Traits Of Descent

Chapter Ten

Errant Venture - Blue Level

The area was desolate and abandoned. For the time being, no one was required to be there. Construction had begun on two slingball courts on the Blue Level. Booster prided himself on the location because it had previously been an Imperial interrogation facility when the Errant Venture was property of the Empire. Because Booster gave the construction workers a few days off before he got involved with the Vigos, the area was devoid from any crowd noise.

It was the perfect place for a secret meeting.

Mahc Tiernan walked through the vast area cautiously. Not only was he alert to find the Jedi Master but he was careful to avoid the construction equipment that the workers left. Mahc had shed the clothes that he took off the drunk man who he killed. He wore his black tunic with red lining. His hood was up and over his head obscuring his face. He tried to keep his boots quiet as he stepped but because of the empty area every step echoed.

Mahc moved slowly checking every corner and wall. There was no one else here. Where was Skywalker? Was he playing a game?

"I don't play games," announced a sudden voice from behind him. Mahc did an about face quickly to see the Jedi Master standing stoically near the opposite wall of the floor. Mahc had seen the Jedi several times through holovids and had heard him on recordings. This was the first time he had ever been in his presence. He didn't look so tough to Mahc. Then again, Mahc asked himself how he suddenly appeared. Mahc kept his voice low when he asked, "You weren't there before."

"Perhaps you weren't looking. As you can see, I have some mental skills of my own."

"I'm sure Corran Horn told you about mine."

"He has. I admit it's impressive. Except my skills are more...mystical, shall we say." When Mahc didn't reply, Luke went on to say, "Mahc Tiernan. We finally meet. You've been a nasty pest for several people in the last few days." Luke edged closer to the man and took note of his attire. "Nice costume. Dark and ominous. The hood does well to hide your face. Gives your victims a sense of mystery."

"That is the desired effect."

"It also indicates that you don't like who you are. You're hiding from you."

Mahc chuckled. "I see you wear the same black."

"Anyone can wear black. It's their intentions while wearing it that makes the difference."

"I suppose you're going to scold me for my intentions. Make me see the light? Show me the right path?"

"Only if that's what you want to hear. By the tone of your sarcasm, I'd say that's not the case. I'm not here to judge. You may very well have the best intentions. But when those intentions involve murdering innoc–"

"Innocents?" He pointed down. "Those ex gangsters down there are not innocent. They were part of something that ruined my father."

"Just so we're clear, your father is Skarce Voxan?"

"Was. Mara Jade already figured that out."

"She only suspected."

"I'm sure you'll agree that Mara Jade's suspicions are more accurate than other people's facts."

Luke didn't reply but gave a hint of admiration in his face. Mahc caught it.

"Ah, and there's the denial of wanting her to be more."

"I think you're misinterpreting."

"Am I? See, I don't need the Force to read people. I observe them. I've watched the two of you together and I've observed how you both deny your feelings toward each other. Now who's hiding from themselves?"