As things beyond my knowledge or control happened outside, I was living my human life. Working at the clinic, interacting with humans - not always pleasant - and animals - much nicer and easier to deal with. Working was good. Gave me a sense of purpose, and kept me busy. Too busy to think about people I shouldn't be thinking about.<br/><br/><span style="font-style: italic">Jacen</span>. I really shouldn't think about him anymore. But I did. After he had become Verecundia, I knew I'd be putting myself on the line by even speaking to him.<br/><br/>That meant I couldn't ever...<span style="font-style: italic">is that him, asking for help? My help?</span><br/><br/>It was. I was sure it was. I could hear him, and understand.<br/><br/>"Cover me for a minute, Rachel, please", I asked, before running outside. There he was. Oh, in the name of every god out there, what happened? I didn't say it aloud, but that was my feeling as I knelt besides him, my hands touching his neck.<br/><br/>"Calm down. Calm down... please. Stay with me, okay? You shouldn't be here, but we'll discuss that later. Just keep your eyes open for me."