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_ "Even with my other reservations, I felt that Skywalker's idea of 2 to 3 students to a single master was exceptionally wise, if unorthodox. At times I felt many of the so-called 'wash-outs' of the old Jedi Order could have been aided with a little more focus and a little more patience. Having spent time with the Black Tomb pack, I am now of the opinion that a student is only a failure if their teacher gives up on them, before the student gives up on themselves." _

~Master Moarn

"Nothing really changed."

Master Moarn looked up at Syrra. "Hmm?"

The Trianii was smiling, staring distantly past the training Padawans in the gymnasium and focusing on the busy Jedi Sentinel. "Kajex and me, I mean. Nothing has really changed between us, after being knighted," she elaborated, her arms folded as she regarded the wolf with a look of admiration.

The Trandoshan cocked his head, following her gaze to the wolf as he helped each Padawan and initiate perform their acrobatic maneuvers. "As far as your relationship with each other?"

She nodded. "That, plus his level of trust in me."

"Ah," the elder Jedi said, catching on with a warm smile. "I suppose that comes as no surprise. He's had to depend on you for so long, in that time he must have been able to see in you that which you feared was lacking. Perhaps he felt putting his trust in your abilities would allow them to grow- much the same way his father's taught him."

"I'm glad to see him employing that technique again," she stated, watching as Kajex monitored Arah- the young Barabel female was clumsily performing the flip along with the older students, yet the wolf was there to catch her as she messed up the landing and stumbled forward.

"That was a great try, little egg," he encouraged her with a grin, the reptilian initiate beaming at him gratefully in return. "You'll be getting it down in no time, as long as you practice with Syrra every day she's here."

"Thanks Kajex," the initiate chirped, as she hurried forward so a few more of the younger initiates could attempt the flip.

"Sentin--... Kajex," Master Moarn amended himself, "was taught through a system of compassion mixed with self-reliance- being pressured in situations where he had to draw upon his father's teachings and use his own wisdom. It's a system that Master Skywalker has used as well, but I think his approach works especially well when there's an inherent desire to bond with others," he noted, gesturing to members of the Black Tomb who were engaged in lively, friendly discussion with the other students.

"Are they ready to take on tasks, do you think?" Syrra asked.

Moarn shook his head, his eyes flicking towards the red-furred alpha wolf leaning against the wall as he watched over his packmates' interactions. "Recall that it was a few months of study before you and Garrett accompanied me on missions. While the Black Tomb pack has learned well, they will require more time and patience as they catch up on recent history. Add my personal reservations about sending what may be the last of their kind into danger without proper guidance and oversight; and Rexxis' reluctance to the idea of providing service to the universe at large; and what you have are a few significant hurdles to overcome."

Syrra frowned. "We're encouraged to provide a service to the universe with our abilities- surely Rexxis knows that."

"I'm certain he does, but you must understand what he currently possesses; and what he stands to lose if his family is not yet ready to bear the burden of a Jedi," Moarn replied. There was a hesitant pause as he regarded Rexxis with a sad expression. "And to be honest... I'm not interested in pressuring him or his pack. By all rights, considering the horrors he and the pack have had to endure, losing three of his own on Dakua... he and everyone else deserve peace. They have amazing hearts, to desire struggling against injustice at the cost of personal happiness- though perhaps the fact that they are free is, to them, happiness enough."

"Under your teaching, they'll be ready," Syrra said softly, reaching out and squeezing his shoulder. "And even if they sit these conflicts out, they'll be safe with you watching over them."

"Thank you for your confidence in me, Knight Syrra," the Trandoshan replied gratefully. "So..."

"... 'So...?'"

"... Have you and your fiancee decided when you wish to marry?" he asked hesitantly, a small smile on his face.

A hot blush filled the Trianii's cheeks. "Actually... yeah, he and I talked it over, a couple days after being knighted- with Locke and Keris, I might add."

The Jedi Consular chuckled. "A 'group meeting,' I assume?"

She giggled, leaning over and hiding her face against his arm. "C'mon, stooop," she purred.

"I apologize," he offered warmly, putting a claw atop her head. "But I distinctly remember you telling me you agreed that you'd 'tie the knot,' so to speak, when you attained the level of Jedi Knight. And as it warms my heart to know he makes you so happy, I found myself curious as to when you wish to make the union official."

"I thought Trandoshans were cold-blooded," Syrra replied with a smile, which the reptilian Jedi Master returned.

"True- but now you're simply changing the subject," he pointed out with another warm chuckle.

The Trianii sighed and nodded, her smile fading slightly. "I want to do it right away, and the fact is... he is my mate- union or not. But ignoring the fact that my blood-mother would probably up the ante on trying to have Kajex 'removed,' he and I agreed that it'd be better to wait until the Circle of Syn are defeated. I don't think they view us as mere obstacles anymore- but as a grave threat to their plans. I'd like to nip that problem in the bud before making any plans."

The Trandoshan nodded. "There's wisdom in your decision. And what does Kajex think?"

"He was a little disappointed, but he agrees. I think he's afraid that in the interim period, something might happen to either of us," Syrra explained. "That said, Locke was in full agreement and got him to come around- Keris too."

The Trandoshan said nothing for a moment, watching the trainees file back in line and repeat the acrobatic motions again. "... If I may offer a suggestion?"

"I'd be glad for your opinion," Syrra responded sincerely.

"... Don't wait that long."

She blinked, cocking her head. "... Why not?"

"I had the opportunity to speak to your true mother while we were on Ekibo. She informed me that she hoped you would balance your service as a Jedi with your love for Sentinel Surnahm, as she had once told you."

The Trianii said nothing, staring as Kajex looked in her direction and gave her a grin and a thumbs-up. Warmth bloomed in her as she raised a paw and waved, while at the same moment she recalled Iaora's words to her from what seemed like a lifetime ago. "If there ever comes a time where your obligations, your duties, seem to be greater than your love for him... choose him. Choose to be with him, and make it work."

"... Maybe... you're right," she admitted. "If we can find the time and opportunity to return to Ekibo... we'll try. All four of us," she added, smiling widely as she watched Locke and Keris enter the gym.

"They wish to wed on the same day?"

She glanced at him, beaming. "We've become so ingrained in this pack that it wouldn't be fun just to call it 'my day'- I'd like to share it with them too."

The next day Kajex found himself alone for a change, with the Black Tomb pack devoting themselves to historical study while his own pack conducted lessons with the ship's other Padawans and initiates- though the wolf promised to catch up with them for lunch later that day. Having little else to do, he settled on returning to his ship to look for something to fix. With the Gold Rush being forced to remain docked with the _Inspired's_hangar umbilical, it would have been moderately difficult for Kajex to perform surface repairs on the damaged hull plating. Having very little experience doing repairs in the vacuum was one limiting factor, and to make things worse Locke had turned a violent shade of green when the Sentinel asked him to put on a suit and give him a hand. Immediately catching on to the fact that his Guardian twin was deathly afraid of floating in the vacuum, he told him to forget it and sent him on his way.

This would have limited Kajex to doing repairs on the inside of his ship instead, had there been anything within to actually repair- the CEC had done a fantastic job in getting the vessel overhauled with the best equipment and maintenance possible. Instead, the Sentinel had decided to work on the holotable by modifying its projector, a conversion job that would allow him to display his daily, randomly-generated slicing exercises for students- or any other files from his server, he was quickly reminded, as the display activated and a holographic image of a panting Chistori and a moaning, feminine-looking Falleen male flickered to life, their frenzied mid-coital noises spooking the Sentinel and causing him to bump his head on the underside of the table.

"OWW!!! What the fuck?! Who jus-- REVAN!!!"

"Wow. That is an incredibly lurid scene to have on your own ship's servers, Sentinel," the gatekeeper said matter-of-factly, though Kajex was almost certain he was grinning behind his mask as the wolf hurried to deactivate the porn. "I was aware that Kanj'Isha were a bit more 'liberal' in terms of sex, but you have very interesting tastes."

"You're an asshole, Revan!" the Sentinel barked angrily, managing to stop the file and cancel it. "Fuck me for keeping you connected to the ship while I'm working..."

"Oh calm down," the projection replied in amusement as he gestured to the table. "At least you know your tinkering works now. I gotta hand it to you, you're pretty decent at programming and coding to be able to work out a conversion like that."

Kajex sighed as he returned to work, tying up the wiring beneath the table. "I learned mechu-deru when I was 9," he grunted irritably. "Got me a lot of suspicious glances when my instructors found out about it, but it's a good skill to have, even if it is classified as a 'dark side ability'."

Revan scoffed, his projection sauntering to the table with his hands behind his back, bending over to peer at the Sentinel's work. "Knowledge is only dangerous when applied for malicious reasons- whoever told you it was a 'dark side ability' was a fool. That's not to say some knowledge should remain hidden so nobody has the chance to abuse it, but mechu-deru was fine back in my day."

"Yeah? Well it wouldn't be the first time the Jedi adopted something the Sith made first," Kajex conceded, as he heard footsteps enter the lounge.

"What kind of things?" Keris asked as she stepped into the training space. "Hello Revan," she added.

"Good morning, Keris. Anyway, he just brought up his skill in mechu-deru and how he was looked down on for it," Revan explained as she took a seat at the table. "But then, not many Jedi even in my time knew that the Order had adopted technologies first developed or advanced upon by the Sith. Lightsabers, for example- the precursors existed long before the Sith, but it was Sith innovation that brought about refinements to the point where they are today. Holocrons are a Sith invention as well."

"Sounds like propaganda," Keris remarked with a skeptical frown. "You aren't just feeding us Sith-biased bullshit, are you?"

"Actually, he's right," Kajex said as he sat back up and wiped his face with a towel. "Sith holocrons predate Jedi holocrons by at least 2 to 3 thousand years, at least- and it was the Sith that advanced protosabers from siege weapons to personal weapons. But the point Revan is making is that technology and methods can be appropriated for good or evil."

"Exactly the point," Revan agreed. "Anyway- what brings you back to the ship early, Keris? Kajex told me you were going to help train the other Padawans."

"They're going over Soresu, which I'm not exceptionally skilled at. So Locke suggested I take a break so I could ask Kajex a question."

The wolf cocked his head. "What's that?"

"Well..." she started hesitantly, looking a bit embarrassed, "I kinda wanted to ask what you know about_Makashi_."

"... Form II?" The wolf ran a paw through his hair as he got up and took a seat opposite her, pushing his toolkit aside. "Well, it's a duelist form, the kind of fighting style dedicated towards combat against other lightsabers or melee weapons- typically Force-sensitive combatants. Not many people in my day studied it, apart from one or two elitists, the head Battlemaster, and a couple of Jedi who wanted a pragmatic option for insurance."

"Why's that? You kinda make it sound like it was obsolete," she remarked.

"For the most part, it was, back in my day," Kajex answered as he started using his towel to wipe his paws. "Like I said, it was mainly developed as an answer to lightsaber-on-lightsaber combat; meaning it had more use during time periods with Jedi/Sith conflicts than eras that lacked them, where you're more likely to get in a dust-up with a thug holding a blaster instead of a lightsaber. Makashi doesn't really have all that much to offer in terms of blaster defense- that's more what Soresu_and the _Shien variant of Form V were meant for. The only reason I say it was for 'elitists' was because the few who learned it usually liked to claim other forms were for those who lacked class and grace- didn't help that the master of my day was the same asshole that started the Clone Wars and threw in with the Sith."

"Can you teach it?" Keris asked. "Like... if I were to ask for your help, would you be willing to help me learn it?"

The wolf smiled. "What makes you think I know it?"

"You know Niman," Keris answered. "Locke told me you're a master at that form, which means you'd have to have studied every other form, both intensively and extensively. Was he right?"

"He was right," Revan piped up. "It's the mark of anybody who studied Niman to the point of mastery, and I should know- I was a master of it myself."

"That's the way it should have been," Kajex sighed. "Most Jedi in my day who 'studied' it saw it as an easy way out of learning how to defend themselves. It got its 'jack-of-all-trades' reputation because most Consulars would spend more time on diplomacy and what-not instead of actually studying every combat form. My dad was different, though. He made sure I learned every cadence from every form thoroughly before he allowed me to study it in full."

"So then you would be a master as Makashi?" Keris asked as her tail swished hopefully.

"Hell no I ain't a master," Kajex chuckled. "But I could teach you- Locke too. I think the more important question is why you want to learn it."

The vixen leaned back and folded her arms, looking subdued. "These last few months, I've just been worried. I got bested by Knight Thresher, it took all my skill and strength to take down Inquisitor Tooem, and I had to put a lot of effort into Force projections just to be of some use to everybody back on Observer-V. Locke says I'm excellent at Form V, and I'm glad for that, but even if it's a part of my past I don't want to let go of, I still want to learn something a little more... controlled. Now that I'm a Jedi Knight, I just feel that I could use something to center myself, y'know?"

The wolf nodded, regarding her carefully for a few moments, before casting a sidelong glance at Revan. "What do you think? Can you read her current skill?"

The projection said nothing for a moment, folding his arms as he seemed to stare at her intensively. "... I think she would benefit greatly from it. There's a lot of chaos and passion in her- not necessarily a bad thing, despite what a lot of Jedi might say, but it should be tempered and channeled into something positive, as she suggests. Makashi could help her find a sense of inner balance- a lot of Jedi who practiced it in my day did it for the mental discipline. Anyway, I'm just a slightly more advanced holocron, Sentinel- and this is your packmate. It's your decision whether you should teach her," he said, before turning to Keris, "and your decision whether you wish to learn."

Keris nodded solemnly. "I want to learn, Kajex."

"Alright... then starting tomorrow, Locke and I will spend a few hours going over the basics of Makashi with you," Kajex told her with a smile. "Along with anybody else who wants to learn."

A week had passed, and in that time Kajex had proven true to his word- from the following morning onward, he devoted no fewer than four hours each day with her and a handful of other interested Jedi, teaching them the strengths of Makashi's_footwork, wrist control and precise attack vectors. Even Syrra, who made it clear she was most comfortable with her mixture of _Soresu_and _Ataru, joined in these lessons both to learn the basics of the form and provide herself as a sparring partner.

Keris had been pleased to learn that her curved-hilt lightsaber was the ideal weapon for deploying the form, using the hilt's unconventional design for thrusting and maneuvering the blade in subtle yet vital angles. Better still, the vixen's past training as a dancer (even if exotic) had been sufficient enough practice that she was able to learn the footwork with exceptional speed- which gave both Kajex and Locke a good means of using her as a demonstration model for how the basics of the form should be executed. That she was also skilled in Shien, deflecting blast-bolts back to shooters, allowed them to point out to those attending the lessons the weaknesses of Form II, while teaching them the forms necessary to compensate for that shortcoming.

The education did not come solely from Kajex and Locke, however- while they were the only two living Jedi on the_Inspired_ equipped to teach Keris the form, Revan was another source of information for the vixen to turn to. Master Moarn insisted he oversee these lessons on board the Gold Rush, as he did not yet fully trust the holocron gatekeeper- though he privately admitted to Kajex after a few days that his intentions did seem sincere, and was pleased to note that Keris seemed to be obtaining a sense of inner-peace the more she studied.

All of which culminated in a very interesting change.

"Yesterday... she didn't want to have sex," Locke said, as he poked at his food with a concerned expression.

Syrra stopped chewing her food, staring at the white wolf in disbelief for a few moments before swallowing. "... She... didn't want to have sex?" she repeated curiously.

"No. I mean... I didn't ask her, but that's usually because she asks me to help her get to sleep. We even stripped down after training, got in bed and snuggled up- but that was it," Locke explained, scratching his head. "I wonder if she's sick or something? Maybe Kajex beat the odds and actually got her pregnant?"

"Love, if you've been trying three years and still haven't done it, I doubt your brother will have accomplished what you couldn't," the Trianii told him reassuringly as she gathered up another stickful of noodles. "And take it from someone with medical experience, she's not pregnant- or sick for that matter. Maybe she's finally coming around from whatever Zorba did to her all those years back."

"I don't know," the white wolf responded skeptically. "3 years of being with me that fire didn't die, even though I tempered her lust down to one a day. I can't imagine what might've changed between then and..." He trailed off at the arched eyebrow Syrra was giving him, realizing what he was overlooking. "... I suppose joining the Jedi has been beneficial for her," he said, chuckling softly.

"Actually, I'd chalk up this change to her new study in Makashi," Syrra corrected him. "I didn't sense any change until a few days after she started. And I _know_you can tell she's enjoying it."

"I'll say!" Keris chirped happily, causing the white wolf to jump in fright- preoccupied with his thoughts, he hadn't noticed her approaching from behind with a lunch tray. "But what's this about a change, now?"

Syrra smiled at the vixen as she took a seat next to her fiancee. "Locke is worried because last night you went right to sleep instead of asking him to plow you, like you usually do."

Keris blinked. "I... wait, I did, didn't I?" she said, bringing a paw to her lips in shock. "Oh... oh sweetheart, I didn't even think that--"

"No, it's alright," the Guardian assured her with a nuzzle. "Syrra is suggesting that learning to study this new form has allowed you to center yourself better. And I have no problem with that, if it alleviates your desires and brings a little more balance to your life," he added, kissing the side of her snout.

"Aww... thanks love," she purred. "Still, it's not that I wouldn't have wanted to- I'm always in the mood when we're relaxing. I'll remember to treat you _extra_nice tonight to make up for it."

"Got our next assignments," Kajex stated as he came up from behind with Rook in tow- in his paw was an active datapad, which he placed on the table before taking a seat.

"Thresher's on the move again?" Keris asked, perking up.

"Nah, the bastard's back to hidin'," Rook informed her grumpily, setting her tray down with a little more force than necessary. "NRI's last report on him is he scurried all the way back to Anx Minor, in Remnant territories. They ain't figured out what he stole or why it's important, or where my ship's being docked so we can get it back."

Kajex looked as her sympathetically, putting a paw on her shoulder. "Hey... I know it seems bleak, but you believe me when I say I'm gonna help you get it back, right?"

The Selonian hesitated, looking up at him with a pained expression. "... I want to believe you, mate. You Jedi lot seem a lot more trustworthy than the old kind, but at the same time I know what it's like to be shafted." There was a pause as she noticed Keris winking at her, causing the otter's face to burn red. "Not like-- you know what I mean!"

Kajex chuckled, squeezing her shoulder. "I know what you mean, kid. But we are fighting to stop the Circle, and getting your ship back will be a part of it," he assured her, causing the otter to smile back hopefully.

"Thanks mate. I know you're doin' your best to get 'er back. I think I'd be less sore about it if I hadn't stored most of my kit in it before that fuckin' fish stole it," she sighed.

"Kit?"

"Bounty-huntin' tools," she clarified. "Headset, pair of far-sight goggles, a couple of my rifles, a quickshot grenade launcher, a fibercord grappling hook launcher I was gonna mount on my gloves; all the good stuff a hunter could need. Feel like I'd be more use to you guys if I had that stuff back."

"Well now you're talking as if you're here for the adventure and not for the job," Syrra pointed out with a grin, which Rook matched.

"I like the money- but I live for the excitement."

"So what's the mission, Kajex?" Locke asked.

"Right, the mission- so a year back we learned that Jurah and Calya were getting their Jedi and Sith relics in Wild Space territories black market. Master Moarn thinks they either come from planets once held by the Sith Empire thousands of years ago; or from Jedi escaping the Purge like my dad did." He tapped the datapad twice, a miniature star-chart springing from the device's holoprojectors- one cluster of stars was highlighted in gold dots. "Jurah was happy to send the Jedi Order a list of locations concerning merchants who sold the artifacts used for the kolto experiments. Master Skywalker thinks we should spend the next few weeks following leads on these merchants."

Locke smiled. "Lovely- instead of being a Sith who hunts for artifacts, I get to be a Jedi who hunts for artifacts."

"It's not going to be so simple this time," Rook pointed out. "The catch is that since the fall of the Empire and the CSA treaties, alot of these highlighted worlds have been colonized by Trianii Rangers- so he wants us to do get the job done with the Trianii Rangers watchin'."

Keris cocked her head. "Why's that?"

"I'd guess it's because Master Skywalker knows that they're fledgling colonies," Syrra said abruptly. "My people would defend those worlds with their lives if that's what it took. The 7 Trianii core systems are well-defended, especially after the treaty between us and the CSA- but the outlying colonies are newer and not nearly as developed; rich with resources, but vulnerable. They're not going to just let us approach without a possibly lethal answer ready."

The vixen's ears drooped. "Are the Trianii Rangers really that bad?"

"Not all of them," Syrra assured her, "but the ones on the fringes tend to have more cutthroat tactics. I don't like admitting it, but Trianii Rangers have a reputation for being... paranoid. Moreso than much of insulated Trianii culture, since the Rangers are usually the ones fighting the invaders like the CSA. And one of the things most people don't know about the Trianii Rangers is that they're given special jurisdiction to arrest and even execute on sight," Syrra informed them darkly. "My father was one of those who discouraged those practices, and most inner-system Rangers don't rush to execute like that; but in the interest of 'pragmatic survival,' as Bast used to put it, the fringe Rangers tend do what they must to protect our people- even if the victims are actually innocent. And sometimes they go too far."

"That's a bit extreme, isn't it?" Locke replied with a frown.

"It is, but there's no sense in pushing it with the Rangers," Kajex said calmly. "Luke was right about us having to change up our tactics- with several conflicts breaking out along the Wild Space borders and the Imperial Remnant being reported in parts of the region, I wouldn't be surprised if the Rangers are a bit fidgety over extra-territorial factions patrolling the area. We're going to have to use a little more diplomacy to get anywhere, and get them to see us as allies instead of potential invaders. The last thing we want to do is have Bast convince every planetary yu'nar_to issue a death warrant on _all of us."

"Which means we'll need a liaison," Locke agreed, looking pointedly at Syrra.

The Trianii's ears drooped. "Dammit... alright, that's me. How soon are we doing this?"

The wolf smiled and reached around to rub her ears, calming her down. "There's no immediate rush, kitten. We can do this as soon as you're ready. You have contacts in the Trianii Rangers still, right?"

She managed a smile back and nodded. "Yeah... lemme finish my meal first and then I'll go see if I can get ahold of my aunt and cousin."

But it would take another week before the Trianii Jedi Knight would get any response from her kin, detailing a transmission scheduled later in the day- and the time until that point was spent with everyone, Jedi and non-Jedi, studying and training. Kajex was pleased to see all three newly-appointed Knights take on their extra duties as educators with renewed energy, with Syrra teaching how to heal others through the Force, Locke providing lessons in lightsaber combat, and Keris providing education on how to handle criminals and thugs with subtle mind tricks and street-smarts. They were not the only ones devoting themselves towards training, however- Miles, Talrik and Rook also made sure to keep active, offering hand-to-hand combat education and techniques to everyone onboard (with the Republic financially compensating Rook for her time as she technically qualified as a "civilian instructor").

While Kajex was present as an instructor every day, he found himself less-involved in most teaching efforts. Apart from Kentoh and the 'Rah twins (both of whom had a penchant for math and electronics), there were only a few students who seemed interested in studying the intricacies of being a Jedi Sentinel. Almost immediately he regretted revealing the existence of security spikes- those students didn't seem interested in learning once they'd caught on that the spikes would do the work for them, though he was pleased to see Kentoh and the twins had stuck around and were making great progress over time.

Nevertheless, with little else to teach that others wouldn't be able to, he devoted a fair portion of his time helping Rook instead. Hearing how she was short-handed in terms of gear, he decided to while away his extra free time helping the otter build up a new gearset, with Talrik gladly lending a hand. Within 4 days, Kajex ways able to rig up a reinforced slicing module embedded in her left gauntlet's wrist; in that same time, Talrik used his skill in demolitions to rig up a series of detonation switches in her right gauntlet. Rook had to equally thank Kentoh and the twins, as both these projects doubled as training for both of them.

"Thanks again!" she called out from the ramp as Kentoh and the twins left to go to their next lesson, a grin on her face as she regarded her new equipment with joy. "Damn, I wasn't expecting to get somethin' this neat while I was signed on with you, Surnahm. You ever need anything from me, you just ask and I'll gladly repay the favor."

"I'm sure I'll think of something," the wolf responded with a chuckle while he put his slicing gear away, just as Talrik entered with a pair of wet towels. "But it'll have to a wait until after I get back tonight, I've got half an hour before the next scheduled lesson with Keris. In the meantime, you and Talrik should get cleaned up- you guys are a mess, and I don't think a couple of wet towels are going to get it off."

It was true enough- testing Talrik's modifications had required the Amaran to rig up dummy explosives, which, while not causing any actual explosion of lethal proportions, had kicked up a lot of dust in and oil in the armory when it had gone off, giving both otter and fox a light coating of dirt. Almost immediately the Sentinel's prediction proved true, with Talrik whining irritably when most of the oil streaks failed to come out.

"Fair point, boss," the otter conceded. "Anybody in there?"

"Locke," the wolf replied with a grin as he shouldered his bag and headed towards the ramp. "Don't be shy, kit."

"I'm not shy!" the fox replied indignantly as the wolf left, leaving Rook to chuckle as she walked past. She left him very little time to keep acting indignant, however, as she unclasped her armor and pulled it off, leaving her in her pants and armored half-skirt, and him to stare as she walked towards the corridor leading to the crew showers. "Damn, you're not wasting any time," the Amaran muttered.

"Love, Syrra and Locke are the only two that ain't seen me in the buff, and I can't say I'm particularly shy of the prospect- not after that little 'party' you and I had with Miles," she purred, swishing her tail enticingly. "Now, are ya gonna follow me in, Fox-boy?"

It was all the incentive she needed to offer, the Amaran immediately hurrying to catch up as she rounded the bend and keyed the hatch open. Sure enough Locke was waiting inside, having just stepped under a running shower and letting out a relaxed growl. Talrik took a moment to take in the sight- his body perfectly matched Kajex's in every way, save for the white pelt and silver hair; a body the fox found difficult to tear his eyes away from.

"Do you intend to stare until I'm done here, kit?" Locke asked with a chuckle, causing the fox to jump. "Or were you going to get cleaned up?"

Talrik laughed nervously. "Sorry about that, Locke. Just can't help noticing how alike you are to Kajex," he explained, tossing his jacket onto one of the benches and unzipping his coveralls. "I figured you'd be out educating Keris on that new lightsaber style."

"She's using tonight to practice her illusions with Master Moarn," the wolf sighed, relaxing visibly under the streams of hot water. "As a Jedi Consular he's better suited to educating Keris than I am."

"You look like you could really use that hot water," Talrik noted as the wolf stretched out and groaned pleasantly.

"You're not wrong," the Guardian conceded. "I've been feeling slightly overworked sparring with multiple students, so I decided now is as good a time as any to get a rinse in- that, and our new robes came in last night," he added, thumbing to the bench next to Talrik- a stack of fresh black and white linen robes had been set aside, with black footwraps laid on top.

"New apparel, huh?" Rook asked, undoing her chest binders, then deliberately stretching and pushing out her bare breasts towards the fox, causing him to blush while he kicked his coveralls off. "Grand prize for being knighted, Snow-Dog?"

"I guess you could say that- but Master Moarn also feels it would be a good idea for the 4 of us to meet as Jedi, which means we should look the part as much as we're able. Kajex protested at first, he likes his longcoat a bit too much- but once he got a look at his robes and how good he looks in them, he gave in."

"Why the dress code?" Talrik asked, trying not to look to either side as he took the shower next to Locke.

"Master Moarn and Syrra think the Trianii Rangers might not take us seriously if we look like mercenaries who just happen to carry lightsabers," Locke explained, turning and giving Talrik a clear view of his sheath and large balls while he ran his fingers through his hair. "First impressions, and all that."

"Right, right," Rook said distractedly, staring at the wolf's body with a broad smile and a hard blush on her face as she took the shower to Talrik's other side. "Always, uh... important, giving them the right idea from the get-go." As silently as she seemed able, she leaned in and whispered to Talrik. "Ever 'get' a 'go' of that, love?"

"Wha-- no!" Talrik hissed back.

"You're peekin', mate," she giggled silently, pointing down- sure enough, a good 3 inches of his length had swollen as it decided to see what the fuss was about.

"... You're a fucking traitor," Talrik admonished his own prick sourly. "Let's just get a rinse in and head on out, Rook."

"C'mon, admit it- you've wanted a taste from _both_of your 'older brothers.' I thought you guys were kin-cestuous and all that!"

"With Kajex sure, but-- wait, what's gotten into you?" Talirk whispered bewilderedly. "Are you getting randy because of that night when it was you, me, and Miles--"

"So what if I am?" she countered dismissively, still smiling smugly. "What, you don't think Locke's attractive? Y'know my heart's all for you, but even I think he's hot."

"He's-- I mean yeah, he's hot, but--"

"I appreciate the compliment, kit- and you too, Rook," Locke chuckled. "But what's your reservation?"

Talrik flinched and whined, putting his face in his paws. "Now look what you did- all we were supposed to do was shower and leave it at that! Seriously, what's gotten into you!?" he asked as Rook shook, failing to completely stifle her laughter.

"Sorry 'bout that, Locke- Talrik's been a bit shy since he and I had that special evening with Miles 'round about the time you got knighted," Rook purred, hugging the fox from behind and leaning her head on his left shoulder. "Kaj told me about how he's like a younger brother that he'll plow now and again, but I never got that impression between you an' him."

The white wolf folded his arms and gave the pair a lopsided smile as he leaned against the tile wall. "You bring up an interesting point- I did offer him physical companionship a while back while we were on Dakua, though he never took me up on that. I wonder why that is, kit. You do realize you don't have to be shy or afraid of me, right? I wouldn't have offered if I didn't think highly of you."

The gentle words were enough to quell the fox's discomfort, bringing a pleasantness to the burn in his cheeks. "Thanks, Locke. And yeah, I am comfortable around you, guess I just never got around to it because of me and Rook getting close, and..."

"Well, I ain't gonna stop you now," the otter insisted, grinning as she began pushing the struggling fox forward. Despite pushing back, Talrik's paws slipped along the slick floor until the Mandalorian gave him a firm shove, causing him to fall into Locke's strong arms (and a torrent of running hot water) with a surprised yelp. "After seeing you squirm under Miles, I kinda wanna see what it looks like when Locke is givin' you a hard railing."

"I won't pressure him into anything he doesn't want to do," Locke told her as he helped the furiously blushing and now soaked fox regain his balance. "If you'd rather I let you be for now, kit, I can respect that- though it looks like one way or another, you might be better off with a bit of relief," he added, chuckling as he gestured to the fox's hard-on.

Talrik whined slightly, though he didn't bother restraining his tail as it wagged, eyes following the flowing rivulets of water down the white wolf's body until it reached his sheath- the red tip of Locke's prick had peeked from its confines, a full 2 inches having slid out. "Shit... I guess there's no sense trying to hide it. But I don't want to bother you if you'd rather not."

Locke's first response was to smile warmly and lean in, kissing the fox's nose. "You have little to worry about- I'll admit that Kajex's opinion about you has piqued my interest. I'd like to experience what he enjoys in your physical company," he told the fox, rubbing behind his ears. "Are you interested, little brother?"

A combination of arousal and affectionate warmth filled the fox. "Honestly...? I'm curious to see if you taste and _feel_the same as Kajex," he murmured nervously, looking away. A strong paw, gentle paw coaxed his face back up and the fox found his lips caught in Locke's, the two sharing a deep kiss that Talrik refused to pull away from. The thrill of his 'older brother' expressing such deep affection, their frotting cocks sending sparks of heat between them, caused the younger male to purr softly.

Eventually the kiss did break, and it was to Locke grinning. A feeling of intense arousal and attraction filled the fox as he smiled back. "I... just remembered something."

"What's that?"

"... I shared my first kiss with another male right here- with yo-- our brother," Talrik muttered shyly.

"And how was it?" Locke pressed him gently, his strong paws cupping the fox's rump, pulling him in and thrusting gently- Talrik moaned as the wolf's larger cock glided smoothly across his own.

"Nng! It... was the exact same feeling," he whimpered, holding onto the wolf as he ground back- after a few thrusts, he shook his head as if to clear it, panting. "S-sorrry, it's just... it felt so--"

"You don't need to apologize, kit," Locke told him kindly, nuzzling his surrogate sibling gently. "You... don't mind, right?" he asked as he looked over the fox's shoulder- Talrik blinked before remembering with a start that Rook was still present.

"Mind? Snow-dog, this is pushin' all of my buttons in the good way!" Rook replied with a barking laugh.

With the kiss having renewed his confidence, Talrik got to his knees- a burn in his cheeks arose when he realized he hadn't even needed to be asked to put his muzzle to use, yet there he was anyway, his nose inches from the wolf's steadily growing crimson cock. Every one of the wolf's heartbeats caused the tool to twitch and throb, spitting precum from the tip- a sight that Talrik found incredibly arousing and inviting. Movement to his right drew his attention, as Rook crouched to get a better look, a grin on her muzzle as he hesitated.

"You're as bad as Syrra," the fox accused her, finding it difficult to work up the nerve to

"Bullshit," she purred, leaning in and licking his cheek. "Syrra'll do it from a distance and hold off on jillin' later- I'm good with watchin' and doin' it now."

Though he sighed and rolled his eyes, he couldn't help but smile at the otter's enthusiasm, and so he turned his attention back to Locke's member- in the time he'd turned away, the rest of the wolf's length had slid free from his sheath, the turgid shaft throbbing invitingly before his nose. Though the anxiety started to build once more, Locke's right paw slid behind his left ear and rubbed behind the lower back again, prompting the fox to take a steadying breath before leaning in.

Trying very hard to ignore both sets of eyes watching him carefully he set to worth, his tongue slipping out and caressing against the tip of Locke's cock for a few long moments; almost immediately, the slightly bitter yet pleasantly salty taste of pre-cum spread against the flat of his tongue. The potent musk of the wolf's natural lubrication was enough to embolden the fox more, prompting him to cast aside his reservations and set to work slathering his tongue across the Guardian's throbbing tool. Within moments, Locke was hissing and groaning quietly, his voice letting out wordless approval as Talrik kisses, licked and suckled along the surface of hard wolfcock, massaging the turgid flesh without so much as raising a paw to stroke it- instead, he raised a paw to cup beneath the wolf's heavy balls, weighing the sack in his palm and trying not to let the feel of it unnerve him.

A pair of arms wrapped around his waist without warning and he flinched, relaxing as he realized Rook had crouched behind him. Her warm muzzle dug into his neck affectionately, arms squeezing his midsection as she watched him slide half the wolf's cock past his lips. A combination of gentle chest rubs and kissing and licking the fox's neck and cheek helped soothe Talrik and diminish any reservations he might still have possessed- though he nearly yelped in surprise as her warm paw wrapped around his stiff prick.

Rook chuckled. "Y'should've seen him, Locke- a handsome fox being pinned under Miles, getting plowed deep enough that he was plowing into me," she purred. "But... he knows I don't think less of him, right love?"

His muzzle full of cock, he couldn't immediately answer- yet it was Locke who supplied an answer on his behalf. "He lacks confidence in himself," he groaned with tone of satisfaction. "I wish he had more- he's strong and capable, and as you said, a _very_handsome fox. He's lucky he has you to encourage him."

Talrik whined slightly as his cheeks burned from the sincere opinions, letting out a muffled moan as Rook began to stroke his prick, squeezing the flesh in sensitive spots every few moments. Each gentle massage into the surface of his cock sent thrilling waves of hot pleasure running up his abs, causing him to shudder. Caught between two amazingly sexy male and female bodies of white fur, Talrik doubled his efforts, now using a paw to stroke the wolf's cock base, assaulting the rest of his cock with eager tongue lashes and suckling lips. Before long the sensations became too much for Locke to handle without a physical response, rolling his hips into Talrik's face and sliding more of his delicious cock-meat along his tongue.

Behind him was a different story- Rook was grinding up against the fox's back, whimpering as her cleft slid up against the fox's tailbase. Unwilling to let the otter be forced to pleasure herself on her own, Talrik devoted a slice of his attention to aiding her. Though he lacked the strong and precise movements of his own tail that a Trianii like Syrra possessed, he managed to time the wagging motions and direct them upwards such that the soaked but soft fur caressed her netherlips and clit nicely, his efforts rewards with a series of excited chirps as Rook shuddered and thrust her body against him.

Sandwiched between two erotic bodies, dizzy and drunk from the hazy cloud of lust assaulting his senses, the fox was able to take every inch of Locke's length, dimly aware of the wolf's cocktip grazing gently against the back of his throat. With his muzzle wrapped around the thinner base of Locke's prick and his lips kissing against the soft white sheath, all it took was Talrik breathing in through his nose to be overwhelmed by the heady musk of male Kanj'Isha, his eyes nearly rolling back into his head. A gentle jostle from Rook roused his senses and he pulled back, all ten throbbing inches of Locke's member sliding free from his lips- though he made it a point to suckle the last inch such that when the wolf's cock was finally extracted, it was with a loud and resounding 'pop'.

A contented sigh poured out of the fox as he slowly turned his gaze to Rook- the otter was staring at him with an expression of awe. "H-hey... you alright there, mate?" she asked. "You looked like you were in heaven there for a second, Fox-boy."

Talrik nodded slowly. "Yeah... I'm great," he purred, leaning in and kissing the girl he was in love with abruptly- though she squeaked in surprise, she purred in return as Talrik shared the sweet taste of Locke's dick from the fox's muzzle. When they finally broke off, the otter's face was nearly as red as her hair highlights and she seemed at a loss for words, though she was wearing an incredulous smile as Talrik got back to his feet and nuzzled the wolf. After a few moments of affection, he turned to Rook and offered his paw.

She blinked, taking it hesitantly. "Are you already done?" she asked.

The fox shook his head as he helped her up. "No- I just don't think it's fair that Locke and I have all the fun. I seem to recall when it was us with Miles, you joined in eventually."

"Mate, I'm good by myself, y'don't need t--"

"You're not seriously turning down my little brother's cock, are you?" Locke asked with an arched eyebrow, grinning down at the Selonian as he pushed her into his arms. "We've heard the sounds you make when he's stirring your loins up with it, I refuse to believe you'd give it up so easily when it's willingly offered."

Whatever objections she would have made were silenced when Talrik kissed her again, as this time he took the initiative and pushed her up against the wall, hooking her legs up in his arms. A delighted, muffled chirp rang out as Talrik remained true of aim, lancing his prick up into her folds on the first shot- already soaked from more than just shower water, his 8-inch length slid smoothly into her cleft until thoroughly hilted.

It was with a gasp that Talrik broke the kiss, growling as he buried his throbbing prick into the otter's tunnel. Even through the haze of pleasure and bliss, he could feel a change in himself, something that had been altered in his mind. "You... did something to me, Locke..." he groaned.

The wolf smiled, sliding his arms up Talrik's body before nuzzling into his neck. "I'm comfortable admitting that I did, yes. Nothing malignant I assure you- Kajex was more than happy to educate me on matters pertaining to raising morale through the Force. You're a brave and kind soul, little brother- one with a timid heart masking great courage. You shouldn't feel the need to hide your feelings for others."

"Yeah, we'll break you outta yer shell yet," Rook panted, licking Talrik as she clung to him, squeaking every few thrusts as he bucked into her backside. Though she made his windups difficult with her legs wrapped around his waist, she made up for it with her incredible tightness and gripping inner walls clamping around his rock-hard prick. Yet for all the intense pleasure his loins were generating, they became secondary when Locke made his move and sheathed his entire pre-slick wolfcock into the fox's backside. His back arched and he moaned long and loud, leaning his head back on Locke's shoulder as the wolf nipped at his exposed neck.

"You're not done yet, kit... your lover needs you," Locke encouraged, grinding up into the fox and forcing his hips forward, reburying Talrik's cock into her folds again. Rook moaned as she was hilted again, her netherlips split apart by the fox's slowly-inflating knot. The sound of her wordless pleas put fresh energy into the fox, and within moments he was back to pounding his shaft into her sweltering, twitching depths. It was he who set the pace, jerking his hips forward, up and into the otter; alternating them with smooth, slow rolling motions backwards, moaning as Locke continue to plow his ass with hot throbbing wolf-cock, his fully formed knot stretching the fox's tailhole wide. Red-hot jolts of bliss zapped through his spine each time the wolf's heavy balls battered against the back of his own, sapping his endurance with every blow.

A throaty growl next to his ear made the fox flinch and shudder. "Brace yourself kit... gonna cum..." Before the fox could respond, Locke had already grabbed his hips and held him in place as he gave a single, powerful thrust and popped past the tight anal ring- Talrik yelped and gasped, his lower belly feeling full of throbbing wolf dick, the knot pulsing powerfully against his tender prostate. Unable to prevent his moaning, he ground back against Locke's hips, trying to fuck himself against the Jedi Guardian, but Locke spoke again. "Nuh-uh, little brother- you have a lover needs attending to," he groaned. "I'll help."

Before Talrik could even form enough conscious thought to ask what Locke meant, Locke thrust again; this time with enough force to roll Talrik's hips forward into Rook. The otter moaned as she ground back against the fox, bringing Talrik back to senses and compelling him to grind his swollen knot against her netherlips, a streak of dominance filling him as he growled and thrust one more time. Their union was marked with the otter's passionate chirp as he tied with her, reducing her to writhing and moaning as the fox let out a choked snarl and lost his remaining endurance.

It was a strangely erotic feeling, as the fox emptied his balls into his lover while a second lover filled his lower belly with spunk- a blooming heat that pumped through his thick cock and flooded the Selonian hunter's womb, which somehow resided simultaneously in his ass as Locke poured his thick, heavy load into the Ranger. Every ache in his balls and muscles sang with pleasure as the flow tapered off, the runoff of shower water flowing down his body and mixing with the sexual cocktail of simultaneous orgasms, pooling briefly beneath them before being siphoned away through the drains.

Panting to get his breath back, Talrik managed to retain enough strength to keep Rook aloft, the two purring softly as they nuzzled and kissed. "That was... amazing," Rook sighed pleasantly as the fox helped her back down to her feet.

"Miles certainly wasn't lying," Locke responded, nipping Talrik's neck playfully before pulling out of his surrogate younger sibling with a pop- the fox yipped slightly before sighing, letting the wolf wrap his arms around him. "Watching you two go at it while letting me join is definitely a fun experience- it's nice to see you cut loose a little, kit."

Talrik blushed, but the smile on his face felt genuine. "Give me some time, and you won't need to use the Force to open me up."

"You're family, kit," Locke assured him, licking his nose affectionately. "You're always welcome to open up to us."

An hour later, everyone had gathered in a meeting room to discuss the details of their next mission- or series of orders, at least, as there did not seem to be a clear-cut objective at the time. With Master Skywalker devoting time and energy to the Praxeum, and Syrra working as the Jedi Order's selected liaison to the Trianii Rangers, it was quickly and easily decided that it would be best to form a strategy in tandem with whoever the Rangers selected to speak with them.

Before they did convene, however, Master Moarn insisted everyone take the initiative to don their new robes before the meeting commenced, to assure the Rangers they were dealing with seriously-minded students of the Force as opposed to a rag-tag team of Force-sensitive mercenaries. While Kajex had initially objected some few days prior, he seemed to have taken to his new robes more than he had expected to.

"They're better-looking than the traditional Jedi robes back in my day," he said, running a paw across the brown and gold-trimmed attire as they waited. "Much comfier, too. I didn't think this was something the new Jedi Order did."

"As a Trandoshan, the abrasiveness and coarse materials of the simple Jedi robes of our time never bothered me- hence why I still wear my old attire," Moarn explained. "But I sympathize with other beings who lack scales- I can only imagine the discomfort."

"These feel much better," Syrra agreed, dressed in agile yet flowing robes of white with blue trim. "Much lighter, too. I kinda like the feel of not having to wear boots as much," she added, stretching her footwrapped hindpaws out and letting her bare toes flex. Across from her, Locke and Keris were similarly dressed, the former in robes of black and white, with Miles' old shadowtrooper chestplate strapped beneath the upper robes, a pair of black greaves contrasting against his white leggings and footwraps; beside him, Keris wore a set of green and white duelist's robes, a hooded shoulder-cape draped over her left arm- though she still wore the brown leather gauntlets and greaves she'd been wearing since she joined as a Jedi.

"It's probably better you retired your longcoat, brother," Locke suggested. "You've patched it up admirably, but you had it less than a year and it was starting to take a beating."

"Maybe so," Kajex sighed, "but I'm still gonna keep it. I like that coat..."

"Heads up, boss," Rook said suddenly. "Looks like the hail went through."

Sure enough, a ping sounded as the transmission was accepted. Everyone waited in silence as the holoprojector sprang to life and constructed an image of a tall and well-built Trianii male in light armor. The sandy-furred figure briefly ran a paw through his medium-length green locks of hair, apparently unaware that he was already being recorded, before clearing his throat and speaking. "Good afternoon, Master Moarn. Is this transmission coming in clearly?"

"It is," Moarn acknowledged, "and it is well-coded. I'm glad you were able to join us, commander...?"

"Pakka," the figure responded pleasantly. "1st_Sinth_ Pakka, of the Far Reaches flotilla. I've been granted permission by my regional pyorn to act as a liaison to you and your knights, as I'm told a relative of mine has asked for the aid of the Rangers."

Kajex glanced to Syrra, who was barely able to restrain her grin. "<You honor our blood by coming to my aid,>" she told the commander, who jumped at the voice and looked in her direction, his eyes widening.

"... Syrra? It was you who asked for my aid?" he said, a smile forming on his muzzle.

"It's good to see you again, cousin," she answered, beaming at him with pride.

"By the 6 gods of Trian, look at you," he chuffed, a similar look of pride on his features. "I've never seen a Jedi Knight before in my life, but you certainly look like you've grown since we last met. And who are your allies, might I ask?" he said, looking to the rest.

"Master Moarn, our friend and fellow instructor," she started, as the Trandoshan bowed; "Talrik, Miles and Rook, our non-Jedi allies," as they nodded and waved; "Locke and Keris, my friends and fellow knights," as the Guardian nodded and the vixen winked playfully; "and... Kajex," she finished, "Jedi Sentinel, our leader, and my instructor and fiancee."

"Pleased to meet you all," Pakka responded. "Mother told me you'd been engaged to this Jedi. If you have my cousin's approval, Sentinel, then you certainly have mine as well."

"That quick, huh?" the wolf asked with a lopsided smile. "Thank you for the vote of confidence, it's not something I've come to expect from Trianii."

"Not many Trianii are very trusting of outsiders, it's true," Pakka acknowledged, "but I owe my life to a human smuggler who saved my mother and me from the CSA, and my father from one of their prisons. I'm more than aware there are good people outside the borders of Trianii space, those who mean us no harm." He cleared his throat again. "That said, I've been granted the opportunity to be your connection to the Trianii Rangers partly due to Syrra being family, but mostly due to being one of the few flotilla commanders willing to deal with outsiders."

"Do the Trianii Rangers not trust the Jedi?" Keris asked.

"Not completely, no. They view them as... unreliable. Though there was once a Jedi who helped the Trianii Rangers decades ago, before he disappeared..."

"That'd be my dads," Kajex said softly. "Iaora told us Syrra's aunt had been looking for him to train Syrra. He... died, long ago."

The Trianii commander winced. "I'm sorry to hear that. I hope at least that the knowledge that his deeds weren't forgotten gives you some measure of peace."

"It does," Kajex said, looking grateful. "But we should stay on topic."

"Right. Word of the Jedi Knights is widespread enough that the Trianii regard them as interesting stories of heroes with exaggerated mystical powers, but for the most part you won't find many on Trianii worlds who are interested in their history or their help. At worst, they'll look at any outsider as just that- an outsider. And that means having very little trust. Syrra was right to call me if your people need help conducting an operation in our territories."

"Does knowing the language and culture help?" Talrik asked. "I've gotten to be pretty fluent in your people's tongue, making 3 of us capable of speaking it, aside from Syrra."

"It can help with most Rangers, but older civilians might end up feeling offended. Still, the mission outline I was sent by your Jedi Master will have us investigating newer settlements across the Tingel Arm- older cats don't like leaving home, so you'll mostly be dealing with younger, more open-minded Trianii civilians while you conduct yo--" he stopped short, wincing. "... Our investigation," he amended himself, looking apologetic."

Syrra frowned. "Sounds like we'll have less leeway than I'd hoped. Who else knows about what we're attempting to do?"

"Only those who needed to contact me- Syrra, you need to understand that because it's within Trianii territories, a Matriarch is going to be involved whether you like it or not," Pakka sighed. "And while the Rangers are mostly_autonomous, my _pyorn makes it a point to consult with each planetary yu'nar when it comes to dealing with outsiders."

"Does the regional pyorn not trust outsiders?" Syrra asked.

"Oh no, she's actually very much open to the idea of extra-system relations- but the Matriarchs can be a different story altogether," Pakka explained. "To make things easier, she wants this to be a tandem investigation so that any law-breaking will be dealt with by the Rangers, without risk of your Jedi friends having to take matters into their own hands. I know you guys are supposed to be pretty good at restraint, but... best not to risk it all the same."

"Agreed," Locke said. "We will keep ourselves armed and be more than willing to lend a hand in combat should the need arise, though."

"We should discuss the task at hand," Moarn suggested. "Have you had a chance to read the briefing?"

"Thoroughly," Pakka answered. "Imperial Remnant activity from a year ago, possible Jedi and Sith artifacts sold and bought from various black market traders, and references to this 'Circle of Syn' that you're currently fighting. I'll be sure the squadron assigned to aid you will have access to pertinent details- but I can tell you right now, this 'Circle' you mentioned isn't one we've heard of. Cults not dealing with our gods tend be viewed unfavorably, they get reported just on rumor alone."

"What about the artifact and merchants?" Locke asked. "Have you cracked down on the Trianii black market?"

"Well... no," Pakka admitted, "but only because our opinion of black markets tends to be much looser than most other species- it's typically only used to buy and sell items you don't want anyone to know about, and that doesn't necessarily mean it's outlawed. If it is, we deal with the merchant on an individual basis. The sale transactions of such artifacts isn't illegal, mostly because the Trianii have no concept on, er... 'Force-imbued artifacts.' I admit, I had to re-read that statement concerning that bit a few times to understand what that means, and I still don't think I get it."

"We can explain it better in person," Kajex offered. "But for now, let's go over what we're looking to do."

"I'm all ears."

"What we'd like to do is attempt to convince any merchants to part with Jedi or Sith artifacts- we've been authorized to pay for them if it comes to it," the Sentinel added quickly. "We'll then catalogue each artifact and send the specs to Master Moarn and the other Jedi onboard so they can reference them accordingly and figure out whether or not they're dangerous, before returning them to the Inspired. At the same time, we'd like to question any merchants and figure out if there have been any interested buyers or recent attempts at theft, or any rumors concerning Force-sensitive outsiders."

"It sounds reasonable," the green-haired Trianii stated, scratching his head with a look of hesitation, "as long as you let the Rangers do most of the talking, to make them more receptive to questioning. Still, I admit that we Trianii know very little about the Force. If I had my way, I'd say to just trust you guys to do what needs to be done, but if Rangers need to be there then I'd like to at least be present to oversee things. Obviously, I'd prefer you all to be the one to handle the artifacts and tell them whether they're dangerous or not."

"What about our ship, the Inspired?" Moarn asked. "Will there be any trouble in maintaining orbit around the systems you'd investigate?"

"We'd prefer if you keep your Dreadnaught far from merchant hyperspace vectors, just to keep people's minds at ease- and to keep any starfighters in your hangar," he added warningly. "I'm sure you have only the best intentions, but our starfighter patrols are authorized to fire on any vessel they believe poses a threat."

"For the most part, it'll be just the 7 of us, while Moarn keeps an eye on the ship," Syrra responded. "Still, if the Rangers need a few extra pilots for patrol, I'm sure that can be arranged."

"Hopefully there won't be any need for that," Pakka sighed. "But these outer colonies tend to see more pirate activity these days, so I'll keep the offer in mind. So, over the next 3 days I'll look through our ranks to form a task squad to accompany you- and I'll come with to ensure everything proceeds smoothly. Where do you want to start your investigation?"

"You know the outer territories better than I, cousin," Syrra replied. "If there are any colonies where pre-existing temples have been established, that would be a good start."

"Temples?"

"Or any other abandoned religious centers that pre-date Trianii colonization," Kajex added, catching on to Syrra's line of thinking. "Given that it's the Tingel Arm, we might actually come across old Sith ruins."

Pakka said nothing for a few moments, his brow furrowed. "... If you're looking for temples... then I think I can offer a good starting point. I'll do some research and forward the coordinates to the location. For the time being, I'd suggest brushing up on your Trianii and learning our customs before we're set for this investigation- it can only help."

"I'll ensure these knights are ready before you receive them," Master Moarn assured him. "In any event, it looks like we both have preparations to make- thank you for your time, 1st Sinth Pakka."

"It was a pleasure meeting you all," he replied with a smile. "I look forward to working with you all in the next few days. And as always, it was good to see you, Syrra, after so long- hopefully we can find time afterwards to catch up."

The Trianii female grinned back. "Can't wait to have you talk my ear off, cousin. Take care of yourself."

"You too- and Sentinel?"

The wolf straightened. "Yes, Commander?"

His smile was genuine. "Congratulations to you both." The transmission ended.

Master Moarn looked to each of them. "I'd be interested to hear each of your thoughts."

"He seems a nice guy," Keris remarked. "Maybe a bit soft-spoken, but if he's a commander that means he must be a hit with his soldiers and superiors."

Syrra nodded. "He's a skilled fighter and leader," the Trianii assured her. "If he seems a little soft-spoken, you can thank the CSA for that. He was captured and... 'interrogated' by CorpSec when he was a cub- took him a long time before he could open up and talk to other people."

"Are you comfortable adhering to their terms?" Moarn asked.

"We'll have to if we expect to get anywhere or not," Locke replied. "Though I might be right in thinking this operation might not sit well with some of us," he added, smirking at Rook.

"... What's that s'posed to mean?" she said, frowning back. "I mean, sure, this sounds like it's gonna be boring as shit, but you guys seem to have a knack for attracting trouble- you're gonna need me to bail yer asses out, I bet."

"I used to do ops with the Trianii Rangers as a pup, Master Moarn," Kajex told him. "I know what to expect, I think we'll be fine."

"Very well. The only stipulation I'll ask you to adhere to is to keep me updated as often as possible while you conduct your investigations. For now, I'll leave you to make whatever arrangements you feel are best," Moarn said, getting to his feet. "Should you need counsel, you are free to seek me anytime."

"Well, I think I know one thing we might need to do before we leave," Kajex sighed.

"What's that?" Miles asked.

"We're gonna want to talk with Revan."

Saph was not new to successful operations, which were often punctuated with some manner of post-mission celebration that she would try to avoid wherever possible. She was more than willing to acknowledge she was an exception to the usual Lepi- less-inclined to cheerfulness, more thoughtful in her thoughts and actions while lacking the twitches and physical restlessness of her kind. That the most recent operation had been a victory did not stir her emotions or compel her to celebrate in any way- mostly because she was among the few non-Sith who had survived the operation at all.

Beneath the exterior, however, the anxiety was mounting.

Her eyes rested on the artifact her Sith employers had procured, as three Sith engaged in a quiet discussion nearby. Knight Thresher was speaking in hushed tones to two well-groomed and eccentrically-robed mystics- one, a middle-aged handsome human male; the other, an ancient-looking old man who seemed to radiate an aura of hidden power, one that made Saph's fur stand on end. To the other side of the chamber she'd been invited to, Knights Snaire, Apex and Yuda were waiting quietly, standing at attention. 4 guards dress in armored red robes and holding force pikes surrounded the artifact, though they stood so deathly still they might as well have not been there at all. Yet it was the artifact alone that unnerved her the most- the artifact from which a series of heartbeat-like thumps seemed to emanate from.

Surrounded by Sith, she felt very out-of-place indeed.

A change in volume caught her ears. Try as she might, there was no was she could prevent herself from hearing snippets of conversation, her eyes drawn to the talking trio.

"Preliminary tests show it's possible... could even be used in tandem," Thresher murmured.

"... Makes the situation easier... perhaps now we should consider... cylinders to produce 'fuel'..." the handsome male human followed up.

A horrible grin formed on the old man's face, making Saph shudder. "Excellent idea. You may proceed... nevertheless.... want updates."

"Master Voyde... about my idea..." Thresher said suddenly, looking hesitant.

"If it works... you may select who you wish for it." There was a pause in which Voyde turned to glance at Saph- the rabbit turned her gaze away, though she was certain she'd been caught staring at them. "You have made a choice, then?"

"... Remains to be seen... smarter than most, definitely under consideration," Thresher answered. "I'll want... help for the next few operations. I believe I have... a plan."

Voyde nodded. "You may proceed, then. May the Force serve you well."

Thresher bowed low and respectfully, watching as Voyde and the other human left. Once they'd boarded the chamber's only turbolift, the Karkarodon Sith Knight turned, sparing a brief glance at the artifact before striding over to the Lepi slicer.

Very few times in her life had she ever felt the natural impulse of flight-or-fight that her species were known for- but the shark's presence somehow put that feeling into the forefront, and it took an enormous amount of willpower not to show any physical signs of it. She kept her face neutral, her posture relaxed- even though she knew the Sith Knight could feel the feel radiating off her.

"You're nervous."

Saph said nothing for a few moments, still staring at the artifact. "Yeah? What of it?"

"You're keeping it contained," Thresher pointed out.

"Well, I wouldn't be much use to you or anybody else if I decided to lose my nerve, yeah?" Saph muttered, keeping her eyes focused on the artifact and away from him.

"It's... admirable."

Now she did look at him, completely caught off guard by her words, such that she nearly lost her neutral expression. "... Yeah, I guess it is. But again- what of it?"

Thresher said nothing, folding his arms and turning his gaze back to the artifact. "... We detected your contract while you were scouring for jobs in Remnant territories," he started. "It was clear we would need some manner of slicer in order to supplement our forces, and your name was in the top 50 of most-wanted technicians in several systems. Got into trouble with the Hutts, if I'm not mistaken."

"Those tubby fucks are scum by _anybody's_standards- even Sith, if I remember right," Saph growled. "I know the law- it ain't a crime if it ain't committed in Remnant territories."

"You're quite correct. But bold as you may be, what truly caught our attention most about you wasn't just your willingness to defy the Hutts- it was your reaction to us contacting you with the job."

Saph frowned. "... I got the message and I joined up. What's strange about that?"

Thresher returned his gaze to the rabbit, his eyes cold. "What's strange is that you attempted to slice into our records to figure out the details of the job," he said rather pointedly.

The Lepi stiffened, feeling her neutral expression fall into one of apprehension.

"It's usually assumed that Imperial security is too inept to guard their own secrets," Thresher continued, "but this is why we hire our own security experts when guarding Sith secrets. You _almost_managed to get away with it, but left enough of an imprint that it was determined you were the cause of the breach."

Saph backpedaled away slowly, her paw sliding to her hip, nearing her holster. "Now look... you don't--"

The shark laughed low and dangerously, eyeing her blaster. "Don't bother, child. You possess an impressive draw, but it would be useless in the face of a skilled Sith Knight. And as it stands, you have nothing to worry about. I have no intention of having you punished, not after your exemplary performance on this previous operation. You have skill and nerve, and despite your inner fears you stand unflinching in the face of darkness. These are traits I find... attractive."

"I ain't lookin' for a lay, boss," Saph replied, glaring at him.

"You misunderstand."

The Lepi did not relax upon hearing these words. "Yeah...? Then why'd you bring it up?"

"Because I have need of capable allies. My Sith Knight compatriots will suffice for most operations, but... I have a special proposal for you- and before I share it, I want to know what it was you found in the files your sliced into, that compelled you to agree to take the job."

The rabbit said nothing, but the question stoked a fire within her- a burning hatred as she was once-again reminded of her reasons for joining. "... I saw a face and a name in those files. Someone I've wanted dead for a long time. Someone who took my kin away from me."

Thresher arched an eyebrow. "Really. Do tell- I'm sure we can come to an arrangement."

"Yeah?"

"Certainly. You want someone harmed, this much is clear. What would it take to purchase your loyalty, I wonder?"

The blue-furred rabbit glared, her orange-red eyes flashing dangerously.

"You want to buy my loyalty? I want to see my brother avenged. I want to see Kajex Surnahm dead."