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"The worst thing about favors is that they have a tendency to be collected both when you least expect them to be, and when you least want them to be."

~Unknown scrap trader, Tattooine

Part of Kajex didn't want to leave Kentoh behind, but he had to grudgingly accept Master Moarn's wisdom on the matter- the less the Black Tomb pack knew about the Gold Rush pack's missions, the better. So it was a heavy farewell that Kajex had left Kentoh, though the two were still in decent spirits after their moment of intimacy. He only wished he could have returned to the rest of his own pack in a better mood- nobody seemed particularly motivated to get back to work. Syrra in particular seemed very subdued, not even asking him how his time with Kentoh was even though she had known about it. Nevertheless, he and Locke managed to coax them into the communications room, where Moarn had insisted they meet.

“Why here, though?" Talrik asked. “We could've done it anywhere on the ship, right?"

Master Moarn nodded. “In most cases, Ranger, you are quite correct- so there is a bit of preface we need to get out of the way before we begin, seeing as we have about a few minutes left to speak," he said, gesturing to everyone to take a seat around the round table and holoprojector. “Now, if I am correct then only two or three of you are familiar with the Corporate Sector Authority; Kajex and Syrra, correct?"

The Sentinel nodded, swallowing as he noticed Syrra's sour expression. “Yeah, we know about them. Not exactly a pleasant topic of conversation, to be honest," he cautioned the Jedi Master, as he put a paw on the Trianii's wrist and squeezed gently.

“Yes, I'm well-aware of their encroachment into Trianii space," the Trandoshan intoned gently, his gaze directed at Syrra. The Padawan sighed and seemed to relax. “What follows is officially listed as a Jedi-led, Republic operation, despite it being brought to our attention through an extraterritory organization- or at least, one individual associated with them. I felt it important to explain why you've been given this assignment despite Syrra potentially being less-than-compelled to help."

The Trianii flinched, growling quietly. “The way you're wording this, I feel like I should be prepared to accept having to work alongside the CorpSec. So... let's get that part over with, please- the sooner you do, the sooner I can refuse."

Master Moarn frowned slightly. “Technically, no- you're not going to be working with the CSA. You will be working with a liaison from the CSA who has insisted he come with you all to oversee the operation- whatever it may entail. The ramifications of this mission may technically aid them, which the Republic does not particularly care for- but as this may have originated in the fringes of Republic space, they have allowed the Jedi to mediate an agreement. We found one, or rather, we were offered one by the CorpSec officer who initially contacted us. We would have had this assigned to your pack earlier, Sentinel, but given recent circumstances we put the operation on hold, given that there didn't seem to be any urgency. That, unfortunately, has changed; thankfully, the man who insisted on your involvement was very easy to work with."

Kajex frowned. “Wait, why would this CorpSec officer insist on my involv--" He froze, something clicking in the back of his head just as the holoprojector in the center flickered to life. In the space of 3 seconds, Kajex- having realized who was about to show up- had tried to jump out from his seat and sprint for the door; but whether the Force failed him or simply had a sense of humor, he lost his balance and tripped over his own boots, yelping and hitting the floor just as the image of Liam Valcane took form in the center. The blonde-haired, blue-eyed officer was neatly-groomed, a well-trimmed goatee framed against his stony expression.

“Good evening, Jedi Master Moarn," the officer said politely. “Is the transmission being received clearly?"

“Yes, and it's well-coded, Officer Valcane," the Jedi Master assured him. “We're pleased you were able to join us- or at least, most of us are," he said, arching an eyebrow at the groaning wolf who was still struggling to his feet. “I believe you're well-acquainted with Captain Surnahm, correct?"

The officer nodded, spotting the dazed Jedi Knight on the floor with an expression of slight interest. “Yes, I'm quite familiar with... Sentinel Surnahm. How is returning to the life of a Jedi suiting you, my friend?"

Kajex groaned, ears flattening- there was no point in trying to run now. “It was fine until you showed up again- is this what I get for ignoring all those messages, Liam? Why're you bothering me this time?" he asked with a irritated whine, returning to his seat with a sinking feeling of resignation.

Liam's smirk was almost unbearable to the Kanj'Isha. “Because this time you can't actually say no. If I'm not mistaken, Jedi Master Luke Skywalker assigned you to this mission, and it's not as if you can say no off the bat, correct?"

Syrra glared at the human. “Individual Jedi are capable of refusing to take on a mission if they so choose. Even if Kajex decides to take it on, I'll gladly sit it out if it means I can avoid having to work with CorpSec scum," she hissed.

The officer raised an eyebrow. “Ah, the Trianii Jedi- Syrra, was it? Kajex told me quite a bit about you, I congratulate you on your engagement to him- I'm sure he'll make a fine life-companion." She didn't answer to thank him, but her glare did nothing to dissuade him from continuing. “Anyway, yes, I'm quite sure you're less than eager to work with the likes of me- but perhaps the details of this mission will cause you to reconsider."

“I fucking doubt that," Syrra snapped.

“Please, Padawan- calm yourself," Moarn said soothingly, before turning back to Liam and gesturing to everyone else. “Allow me to make introductions, Locke Surnahm, the Sentinel's recently-discovered twin brother; his apprentice, Keris; ex-soldier Miles Lohess; Antarian Ranger Talrik Lye; and 'Rook', a bodyguard hired onboard the Gold Rush."

“I am Financial Officer Liam Valcane, of the Corporate Sector Authority. I'm pleased to meet you all," Liam offered with a bow. “And I offer my deepest condolences for you having to work on Captain Surnahm's dreadful vessel."

“It's not that bad anymore," Kajex replied huffily. “You should see it sometime, you won't say a word against it, these days."

Liam smirked. “I'm a financial officer, Kajex- I always find the flaws. Which is precisely how all of this started, if you'll allow me to continue." The wolf sighed and hid his face, nodding. “Very well. For the last year I have detected a loss in credits and personnel that have yet to be accounted for. At first it was just the credits, as I was not given clearance to obtain crew manifests- it's well outside my pay-grade. To rectify this I've been trying to hire Captain Surnahm to investigate those losses in our holdings throughout CorpSec space. Despite desperately needing the credits, he staunchly refused. The losses were not so severe that I felt it merited an official inquiry, not when I figured it could easily be covered by someone who I knew worked for cheap."

“Dammit, Liam- you know what kind of jobs I work for. I refused because it wasn't to help find missing people," the wolf growled. “So what changed?"

Liam's face was serious. “I managed to do some digging and found out that people did go missing." There was a pause in which Kajex's irritation transitioned into confusion and interest, which must have registered enough on his face that Liam continued once it set in. “I'd heard about Imperial incursions into Trianii space, and the fact that a Jedi and a mercenary had put down a squad of thugs hadn't escaped my attention- I knew, on some level, that it was your handiwork. Weeks later, when the story broke about AS-303 and the kidnapping of Trianii vessels, the CSA expressed confidence that the monetary losses we'd been suffering would soon be rectified- I was convinced that things would return to normal as well. Only they weren't."

Syrra scowled. “Of course they weren't. The CSA wasn't a target- my uncle's business vessels and personnel were. What makes you think the two are even connected?"

“Perhaps we should ask Kajex's, ah, brother," Liam suggested, turning his eyes to the white wolf. “I'm told you and your associates were once allied with the Empire."

“That's correct," Locke replied politely. “However, if you mean to ask whether there were any other Imperial operations in the area, then I can only say that I don't know. My former... master," Locke said with a disgusted growl, “kept many things secret from me. But as Syrra said, there must be a deeper reason why you feel these are somehow linked. Why?"

“Because patrol ships have gone missing along common, CSA-authorized hyperspace vectors, with almost no explanation for their disappearance," Liam answered. "This wouldn't be so alarming if not for the size of the vessels- many of them were outfitted for heavy combat, capable of engaging most Imperial warships on equal footing. And given that this has been happening on the borders of Republic space, Imperial presence was not expected to be a problem."

“Okay, so that explains why you think the Remnant might be involved," Locke conceded. “But what evidence do you have for certain?"

“About 4 weeks ago, someone did manage to escape an Imperial ambush, or so she initially thought. The smuggler in question was flying a YT-2400, a very fast and capable ship- her vessel was snagged out of hyperspace." Liam paused, punching a few commands into a terminal offscreen. Almost immediately, a series of data entries appeared to either side of the CSA officer, including a display of an Imperial warship. It looked much like a Star Destroyer, but for the 4 bulbous shapes bulging out of the otherwise angular wedge-shape of the vessel- at the top of the readout was the ship's registered name: the Omega-Orr.

Locke frowned. “An Interdictor-class Star Destroyer. That's not a commonly-deployed ship."

“Indeed- the CSA stopped using Interdictor-class vessels a decade ago," Liam agreed.

“Get on with it!" Syrra snapped, glaring daggers at the CSA officer as everyone stared at her in concern. Kajex winced, immediately sensing why she was so agitated- no doubt she was reminded of the fact that her father had sacrificed himself to disable an Interdictor-class cruiser in the closing years of hostilities between the Trianii and CorpSec. Moarn seemed ready to calm her again, but it took only a subtle shake of Kajex's head to convince the Trandoshan to reconsider, enough time for the wolf to slip his paw into Syrra's. She looked at him, and it could not have been more apparent how much pain there was in her eyes, despite her anger.

“_I know you're angry, Syrra- but we need to be better than this," _he cautioned telepathically.

“They killed my father_, Kajex!"_ she replied, ears flattening.

Kajex shook his head. “No, it was CSA dissidents that forced your father to give up his life. Liam's been at this job for only 10 years- what happened to Ka'un wasn't his fault, anymore than the destruction of Alderaan is Miles' or Talrik's fault. You have every reason to be angry with the CSA, to not trust them- but Jedi have to be above that."

A few moments passed with the Trianii giving him a hard stare, before she sighed and nodded. “I'm sorry. I'll... try to be more civil with him."

Kajex smiled, then turned back to Liam. “Go ahead."

Liam frowned slightly, but continued. “Yes, as I was saying- your twin is correct. The smuggler was pulled out of an alternate hyperspace vector by the ship's mass-gravity generators, and forced to flee- or rather, she was allowed to flee. Shortly after being brought out of hyperspace she was forced to fly out-of-range of the interdiction field, yet she was not pursued."

“That doesn't make sense," Miles interjected. “Standard Imperial procedure for unauthorized civilian drop-ins is to disable and detain. No Imperial commander would have just let a smuggler go without trying to capture them- and as fast as a YT-2400 might be, even an Interdictor wouldn't find it hard to keep up long enough to disable it."

“That's what we figured as well," Liam agreed. “According to their logs, the Destroyer made no attempt to even activate its engines. The power was clearly running, or else the interdiction field would not have been operational- and yet, not even a single ion or turbolaser blast was recorded. Now, it would be rash to say that this vessel is also responsible for the disappearance of CSA ships and personnel, but you must admit the evidence is compelling- especially when one considers that the vessel is still there."

“And how do you know this?" Master Moarn asked.

“As per agreements with the New Republic, the CSA has agreed not to conduct operations in Republic space- we're limited strictly to the use of trade routes. That said, we are more than allowed to hire third-parties to conduct business or launch investigations on our behalf." Liam sighed. “I, unfortunately, am working as liaison to such 'third parties'. My contract has been suspended until I can get to the bottom of this, meaning no pay for me- I had hoped to get into contact with Captain Surnahm sooner rather than later, as it's my credits being used to get the Republic's attention, but as the Jedi are technically a New Republic organization, I had to go through the standard channels before even being allowed to contact you. Up till then, I had to pay credits out of pocket to hire pilots with the purpose of investigating the scene- the last 3 fly-bys have confirmed that the vessel is staying where she was last sighted, stationary and pacified."

Kajex winced upon hearing the officer's financial troubles. Annoying as he might find him, it was a harsh penalty to pay. “... I'm sorry to hear that, Liam. If I'd known..."

“You would still have needed to wait," Moarn finished for him. “Officer Valcane is correct, we are still beholden to the New Republic where it concerns what tasks we undertake. But back to the matter at hand- you said fly-bys were conducted on the vessel. Did you detect life-signs?"

Liam shook his head. “No- nor were any distress signals detected on any frequencies. Communications were completely silent. You'd think that an automatic distress signal would be sent out for the Empire to retrieve it, but there hasn't been. The fact that it hasn't been picked up by the Empire at this point is also unusual- unless it's on an unauthorized mission."

“Okay, those're the details- what's the job, mate?" Rook asked casually.

“Mission is as follows- you come to pick me up on Orron III; I'll give you the coordinates to the vessel's location and we go there. Mind you, if the field is still up by that point, we'll be stuck until we deactivate the gravity wells or escape beyond their range. Ideally, we'll board the vessel and ascertain what has happened, if it's possible for us to do so without being fired on."

“Do you expect us to be?" Kajex asked.

“Honestly? No. The fly-bys were able to get within 20 meters of the vessel without a hostile response. One of the fools actually risked his life by firing a few blasts from his ship- again, no response. But that could change at any point," he added warningly. “So... are you in, Captain?"

The wolf sighed, shoulders slumped as he nodded. “I do owe you a favor... and it's to figure out what happened to missing people, so I guess that's right up my alley." He glanced at Syrra- she winced, but squeezed his paw, giving him a tired smile that informed him that she would accompany him, despite her reservations. “We're in- unless anyone has objections?" he added, looking around. Locke shook his head and the rest of the crew remained silent. “That's all of us."

“Excellent. I'll be waiting at Harvest City Starport, Bay 15. I'll notify the starport to admit you as soon as you contact them."

“Alright then," the wolf replied wearily. “I guess we'll see you tomorrow."

After assuring Master Moarne that the crew would be ready to take off the following morning (as a jump to Orron III would take only a few hours), they all retired back to the Gold Rush to prepare- or at least, that was the intent. Despite the decent meal they'd had with the Black Tomb pack at midday, everyone had already gotten hungry and nearly everybody made a beeline for the galley as soon as they were onboard.

Syrra and Kajex were not among them.

The Trianii lingered near the ramp as everyone filed inside, glancing back at Kajex while he discussed a couple of last-minute details with Moarn. Many feelings were mixed into her mind, but key among them were shame for her outburst, anger towards the CSA, and fear of what the 'Rah twins had discussed with her before they had parted- the idea that her best friend, lover and fiancee would linger long after death by age would claim her. Much as she would have preferred not to, she needed to talk with him.

Her thoughts were interrupted as she noticed Master Moarn approaching her. She managed a smile, moving forward to embrace him. The Trandoshan squeezed her gently before pulling back, a claw on her shoulder as he regarded her with concern. “Will you be alright on this operation, Syrra?"

The Trianii Padawan nodded with a sigh. “I'd prefer not to work with the CSA, but Kajex is right- I need to be able to set aside my animosity for the benefit of others. I'll be fine." She smiled again. “Until we meet again, my friend- may the Force be with you."

“And with you, Syrra," Moarn replied, bowing. With a final glance and nod at Kajex, he left, leaving the two engaged Jedi alone at the ramp. Syrra trembled slightly as the wolf leaned against one of the ramp hydraulic cylinders, staring at her with worry.

“So... I gather we need to talk about some things," Kajex started softly.

“You're not wrong," Syrra responded shamefacedly. “I'm sorry about how I reacted to your... your friend. It wasn't appropriate, and I should've tried to let go of my anger. I wasn't thinking about how bad that would have made us look."

“It's alright, kitten," Kajex assured her, stepping forward and taking her paws in his. “You recognized what you did wrong, and as long as you make an effort to be better about it on-mission, we'll be alright. Just try to at least get along with Liam while he's onboard." He nuzzled her gently. “But I get the feeling that something set you off even before he showed up. Something else is bothering you, isn't it?"

Syrra swallowed. “Locke and Keris should be here... everyone should. They have a right to know, too."

“Should I get them?"

She shook her head, a pang of alarm running through her as she reflexively grabbed his arm and tugged. “No, I... I need to tell you first. Because I'm scared and I need to know what you make of it."

Kajex frowned. “What is it?"

It took several moments for Syrra to calm herself down and work up the courage to continue. “I was... talking to So'Rah and Sa'Rah. Right before we parted, they felt the need to inform me about their species where it concerns age. They told me that since we're going to be mates... I had a right to know that you would probably live for an incredibly long amount of time- that you won't look much different at 120 years than you do now."

The wolf stared at her, his expression unreadable, and she continued. “I'm scared, Kajex- I-I don't like the idea of dying and knowing you'll be alone again. I'm scared that if I fade away, you'll forget about me and go on. I'm scared that if we can't have children, you won't have your family anymore, when me and Talrik and everyone else are gone. You might have Locke, but... we won't have you..." she finished, hot tears starting to form in her eyes.

It was at this point the wolf finally reacted, pulling the Trianii in close as she started to shake. Admitting her fears hurt nearly as bad as holding them in, not least because she couldn't see an answer in any of this- but the pain seemed to dissipate as he stroked her back soothingly, nuzzling her cheek. She looked up, staring at him through her tear-blurred vision- only to see him smiling.

“Thank you for telling me, Syrra. I understand why you don't like finding that out, and I don't blame you for being worried. But I think you're forgetting something."

“What's that?" she sniffled.

He raised a paw, pointing at the series of beads hanging down the right side of his face. “I haven't gone a full day without these beads, kitten. Even when I remove them to wash them out, they're always back up in the end. I don't think there's ever going to be a time when I won't have them in my hair- and I know for a fact that no matter how long I end up living, I'm not going to forget you or Talrik, and certainly not Miles and Keris. I'm certainly not going to up and re-marry, if you don't want me to," he assured her, “even if Kentoh and the rest say it's okay."

“I'm j-just less worried a-about that... and m-more scared of f-facing death alone, without you," she admitted through tremulous breaths, her face wet with tears as she nuzzled into his chest.

“Syrra, I can't promise you that becoming one with the Force will be a comfortable experience. I wouldn't know for a fact, for one thing. But I firmly believe you're more than strong enough, brave enough to face death and whatever lies beyond without me needing to be there. And call it just an illogical reassurance based on faith... but I don't think Bran and Kane, or your father, Ka'un, would ever let you face that mystery alone, either," he added encouragingly. “If it helps... knowing about this makes me a little scared, too."

“Does it?"

“Mm-hm. Can't say I like the idea of spending the rest of my life without you- but then again, we're kinda working in a high-risk occupation, you know? I might bite it long before you do, since you're alot smarter than I am," he said with a grin.

Syrra chuckled, sniffling and smiling back- his humor made her feel much better. “I guess that's true... I suppose it's silly of me to worry so much, one of us living without the other has always been a risk, right?"

The wolf nodded and squeezed around her midsection. “... Y'know what'd make you feel better?"

“What's that?"

“Hot chocolate and vanilla creamer."

“... I... can't say I'm not shocked by this," Locke admitted with wide eyes, still clutching his mug of hot chocolate. “And I doubt this confectionery drink will make me feel better about it."

“That's because you haven't sipped it yet, bro," Kajex said with a wry smile. “Drink up, I promise it'll get better."

It had been an hour since the Gold Rush had entered hyperspace, an hour which Kajex and Syrra had spent talking in the cockpit with a couple of mugs of the sweet drink. As worried as he was about this new revelation, the drink did not fail to live up to his promise- before long, the two were smiling and laughing, as if the last two hours had never occurred. In that time, they had talked about how interesting it was to learn about the Kanj'Isha, how Kajex and Locke conformed to their behavior instinctively and how the Black Tomb pack readily endorsed Kajex's relationship with beings of other species.

Still, once the drinks had been finished, and despite no longer feeling sore about the topic, the two reluctantly agreed that Locke and Keris should be informed about the potential disparity in life expectancy between Kanj'Isha, Trianii and Amarans. Even Miles, Talrik and Rook were present to hear the news, which had them stunned pretty much into silence.

All things considered, however, Keris seemed to take it in stride with a wry smile.

“If it makes you feel better, love, I'll do everything it takes to remain sexually active for you, even when my joints start acting up." She nuzzled into his cheek. “And you can always take comfort in knowing you had gray hair before I did," she added playfully, managing to prompt an appreciative chuckle from the white wolf.

“Knowing you, I'm sure you'll live up to that promise," he replied with a sigh. “I suppose we should have always considered this a possibility. Still, are you really not upset by this, Keris?"

“Honestly, I am little upset by it," she admitted. “But you and I have spent so much time trying to be Sith and brooding on the negative that I'm tired of doing that- I'd rather focus on the positive, and right now that means I'll have my whole life with you, assuming we don't kick it early. And even when I'm gone, you'll still have Kajex, right?"

“That is a positive way of looking at it," Locke agreed, as he finally sipped his mug. “... You have more of this, right?"

“Don't hog it all," Kajex warned. “Not every place sells cocoa, I had to special order it for a premium last time. But I figured it would help you and Syrra, and everyone else relax. Always made me feel better when I had an awful day."

“All things considered, this hasn't been an awful day," Locke corrected him with a grin. “We got to meet the Black Tomb pack, mingle and made friends, and you and Kentoh had a nice, private moment and made a nice, private mess all over Miles' sheets."

“Yo- WHAT?!" At that, the Miraluka sprinted out of the galley, leaving his mug behind. The ship was silent for a few moments, save for the soft rumble of hyperspace around the hull. Then- “Oh come on!!! Fucking _ really _!?!"

Kajex cringed. “Sorry about that!" he called out as Rook and Talrik started howling with laughter. “He kinda got a bit eager and your bunk was the closest! I'll change your sheets out tonight myself, I promise!" He wore a sheepish expression as he turned back to Locke. “You're right, though- it's been a decent day, all things considered. If you guys want to talk more about it, though..."

Locke shook his head. “There's really little more to say, I'm afraid. We know more about ourselves now than we did in the past- including the fact that you, Kajex, are likely a clone."

The Sentinel sighed. “Yeah, that's probably about right. The thing with Kentoh mentioning Kaminoans, then the fact that he was brought back to life- it definitely reeks of spiritual transference into a new clone body. I don't think anybody could look at him and me and not come to the same conclusion- which means, by extension, you're probably a clone too."

Locke nodded. “Indeed. Not that I'm particularly bothered," he said with a smile. “It is what it is- though how it came to be might be an interesting discussion."

“Well, until we know more, there's no point in dwelling on it," Syrra intoned. “I think, though, we should talk about the mission."

Kajex nodded. “Long as we're all here," he agreed, as Miles sauntered in with a sigh. “Since we're dealing with an Imperial ship, we're going to need your expertise on this, Miles."

The ex-soldier nodded, taking a moment to sip his drink before starting. “I've served on an _Interdictor-_class ISD before. The layout is more or less the same as a standard Star Destroyer- Sienar Fleet Systems developed it to cover for the older Immobilizer 418 cruiser's lack of combat capabilities, making it a capable warship and very crucial for tactical missions. The fact that they haven't attacked anybody is pretty damn weird, so we should keep on guard."

“Any particular blind spots?"

“The rear of the command bridge still lacks scanning capabilities and has no angle for its turbolasers to attack. Other than that, you can keep yourself out of firing range by staying level with the ship and sticking at least 50 meters close to the hull." He paused, leaning in his seat. “I'm just gonna come out and say it, though- I think this Liam buddy of yours is right. If you really want to find out what's going on... you'll need to board it."

“That's crazy, though," Rook interjected. “Those buggers can carry a good 40 thousand crew members."

“Yeah, they can- and yet the fly-bys didn't pick up any life signs. We're not gonna know what's going on until we get there and take a peek inside," Miles reasoned. “I'm guessing the reason the Republic shunted this off to us is because they don't wanna re-open hostilities with the Imperial Remnant so soon after the Empire Reborn bullshit from last year, and especially not after everything else like the Black Fleet Crisis and the Senate Bombing- they want a solid team to investigate and not risk too many more lives. And let's face it, who better to investigate than 4 Jedi and a Miraluka that can see through walls?"

“Then we'll need to figure out weapon arrangements," Talrik said, nodding. “C-rifle might be out in those kind of close quarters, especially if we don't want a hull breach."

“Could always break out the Imperial repeaters," Miles suggested. “They're good for clearing out corridors. Worse-case scenario we just backtrack to here and re-equip if we need something else."

“I'll want everyone to carry a pistol or rifle- you too, bro," Kajex added firmly as Locke moved to speak- the Sentinel knew Locke's claim of him being a poor shot. “As far as dividing up, there should be two Jedi to each group."

“So you and me, Kaj?" Syrra asked with a smile.

Kajex winced. “I'm sorry... but not this time, kitten."

“Why not?" she asked, looking slightly hurt.

“Because we need at least one pilot to each group in case one has to make a break for the Gold Rush for any reason. If we end up being cut off and it's down to Locke and Keris, well..."

“I'm a decent pilot on my own," Locke said, “but I'm not familiar with the systems of this ship. Should a quick getaway become necessary, it would be better to have someone more experienced at the helm."

“You're almost as familiar with the way the Gold Rush works as I am, kitten," Kajex said encouragingly. “I'm not asking you to get into a dogfight unscathed, just... if it comes to it, I trust you to be able to take off and get to safety, then bring backup for whatever reason."

The Trianii nodded reluctantly. “Alright. Then it's me and Locke. Rook goes with you, that's why I hired her."

“Yes ma'am," Rook replied with a grin.

“I'll stick with Kajex," Talrik said abruptly, straightening a bit as he glanced at Rook- this movement didn't go unnoticed by the gray wolf, who held back his chuckle. “You're going to need a gunner anyway."

“Which means I get Miles... and I'm also stuck with this CorpSec officer of yours," Syrra sighed.

“Don't fret, kitten," Kajex said gently. “He's not a bad guy. Not a great guy, but give him a chance."

She returned his smile with a dull one of her own, as she raised her second mug to her muzzle. “Alright, I'll give him a chance- but there'd better be a mug of this stuff waiting for me once this is over."

“Worried someone'll find out, mate?" Rook moaned as Talrik nipped into her neck. Her armor had been discarded and set aside on the floor; her shirt had been lifted, her small, pert breasts bared for him as they pushed against each other. In the few days since their first fuck, Rook and Talrik had gone at it each night or morning, when they were confident nobody would notice their absence. “Can't see why else you'd wanna do it here in the utility closet while everyone else is sleepin'."

“Taito ain't gonna tell anybody; his anti-Force bubble will keep us hidden from Jedi sight; and doing it now means getting to the shower afterwards will make sense," he growled quietly, hissing as the otter's paw gripped and stroked his cock repeatedly. His trousers fell to the floor in a heap as he lifted the otter onto the worktable, her thick tail thumping side to side excitedly. A part of her wanted him to continue, but the setting provoked too many questions in her to make it comfortable. She hissed slightly through a pleasurable kiss to her neck, shaking her head to clear it before she put a paw on his chest and pushed back firmly.

“Talrik... cuyir'gar hayc, tayli'bac?" she said, softly but firmly demanding his honesty.

The fox paused, looking worried- the hours they'd spent together had involved Rook using basic Mando'a phrases, which had then been followed by her teaching him some of the language. She knew he'd paid close attention to her every word, always interested and intrigued with her and her people; her heart seemed to sing as he caught on to her request to be honest to her. “What about?"

“... Are you... ashamed about doin' this with me?" she asked, feeling a pang of worry herself as the ghosts of personal inadequacies and failure to meet expectations welled up within her. The question seemed to stun him as his ears perked up- he shook his head vigorously.

“Not at all, Ryan- I mean that," he assured her.

“Then... why are we hidin' this from everyone?" she replied uncertainly as she brushed her paw through his chestfur. There was a pause in which her worries started to dissipate, as the look on his face was not one of confusion, as if he had been caught lying or didn't possess an answer. Rather, his expression was hesitant, as if he was looking for a way to articulate it.

“You told me that once you got your ship back, you wouldn't mind sticking around for a while, maybe keeping in touch with me if you decide to leave in the end," he started.

“I meant it, mate," she confirmed without missing a beat.

“And I believe you. I would love to see where this relationship takes us, it's just... I don't know how everyone else feels about you. I'll stick up for you no matter what, but... at the same time, I don't want to be set apart from them just because I'm in a relationship with you," he said honestly. “After hearing you and Kajex trade jabs here and there, I just... worry. I don't want anyone to think that I'd support you just because we're in a physical relationship."

The Selonian smiled and nuzzled him. “Y'wanna be loyal to them because you're a part of their aliit. I get that- it's your pack and you love 'em. But you don't gotta stick yer neck out for me, love- if I've done somethin' wrong and you don't approve, I'd like it better if you stood against me and let me know instead of takin' my side regardless." She glanced to the ysalamiri off to the side, the lizard peering at them curiously- the sight caused her to chuckle as their audience reminded her of the first time she'd seen Talrik being intimate with someone else. “Besides... it's not like others don't know about us, serim?"

Talrik cocked his head to the side. “What do you mean?"

“Well, I... may have been watchin' you gettin' it on with Keris back on Corellia," she admitted, blushing furiously. “Although that only happened because Miles said she knew I was in the pool at the time and coaxed you down there to get me worked up- so he knows, too."

“... Son of a bitch," Talrik deadpanned. A moment later he chuckled, shaking his head in disbelief. “I was wondering why she was eager right then and there. So... then you--"

“Saw everything, while she was playing match-maker. And I really liked what I saw," she admitted, pressing her nose against his. “And the last few days since our first have been nothin' short of incredible. Nu'ni copaniir haaranovor ibic, ner cyare'Talrik. I wouldn't wanna hide it from anyone. I'm glad I have this with you," she whispered, pulling him closer until his prick was slipping up against her moist gash; the length slid against her clit and she let out a sharp chirp, jerking in place and grabbing the fox's shoulders as she panted.

“Nnf... the sex?"

“A-ah... n-nayc..."

“What then?" he asked.

“Te... ol'averde," she whispered distantly, wondering why her ribcage hadn't burst open from the hammering of her heartbeat. “The companionship," she clarified, trying to clear her head of the lustful haze she was in.

“Should we tell them, then?" Talrik asked softly, smiling as the tip of his length traced along the swollen netherlips. Every gentle prod between them made her heart flutter and her spine shiver in anticipation. It could not be clearer to her that he didn't wish to wait another moment- and neither did she.

“Yeah... after we're done here," she moaned, pulling him in close as he buried his length into her gripping tunnel within the same movement. The worktable was narrow, with just enough space for her to lean back against the wall with her backside hanging slightly off the edge- it was the perfect position for her to be bred, as the Antarian Ranger's foxcock hammered into her depths, drawing louder moans from the otter.

He leaned in to kiss her and she was ready to accept it, muzzle hanging open as their muzzles met. Initially feeling such actions could only sour the mood, were only meant for pornstars to convince viewers they weren't acting, she was pleased to discover for herself that, when melded with sincerity and affection, it only made sex better for her. As her gripping tunnel squeezed around the phallic intruder, her opinion of the fox grew- he was incredible at making love, in all that the words entailed. Every deep, powerful thrust into her sopping wet cleft spoke of his experience with Syrra, yet he was not animalistic or careless about it, taking brief moments to nuzzle and kiss his lover.

Deeply wishing she had experience to match his, she could only rely on her eagerness as a substitute- which if Talrik's moans were any indication seemed to work well, as she rolled her hips back and forth to meet his thrusts. Every movement they made gave her a slight thrill, as the shock of each blow passed through her body and into the container, jostling the loud contents within. It helped mask her squeaks as those same shocks jolted through her body, her cleft trembling around the Amaran's girth. Before long the lewd noises of wet fur and flesh began to become more audible, the moistness of her folds mixing with Talrik's precum into a scandalous cocktail that pooled beneath her backside or dribbled down the fox's pendulous balls- a mix that seemed to become more copious as his swelling knot started to bump against the otter's clit.

Since their first night together in Corellia, Rook's ability to take the knot had improved- but just barely. Nevertheless the Mandalorian found it a welcome challenge to accept every inch the Ranger had to offer, and even now, knowing how loud she would become, Rook had no intention of backing down. Her eyes met his and an unspoken understanding seemed to pass between them as Talrik gave a slight nod, grunting with extra effort as he redoubled his efforts; he had no intention of backing down, putting everything into the act of sex and ensuring she knew he wouldn't hold back for her either. Another kiss, and Rook's head was swimming in an ocean of lust; important, given that she was wincing and chirping from the intense pain and incredible bliss her pussy was experiencing, and the kiss muffled the sounds while dampening the pain.

Even after a over a week, it was still difficult for her to take the Amaran's full length- too much tension made it too hard for her to relax. A growl caused her to perk up, as Talrik's face contorted in frustration. Without warning he stopped, grabbing the otter's buttocks and squeezing hard as he struggled to push her up higher- with a strength she hadn't expected from the fox and without using his paws, he lifted himself up onto the mounted utility drawer and pinned her against the wall, her legs now wrapped around his waist as they kissed deeply again.

He did not cease, not for a moment. Every jab into her cleft was like a punch to the gut that made her gasp and writhe; with nowhere to go she found her backside mounted against the wall, allowing her splayed sex to be nailed by his spike, aided by her counter-movements and squeezing legs. When he growled into her left ear, she shivered and clung tight to him.

“It's coming, Rook... I need to--"

Rook moaned in response, gasping her response. “T-tal'onidir, cyar'ika Talrik!!!"

She had said it reflexively, without meaning to. A hazy part of her mind was grateful she had done so, but that same part was rendered completely inert in the following moments- with a tremendous final thrust the fox had committed all the effort and strength he needed to succeed, breaching past the tight, vice-like defenses of Rook's cleft and sinking the final two inches of his length into her. Another reflexive reaction followed, where she buried her muzzle into Talrik's shoulder, biting into his fur hard. Working on nothing but instinct she held on to her lover as she felt the first powerful jet of spunk blast into her belly.

With her netherlips clenched tight around the base of Talrik's knot, she could feel the entire length throb powerfully, as waves of his essence flooded her womb. A deep shudder ran through her as she felt so incredibly receptive to his gift of white-hot seed, a tingle below her navel as the flow diminished. With her capacity to speak limited until her senses returned to her, she hold tight to the fox, purring deeply as the two gasped and fought to get their breath back.

The first thing she became aware of once the haze cleared, was a bitter, coppery taste on her tongue. She drew back quickly, her veins running cold as she spotted a deeper red blooming in Talrik's pelt- she'd drawn blood when she'd bitten into his shoulder. Fully expecting to be shouted at for causing the injury, she flinched when Talrik bent towards her- only to squeak quietly when he started to lick and nuzzle her face.

“T-Talrik... are--"

“I'm fine, Rook," he answered softly, his expression one of complete adoration. A thrill ran through her- nobody in her life ever looked at her the way he was regarding her. “It's nothing a bacta patch won't fix."

“I-I just- it was so good and... I reacted on instinc--"

“Rook." His word was firm but kind. “It's alright, trust me. I barely felt it, your fangs are pretty sharp."

She sighed, then giggled. “Is that why you ain't gotten me to give ya head?" she asked coyly.

He didn't respond, though he did chuckle. A few moments passed with him staring at her, a look of curiosity on his face. “... You said... 'cyar'ika'," he finally said, brow furrowed. “Isn't the phrase for 'my friend' supposed to be 'ner vod'?"

Rook froze, cringing slightly at the question. She swallowed before answering. “Y-yeah... good on you for rememberin', mate."

“... What does 'c--"

The hatch opened abruptly, cutting off his question as the two froze and turned to face the intruder. Kajex sauntered in, whistling some ancient tune with a canister in his paw, pausing only to grin at Talrik. “Good mornin' buddy- and mornin' to you too, kid." The two watched, gaping at him as he approached Taito's nutrient frame and popped an extra food capsule into one of the receivers at the side. “And let's not forget you either, Taito- sleep well, little guy?" The ysalamiri chirped happily as he stroked its back. “I'll bet that was one hell of a wake-up call, eh?" He chuckled, turning back to the two completely naked lovers, still tied as warm cum started to leak down their thighs.

“K... Kaj, I know there's absolutely no way to--"

“Nope, neither of you have an out at this point," he cut off the fox with a grin. “Mind you, this is not the first time I've caught someone with their pants down and their dick up."

“I'm not fired, am I?" Rook asked nervously.

“For what? Fucking my best friend and developing what I hope is sincere relationship? I'm not an asshole, kid- you can settle down, I ain't gonna bust anybody's balls, long as you let me have some of that fox's butt from time to time," he assured the both of them with amusement on his features. “However... you're leaving a pretty impressive mess on the utility drawer, so be sure to clean that up before you shower down," he advised them as he sauntered out. After a moment, his head popped out around the hatch with a mischievous smile. “By the way, the utility closet isn't soundproofed; so even if you have a Force bubble blocking everybody from seeing you, we can hear you guys pretty good. Breakfast is in 30 minutes, so get a move on!"

The hatch closed, the last thing either of them seeing the wolf's grinning muzzle. Talrik sighed, ending forward and banging his head against the wall. “Ugh... I know I said we were gonna tell 'em, but... wasn't looking forward to them finding out like this," he said.

Rook nodded but smiled, licking his chin. “Least we got it outta the way, bud," she responded, letting out a sharp, pleasant moan as the Amaran drew his knot out of her depths, his output pooling onto the drawer as she sat back down on it. “Gods damn, fox-boy... you put out enough to make a Selonian matriarch's coot salivate. Still feel it in me," she purred, pressing a paw to her lower belly and sighing.

“You really fell back on your 'native' tongue there," the Ranger remarked with a smile. “Was it really that good?"

Rook nodded, returning a wide smile of her own. “Yer damn right it was... I wasn't expecting you to pick up on my language so quick, either."

He nodded, putting a paw to her face and rubbing her cheek as they kissed again. When they drew away, he spoke again. “I'd like to know what it was you said to me just now, someday."

The otter stiffened, swallowing again; but her nervousness now was not borne of fear, but happiness and affection. “... I'd... I'd be glad to help, love."

Kajex had been to Orron III a total of 5 times in his life, and each time had been exceptionally irksome. As a CSA-controlled world there was an abundance of thinly-veiled anti-non-human sentiment, mostly brought on by the CSA's interest in promoting a humanocentric society. Nevertheless, a significant non-human population still resided on the surface, and it was this population that the Sentinel had put his focus on when it came to working solo. Someone had to help them, if the CSA had no desire to do it; and oftentimes, finding a good place to dock to lend people aid was so difficult due to CorpSec bureaucracy that it was easy to imagine they were actively working against him... if he was in fact imagining it.

But likely because it was a CorpSec officer that was asking for their help, Kajex and Syrra found it easy to gain access to Harvest City Starport. Within 20 minutes of arriving they were told Bay 15 was open for landing, with a 5 hour window for them to dock and refuel before they would have to leave- unnecessary, as they had refueled on the Inspired. All that was left was to pick up Liam.

They'd arrived on schedule, the figure of a slim, well-groomed and blonde-haired human waiting at the hatch of the docking bay as the Gold Rush set down. With a sigh of resignation the wolf got to his feet, letting Syrra power down the craft as he made for the ramp- he knew the Trianii was not at all eager to meet their temporary crew-member. Locke, however, insisted he not go alone, as being this close to Trianii territories meant Bast could send another mercenary. So it was that both Locke and Rook were waiting for him at the ramp, letting him take the lead as it lowered and they stepped out into the warm day.

Liam marched forward, a rucksack slung over his back and a blaster rifle hanging off his side. Knowing full well how Liam liked to start their conversations, the Sentinel held his paw out at the same moment the human did his. “Pleasure to see you again, Captain Surnahm."

Kajex offered him a dry smile. “Yeah, I guess we'll see about that, Liam. But, hell... good to see you're at least alive." He gestured to either side. “This is my brother, Locke, and my bodyguard, Rook."

“Pleasure's all mine," Locke stated politely as he shook the officer's hand. “Kajex's told us about you."

“All of it good, I hope?" Liam asked ironically.

“Not a word of it," the white wolf answered with a warm smile, drawing a chuckle from Liam.

“I expected as much. Well, I suppose we'd best be on our way- I can't imagine your fiancee wants me on your ship any longer than it takes to get this job done."

“Well, much as I expected your ship to have changed since the last time I was onboard, I must admit I wasn't expecting a full interior makeover," Liam said appreciatively as he traced a hand across the holotable. “And you got this all done on Corellia, you say?"

“The next rooms and extra training space, yeah- the armory, tables and short-term trauma center were gifts from the Trianii we saved, almost a year ago," Kajex explained, taking a seat opposite of Liam. “Met everybody?"

“Yes, certainly a motley crew you have here, though I imagine the variety helps in your work," he said, looking over at where Miles and Keris were sparring hand-to-hand. “Wasn't sure what to think when I was told you'd started working with the Jedi again- I thought you'd given all that up."

“He would have, had I not been a factor," Locke said with a smile, seated next to the Sentinel. “When did you come to know him?"

“During a dry spell of job opportunities for mercenaries," Liam answered as he reclined in his seat. “Orron III has kept itself in check, CSA-controlled territories tend to be devoid of piracy or other criminal activity- thanks in part to the efforts of the Trianii Rangers," he added, nodding at Syrra- the Padawan merely glowered. “The downside to that period of time was that folks like Kajex had little in the way of job opportunities unless working directly against the CSA's, er... 'business opportunities'."

“Meaning?"

“We're one of the few territories that possesses slaves and prohibits labor unions- less than in the past in our efforts to make nice with the New Republic, but they are there. Slave laborers typically consist of malcontents that have been successfully prosecuted for their crimes."

“Not an unusual punishment," Locke replied, though he bore a slight frown. “And, ah... you support this?"

Liam paused, regarding the white wolf hesitantly. “Not particularly, no. I'm merely a financial officer with very little to say on standard law, but from the pragmatic level slavery is not financially sound. It breeds discontent even among CSA citizens that aren't comfortable with the practice, and many businesses choose not to utilize them, leading to a waste of credits for the ones that don't do anything. If anything, it gives people like Kajex a job in trying to stamp it out- not that you'll hear any complaints from me."

“I hope not," Kajex replied with a smile. “Wouldn't want to hear that there's a price on my head just because you stopped being just decent enough a guy to not rat me out. That's the entire reason you hired me in the first place- because even you were sick of it and wanted to make a point. How'd that work out in the end?"

“The released slaves have not been recaptured and the local branch of the CSA has started seeking more... lucrative opportunities," Liam answered with a satisfied smile.

“You actively worked against your own organization?" Rook asked.

“They give me my paycheck- doesn't mean they've bought complete loyalty," Liam relied.

“So you knew Kajex was a Jedi back then?" Syrra asked, arms folded and leaning back in her seat as she eyed the CorpSec officer critically.

“Indeed I did, ma'am," he confirmed politely. “Found out years ago when he required aid in locating kidnapped children. I had heard the rumors, of course, that the Corporate Sector Authority had loaned aid to the Empire in various ways. At the time it was seeking Force-sensitive youths, and the CSA's hand in that debacle was problematic as it meant our own laws were being broken- more problematic was that it was difficult to detect who was responsible. But it was easy enough for the right person to verify those rumors, were he willing to do a little bit of digging and if he felt it was the right thing to do. The evidence I provided wasn't as incriminating as recorded footage or intensive biological investigation- but in many ways, the act money changing hands often makes for a significant replacement to testimony."

The Trianii Padawan frowned. “Wait, 'Force-sensitive youths'?... So, the mission where..." she trailed off, glancing at Kajex, who nodded sadly.

“Yeah... the same one that ended with Rik dying," he acknowledged. “Liam was key in helping us find who took the kids, and where."

“I was only a junior financial officer at the time," Liam explained. “And the culprits were eventually caught and punished. I was able to save face for my intervention on the basis that they guilty party was not a part of the command that I was a part of, and so had no influence on the courts."

“You were still a part of the system," Syrra growled.

“Just as Locke, Keris, Miles and Talrik were part of a system," Kajex said firmly, trying to calm her down.

“They turned away!" Syrra snapped, causing Keris and Miles to pause and glance in their direction. “They saw the danger in staying, but you..." she regarded Liam coldly, “... you remain with CSA even knowing how they helped kidnap children? After how they helped kill Kajex's fathers?" She stood, glaring at the CorpSec officer. “After how they killed my father?" Before either of them could respond, she strode away from the table and down the hall to the cockpit, no longer interested in a discussion.

They watched her leave in silence, unwilling to speak while still within earshot. Once she was gone, Liam cleared his throat. “I was under the impression that Jedi should be more passive than that," he said carefully. “But given the history, well... she likely has more than a right to be angry."

“That wasn't you," Kajex started.

“Perhaps not, but she does possess a salient point," Liam remarked with a sigh. “I'll not hide that meeting you had an influence on me- reminded me that every system has its flaws, and that actively ignoring them is simply a form of propagation. I aided you with freeing a few slaves- and did nothing for the rest. I helped you in locating the missing children, but the few who were killed still remain dead."

“Have you considered leavin', mate?" Rook asked, cocking her head.

“After this? Perhaps," the human admitted. “Having my commission suspended 'until further notice' was an uncomfortable jostle to my otherwise uneventful life. But I suppose it was only a matter of time before it happened- 'no good deed' and all that..."

“What 'good deed' are you referring to?" Locke asked.

Now Liam bore an amused expression. “Rook, was it?" he asked, regarding the Selonian- she nodded. “You received your portion of payment from Matriarch Bast without issue, I take it?"

The Selonian cocked her head curiously. “Yeah? Checked my account a few days ago, it's all there- I got paid like promised. It was only enough to cover getting an ysalamiri, but she at least granted me that."

“Good, good... because the others won't," he replied with a smirk.

Kajex's ears perked up. “'Others'. Mercs?"

“Matriarch Bast might very well be livid by now, and I don't doubt that my interference has led to what may well be the first step to me being 'suspended'- but as far as I was concerned... this was the right thing to do."

“Liam..."

The officer smiled. “This may be the first time I'll be backing you up with a blaster, Kajex- but let it never be said that I haven't had your back."

“Hey kitten?"

Syrra did not answer immediately, staring out into hyperspace- the endless, unknowable tunnel always seemed to calm her. “... How do you do it, Kajex?"

“Do what?" he asked, seating himself next to her in the pilot's chair.

“How do you... forget? He's allied with a force that was partially responsible for your dads being killed, right?" She turned to him. “How do I turn that part of my brain off, forget that Liam is part of the same system that killed my father?"

The wolf sighed. “How many degrees of separation are there before you can judge a man as being guilty or not-guilty? Do you think every contractor and architect who worked on the Death Star's construction enjoyed their work, or felt comfortable knowing their efforts were spent on a machine that ended billions of lives? What about those Imperials stationed on other worlds? You are aware there was a lot of discontent after Alderaan, right?"

“But they left!"

“Did they? All of them? Even after Bakura there were plenty of Imperials that wanted out but couldn't leave because it wasn't as easy as packing their bags and hopping onto a ship headed for Republic territories. Talrik was one of them, kept in check and in place because he valued the lives of his mother and little brother. I made the mistake of assuming he was just another Imperial who was there because he made a morally wrong choice, when in reality he made the best one he was offered." Syrra turned away, looking troubled and Kajex continued after a few moments. “Do you know why the Clone Wars were started?"

The Trianii frowned and shook her head. “Something initially having to do with trade disputes, I think?"

“It started with the attempted passing of the Financial Reform Act. The shorthand of the bill was to remove corruption from the Senate and prevent the Republic from having too much control over large corporations. And let's be clear, the Senate back then was corrupt and did as much to pocket as many credits as some Hutt cartels- often more brazenly. Naturally, those corporations introduced financial reforms to protect their interests- they didn't initially revolt. But before a vote took place the Senator representing the Commonality, which supported the bill, was assassinated. The one who had him murdered was a member of the Senate guard."

Syrra sighed. “Kajex, this is interesting to a degree, but I don't see what you're getting at."

“I'm getting there, kitten. After the assassination the Commonality and it's allies, many of whom were already fed up with the excessive taxes and mindless bureaucracy, broke off from the Republic and formed the Confederacy- which the Republic refused to acknowledge. They didn't even bother to address the CIS's legitimate concerns of political and corporate corruption, even after one of their foremost representatives had been murdered on the orders of a member of the Senate guard. And in the middle of it all was an organization of peacekeepers; men and women sworn to protect the peace of the Republic that could have, had they been motivated to do so, uncovered the truth of the corruption in the Senate and set about a means of peacefully resolving the conflict before it gained enough steam that it grew out of their control- and it wouldn't have even required anything more than basic justice and the application of honesty, melded with wisdom and diplomacy."

He paused. “And yet... the Jedi Order did nothing. They remained part of a system that was itself corrupt and dishonest, and it was only until conflict had arrived that they took action- which happened to be military action. That's ignoring that sentiment for the Republic was already at a low at the time, something that just talking to citizens would have revealed. There are plenty of Jedi back then who could be held accountable for their non-action or their complicity in allowing the system they represented and swore to defend to flourish as it did, unchecked and without any regard to its own corruption. So how many of them _should be found guilty?" He paused. "Should _I be among them?"

The Trianii stared at him. “But... that wasn't y--" The revelation caused her to pause, the intention of his explanation now clear. “That... doesn't make you a real party to it all..." she said softly, “... anymore than Liam's position makes him completely guilty of the CSA."

Kajex nodded, smiling warmly. “That's exactly what I'm getting at. Look... Liam may be guilty of a lot of things, but he's still a decent person, one caught up in a system that's hard to abandon. He does what he can to help where he can- I wouldn't have had him as my contact in the CSA if I didn't think there was a little gold in his heart." He chuckled. “Besides... he's keeping me safe from Bast."

Syrra perked up, not expecting to hear this. “Wha-- how?"

“He's a financial officer, kitten- he knows how money transfers, and how to stop it. Rook might've been paid, but every other merc is going to need cold, hard cash before they start hunting me. And he's agreed to keep me informed of who Bast has hired or is attempting to hire." He placed a paw on her shoulder. “It's a small gesture, and a Jedi might do more than just that; and I know I have no place asking you to look beyond your own losses, but... could you at least believe he means to help us?"

The Trianii sighed, nodding- not least because as a Jedi she would need to rein in her temper. “I'll... make a better effort from now on," she assured him.

“That's all I'm asking," the wolf replied, leaning in and nuzzling the feline affectionately. “And I promise extra marshmallows in your hot chocolate, and extra oral attention tonight," he added with a playful growl, making her giggle.

“That'd definitely help," she said, smiling back.