she and her family first lived…. It is written that each night Abbes would spend outside, looking out to the Mountain god temple.. thinking about her mother, the priests and the burnt man… slowly, over generations the tree city expanded and new people came and with them came trade and opportunities. This hut became the tree city home for the city Sharman.. as it still is today.” She said, bowing her head.

“The home to the daughters of Abbes.” She said finally.. “the keepers of knowledge… and your family.. although it seems I am the last of the daughters….” She said, glancing sharply sideways to Aires.. “for now Grandmother.. for now.” He said, rolling his eyes. “Your Sakari needs to visit the fertility temple Aires.. I’m telling you boy.. I won’t die until you give me a great granddaughter.” She threatened… Aires sighed..”Grandmother you know she doesn’t believe as we do.” Kadji sighed and then turned back to Terrogate who was still trying to process this story..

For a long moment Terrogate couldn’t speak, the story was incredible… unbelievable…yet here it was.. the evidence was written into the cloth in his hands and he folded it back up gently. At the very bottom suddenly he saw a symbol that took his attention instantly.. It was a picture of his sister's amulet.. And the knight's heart swelled with love.. this was the evidence… the proof that everything Kadji had said was the truth.. his sister had survived.. and deep down he had a feeling, at least for a while…so had his father. The greatest man Jaja had ever known, who he and his siblings thought the world of, had somehow found a way to survive and he had known his granddaughter before he died...

“And what of your own family Jaja…” Kadji said, finally breaking the silence.

“He’s not married grandmother, his lifemate… sorry.. fiancée and her children are here though.. They are with Sakari and Miko.” Aires said answering for the Knight who was still dealing with the recent news..

“Well then..” said Kadji smiling wide, exposing her near toothless grin “that is something we shall have to remedy.”….

A short time later Aires and Terrogate walk out from Kadji’s hut on there way back to their families. The two Cathar males had a surprise, but it would need to wait... Evening was soon approaching.

Somewhere at the highest levels of the home tree, stood Mab looking at the old carvings on the massive trunk. Sakari had been so kind to show them the stories of Terrogate and his ancestors. Most of it had faded over time, but she was still able to make out some symbols. The witch placed her hand on the tree and gently began to trace the shapes that Terrogate had carved centuries ago.

~ the image of a Cathar child flashed through her mind. Next to him was a large male, his father. "Look son, these are the stories of your ancestors" he said and touched the carvings on the trunk. "Everything you need to know about our history is written right here… and one day... when you are older, you will write your own stories to pass onto your own sons." The man said as he knelt down in front of the small boy. "Not just your victories my son, but also your losses." He paused and smiled at the child, "or like I did, something I was very proud of" the Cathar pointed at a small carving, smaller than the rest as if he squeezed in a note between chapters. "The birth of my son.. of you Jaja." ~

"Mom?" Kas'sparr stood next to her. "Mom are you alright?" The witch looked at her son with a smile and nodded "yes, just so many memories.." she said cryptically. She looked at the nearly faded carving, searching for what she had seen. "Look Kas" she said, pointing at the tiny encryption, "the birth of your father." She said with a smile. Sakari, who stood beside her, looked and nodded in shock. "You can read our language?" She asked. Mab looked at the feline and shook her head  "no, but I can see glimpses of the past…" she glanced at Kas and added "i saw your father as a child, standing here with his father…. Your grandfather." The boy was amazed and insisted she would try again..

Mab smiled and moved towards the carvings that Sakari had pointed out as Terrogate's. She placed her hand on it, again following the shapes.

~ the image of a young man carving into the trunk appeared before her eyes. He was alone and didn't say anything, but Mab could feel his pride ~

The image faded, immediately Kas'sparr asked what she had seen. "I saw your father, over here" she points at the floor and looks at the faded carving. "I think he was working on this" she said and looked over at Sakari. The female stepped closer and looked at the carvings, for a moment she said nothing, the images had faded too much Mab assumed. "The Blood Hunt" Sakari suddenly said with a smile. "What is that? *the boy asked curiously." But before Sakari could explain they heard another voice from behind them. "That is a rite of passage, child."*

All of them turned and saw an old female standing behind them. "A way for young warriors to prove themselves… one day you will do the same." Kas'sparr's eyes widened in shock.. the old woman ignored it and approached Mab with a smile. "So you are the one that has been watching over my great great grandson" she said and grabbed Mab's golden hand.

~ Multiple images flashed by, memories old and new, hers, the woman's but also other people's. It was strange and yet familiar, confusing until the woman let go…~

"Kadji?" Mab asked, but she already knew the answer was yes. The old woman nodded "Indeed I am, Ammit Bathori or should I call you Mab ol Idun?" Shocked, the Iktotchi looked into the old woman's eyes, "I don't understand.. My name is Mab Bathori." The woman smiled, "ofcourse, I'm sorry, so many memories" she responded, but Mab could sense she knew something.. "You must be Kas'sparr and you, little one, are Khara." Both children nodded quietly, both not sure what had just happened.

"Shall we join the others?" Kadji said as she turned back to Mab. "Jaja has much to tell you." She added and motioned to them to follow.

Terrogate and Aires had walked back to the home of the Treeguard and his family after leaving Kadji’s hut. The one his niece and her family used to live in when they first returned here.

The two large Cathar males, now known relatives, had been delving deeper into what life was like now versus when Terrogate used to live here when their families finally entered the hut.

Terrogate looked at Mab with bright eyes, and was visibly excited as he stood and approached her. “My stars…. you wouldn’t believe what’s happened..” he said smiling brightly.. “I’ve so much to tell you..”

“Aires! Make us some tea please.” Said Kadji to her grandson. “And this time…. be sure to make it hot.” She added with a small cackle and looked at Mab. “You may want to sit down, there is much to tell..”

{ As Terrogate excitedly told the story of his sister, his niece also named Abbes and the several thousands years of history he’d learnt Khara and Miko played on the floor on the shaggy rug. Aires sat quietly next to his wife Sakari at the table, lovingly holding her hand and and every so often Kadji would interrupt Terrogates story and add a few extra details of names, god references or rituals. }

The old white furred woman led Mab and her children back to the home of the treeguard. There she was welcomed by the bright smile of her betrothed. As Kadji had said, it was obvious he had much to tell.

The next hour Terrogate told her the tale of his sister and how her child had survived. Mab knew the force worked in mysterious ways but still had difficulty believing it. "It's a miracle" she said softly with a tearful smile, mixed feelings happiness and sadness overwhelmed the Iktotchi witch.

Mab shared with Terrogate the echoes she had seen from the past, of his father as well as Terrogate himself carving their stories into the tree. Old woman had read those stories so often she knew them by heart, and recited the ones Mab had seen in her vision. She couldn't help but look at her betrothed, at his face as Kadji told the tales he had written himself. 'It must be so strange for him' she thought listen to the old woman, realizing that to him those memories were recent and yet they were so old that time had nearly faded them away.

Several hours had passed, the sun stood low on the horizon when Mab reminded Terrogate about Jovian and K-0R9. "Why don't I go and get them?" she suggested, holding on to his hand. Of Course he didn't like the idea of her going on her own but Mab did not want to spoil his reunion. "You stay here with the kids… with your family, I will be back as soon as possible." She said and kissed his cheek.

Aires offered to go with her, but Mab insisted on going alone. This reunion had been overwhelming for her as well and she could use some alone time. "I do need someone to help me down," she said trying to hide her embarrassment behind a smile.

~\*~

Moments later, Mab stepped onto her speeder. She looked Terrogate once more "don't worry love, I've already alerted Jovian about the change of plans, they are already packing everything up." She smiled and placed hee golden hand on his furry cheek "I'll be back before you know it" she said as she brushed her thum over his cheekbone. "Watch the kids, especially Kas'sparr, you know what he's like" she added and let go of his face. Another smile as her eyes stared into his before she turned away and took off into the grasslands.

The speeder swooped through the tall grass of the Vast Velt. Aires had been helpful by plotting a safe trail for her to follow as the sun began to set below the horizon. Her long wavy hair, danced behind her in the wind, she felt happy and confused about everything that had happened the last few hours. Happy for Terrogate, that he had found his family but she also worried. Worried that she would lose him now that he found his true home and his people.

Mab let out a sigh as the ligh thread of sun light dissapeared down the horizon. She thought about the meeting with Kadji, the memories that flashed before her eyes. 'Mab ol Idum… what does that mean?' She thought as she tried to remember the images she had seen. It was only a glimpse of a dark place and old deserted throne room. Cloaked figures with crimson lightsabers, a woman crying out that it was to late, they had to leave.. it didn't make sense, it wasn't her memory and she was sure it wasnt one of Kadji either.. the witch shook her head, ridding herself of the confusing thoughts.

She thought about Kadji, how the old white haired Catharian had stared at her as she spoke about fertility rituals. 'She must have known that I cannot bare Terrogate's children' she thought, tear rolling down her face, 'she must have seen the memory of when we were told it was impossible' she thought as the wind blew her tears away.

~\*~

After more than an hour, Mab finally reached the campsite. It was already cleared by K-0R9 and Jovian. "Welcome back Mistress" the Echani said with a smile. "As requested, we are ready to move camp"...

“Everything is arranged Jaja.” Said Aires patting Terrogate on the shoulder. The large tree guard sporting a smile from ear to ear standing in front of the knight. “It will be a tremendous occasion.” He added. “Will you be observing the traditional rituals?”

“Well of course he will.. stupid boy.” Said Kadji standing in the corner of her hut. Mab had left to retrieve Jovian, Korg and their ship several hours ago. Meanwhile Terrogate, Aires and Kadji had left the children in the the care of Sakari and rushed to begin preparations for the ceremony they had discussed earlier in the day.

Terrogate was happy to have rediscovered his childhood village, and the news of his sister… and what he felt may have been his father had made the entire day seem like some kind of impossible dream… despite all that there was only one person that made him feel like he was home no matter where in the entire galaxy they happened to be. And she had golden eyes and one arm. The women he loved more than life itself.

There was no doubt in his mind that now should be the time to make the next step together. He had packed the rings.. just in case. Hidden safely aboard the starship they had arrived on in a secret pocket of his travel bag.

“Thank you. To you both… I am very appreciative, and couldn’t think of a better way to join with Mab than a traditional ceremony. Here, among our people.” Said Terrogate. “You are family.” Said Kadji, taking a step closer to him. “The gods require it.” She added cryptically, “as does your bloodline.”

“Come”.. said Aries looking towards the door. “I’ve asked the treecity elder permission for you and your family to stay in one of our empty huts. The Elders daughters should have had it prepared by now. We’ll go and get your children settled before your woman returns and then we will feast together.

“I don’t want to be a bother..” Terrogate started but was cut off by Aries who had raised his hand, it’s palm facing the knight. “I insist. We have plenty of good food to share and I would like to hear more of your life among the stars.” “Well…. ok.” Terrogate agreed, it wouldn’t be long until Mab returned but it was getting late. And a home cooked meal did sound much better than late night dehydrated meal aboard the ship.

After loading the speederbike in the cargo hold, K-0R9 joined Mab and Jovian in the Cockpit. He walked to the pilot's seat, but the horned witch was already sitting there. "I will pilot, Korg" she said with a smile and pressed the button to lift the ramp and lock the cargo hold. "Yes Master" the droid said and took place in the co-pilot's seat.

With a loud rumble the engines of Roar-1 ignited. The old cruiser jolted when she engaged the thrusters. "Off we go" the Iktotchi said with a smile as the ship lifted off the ground. "Retracting landing gear" she said, reaching for the button. Mab had set a course for the tree village, using the location beacon of the other speederbike. She glanced at the navcom and turned the nose of Roar-1 in the right direction. "It's not far" she said, as with a starship distance wasn't an issue anymore "twenty minutes approximately."

Along the way Mab told Jovian and K-0R9 about the reunion between Terrogate and his descendants. "That is truly remarkable, Mistress" the Echani said behind her. "Yes it is' she responded with a hint of sadness in her voice. She couldn't help but wonder what the future would bring now that he found his family. Maybe he would choose to stay with them on Cathar or he would fall in love with someone. She wouldn't blame him if he'd leave her for that, she knew how much he wanted to have children of his own, something she wouldn't be able to give him.

"Is that it?" The housecarl suddenly asked, pointing at lights in the distance. It was dark out, so fires in the village looked like they were floating in mid air. "Yes.. its the biggest tree I have ever see " she said as she slowed the ship down. "In morning you will see what I mean"

Moments later, Roar-1 stood safely on the ground at the foot of the home tree. Mab switched the engines off and lowered the ramp. "Come, so I can introduce you" she said and got out of her seat and stepped into the elevator. K-0R9 and Jovian joined her and together they went outside… "Shall we set up camp Mistress?" Echani asked. "No, it's late, we'll just spend the night aboard Roar-1" she replied not knowing about the plans Terrogate had made. They are walked closer to the trunk and looked up, waiting for anyone to lower the ladder for them..

“Kas’sparr, there is something very important want to discuss with you.” said the large knight to the young chiss boy as the two stood on the balcony of the guest hut, looking out onto the rest of the tree village as the sun quickly disappeared in the distance. Terrogate had insisted Khara take a nap inside before dinner and although she protested initially, the young girl had fallen asleep just moments after her head touched the pillow.

“What is it? Are you finally going to show me where they keep the hologames? he asked, bright-eyed and smiling cheekily.

“I don't think they have those here son” replied the Cathar shaking his head slightly, to which Kas’sparr responded with a disappointed sigh as his smile faded to nothing.

“No, I wanted to talk to you about your mother..” he said, “My Mom?.. What about her? I'm sure she’ll be back soon.” the boy replied confused looking up to the knight.

“Oh I know.. but listen..” he continued. “You know Kas’, your Mother and I have been together a while now. And I see her, you and your sister like my own family. There is nothing I wouldn’t do to keep you all happy and healthy.” He added. “Kas’sparr, I intend to marry your mother. Tomorrow at dusk, here in my ancestral home.” He said his voice was soft, calm but blunt. The young boy didn’t say anything to start with, he just looked up at the large Cathar.. clearly this was a shock and much to process.

Terrogate turns and faces the boy before continuing.. “This is what I want to do, and I also am confident that your Mother would want to marry me eventually.”  His voice was now more serious, and with more emotion. “You are the man of the Bathori family Kas’sparr, and you’ve done a wonderful job keeping you mom and sister safe” Terrogate said, “And it would me a lot to me, if I could have your blessing to wed your Mother tomorrow.”

The sun had now totally disappeared on the horizon and in the distance the lights of a small starship could be seen approaching, and still the boy said nothing. The Cathar was his moms boyfriend, not his father. His father didn’t want him, or so he was told and the Chiss boy wasn’t sure he needed Dad. They had been getting in just fine without one until now. Although he had to admit if it wasn’t for Terrogate his mother would have died.. he remembers the long nights Terrogate sat at her bedside as she recovered. Tending to her wounds and making sure she was alright. Perhaps he did deserve a chance…?

“That's them” Terrogate said to Kas’spaar breaking the awkwardness. “Have a think son, and we’ll speak about it more in the morning. If you’re ready. I better head down and get them. Dinner will be soon..”

{{Terrogate dropped down the ladder allowing Jovian and Mab up into the tree top and guided them to the visitors hut before going back down to the ship to collect the families stay bags as well as the rings he had secretly stored away. It was decided that K0R9 stayed with the ship below rather than try to climb the ladder.

Some time later they all sit around the table at  Aires and Sakari’s hut sharing after enjoying a warm home cooked meal of veal stew and forest hog steaks. The two families shared stories of past and future getting to know eachother better. Nothing was mentioned of the wedding and Kas’sparr was unusually quiet the entire evening.}}

“So.. tomorrow we have some special events planned..” Said Kadji at the dinner table. She looked to Mab, in the morning you and I will go to the river of Tzu, she is the Deity of Birth & Rebirth.” Said the old lady with a smile. “Of course your daughter and you, Sakari, are welcome to come.” She added with a toothless smile.

“And we men will go on a hunt.” Said Aires. “Traditionally we would have a party of four.” He added.

“I remember.” Said Terrogate. “Jovian, Kas'sparr, would you both like to come?” He asked.