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_ "She'd passed every Trial the old Jedi Order would have had her face. They all did. Facing the darkness within themselves; learning to live with their failures; turning from a seductive path of selfishness to instead follow a path of compassion and service to other beings; crossing blades with Sith and Remnant, surviving and emerging victorious; and having the integrity and skill to spare anyone they could." _

_ "They're your packmates. Do you feel this affects your perception of them?" _

_ "'Course it does. But that doesn't make anything I've said any less true. _ _ They are ready __ ." _

~Kajex and Master Moarn

Docking the Gold Rush to the Inspired's umbilical was not a difficult feat by any means, but being able to see the scarring she'd taken from the recent kamikaze attempt had been a tough pill for Kajex to swallow, as he stared at it from the viewport- a long, shallow gash had gouged into the hull plating from the edge of the thrusters up to the ventral cannon. While the damage was mostly superficial, it still gnawed on the Sentinel's nerves slightly, culminating in an uncomfortable whine- a warm touch behind his ears silenced that whine, as Syrra leaned into him.

"Take it easy, hon," she purred. "It's just a scratch."

"Yeah, I know," the wolf sighed. Though he'd stayed behind to gauge the damage while the rest of the pack ran ahead to prepare a meeting with Master Skywalker, he was glad his fiancee had decided to remain with him. "It could've been much worse- I could've lost you. Looking at that scar just makes me realize how close it was."

She nodded, nuzzling his cheek. "Focus on the positives, love."

"What positives?" he asked skeptically.

"At least now the Gold Rush has a spot of character- it's like a facial scar that makes the face a little sexier," she said with a smile, prompting him to laugh and hold her close.

"Hey Kajex!"

Both Jedi turned at the voice, as Kentoh, Rexxis and Mica approached- Kajex's younger clone looked ecstatic to see the _Gold Rush_pack having returned, while Rexxis looked slightly troubled. Before the Sentinel could ask what was wrong, however, the younger wolf embraced him tightly, generating a tired chuckle.

"Hey pup. Good to see you too," he told the teen sincerely, hugging back as he looked up at Rexxis. "Are you guys alright?"

"We weren't in any real danger," Rexxis informed him. "Granted, I was adamant against the Inspired jumping into a battle zone, but given the options available and the relative safety, perhaps I overestimated the threat. If nothing else, being able to watch the conflict was an interesting change of pace."

"All the same, I'm sorry," Kajex told him guiltily. "If the need hadn't been great and I'd had my way, I would have told Moarn not to come at all."

Mica shook her head. "Most of us wish to contribute in some way. Studying the ways of the Jedi is one means of doing so, but if being able to man a turbolaser and give get our shots in against the Sith and the Empire is the only way we can help, then at least I'm more than satisfied."

"I hope so," Rexxis replied with a wan smile. "I'd rather not take a bigger risk than that, especially as you went ahead and did it without letting anyone know. So... were you able to complete your mission?"

Kajex hesitated, glancing at Syrra with a worried look- the Trianii had a similar expression of apprehension. "I... don't think we can give you a full answer on everything just yet."

"Is it a secret?" Kentoh asked, his head cocked curiosly.

"Parts of it, yeah," Kajex admitted. "I'll at least say that the Sith Knight that released you back on Dakua was present, and that he managed to escape- though there's no telling if he got away with anything dangerous."

The younger mirror nodded, though he still looked a little unsatisfied. "Will you be able to--"

"Kentoh," Rexxis chuffed warningly, giving him a hard stare. "We agreed that the nature of Kajex's missions should be kept secret if he feels it's for our own benefit, did we not?"

The younger brother winced, ears flattening. "Yeah... sorry, Kaj."

"It's fine, pup," the Sentinel assured him. "But honestly, I really do need to chat with Master Skywalker to figure out if there's anything you guys should know. If there is, I'll tell you what I can- promise." To reassure the younger clone, he reached out and tousled Kentoh's hair affectionately, which at least prompted the youth to sigh and smile blandly.

"We appreciate it, Kajex," Rexxis responded. "Anyway, we'd better get out of your hair- Master Simetra is going to start her lessons in about an hour, and Master Moarn suggested we study under her. We might as well grab a meal before then."

They three Black Tomb wolves left, waving fondly at the engaged pair as Syrra glanced at the Sentinel. "Garrett's here?"

Kajex shrugged. "Sounds like it. He and Simetra must've been reassigned to the Inspired. We can hunt them down later- right now, we better meet up with the rest.

But it turned out they did not need to wait that long. When they arrived in their assigned conference room, both the Alderaanian human male and former Nightsister were already waiting for them, while the image of Master Skywalker flickered in the center of the room. With a broad smile, Syrra hurried to her friend and embraced him. "It feels like it's been a year since we last saw you," she purred as they shared a friendly hug. Around them, the Gold Rush pack, Master Moarn, and Knight Tay-Ir Naull were also present.

Garrett grinned. "It really does feel like it- you didn't have _this_when we last saw each other," he remarked as he regarded her cybernetic paw with awe.

"I understand how much you would like to catch up, Syrra," Simetra interjected politely, "but as we're prepared to give our reports and have a listen to this holocron you've obtained, we should get down to it."

"I agree," Luke said with a nod. "I'm glad to see you're all well, though like you I express my condolences to those who were lost in battle. All the same, this meeting is important for many reasons- perhaps coming at this with more viewpoints and more information will help prevent further losses."

"That's why Master Simetra and Garrett are here, then?" Kajex asked as he and Syrra took a seat.

"It is," Luke acknowledged. "They've returned from their recent mission with pertinent details. By now, I'm convinced that the conflict against the Circle of Syn is a shadow war of sorts. Too much has happened in the last few years to ignore, and in the chaos surrounding both the Black Fleet Crisis and the Almanian Uprising, the New Republic is fragmenting into political positions that are unsettling what little peace we've been able to obtain. This was_exactly_ the kind of environment that allowed the Emperor to move into power, and while I don't for a moment believe my sister would do anything similar, the political atmosphere is perfect for Sith ideologies and plans to breed with little to stop them."

"The one advantage we have is that social views on the Jedi Order are at last slowly improving. All the same, those strides could easily be undone if we're not careful," Luke warned. "So to this end, your fight against the Circle will need to be better planned and more discreet wherever possible. My contacts in the NRI have agreed to forward pertinent information to this end." He paused, his eyes flicking towards the inactive holocron next to Kajex. "I feel that this discovery of yours has the potential to make or break this hidden conflict, particularly given who the holocron belongs to- therefore, I must stress that everyone currently present do _not_reveal that you discovered a holocron, and certainly not who its designer was, to anyone outside of this room. And before you ask, Kajex- no, not even to the Black Tomb pack, at least not until we know that the holocron is safe."

"Fair enough," Kajex agreed.

"I get the sense that I'm not trusted," a voice responded with a soft chuckle. All eyes fell on the holocron, which had once again shifted its outer shell and inner mechanisms, and activated its holoprojector. The onminous figure of Revan sprang into existence; rather than standing inches tall as he had when the group had discovered him, the armored Jedi's projection now stood as tall as Master Skywalker. "Then again, that was true of the Jedi Order in my day- I suppose I shouldn't expect things to change so easily. And it's only wise that the current Order's Grand Master be wary of me."

Luke smiled. "With all due respect, our Praxeum has already had run-ins with the phantoms of Exar Kun and Marka Ragnos- you'll forgive me for not immediately fostering any trust in Jedi who walked the line of light and dark, regardless of his benevolent intentions." He paused. "Also, I am not Grand Master- I don't feel it's best to adopt such a title for a fledgling training center, regardless of my skill."

"Hmm. Very humble," Revan responded approvingly. "Hell of a lot better than some other elitist Jedi I knew. I hope, then, that you'll eventually come to realize that I have every intention of fighting any iteration of the Sith. If it takes time for me to gain your trust... then I guess that's the way it'll be."

Syrra frowned. "Is this normal, for a holocron?" she asked, turning to Kajex.

The wolf shook his head. "Some holocrons can be pretty elaborate, and Sith holocrons are generally clever enough to be deadly- but this? I feel more like we're talking to advance AI rather than Force-imbued data constructs."

The ancient Jedi turned to the Sentinel, addressing him now. "You're getting one even better," Revan claimed with a tone of amusement. "What I designed is more of a piece of what I was, rather than a neural imprint of my person from however-the-hell long ago I designed it. I say 'I', as in referring to myself, a portion separate from the AI that resides in this pretty-looking box- part of my spirit, you could say."

"That would suggest that you utilized a form of Sith alchemy to design it," Master Moarn pointed out with an arched brow. "You played a dangerous game in doing so."

"I probably did," Revan replied with what Kajex could swear was a grin behind his mask. "I was used to taking risks- and not just in swoop-racing and pazaak. But in this case, there wasn't any malignancy in what I did. I willingly and knowingly imparted an offering of myself to seal into this little container. I felt that the potential tradeoff would be worth it, given that I had a dangerous mission to fulfill and no guarantee that I'd succeed. Making this holocron was one of the backups I'd intended to use in case things went to Chaos, though it's clear that things didn't go in my favor." He paused. "So, I'm going to do what a holocron generally _won't_do, and ask you a question."

"What might that be?" Luke asked, looking serenely curious.

"I've been so out of touch that I've lost track of time. All I recall is that a few years after I made this holocron and left it behind, the planet blew apart. For a moment, I felt the presence of an old friend, but then nothing else. In such isolation, I never discovered my eventual fate, nor the fate of my mission." Another pause. "So... is Valkorian, the Eternal Emperor, dead?"

Master Moarn inclined his head. "It is said that while you fought and failed to kill the Sith Emperor, you managed to prevent his rise to power long enough for an unprecedented Jedi-Sith alliance to topple his rule. In the end, Valkorian, by then known as Vitiate, was brought down millennia ago," the Trandoshan informed him, "by the hands of his lover and children."

"Oh good," Revan responded in relief. "I was afraid for a moment I was worried these new Sith guys you were talking about were a part of his plans, and that I'd have to send you nice people to your deaths just to try to stop him- wouldn't want that."

"I... can't tell if he's joking or not," Keris said nervously.

"It's a joke, kid," Revan responded. "I'd like to think I'm kind of a nice guy with a sense of humor. Brutal, certainly, when I needed to be, but... I was a Jedi, too." He clapped his gloved hands together, though they issued no sound. "Well! As long as that's the case, I may as well attempt to help you with your current Sith problems."

"I... suppose we'd appreciate any help," Luke responded slowly, a clear expression of hesitance on his features. "Even if it comes from a rather unexpected source. For now, let's have Master Simetra and Garrett discuss what they've been up to." With the suggestion made, he gestured toward the heavily tattooed Jedi Master.

Simetra nodded and began. "As requested by Master Skywalker, Garrett and I traveled to several locations both in and out of the Republic. Concerns of limited medical supplies in the wake of these recent conflicts has prompted the Republic and other affiliated systems to begin making strides towards offering membership in return for resources to replenish said supplies. Our most recent task had us travel to Manaan along with a few Republic ambassadors, in an effort to sway the Selkath population to open trade- ideally, they would supply the Republic with kolto."

"Before you ask, Syrra," she added, as the Trianii looked ready to speak, "trade with your uncle was only possible because Trianii space is not affiliated with the Remnant or Republic, in addition to Trianii culture mirroring much of Selkath culture. For the Republic, however, it was far more difficult to agree to amicable terms. The Selkath had no great love for humanocentric organizations, mostly due to the cruelty of the Empire. It took a few weeks for us to gain their trust. Fortunately, thanks to the efforts of a few Ho'Din scientists that Kajex, Syrra and Talrik may remember," she said, smiling knowingly towards the trio, "we were able to demonstrate a safe and effective means of reversing the environmental damage the Empire left behind when they withdrew years ago. The details are still being ironed out, but a few shipments have already been offered to relief workers."

"Wasn't all handshaking and well-wishing though," Garrett interjected darkly. "At the same time, we were meant to investigate a shortage of kolto being delivered to other regions. At first, the Selkath believed the shipments were being intercepted en route to their destinations, but after about 3 days of fact-checking, Simetra and I stumbled across an Inquisitor agent using the Force to dominate cargo workers. He tried escaping in a submersible, but we were able to... persuade the local sea-life into helping us locate him."

Simetra nodded. "It was fine work, but capture was not an option. Having no desire to give up his secrets, he fought the both of us furiously once he was cornered. When I severed his arm and relieved him of his ability to fight, he activated what I believe was a surgically implanted explosive and ended his own life. While the Selkath were very thankful that the issue had been rectified, it's estimated that many tons of kolto had been lost over the last half year because of this Inquisitor agent."

"Well, no prizes for guessing what they wanted it for," Locke sighed. "They must be close to putting their plans into action."

"And they're picking an excellent time for them to do it," Luke agreed. "Recent reports from the NRI indicate that the Remnant is about as divided as the New Republic. A substantial part of the Remnant wants a cessation of hostilities to maintain their hold on the star systems they still possess; but a stronger part, led mostly by the Council of Moffs and what warlords are still lingering, think the Republic's recent offer to allow Imperials to hold office in the Republic is just a trap- or at least, an insult to their integrity. The NRI believes they might make an offensive push just to boost morale and unify their sectors."

"And that's why you think the current political environment is favorable for the Circle?" Kajex asked. "Because they can more or less get away with anything as long as they're discreet about it, while the Remnant makes noise trying to get what it wants?"

"Exactly," Luke acknowledged. "The Circle seems to be getting their act together- deploying Knight Ulfric as a show of force only ever resulted in the deaths of a few Jedi, and many civilians and soldiers. That's not to say the damage wasn't significant, or to trivialize the deaths of innocents, but he could have done so much worse if the Remnant weren't so ill-prepared to aid them. By changing their tactics, however, they've managed to get away with two relics that they specifically sought, and a significant supply of kolto. And I'm not selling you guys short, either- you're some of the best Jedi in the Praxeum's ranks, currently- it's just that now we need to adjust our methods accordingly."

"Perhaps one such adjustment," Master Moarn suggested hesitantly as he turned his gaze towards the illuminated form of Revan, "might be to look to other avenues of information."

"Well, I am a holocron after all," Revan replied. "What did you want to know?"

"The Sith force that Kajex and his pack were tasked with stopping managed to escape with a relic in their possession. You may have heard the description from Locke Surnahm while they were discussing it," Luke reminded the construct. "Does the description or its identity as an 'engine' make any sense to you?"

Revan said nothing for a moment, but while Kajex would normally have thought this was just the natural pause of a holocron scanning its repositories for such information, he had the strange feeling the construct was actually seriously struggling to recall it. "The description... no. The name 'engine' could refer to any number of things. If you found it on Malachor V, though... I can only assume it might be something I had once forgotten, and likely should have_stayed_ forgotten."

"Why would you not remember?" Kajex asked, frowning.

"Because I had my mind messed with by the Jedi, and at the time I made this I hadn't completely recovered. My memory is... something of a sore subject- the shorthand is that it was altered, the real memories buried for years. Constructing this device was the last thing I did before heading off on my own, and by that point I still hadn't remembered everything."

"Do you think it might have had anything to do with the Mass Shadow Generator?" Syrra asked.

"If there's one thing I do know, it's that whatever these Sith of yours took had nothing to do with the MSG," he replied. "I clearly remember ordering the construction of the device myself- though I admit I had no idea it'd be so catastrophic, and I regret the effects. The Iridonian technician that showed me the design and internal systems didn't mention any sort of 'engine', and absolutely no part of it was powered by the Force, or purported to be 'alive', as Locke sensed in the device they took."

"I suppose it was a long shot," Luke sighed. "At least we can rest a little easier knowing they aren't trying to copy a superweapon."

"I still intend to help if I'm able," Revan assured him. "If I can offer this device as a training holocron for Jedi, or--"

"I'm not certain that's a good idea," Master Moarn cut in, his eyes narrowed. "While Revan may have had the best intentions and better insight than most, you could also be a clever ruse."

"I don't feel a dark side influence coming from it," Kajex countered.

"Nor I," Locke agreed. "If you feel it yourself, however..."

Moarn hesitated, then shook his head. "... No. I'd like to believe that this construct and the spirit within is being on the level with us, but at the same time I would still suggest keeping it out of the hands and eyes of our lesser-trained Jedi."

"I agree," Luke said. "So, at least until we figure out how much trust we can put into him... I would suggest keeping Revan on the Gold Rush for the time being."

Kajex jerked up. "What? Wait, why's he gotta be on my ship?! He's gonna be eavesdropping on everything and listening in while--... er... I mean, just I figure that... as a matter of privacy..." He trailed off, ears flattening as he noticed most of his packmates were smiling or grinning.

Revan seemed to look between each of the Sentinel's packmates. "What, do you think I don't already know you guys are into polyamory?"

Kajex's eyes widened. "How did--"

"You're Kanj'Isha, a Grotthu species," Revan pointed out casually. "Your kind were very much active in my time- I found out about your species on Dromund Kaas, one of the few things I can_remember. And I'm not new to the concept of Force bonds, either. Before my contributions to the Mandalorian War, it was one of the things I studied _extensively. I can see all of your 'pack' willingly tied to each other, and to you- and it's not just a friendly bond, either." He sighed wistfully. "It's the kind of connection I wish the Jedi Order of my day could have adopted... though not necessarily with all the free sex. Not that there's anything wrong with that," he added with a chuckle.

"The Jedi Order as it is now does not forbid attachments," Luke informed him. "I've condoned and supported the marriages of several Knights and Masters- Kajex and Syrra here are engaged, in fact; as are Locke and Keris."

"This new Order of yours keeps sounding better and better if it's allowing full-fledged marriages," the ancient Jedi chuckled. "Anyway, to alleviate your earlier worry, Kajex-- I can call you that, right?"

"Go ahead- everyone else keeps calling me Sentinel," the wolf said with a shrug.

"Well, you have my word that I will not eavesdrop or peek around when I'm not 'in use', so to speak. I'll do my best to offer what information I'm able should you ask for it, and provide lessons for your pack as long as everyone is in agreement and aware of it. Master Moarn's got a point- the kind of lessons I'd provide aren't exactly meant for the faint of heart- but..." He trailed off, looking between all Jedi present and giving a subtle nod. "... You all seem to be a cut above the norm."

Knowing full well it was his call, Kajex nevertheless looked to each of his crewmembers for argument. "Any objections?"

Rook raised a paw. "Not an objection, but where's he gonna stay?"

"The lounge is the usual training and meeting area," Locke suggested. "As long as we keep using the holotable for briefing, he should probably stay there to provide information as it comes up. Assuming he can access the table itself, he might be able to catch up on current galactic affairs."

"Good, I'd like a chance to see what nonsense the Sith's been up to these last... how long as it been?" Revan asked.

"4 millennia, about," Tay answered.

"... Well, looks like I won't be bored for the next few weeks," the ancient Jedi said quietly.

"Anything else?" Kajex asked. Nobody answered. "... Alright... guess we're going to be housing the spirit of an ancient Jedi Master on my ship for the foreseeable future," he sighed. "Lucky me."

"It'll be fun," Revan insisted with what Kajex was certain was a broad smile behind his mask. "I'll talk your ear off with old-people stories like Jolee Bindo did mine."

"Sounds lovely," Kajex sighed. "Is there anything else we should talk about, Master Skywalker?"

"There is," Luke said with a smile, briefly turning his attention to Syrra, Locke and Keris before regarding the Sentinel again. "I require talking with you and Master Moarn alone."

After a few minutes more discussion where Luke informed the Gold Rush_pack that they'd be on standby until they were assigned a new mission, that Simetra and Garrett would remain onboard the _Inspired, and that Tay and his squadron would be permanently assigned to the Dreadnaught as fighter support, everyone (minus Kajex and Moarn) dispersed and sought their own means of unwinding- though not before Locke delivered Revan's holocron onto his ship. With the holotable set to voice command and Miles keeping a figurative eye on the construct as he quickly pored through the ship's historical data (after making sure to code-lock the ship's access to Kajex's erotica files), Locke and Keris left to oversee the Black Tomb's lessons with Master Simetra, while Syrra left for communications to send her mother an update to pass the time until Kajex and Master Moarn were finished speaking to Master Skywalker.

This left Rook and Talrik to themselves, and soon afterwards they left the_Gold Rush_ with a box of the Sentinel's ale and a few stacks of Retsa's noodles. Adamant on fulfilling their promise to Talrik's mother, they made a beeline for the elder vixen's quarters- fortunately they caught her just as her shift had finished, and with Arrik's studies done for the week it was not long before Talrik's family and Rook were engaged in a good meal and pleasant conversation.

"So, while this is all happening, that Sith creep finally succumbed to the virus and tried to get his hands on Kajex- but Keris warned me telepathically at the last second and I managed to push him out of the way. Went right for her, too- but then Locke showed up and put an end to him," Rook finished.

"Thank the Force for that," Etina said, breathing out a sigh of relief as she gathered another forkful of noodles. "You two did good to save them, risking infection like that."

"Well, I knew your son here was gonna do it anyway- and he had me watching out for him, too," she added with a confident smile before sipping from her ale. "Once we knew what we were dealing with, we had it under control, right Fox-boy?" she asked, punching Talrik in the shoulder.

"Whatever you say, Rook," he chuckled, rubbing the spot she'd hit.

"Well, it was quite a story, you were right about that," Etina admitted. "I'm glad you all got out of it safe- and this last one, too. Mind you, I had to work a little bit more this morning than usual to keep the shields working at peak efficiency. I knew we were probably going to get into a space battle sooner or later, I just wasn't prepared for how soon."

"Yeah, about that," Talrik started, looking apologetic, "Kajex and I agreed that we would've rather--"

"Don't worry, kit," Etina said with a gentle smile. "I know you'd rather your brother and I not be in the thick of combat, but you work so hard to make the galaxy a safer place- we just want to do _our_part. We might not be Jedi, but we're a part of the Jedi Order all the same. Your fight is ours too, son."

"Yeah, y'don't gotta worry about us," Arrik spoke up with a grin. "Mom and I will do what we can on this ship against those Empire punks."

Talrik sighed, but smiled. "Thanks, you guys."

"Speakin' of family," Etina added, pushing her empty bowl away, "you've had the chance to meet me and Arrik, and talked about us, but I don't think we've gotten around to talkin' about you and your family, lass."

The otter blinked in surprise, before starting to chuckle nervously as she ran a paw through her red-dyed hair. "A-ah, well see... it's a bit different with me, truth be told."

"How so?"

"Well, my dad isn't actually a Selonian, y'see. I mean, sure, I was born a Selonian, with Selonian birth-parents, but... they weren't my real parents, if you understand," Rook said.

"Through a bond greater than blood?" Etina asked, glancing at Talrik. "My son is familiar with something similar, with the pack he's a part of."

"Kinda like that, yeah," Rook agreed with a smile. "My dad's the leader of our clan, Clan Kiif. And he never took in a kid until he found me. Way he says it, he found me splashing on the shores of Coronet while he was huntin' a mark on Corellia- a den matriarch must've tossed me out for bein'... well... a freak, I guess," Rook said.

"Why would you be a freak?" Talrik asked, frowning- he'd not heard this story before.

"Well, apart from bein' runt of the litter, it might've been me havin' what_I'd_ like to think is a healthy does of moderate albinism. That's the kinda thing some dens think is a genetic and social flaw." She leaned back, smiling as if the idea didn't even bother her in any respect. "But dad saw me splashing, trying not to drown from being chucked into the sea, fighting to survive. That's when he saw the spirit of Mandalore in me- a fighter, someone not about to take death lying down and doing everything with all my strength to cling to life."

"Did he save you, then?" Etina asked, looking interested.

"Yeah, he did- and then he told me, ' n** i kyr'tayl gai sa'ad, Rriyan.' ***Those are the words a Mandalorian says when he or she has chosen to adopt a child," she explained. "It means 'I know your name as my child,' and it's at that point the kid is considered a Mandalorian."*

"Does that happen often?" Arrik asked.

"Alot more than you'd think," she acknowledged, "especially since we're not a majority of any one species. We don't care about lineage- we care about heart, and loyalty." She paused, looking away with a smile. "... Which, I guess, is kinda why I like bein' with Talrik and the rest of the pack. They remind me of the kind of person my dad is."

"Must've been a good man, if he raised you to be brave, strong, and generally polite to folks," Etina said fondly, reaching over to squeeze Talrik's shoulder. "I can see why my son likes you, and I hope you continue to look out for each other while you're out there. As far as I'm concerned, you've got my vote of confidence."

The otter blushed, feeling a rush of gratitude for the elder vixen. "I'm glad y'think so, ma'am. Was there anything else you wanted to know?"

"I'm actually curious about your armor- do you always keep it on?" Etina asked.

"I'll bet Talrik's** seen her without it on!" Arrik teased.**

"Alright, can it, twerp!" Talrik snarled, tackling the younger fox and starting an impromptu wrestling match as Etina and Rook laughed.

Syrra had ensured the last time she was on Ekibo that she add an extra time indicator on her chronometer to give her the hour while she was away- knowing whether or not her mother and uncle were asleep made it easier for her to decide whether to call directly to the manor, or simply leave an e-mail for them to read later. To her disappointment she found it was too late on Ekibo for her to directly contact her mother, but she nevertheless decided to spend some time informing her about what was going on (though she wisely left out the details concerning Revan's holocron).

To her amusement, however, she was not the only one in communications- a few minutes before she finished typing a message to Iaora, she became aware that she was not the only person using one of the hub's many terminals. It took little more than peering over her console once she was finished to see a tall, brown-furred Kanj'Isha at the terminal opposite hers. Tegrim blinked, noticing something amiss, before glancing up and nearly jumping out of his seat in surprise. "O-oh! Hi, Syrra."

The Trianii smiled at him. "Hey, Tegrim. What brings you here?"

With an embarrassed smile, the wolf cleared his throat and rubbed at his scruff a bit before answering. "Ah, well... I was sending a message to... someone."

"My brother, Ra'Tasum?" the Trianii guessed, her smile turning into a grin as the wolf stammered.

"W-wait, how did--"

"You weren't exactly subtle** when the two of you were kissing back on Ekibo," she pointed out in amusement, folding her arms and laying her head on the barrier above the terminal he was using. "Unless you decided to recklessly start sending e-mails to people you don't even know, the safe bet is you're keeping in touch with him."**

Tegrim chuckled nervously. "Ah, heh... yeah. It's just..." He hesitated for a moment. "I'm glad we got to visit your homeworld and all, meeting your people and learning your culture. I liked being down there, on Ekibo. And meeting Ra'Ta was... unexpected. I just can't believe how quickly I fell in love with him," he admitted, blushing.

"Well, I'm glad you did," Syrra offered supportively. "I think it's important for him to know that there are people who'll accept him, support him, and even love him for being who he is- especially outside of Trianii culture. You know the things he likes, right?"

"Oh yeah, he's a painter," the wolf answered. "He likes urn designs, he showed me a couple he gifted to his uncle while we were there. He wants to be able to do that as a profession, only..." He trailed off, looking troubled. "Well... someone like him wouldn't be able to, for stupid reasons."

Syrra nodded. "Encourage him to keep trying," she suggested. "More than anything, my brother needs confidence. I give it to him when I'm able, but it's something he's come to expect from me, Aarn and Iaora. If someone whose opinion he feels matters more told him not to give up, I'm sure the boost in morality would be much bigger."

Tegrim nodded, though Syrra remained where she was when the wolf looked like he wished to ask more. After perhaps a minute of hesitation, he spoke. "Syrra... do you think training as a Jedi might be able to help him?"

The Trianii nodded. "If you put a focus on diplomacy, I think you could, yeah. But you'd have to remember that training as a Jedi means you need to be willing to help as many people as you reasonably can- and you'd also have to bear in mind that a change in Trianii spirituality and perceptions is not going to happen overnight."

He nodded, but it was with a smile that he addressed her. "If it's to help him, and others like him... I'll put in as much time as I can."

She grinned back. "My brother does** like confident men, I know that much. So... have you guys done the deed?"**

"Absolutely," Tegrim said, beaming and causing Syrra to chuckle as the wolf leaned back. "His body is different from a Kanj'Isha's, it's so lithe and yet strong- like a steel cable, I guess. And the way he purrs after... it's like snuggling a fluffy vibrator."

The Trianii burst out laughing. "Okay... that** is not a comparison I've ever heard regarding Trianii before."**

"I-I'm sorry, I didn't--"

"No, it's okay- I think it's downright adorable he makes you happy," Syrra said, standing up straight. Before she could continue speaking, however, a voice buzzed in her head.

"** Hey kitten? I need you to come on over to the **** Gold Rush *as soon as you can- it's important."*

Syrra's brow furrowed, noting the underlying tension beneath his message. "** Sure, I'm on my way. Is it urgent? ***"*

"** No, there's no trouble- but hurry all the same, I've got some news for you, Locke and Keris. ***"*

Relieved that there didn't seem to be lives on the line so soon after a failed mission, she returned her attention to Tegrim again- the wolf had noticed the pause, cocking his head. "Sorry about that, it's Kajex getting my attention."

"Ah, I got it. Well, don't let me keep you- I'm gonna finish this message up and then get to training."

Syrra nodded, but before leaving she reached out and touched his shoulder encouragingly. "Tegrim... thanks for being there for my brother. I'm glad he found someone that makes him happy, and I hope what you have lasts a long time."

The wolf smiled back appreciatively. "I hope so, too."

By the time Syrra had returned to the Gold Rush** , Kajex had not yet returned, though she could feel him approaching as she climb the ramp into the ship proper. Locke and Keris were waiting in the lounge for the Trianii, having started up a game of Pazaak while the image of Revan watched- or so she initially thought. As she drew closer, she could see the construct's holocron connected directly to the table itself, and was using its side of the table for its own hand.**

"Damn... that's five hands, hon," Keris chided the white wolf with.

"I don't even understand how!" Locke exclaimed as the hands phased out, declaring Revan the winner as he leaned back in his seat. "I thought I was pretty damn decent at pazaak."

"Don't sell yourself short, Guardian," Revan chuckled. "I'd been playing pazaak for a good while, it mostly comes down to a good hand and luck. If anything, you improvised pretty well- automatic standing after a pre-generated hand of 6s and -2s takes good strategy." The image turned and faced the Trianii. "Oh, welcome back- Syrra, was it?"

She nodded. "Comfortable?"

"We have him hooked up to the ship's servers so he can catch up on current events- then he found out that the table plays pazaak and when Kajex called us back he insisted I play a few hands with him while he scans through data," Locke sighed. "Not that it diminished his skill..."

"They made me Supreme Commander of the Republic Fleet for a reason," Revan reminded him, before returning his attention to the feline. "So! Keris here told me about how you came to be engaged to the Sentinel- sounds like you guys are a good pair together."

A sheepish smile spread across the vixen's muzzle as Syrra shot her a frown. "Well, I didn't think she'd share something so personal with you so recklessly."

"Aww, c'mon," Keris protested, leaning against Locke and toying with the wolf's hair. "I only mentioned it because he was asking about me and Locke's devotion beads, plus the ones on yours and Kajex's hair. Besides, it's not something you should be willing to hide- be proud! You've got a stud for a fiancee, and you don't have to worry about being denied."

"I think it's an improvement to hear that this current Jedi Order is more open-minded about relationships," Revan agreed. "Although that's probably because it has a lot of ground to get back. Back in my day--"

"Oh shit, he wasn't lying earlier- he is** going to tell old-people stories!" Keris whined as she clung to her chuckling white wolf.**

"I actually advocated the same position to the Jedi Council, telling them that those kind of close bonds could strengthen one's connection to the Force. They even called me a heretic for it," he added with a chuckle.

"You weren't troubled by their ignorance?" Locke asked.

"I** was ***, but more because I pitied their unwillingness to even consider the perspective- not that a fundamentalist viewpoint was new, back then. Either way, I didn't bother to press the issue- even when Bastila objected. They allowed us to remain Jedi* and** married, as long as we didn't pass around our 'dangerous teachings.' I guess informing them that love could bring someone back from the brink of darkness was too much for them to process, being devoid of it for so long."**

Syrra perked up as she slid into the seat next to Keris. "Yeah, Master Moarn told us about what happened- that your love for each other was what pulled her away from the dark side of the Force. That was true?"

"It was," Revan acknowledged. "Sadly, I think that the Jedi Order of my time had become so cloistered and closed off, that they'd forgotten than they were made up of sentient beings capable of emotion. Jedi are powerful- we wield abilities most people can't even begin to imagine... but we're still people. And like most people, we all seek companionship- whether we want to admit it or not."

"Kajex's master and adoptive father used to say attachment to people was vital, and that restricting that cuts Jedi off from the strongest parts of the Force," Syrra said.

"Sounds like his dad was a good man," Revan replied approvingly. "... Married?"

"Yep- to another male."

"Even better," Revan chuckled. "I know a few masters who might've gone into shock from hearing something like that."

The sound of footfalls on the ramp stalled any extra conversation- seconds later, Kajex rounded the curved hallway from the ramp to the lounge, followed by Master Moarn, both of whom bore neutral expressions as they approached. "Thanks for gathering here, guys," the Sentinel started, looking as if he were trying to restrain himself. "I know you wanted to oversee Kentoh and the others while they were training, but a couple things came up that we should probably talk about."

"Well, we're here- is there some problem, Master Moarn?" Locke asked as they all stood.

"None whatsoever," the Trandoshan replied with a small smile. "We just felt it necessary to relay some suggestions from Master Skywalker to you three."

The three other Jedi shared confused glances with one another. "Then... why didn't he just ask us to stay, if we were meant to hear it?" Keris asked.

"Because he wanted opinions from me and Master Moarn first," Kajex replied. "About your recent performance."

"We both agreed that Locke and Keris have demonstrated incredible courage and compassion in the last 3 months. Although 2 of the 3 missions you've been a part of have resulted in technical** failures, the ways in which you have reacted and held yourself during those operations exemplify precisely what is necessary in the Jedi Order," Moarn informed them, turning his gaze to the Amaran Jedi. "On the **** Omega-Orr ***, I'm told Keris faced one of her deepest fears- the living dead- and yet her actions, skill and fortitude put an end to a Sith Inquisitor. Not a small feat in the slightest. The fact that you gave him the opportunity to surrender shows that you have adhered to Jedi teachings- you have done very well."*

Keris blushed, but smiled broadly. "Thanks."

"In the past, defeating a Sith in combat without falling to the dark side would usually be enough for the Council to confer the level of Jedi Knight to a Padawan," Moarn continued, smiling back. "Master Skyalker, Kajex and I feel similarly- your feats are enough that we have decided to grant you the rank of Knight."

Keris blinked. "You're granting me...? Holy shit, I... thanks," she said, looking astounded, but pleased.

"Don't thank us," Kajex told her encouragingly. "All we did was give you the chance to walk away from the Sith- you were the one that not only took that path, but remained to become a Jedi. Hell, just from all the work you've been putting in to constructing illusions, it's clear the change in environment's been more than positive."

"Good work, hon," Syrra offered sincerely, leaning over and kissing the vixen on the muzzle.

"He's not the only one," Kajex continued, now regarding his brother with pride. "I'm going to confess something- the first mission we worked together, on Dakua, I kinda... eavesdropped, while Locke was talking to Wiyuk. And I told Master Skywalker the things you said afterwards- when the cheap bastard tried to bribe you off with phrikite; where you told him that you were a Jedi, and that your integrity was better than that. That impressed me- and it impressed him."

"That you would willingly turn from the darkness and demonstrate such integrity is an example of your strong character," Moarn added. "And obviously, your prodigious lightsaber skill and ability to teach others provide a strong case- one that has led Master Luke to agree that you are also ready to bear the title of Jedi Knight."

The white wolf stood a little straighter, a broad smile on his face. "Thank you, Master Moarn. I swear to live up to the title."

"And finally... you** , kitten," Kajex said. Syrra's heart skipped, the Padawan trying not to get her hopes up- yet it did not escape her notice that his tail was flinching every few moments, a sign that he was resisting the urge to wag.**

"So... when we were first paired together, I promised to teach you everything I could about being a Sentinel, even though I didn't teach you anything about the Force. You've grown into a solid pilot, a capable martial artist, a skilled hacker and mechanic- and I couldn't be prouder. Seeing you shed that shell of self-doubt, spreading your wings and outright soaring** has made me glad to be a big part of it all again."**

"I couldn't have done it without you, Kajex," she said, fighting back against a swell of pride and appreciation.

"Do not underestimate your potential and your progress, Syrra," Master Moarn advised her kindly. "Kajex has done an excellent job teaching you the ways of the Jedi Sentinel, but Jedi are more than just their training- they are defined by their actions."

"He's right," Kajex said. "On the Omega-Orr** , you readily ignored the fact that you lost your paw and faced the darkness with courage, becoming a light in a dark place. Officer Saine told me you used your Healing Crystal of Fire to save a man's life- I gave it to you because I believed you had the wisdom and skill to make better use of it than I ever could... and you proved it. You've done so well that even **** I ***learned a few things from you, and I'm happy for the education."*

Syrra blushed but said nothing as Moarn continued. "You reached out to your sister and pulled her away from the dark side without killing her; you met your blood-mother's animosity and hatred with kindness and compassion, rather than reciprocating in kind; and you encouraged a hurting soul, your own brother, to open up to others, helping him to find love from someone who would accept him as he is."

"Dunno about anyone else, but if I were running the Jedi Order, all that would definitely be enough to promote someone to Jedi Knight," Revan intoned, causing everyone to jump as they remembered he was still present. "Sorry, just felt like putting my decicred in. The Jedi were formed to use the Force to serve others in need- and it sounds like its exactly what she's done."

Kajex nodded and smiled. "Yeah, that's what we think too. Syrra... we all agree that you have done more than enough to earn the title of Jedi Knight."

She had hoped for it, even expected it, yet the anticipation of those words left her with a shortness of breath and a burning sensation along the corners of her eyes, as she struggled to find words. Before she could form a response, her lover had already approached her and slid his arms around her body, holding her close as he nuzzled her forward, a tone of pure admiration in his voice as he spoke.

"I'm proud of you, kitten. You did it."

Unable to hold back her tears, she laughed joyfully. "Thank you so much... Master..."

Rook and Talrik had returned to the Gold Rush** just as Kajex and the rest of the pack decided to hold an impromptu celebration for the 3 new Jedi Knights. Master Moarn and Knight Tay-Ir joined the festivities, with the both of them agreeing it would lift spirits and give them a moment to honor the dead. So after quickly stashing Revan's holocron in one of the now-empty living quarters; gathering friends (including Retsa and her family); and spending a full minute in solemn silence for the fallen, the celebration began in earnest.**

Though technically a failure in that Thresher had escaped one more, the mission was still considered a success in that the station was liberated, most of the staff were rescued unharmed, every other artifact had been secured, and the Remnant had likely lost one of its Star Destroyers in the battle. As it turned out, several other pilots in Lode Squadron had also been recently knighted, and so it was a good opportunity to meet and greet.

If Kajex had been told more than a year ago that his vessel would have eventually hosted such a gathering, he would have responded that it would only occur over his dead body- yet now the atmosphere felt welcoming, as stories were traded, alcohol was consumed, and hands were dealt at the card table- eventually the gathering became large enough that it spilled out of the docking umbilical and into the hangar. By the end of it all, it was a wonder that there was little mess for everyone to clean up after.

Not that anyone was of a mind to engage in late-night cleaning. Once the celebration had concluded, Miles had tugged Talrik into the armory and coaxed Rook to "come and watch," much to the fox's shyness- leaving the remaining 4 packmates to themselves.

"Nnf... mind the teeth, Locke," Kajex said with a shudder, arching his back slightly.

"I always do, Alpha," the nude white wolf replied, tracing his tongue along the left side of Kajex's bare shaft. To his side was Syrra, who was also completely stripped of her robes and running her own tongue up the other side of the Sentinel's hard cock, purring softly. "You're in good hands, brother- just relax."

"Less talking, more licking," Keris purred, embracing Kajex from behind and resting her head on his shoulder, her eyes gazing at the two lovers servicing Kajex's throbbing prick. "We all agreed to treat the alpha for a change, keep at it."

"Y'guys don't need to call me--"

"We know," Keris cut him off, kissing the side of his muzzle as she began kneading his upper back and shoulders, reaching out and detecting the tension in his muscles before massaging them out. "But we're in the mood to. We have you** to thank for getting us this far- think of it as a physical expression of gratitude, instead of just a full bit of role-playing."**

Kajex chuckled, kissing back. "How long were you guys waiting for this?"

"Keris and I wanted to do it probably a few minutes after you told us we were knights, now," Syrra replied, placing her songsteel paw on his shaft and squeezing it gently, while Locke attacked the tip with his tongue. "But nooo, you** had to invite a quarter of the **** Inspired ***and throw a 6-hour celebration to make us wait first."*

The wolf arched an eyebrow and grinned. "You had fun, don't lie to me. And everyone's gone, then?"

"Caught So'Rah and Sa'Rah banging in the refresher, but I kicked them out."

"And Revan?"

"Still catching up on history- Miles has been checking in every hour to make sure nothing is out of the ordinary. Just relax** , Kajex," Keris told him, kissing his cheek again and pressing her bare tits against his back.**

It soon became difficult for the wolf to do anything but take her suggestion. Years of practicing physical intimacy, starting with his own fathers, had always compelled him to ensure his lover or lovers were as comfortable as possible, enjoying themselves as much as he was- even if he meant delaying his own pleasure. Yet now the situation was inversed, with the 3 packmates redirecting the efforts towards making him** comfortable for a change. Soft moans escaped his muzzle as the Trianii's metal paw slid along the sensitive shaft, the pleasant sensation of smooth songsteel sending ripples of pleasure through his length as she squeezed up the subtle cumvein along the underside. The vein ached as it pumped a generous amount of precum through, spilling out of the tip and onto Locke's tongue.**

"Wish I could say Locke learned how to use his tongue from me, but I didn't have to tell him a thing** when he first used it," Keris whispered into the gray wolf's ear. "No mind tricks necessary, just natural oral talent."**

"I believe it," Kajex groaned, rolling his hips up just as Syrra surrendered her mate's cock to Locke's muzzle. Within moments, the albino twin's lips were already kissing Kajex's sheath, leaving the wolf to whine quietly as he was subjected to the torturous pleasure of his brother's tongue mercilessly lashing his ebony cock. A thrill ran through the wolf's chest as he watched his sibling continue to suckle around the throbbing member, its incestuous nature turning him on further.

Neither Keris nor Syrra remained idle as this happened, though they spent a few minutes watching side-by-side, pawing each other's moist slits and kissing deeply, engaging in light sapphic activity- and ensuring Kajex was watching as they moaned into each other's muzzles. Between watching them plunge their fingers into each other's clefts and the sensation of Locke giving him an incredible blowjob, the Sentinel dimly wondered how it was he had any stamina left.

The answer became apparent as he started to notice a pattern, a rolling change in Locke's pace- as Kajex's abs tightened and his balls ached for release, the tempo would slow and Locke would be gentle; while pleasantly calm and loose, he would speed back up, sometimes using his paw to squeeze the wolf's base. Perhaps a solid 5 more minutes of this followed before the Guardian pulled away, licking the corners of his muzzle with a grin as Kajex panted and stared at his slick, glistening 10-inch rod.

"Alright," Locke said abruptly, glancing between the two women. "Who's first?"

"Us first, hon," Keris said, helping Locke up while Syrra grinned and pounced at Kajex. After a yelp and a few moments, the Sentinel found himself on his back, pinned down to the bed- to his right side, Syrra purred and leaned her head on his shoulder, rubbing his stomach with her cybernetic paw. A shiver passed through him as he regarded her with narrowed eyes.

"... Be honest, kitten- you like** having that paw because of how it gets to me, don't you?" he asked.**

"Guilty," she replied simply, nuzzling into his neck as she traced it upwards and rubbed his chest. "Now hush, Alpha- we haven't gotten to the best part just yet."

He returned his attention to his two other lovers, watching as Keris straddled his waist and stretched out dramatically, making sure he could see her pleasantly curvy body twist and flex for him. Behind her, Locke seemed to be adjusting himself, the subtle shifting of the mattress giving away his movement while the vixen's body concealed his efforts. Moments later, however, Kajex let out a gasp as he felt Locke's intention- right in his tailhole. A strained growl rumbled in Kajex's throat as the Guardian penetrated him with a well-lubricated wolf-cock, burying half the length in his backside; at the same moment, Keris placed her forepaws on his chest and raised her rump, expertly lowering her pussy over his length and cooing as the shaft disappeared into her gripping tunnel.

They started at the same moment, a link in the Force allowing them to guide each others actions as they moved in tandem and matched each other's pace. Heat bloomed in their loins as they met repeatedly, reducing Kajex to gasping and writhing as both vixen and wolf fucked him. More out of unconscious habit than intent, Kajex's legs squeezed around his brother's waist, trying to pull his throbbing wolf-cock in deeper- utilizing that same grip, he attempted to thrust up into Keris' deliciously velvety folds. Locke put a quick stop to these efforts, however, by grabbing the Sentinel's ankles and holding his legs apart- with the new hold, the white wolf was able to drill into Kajex much harder.

His moans were stifled by a pair of lips pressed against his own- Syrra had not forgotten him, her songsteel paw now holding one of his and squeezing it encouragingly as she allowed Locke and Keris to pleasure her fiancee. They pulled apart and Kajex was able to see her warm smile, the look in her eyes informing him that she was anxious to be next. The intent now clear, he steeled himself and concentrated, attempting to outlast both his current lovers as long as possible.

Yet Locke and Keris were not making it easy in the slightest. The same alternating pace Locke had adopted was now being demonstrated by the Force-linked pair, as their tempo receded and gave Kajex a few moments to relax. Keris smiled down at him. "I have a question, Alpha."

He shook his head in a half-successful attempt to clear the haze he was feeling. "Y-yeah?" he asked unsteadily.

"Syrra admitted to me that she has a kink- one she thinks you** share," she informed him, keeping her paws on his chest as she rode him slowly. When Syrra blushed and looked away, she continued. "She likes the idea of being impregnated."**

Kajex glanced at Syrra, who swallowed and offered a shy smile. "I'm... not going to deny it."

The wolf chuckled. "I know... and if I had to be honest, the thought of sowing that seed in you..." He shuddered, unable to articulate how thrilling the idea was.

The vixen leaned in, her muzzle next to his ear. "What if it were** me ***? If Locke would let you, and if you* could** knock me up... **** would ***you knock me up, Alpha?" she asked as she deliberately squeezed around his throbbing prick, the same moment Locke slid every inch of his cock into the Sentinel.*

"If you're worried about it being taboo** then you can relax," Locke said, leaning forward and peering down at him with a smile as he kept up his pace, panting slightly. "We are Kanj'Isha... Rexxis spoke plainly to me about it, that it was common among our species... and he encouraged us to follow our hearts where this is concerned."**

Kajex grit his teeth, finding it difficult to formulate a response while his thoughts were a muddled mess of lust- worse still, his knot was swelling and threatening to lock the vixen in. "I... not genetically... compatible..."

"Syrra told me that could probably be remedied," Keris replied, moaning as she squeezed around him again. "C'mon, Alpha- answer my question. Do you wanna tie with me and breed me?"

"You want me to cum in you?" Locke panted with a mischievous grin as he ramped up his pace. "Then you'll have to answer-- my fiancee-- first!" he growled, punctuating each pause by battering his hips against Kajex's ass.

The Sentinel struggled to form an answer, to breach the surface of his hazy lust so he could reply- but when he did, it was with a burst of renewed strength, his one free paw grabbing the vixen's hip. "Only... after I put a pup in Syrra first!" he choked out. With precision timing, he used Locke's thrust to add power to his own buck, snarling as his knot slid into the vixen with a sharp pop and locked him into her depths. The Amaran Jedi chirped in surprise and bliss, arching her back as she experienced a hard orgasm, her trembling inner walls fluttering and clenching around the bulb as healthy amount of femcum splattered against their loins.

Were it not for Locke, Kajex felt he could've ridden out her orgasm without a total loss of endurance- but it was clear Guardian took the action as a sign to put an end to that endurance, and with a final roll of his hips, Locke's knot issued a similar sharp pop as it sank into the grey wolf's backside. Both twins snarled as they experienced simultaneous orgasms. To Kajex, Locke's seed might as well have traveled from his tailhole, through his pulsating member and into the mewling vixen straddling him, for all his impressive output- it took only a few moments for him to feel the pressure of his own seed against his tip, the excess pouring around his throbbing wolf-cock and leaving a pearl-colored mess on his balls; and moments later, he could feel a similar deluge leaking out from around his tailhole, causing a peaceful feeling of fullness within.

The strained breathing, post-adrenaline exhaustion and warmth as Keris draped herself over him was almost enough to cause him to doze off- but before the exhaustion could completely overtake him, warm lips pressed against his, generating a familiar taste that cleared his vision in seconds. A smile curled along his muzzle as blue eyes gazed down at him, a glint of admiration, love, and desire captured in the sapphire orbs.

"Oh hey... it's my mate," he murmured quietly- once again Syrra's lips met his, silencing him with a heartfelt kiss. Sensation returned to the Sentinel's body the moment she squeezed his paw with amazing gentleness. When the kiss ceased, it was with the Trianii smiling down at him.

"** Your ***mate," she agreed. "Union or no."*

Before he could respond, Locke, having managed to regain his stamina quicker than Kajex, pulled his hips away and extracted his throbbing knot from the Sentinel's rear- at the same moment, Keris pressed down hard on his chest and lifted herself up, whining slightly as she struggled to free herself from the lock; after a few moments she let out a yip, just as the bulb pulled free. A flood of the Jedi Sentinel's seed oozed out of her soaked gash and onto his balls.

But while in any other situation Kajex might have wanted to take a break and cuddle, the look in Syrra's eyes and the request she had made of him had reignited his arousal. Exhaustion was displaced by anticipation as Keris rolled off of him, allowing him to sit up- though he was prevented from doing anything more until both she and Locke had slid up next to him and planted a kiss on each side of his muzzle, keeping him in place as Syrra ducked in and began to clean his balls and ebony cock, her efforts stoking his arousal once more. The thick, alabaster seed coating his length slowly vanished as the Trianii tended to the mess without complaint.

The wolf chuckled. "I feel weird about this- in a good way. I've never been in the middle of this much affection."

"Locke and I felt like this was a good way for us to properly** thank you for everything," Keris responded seriously. "Kajex... you **** really did ***save our lives by making us a part of your family. Locke has already taken your surname, it won't be long before I take it too- I have no problem being* this** close to you, hon."**

They shared a moment of nuzzling before the Sentinel turned to his twin. "And you?"

The white wolf did not answer immediately as he slid an arm around Kajex, leaning his head on his shoulder and petting Syrra behind the ears. When he finally spoke, it was with a tone of of firm belief. "Everything I have now, that which I consider most important, I have mostly because of your compassion; giving me a chance at a new life away from darkness and teaching me how to better combat it. I'm perfectly fine with sharing, as thanks."

"You don't owe me a thing, bro," Kajex murmured as he kissed Locke muzzle.

"I know I don't- but I want to share it all the same," Locke replied with a grin. "You're fun to cuddle with, after all."

"Well, don't get comfortable now," Syrra stated, licking her lips as she finally cleaned the last few streaks of cum from the wolf's cock- while still tingling from the the sensation of his last climax, and with a remaining thickness at the base of his cock from his swelling knot, the wolf was more than ready to oblige the Trianii. Even now, his length ached pleasantly with each throb, pumping a healthy serving of precum down his shaft once again. Rather than resume her oral efforts, however, she grabbed his cock and held it steady as she slid into lap, much like Keris had.

With the Sentinel propped up against the headboard, his twin and vixen lover to either side keeping his body upright and his arms pinned, nothing could slow Syrra's gradual descent into the wolf's lap. A visible shiver passed through the Trianii as the tapered tip of his cock caught her folds; an unsteady moan escaped her lips as his girth slid effortlessly into her cleft. With sharp pangs of tender aches coursing through his shaft, Kajex struggled in the solid grips of his brother and vixen lover, managing to roll his hips up into Syrra's velvet-smooth folds.

A moment passed where Syrra twisted and adjusted herself in the wolf's lap, purring loudly as her inner walls slid around the enormous throbbing tool- the act nearly made Kajex go crosseyed from the intense sensation, a strained and desperate whine pouring out of his chest as she started to fuck herself on his cock. As if it weren't enough, Locke and Keris had chosen to attack his neck with a series of nips and licks, ensuring there wasn't a moment when a pair of lips (or netherlips) weren't providing the best kind of sexual stimulation.

Unable to do much more than buck his hips as his mate bred herself on his prick, it was not long before he was panting again, his warm tongue hanging hungrily from his muzzle as he nearly tried to lean in and capture the Trianii's left breast in his lips- only to have the opportunity stolen from him as Locke grabbed his muzzle and kissed him deeply. Another whine rang out as he attempted the act once again, again being denied by Keris slipping her tongue past his lips in another erotic kiss. The combined sensation of such erotic affection seemed to heighten his perception to everything happening to him- not least what was happening to his loins, as Syrra's cleft swallowed and released his length from her gripping folds.

Eventually Syrra did lean forward to catch him in a kiss, her paws pinning him back as their lips met as intimately as their loins. It only ended after she gasped and arched her back, chirping as the Sentinel's knot threatened to secure her in his grasp. He watched as she brought her paws up and cupped her own breasts, deliberately keeping his attention on them as she bounced repeatedly on his cock. Each ample tit jiggled along her fingers, until she released her hold and trailed her paws down along her vestigial teats. Another loud whine erupted from Kajex as his mate mewled in ecstasy, fingers tracing circles around the sensitive nubs- when she took a moment to give them a firm pinch she chirped again, her abs tightening beneath her fur such that she slid down too far and allowed his knot to slip in, subjecting his flaring bulb to a vice-like pressure on all sides.

This alone nearly caused him to unload his balls into his mate, but her sweet, soft voice whispered into her ears, prompting him to steel his remaining endurance. "Almost there, you silly dog... bet you're close to cumming, are you?" she mewled quietly.

"Syrra..." he gasped.

"I've seen in your mind before, Alpha," she purred, bringing a paw up to his face as she ground into him, still able to twist her inner walls around his knot. "I remember that night by the lake, when you proposed to me... even before then, I'd accepted that I was your mate in every way..."

"Because you..."

"I dreamed the same thing, Kajex." She descended a final time, shaking uncontrollably as she experienced a hard orgasm, gasping as her claws dug into his shoulders and her body shook violently. "Now... breed me," she mewled lustfully, as her vaginal interior fluttered around his length.

Her words were like a trigger to his desire to oblige, to claim her womb as his; it caused him to issue a feral snarl as he strained against the strong grip of his two other lovers, forcing him to dig his feet into the mattress and thrust up into his mate. Searing heat and tremendous pressure burst from his balls, distending the thick cum-vein at the base of his cock as it pumped thick, heavy gouts of seed from his tip. The path of least resistance led forward, flooding past her cervix and into the heated furnace of her womb. Ropy strings of fertile yet ineffective wolfseed filled her lower belly for several seconds, before almost every muscle in the Sentinel's body relaxed at once and he went nearly limp, his breathing labored and strained. Moments later, he felt the gentle embrace of his Trianii fiancee as she toppled forward and rested her trembling body again him.

Exhausted to the point of post-orgasmic calm, Kajex could do little more than droop his head forward and nuzzle the feline gently. The grip on his arms slackened, yet he could barely find enough strength to do more than wrap them around his mate and hold her close as they recovered. Yet at some point- whether it was a few seconds or a few minutes, Kajex could not tell- he jumped slightly, realizing he was close to dozing off. It was at this point he noticed Locke had left his side and slid up next to Keris, cuddling the vixen close and smiling up at the Sentinel.

"You look tired," the white wolf sated matter-of-factly.

"I** feel ***tired," Kajex managed to mumble, "in the best way possible. But if you're looking for a bit more, I think I can manage to find the strength."*

"Lemme take a break," Syrra said, yawning.

"You're gonna be so sore when you wake up," Keris purred. "C'mon, you can do one more, sweetie."

"We can't, though," Syrra mewed quietly, nuzzling under the wolf's neck. "We gotta train everybody tomorrow, now that we're not on-mission."

"Don't worry, we'll work on meditation," Locke assured her. "The Black Tomb pack will need it to stay centered and focused, and it'll give us a chance to refresh ourselves too."

"Sounds good," Kajex agreed. "Don't worry, kitten- I'll let you sleep in tomorrow."

"Nuh-uh," she whined, clinging to him. "Not unless you sleep in with me. And lemme nap first, pleeease?"

The wolf rolled his eyes but chuckled. "Fine... you know I love you, Syrra."

"I love you too," she sighed, licking his cheek as the Sentinel slowly adjusted the both of them so they were laying back down again. "All of you..."

Keris grinned. "Aww... she's so cute. I'll give her 15 minutes rest- before I start cleaning her out."