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"Hey Kajex?"

The gray wolf perked up at the voice behind him. Movement behind him drew his attention, looking past his reflection in the mirror as his twin's strong arms slid around his midsection. The corners of his muzzle raised as he stood upright and leaned back into the white wolf's arms. "Lookin' good, Locke."

The Guardian smiled, a light blush on his face as he ran a paw through his hair. Normally styled in a way that allowed him to tie it in a traditional Jedi high ponytail, the twins- at Locke's request- had spent part of the previous night trimming his hair such that it matched Kajex's loose, medium-length style. More than ever before, the pair looked like kin, with only eyes, fur, and hair color differing between them. "Thanks," he murmured, giving his brother a nuzzle. "Wasn't sure what you'd think when I asked."

"It'll look great for the imagecaster," the Sentinel assured him, leaning in and kissing the side of his brother's muzzle. "You ready?"

The white wolf stood up a bit straighter and took a deep, calming breath. "She'll say yes. I'm ready for that. I'm just... wondering what the future will hold after."

"We'll deal with it one day at a time," Kajex told him, brushing his hair to the side. "Both the hardship and the joy."

"How about you?" Locke asked, as they stepped out of the captain's washroom together, completely groomed and adorned in their clean Jedi robes. "Are you getting cold feet?"

The gray wolf shot a grin at his twin. "Been looking forward to this for nearly a year. I'm not backing down now that it's one walk down the aisle away."

"I know you didn't get much a taste of our culture, being adopted and all," Etina said softly as she straightened the emerald silk shawl over Keris' shoulders, then pulled the hood over her. "And I know we're on a Trianii world with Trianii customs. But for a sweet girl like you, I just had to see this put to good use. It's made from sapflower silkworm silk, from Naboo; it belonged to my mother and her descendants, and it's one of the few possessions I've kept since leaving that world. But since I've no daughter of my own, and you've been like family to me and my son... I feel like this is the best way to pass it down."

The younger vixen swallowed, fighting back her grateful tears. "Ma'am.... Etina... you didn't have to," she whimpered quietly.

"'Course I didn't," Etina agreed, beaming at her. "But you've been good to me and my son, and an Amaran bride should always have kin there for them. We may not be blood, but I think being around the_Gold Rush_ pack has helped us bond."

"Thank you so much," the vixen purred, gladly embracing the older fox.

"You're welcome, dear," Etina purred back. "Take care of it, and hold onto it for whatever kits you ever have. And if you want some advice for how to incorporate it with your dancing and night ensemble... try taking that off _last_for Locke."

The Jedi vixen giggled and blushed. "He'll like that, for sure."

A click behind her drew their attention, as Iaora entered the room, a smile on her face as her eyes fell on Keris. The vixen had not given up her leather brown vambraces and leg guards, nor her viridian duelist robes, yet the ensemble looked more elegant with the addition of Etina's bridal shawl.

"The color suits you well, Keris," the albino Trianii said softly. "Among the Trianii, a bride in green is a symbol of energy and fertility, and a portent of a good marriage- not that I believe in these superstitions, but it radiates from you all the same."

"If by 'fertile' you mean 'amorous', then I'll take that as a compliment!" Keris chirped with a grin. "But thank you, ma'am, really. For everything. Sometimes it feels awkward, especially after remembering how I met your daughter and all, but..."

"She harbors no ill will for you, and nor do I," Iaora repled, putting a paw on the vixen's shoulder reassuringly. "You spared her even when you were her enemy, and learned to love her despite your initial animosity. That you and your mate would go out of your way to save her life when she needed you most is all I need to know about your hearts."

"I'll keep up the good work," Keris told her, as Iaora drew her into a hug that she gladly returned. "And where's Syrra, as long as we're on the topic?"

"Still getting ready," Iaora sighed, glancing back at the door she just entered from. "I know she'll go through with this, but she's incredibly tense at the moment. After everything that happened yesterday, I think she's trying to steady herself. I'm sure she'll be fine."

"She's a brave kitten," Keris agreed. "There's no need to rush, it's only an hour past sunrise."

Before the conversation could continue, a pair of quiet footsteps and quiet voices interrupted from nearby. Paw in paw, Tegrim and Ra'Tasum rounded the nearest corner, stopping short at the sight of the three women ahead of them. Ra'Tasum looked quite unlike the timid Trianii he usually was, standing up straighter than he'd been known to, his demeanor and expression looking less anxious and more confident. When he spoke, it was not with a quiet and reserved tone, but steady and clear.

"Good morning, Aunt Iaora," he said, as he and Tegrim bowed to her. "Jedi Master Moarn asked me and Tegrim to tell you that all the guests are present, and that Knights Kajex and Locke are ready."

The elder Trianii's smile widened. "Thank you, Ra'Tasum. Syrra will need a little more time, but Keris is ready as well. Miss Lye, if you could escort Keris to the courtyard, I need a moment to speak to my nephew."

"I'd be glad to," the elder vixen replied, hooking Keris' arm and guiding her away. "We'll see you soon."

Iaora waited until the turned a corner and were out of sight before regarding her nephew kindly. "You look well, Ra'Ta. I suspect you had a pleasant night, last night."

The Trianii male blushed, but didn't hide his smile. "Tegrim kept me company, and... I mean, not that we--"

"You needn't hide the nature of your relationship from me, you know me better than to judge you for that- and it's not like I didn't notice, you abandoned discretion towards the end," Iaora chided him playfully, still smiling. "If you're making my nephew happy, Tegrim, then I will gladly support your bond."

The wolf beamed up at her, bowing. "Thank you, ma'am. He's a really great guy, and I... I'm not afraid to say that I love him. I told him last night, and he--"

"I told him I love him too," Ra'Ta finished, without any trace of shame or meekness. "And I'm not going to let anything my mother or my siblings say change that. I have someone to look forward to in my life, and even if I can't see him for a while, I'll wait for him."

"I'm happy for the both of you," Iaora told them, a gentle pang of nostalgia plucking at her heart- their love reminded her deeply of her love for Ka'un. "Take heart in the fact that Alisya no longer judges you for your love as she used to. And always remember that your father would have wanted you to be happy, and that he'd support you."

Ra'Ta's smile faltered for a moment. "Do you... I mean, I know you've said so before, but... do you really mean that?"

For a few moments, Iaora hesitated. The day before had been wondrous and unexpected, and while her heart found solace in seeing Ka'un one more time she could not help but hold a small doubt that she had imagined the whole thing. Even after being reassured later that night that she had not taken leave of her senses, she still wondered.

But it took only those few moments for her to decide it didn't matter. Ka'un had told her to relay a message, and this was a good a time as any.

"Would it help," she asked with a smile, "if I told you that last night, 'it was not just a dream?'"

"So we're agreed then," Ranger Captain Barnn told Pakka as they stood at the front of the center walking path. "As per Jedi tradition, Knights and Antarian Rangers will be on the groom's side--"

"While the Trianii Rangers, including myself and my parents, will take the bride's side," Pakka finished, nodding and smiling. "It will match with their devotion beads, which need to be in close proximity as the union is performed."

Before both of them were two rows of six assembled men and women. On the left, were Knights Garrett, Simetra and Tay-Ir Naull, Talrik, Rook and former Ranger Ray from Southern Star Station; on the right were his parents, Ataurre and Keeheen, and three of the Rangers he had selected as support for the Jedi. He flashed a smile to two older Trianii, who nodded and smiled back. "And the weapon salute will be held out for both couples, regardless of affiliation; after their contributions on Pouma V, Knights Locke and Keris should be honored as well, to inform them that they have our gratitude and blessing."

The central courtyard of the estate was abuzz with gentle volume and activity, as guests connected to the brides and grooms met and spoke with each other. A cool breeze blew from between the massive stone spires that housed the medical facilities and living spaces that the estate was composed of, while shafts of sunlight speared in from these openings and lit the scene with a warm, golden light. While Markus and Calyah had their ceremony performed among friends and family of Baarok Pharmaceuticals, the union of Kajex and Syrra, and Locke and Keris brought in additional Jedi and Republic allies eager to attend the marriage of good friends. Nary a word of discontent was traded among the strangers, finding common ground in their acquaintances. All the were missing were the brides, grooms, and officiator.

"Looks good," Barnn acknowledged. "To make it easier, just take the end seats on either side." He chuckled as the rows took their seats. "Feels like old times again, seeing a Jedi wedding. Brings back some of the best memories I have of my time as a Ranger."

"I know the feeling," Ray agreed, leaning back in his seat and scanning the guests, watching as some of the Kanj'Isha Padawans engaged in a lively talk with a few of the guests they hadn't yet met. "Alot more family and friends this time, though. I think Bran and Kane would have loved seeing the connections these two have made, he was always big on fostering relationships between different communities. And seeing more of Kajex's species? I wasn't expecting that, but I'm glad he found kin all the same."

"Speaking of which, where are the grooms?" Barrn queried, turning to Talrik.

"They were ready about half an hour ago, sir," the fox replied quickly. "They're just waiting on Syrra now."

"Wedding jitters, probably," Artuarre remarked. "I remember having them when it was me and Keeheen, so many years back."

"But you pulled through like any brave Trianii Ranger," Keeheen purred, leaning in behind her and nuzzling her cheek. "Thanks to your guidance as a junior trainer and her education as a Jedi, our niece has stood up to become a recognized hero among the Trianii- I think she'll get over her nervousness."

One of the doors behind them opened, drawing attention from the guests as they briefly settled down into silence- only for the talk to resume once they saw it was Master Moarn who had joined them. The Trandoshan Jedi Master looked much as he did, robed as he often was, though anyone who had known him and who was attentive enough might have noticed an air of hopeful apprehension around him. Once he spotted Barnn he made his way toward him, extending a claw.

"It's good to see you, Mathias," Moarn hissed pleasantly.

"You too, Master Moarn," the Ranger Captain smiled back. "Are you up to this?"

He nodded. "I realized how great an honor this was when Syrra asked me to perform the ceremony. I'd worried even recently that my past actions had caused too much of a rift between us. But since I have her trust, I intend to do right by her, and by Kajex- so to that end, I prepared a blend of Jedi and Trianii dialogue." He smiled. "I'm ready to begin as soon as they arrive."

The door behind him opened again and once more the guests turned in anticipation. This time, however, the silence lingered as the doors swung outward and slammed against the stonework; at the same moment Tegrim and Ra'Tasum came jogging out, quickly making a beeline to Master Moarn with a pair of anxious expressions. The Trandoshan frowned as they stopped short and bowed, looking out of breath.

"Tegrim, out of your entire pack, I expected better behavior from you!" the Jedi Master admonished him sternly. "Using the Force to open a door is more than a bit superfluous, even if it is a good example of your growing abilities- please try to keep the volume down."

"Sorry... Master Moarn!" the wolf panted. "But I had... to warn you!"

"About what," Pakka asked, looking worried. "Is the Imperial Remnant attacking Trianii worlds again?"

"Nothing... like that... cousin!" Ra'Tasum gasped, trying to get his breathing under control. "Loka came in... a few minutes ago... said she had to find Syrra first!"

"She's in danger?" Rook asked, getting to her feet. "Dammit, knew I should've stayed an' kept an eye on her!"

"Who's looking for her, Ra'ta?" Talrik pressed, getting to his feet.

"Nobody who means her any harm."

Every eye in the crowed turned to the source of the voice, a trained Trianii female with tan fur, green eyes, and golden braids of hair; she wore simple, unassuming robes of green and gold, yet not a single guest missed the lightsaber and blaster pistol hanging from her belt. Behind her were a group of six other Trianii of various heights, builds, and pelt colors; though three of the females were adorned clothing appropriate for nobles, two in priest robes. The remaining Trianii, a tall and strong male with brown fur, black hair and deep black eyes, was dressed in light armor and had a spear strapped to his back.

Talrik and Rook were the first to move followed by Pakka, Attuare and Keeheen, their expressions sour as they recognized at least one of the uninvited visitors and stopped her short with a pair of uplifted paws. "That's close enough, Alisya," Talrik growled. "Rook and I checked the guest list, and neither you nor your party here were invited."

One of the pale-yellow Trianii priestesses scowled at him, her cool blue eyes regarding the fox with contempt. "Who is this runt, to tell us we're not permitted on the estate of our own kin?"

Rook's eyes flashed angrily. "Oy! That 'runt' packs a good eight inches on him and he don't run from hoity-toity _hut'tuun_what think they can party-crash anyplace they weren't invited to!"

The priestess looked ready to respond, but Alisya quickly cut her off. "You'll excuse Rook and Talrik for their coarse words. They are brave and loyal beings who are merely standing up for their family, Mehti," Alisya responded. "They have risked their lives to protect our youngest sister in the past. And Talrik is quite correct in saying that we were not asked to attend this ceremony." She bowed to him and Rook. "It's good to see that you and your family, or pack, are still well."

"Good luck gettin' us to feel similar," the otter scowled. "We figured you learned your lesson the _first_time Syrra kicked your ass. Don't think that just because Syrra made nice with you that we're gonna go soft on you when we inevitably boot you offa the doc's estate, even if you've brought some kin to help you out!"

"This one thinks she can stand up to us?" the tallest male chuckled.

"I wouldn't laugh if I were you, Imarou," Alisya chided him seriously. "She's a Mandalorian who fights dirty- and it works."

The otter snickered. "Well thanks, lady. I'll take that as a compliment."

"I meant it as one," Alisya smiled back.

"You can stop pretending to be nice, cousin," Pakka suggested, folding his arms. "Syrra might have made peace with you, but that doesn't count as an automatic invitation. You might as well tell us why you're here at all. If you intend to object to the union, I can tell you right now that Syrra will ignore you. She is marrying Kajex Surnahm, whether it be your will or not."

"I could annul this union," Mehti shot back, looking cross.

"Enough, Mehti," Alisya said firmly.

"If I understand the laws and religion of the Trianii correctly," Master Moarn interrupted evenly as he approached the group, "you may only annul a union if it was performed by a priest or priestess of your gods; and the marriage of any two people must be recognized, even those of outsiders. As per Syrra and Kajex's request, I have been selected to perform the union- which makes it a non-denomination union."

"Jedi Master Moarn agreed to oversee the marriage," Talrik confirmed. "And as a Jedi Master of the Jedi Praxeum, he qualifies as a servant of the New Republic- which makes it a _Republic_union as well."

"This is nonsense!" Mehti proclaimed. "I may not be Force-sensitive, but I've read the old laws and our mother informed us on the Jedi ways- they are not allowed to marry or have families!"

"Unless they are Corellian Jedi- as Kajex is," Moarn replied, a smile on his face. "That exemption existed even before the Clone Wars. As it is, our stances on marriage and family have changed in this newest iteration of our Jedi Order. We see it as a detriment to deny any sentient being, Force-sensitive or not, the urge and desire to love and bond. Since I have been concerned that there may be those attempting to intervene during the wedding of a_very_ close friend of mine, I took the liberty of doing my research- I'm afraid there's very little you can do to prevent this from happening."

"And it's not our intention to stop this union," Alisya cut in before Mehti could say anything. "At least, the most of us don't wish to."

"If that really is the case," a voice said from the other side of the courtyard, "then we _might_consider letting you stay."

The crowed murmured anxiously between them as Kajex and Locke Surnahm strode into the central area, clad in their Jedi robes. All eyes fell on the twins as they approached the group, Kajex raising a paw to reassure Rook and Talrik as they looked ready to interject. "It's alright, guys. I appreciate you being willing to deal with gatecrashers, but ease up a bit. No need to get into any tangles with Syrra's kin." He and Locke paused and regarded Alisya with a smile before bowing. "<It's good to see you again,>" he purred in their language.

His fluency in their native tongue seemed to unsettle the group, and particularly seemed to offend Mehti severely, but Alisya merely smiled and bowed back respectfully. "<As it is to see you, Sentinel. You honor me by keeping your word and watching over my little sister.>"

"<We like to keep our promises,>" Locke pointed out, further startling Alisya's siblings with his skillful articulation. "And who is accompanying you today, may we ask?"

Alisya stepped to the side and gestured to them all. "My brothers and sisters, here to attend the ceremony. Dinris, Anris, and Vunris, my elder triplet sisters," she started, and all three of them bowed as their names were spoken. Those nearest to them could see the differences in their eye colors, ranging from blue, teal, and green. "They run our tapestry weaver-houses, museums, and cultural centers."

"We're pleased to make your acquaintances, Kajex and Locke Surnahm," Vunris said.

"We wish you and your wives many happy years and offspring," Anris followed up.

"And the capability to sire them," Dinris finished.

At that, both twins traded amused smiles. "We... appreciate your blessings," Locke replied.

Alisya continued, gesturing to the powerful-looking male as he folded his arms and regarded Locke critically, eyeing his lightsaber pike with a look of skepticism. "Our eldest brother, Imrou. He is Head Spearmaster of the Con'quai combat academy here on Ekibo." He offered no words, merely nodding curtly.

Shrugging, she introduced the final two sisters. "And Petra and Mehti, both of whom work as priestesses of Ekibo. They insisted on being here today to ensure the union is conducted smoothly- or so I was told," she added, giving Mehti a sour look. The younger Trianii folded her arms and looked away defiantly.

"We've gotten things set up fairly well to emulate a traditional Jedi wedding," Kajex informed them. "But thank you all the same. I'm glad that you won't be trying to get Syrra to change her mind about marrying me. That said," he added, "if you somehow caught wind of this ceremony, then I'm pretty sure Bast knows. So I'm left with two questions; where is she, and what is her game this time? As she's probably told you all, she doesn't care for me."

Petra stepped forward and bowed politely. "Your pardon, Sentinel Kajex, but I wish only to correct you. We know of no attempt to cease your union, and your Jedi Master is quite correct in saying there is little we can do to intervene. While our mother has had misgivings about you in the past, you would be surprised of the impact your recent exploits have had on her opinion- as it has with several of us. We have no intention of restricting your union to our sister."

"I probably would be surprised," Kajex agreed evenly. "But until I hear it from the dewback's mouth, I'm not going to--"

"Did you just call our mother a dewback?!" Mehti hissed.

"It's a figure of speech, you know what he meant, Mehti!" Alisya sighed in exasperation.

"So if she's not here to change Syrra's mind, then why is she here at all?" Kajex pressed firmly.

"That," Alisya said, "is between her and Syrra, for now."

In another part of the estate, Syrra was seated in front of a large mirror, staring at her own reflection. Half of her was glad that she had eaten a light breakfast; the other half was struggling not to expel it from her stomach, as knots and flutters seemed to fly throughout her digestive tract at sublight speeds. Even her Jedi calming exercises had proven to be of limited effectiveness, though as the seconds wore on and she focused more, she felt some of the tension slip away.

The urge to regurgitate lingered.

She spared a glance at a nearby chronometer. There was no set time on when the ceremony was to begin, only that it would start once everyone was ready. Keris had left the room perhaps a half-hour earlier, ready to get the ceremony underway; yet something seemed to keep Syrra rooted to the spot. She'd done everything she needed, worn the robes and white linen gloves she'd set out the night before, even meditated on the Force to ensure that this was not a mistake; though to her shame, she divined nothing that suggested she call it off.

So why am I still here?

Her father had told her today would be the happiest day of her life, and despite having only seen him for a few minutes and feeling his presence through the Force in that limited time-frame, she could sense that he was perceiving everything. Both her mother and father were here to witness the occasion, as was her best-loved brother. Nobody out in the central courtyard would object to her union. Everything was perfect.

Until it wasn't.

She heard the door opening, taking in a deep breath and quickly readjusting her robes. "I'm sorry, mother, I know everyone else is ready. I'm just... just trying to calm myself."

"Perhaps," a deep female voice suggested, "you should clear your mind of anxieties before you meditate."

Syrra jerked up at the voice, now looking behind her with the mirror. Iaora had not entered the room. Standing with her head held high, far taller than the Trianii Jedi, adorned in the dressings of a Trianii noble and with a satchel at her hip, was Matriarch Bast.

She whirled around to face her, fury building up within. "What are you doing here?!" she snarled angrily.

Bast did not speak for a moment, giving her blood-daughter a considering look before answering. "Clearly, I am here to attend the wedding of my youngest daughter," she replied smoothly.

"I didn't want you here!" Syrra shouted, his paws curled up into fists. "You were the _last_person I wanted attending! Who let you in?!"

"My sister," Bast said firmly. "She allowed me to enter after I made my intentions known to her, and has agreed to let me speak to you alone. We may not agree on everything, but she did not deny my right to be here."

"Your right to-- how did you-- who told you?!"

"As much as you may not like me, you know me well enough to know that I am not stupid. You gave a touching, system-wide speech at the mass burial at Pouma V, my child. And while the message resonated very deeply, it did not escape my notice that you had referred to yourself as Syrra Surnahm. Your intention to take the Sentinel's last name was very clear, yet I also know for a fact no ceremony had taken place in Navio City, considering that, apart from the burial, all clerical services had been canceled during the reconstruction."

"You couldn't have known our union ceremonies were happening here!" Syrra shot back. "I could have had it performed on Yavin 4!"

"You could have. But then you made the mistake of transmitting your intentions over an uncoded signal that I was overseeing," Bast remarked. "After some of Matriarch Ja'Murah's political leanings, I thought it best to keep my eye on the settlement, particularly as I am still its primary financier."

The breach in privacy stung Syrra badly, moreso as it was a trusted friend and lover that was the victim of Bast's intrusion. "You had no right!" the younger Trianii snapped, feeling the corner of her eyes burning and her chest heavy as she struggled not to break down. Things were falling apart with every second, and only her anger at the woman before her was keeping her from dropping to her knees in defeat. "I didn't want you here because I didn't want you ruining today, much less my best friend's wedding day! This was supposed to be--" She stopped short, nearly choking up as tears ran down her face. "Please... just go! Let me have this one day... or I'll... I'll--"

"I know you better than that, Syrra," Bast cut her off gently, folding her arms. "You're not going to stop this union, not when you're having it performed at home, where you have always dreamed of having it. You and I may not talk much, but I am well-aware that you love this place with all your heart. You would want your union to take place here- just as you would want your _true_mother to be in attendance."

It was these final words that caused Syrra's anger to be completely replaced with confusion "... What... what did you say?" she whispered, her eyes still wet.

"Iaora," Bast clarified heavily, casting her eyes to the floor. "You would want her to be there. Not me- her. And I admit that I do not blame you."

Of all the things Syrra had expected Bast to say, she had not even begun to imagine that this would be one of them; yet while her blood-mother still held her head high as she usually did, there was no arrogance or haughtiness in eyes or expression. Her paws relaxed as the grief and fury ebbed away, a curious desire for knowledge displacing it.

"So... you accept that I've..." Syrra started to say, but Bast nodded before she finished.

"There is a bond there that I have no desire to sever," the matriarch confirmed. "Despite the blood we share, our spirits never truly aligned as tightly as a mother and daughter should. As I said little more than a week ago, you take after Ka'un in your bravery and devotion to duty. I mean now what I meant then; that he would have been proud of you."

"Th... thank you," Syrra said, subdued by the compliment as she wiped her face.

"That said, there are qualities in you that reflect those of my sister," Bast continued. "Despite her shortcomings in politics and unwillingness to argue for my seat, she has become a capable healer and is compassionate to a fault. I am told that although you demonstrated incredible fighting skill against the Imperial and Sith invaders, you spent much of your time providing healing to your people. In this way, you take after your surrogate mother deeply."

"And you're not angry?" Syrra asked. It did not matter if she was, yet she was curious to know why she was not.

"There are worse people to take as surrogates," Bast shrugged. "I may not see eye-to-eye with her, but she is still my sister. And your taking after her has helped our people, kept them protected. I am not ashamed to have lost you to her."

Syrra said nothing for a while, her head cocked slightly as she tried to fathom what her blood-mother might be thinking. She had never known Bast to praise anyone simply for doing their duty. Much more calmly than before, she repeated her first question. "So... why are you here?"

"Sit, and I will tell you," Bast told her, gesturing to her seat. As the Trianii Jedi obliged, Bast turned and raised her paw to a nearby chair, the furniture sliding smoothly across the wooden floor until it was settled a few feet front of Syrra, then seated herself before the younger woman.

"That's... the first time I've seen you use the Force," she said softly.

"I spent most of my life keeping my abilities hidden, although your sister admitted that she informed you of them," Bast acknowledged. "And in the time since that revelation, I'm sure you've been wondering why I never taught you what I know. Perhaps you also wondered where I learned to use the Force, as well. I feel you deserve an answer."

"Self-training isn't unheard of," Syrra replied. "Most of our Jedi Masters at the Praxeum spent years honing their abilities by themselves. I guess I figured you may have been the same way, training under your own terms and developing your own skills."

"Not entirely," Bast corrected her, reaching into her satchel. From it she drew a intricately designed, perfectly cubed instrument of what appeared to be green-tinted glass. Beneath the surface were subtle hints of circuitry, while the top of the cube held what looked like a simple, small holoprojector. "I shall be cross if your training as a Jedi has failed to educate you on what this device might be," she said, with a subtle smile on her features.

"It's a holocron," Syrra said, peering at it with interest. "A data receptacle meant to house teachings for Force-sensitives. I've seen and handled a few before." She looked up at the matriarch, who was nodding. "Where did you get this?"

"It belong to your great-grandaunt, Lorneth," Bast told her. "She was a Jedi Artisan, one who studies the nature of creativity and it's connection to the Force. It was her prized work, as she spent some of its data expounding on the importance of creativity and culture, and its connections to civilization; which is why the loomworks and weaving houses in Nidma's Ravine were built in the first place, to honor her. It was the source of my own Force education, though I never unlocked its full potential."

"Why not?" Syrra asked.

"Because I am not a Jedi," Bast answered simply. "I do not follow the Jedi Code as she did, and so the holocron judged me unworthy by its standards. It was, in many ways, a source of frustration for me. Nevertheless, once I obtained a sufficient amount of skill, I selected a daughter as a student."

"Alisya," Syrra nodded. "Is she the only other one of us who can use the Force?"

"You, Alisya..." she paused, looking hesitant, "... and Ra'Tasum."

Syrra's eyes widened. "Ra'Ta? But..." Dozens of questions popped into her head as she tried to parse through the revelation, shocked at the admission and curious of its validity. "He's _never_demonstrated any use of the Force. And if that were true, he would've had a solid midichlorian count- Alisya, too. Uncle Aarn wouldn't have overlooked..."

She trailed off, blinking. Except he _had_overlooked midichlorian counts before, where it concerned Kajex.

Bast nodded, seeming to pick up that Syrra's silence had meant she was starting to piece things together. "While your uncle is not my _preferred_source for medicine and healing, I'm willing to admit that he knows his trade well. Yet he is also a man who will not look deeper than he needs to in order to treat a patient. If he already has the records he requires, he will not investigate further."

"You falsified their records," Syrra said, sitting up. "_Our_records."

Bast shook her head. "Close- but not precisely. One of the details in this holocron is a little-known fact that midichlorian concentration can be temporary diluted via the application of anesthetics. I had this claim tested by our family doctor on me, before Aarn started his business; once it was confirmed, I replaced my old information with the new, then had the same technique conducted on you, Alisya, and Ra'Ta. When Aarn required our medical records, I produced the modified results."

"Why?" Syrra asked, curious.

"Don't be silly, cub," the matriarch chided her. "You know full well that any entry made into a medical database can be parsed through by any interested third party. My goal was to protect myself and you from being targeted by the Empire; although your potency in the Force quickly became an issue."

"Then why did you choose to only train Alisya in the ways of the Force, instead of me?" Syrra pressed here, leaning forward.

"Because you and I, as now, had no real connection," Bast explained quietly. "Alisya showed devotion to ours ways, and was stronger than you by a moderate margin. I felt I could trust her to succeed where you would not. I needed to ensure that the student I choose would have the strength to survive, to protect themselves. In hindsight... I would have preferred to have chosen you. But in your early years I could only see you as..." She trailed off, looking away with a subtle trace of shame in her features.

"... A runt," Syrra finished for her, now understanding. The pieces clicked into place, and in that moment the picture became much clearer. "You didn't want me to expose myself to danger. That's why you tried to keep me from joining the Rangers; why you petitioned for my assignments to be limited to surface patrols; and why you were adamant against me joining the Jedi Praxeum for so long. You didn't think I had what it took to survive, to protect myself from the Empire."

The elder Trianii stared at her for several seconds before nodding, letting out a quiet sigh.

"What about Ra'Tasum?" Syrra pressed.

Bast's visage hardened and Syrra wondered if this were the wrong topic to broach. After a few tense seconds, the matriarch sighed and spoke. "His potential was less than yours, even though I considered training all three of you at one point. His interest in the arts might have been one way in which he could have melded his connection to the Force to cultural pursuits, much as honored Lorneth once had." She grimaced. "But things changed- once I became aware of his...proclivities... I made it a point not to train him. I saw no point."

"He deserves better than that." Syrra responded, her brow furrowing as some of her anger returned. "Just because he's found love in other males doesn't make him any less worthy as a Force-sensitive! And it doesn't make him unworthy of a parent's love, either!"

"You are not a mother," the elder Trianii growled. "I don't expect you to understand the gravity of his offenses, and what we stand to lose by accepting them."

"Oh,bullshit!" Syrra shouted, standing up and glaring at her blood-mother as her anger boiled up again. "You can't use politics as a veil, pretending to have compassion for your own son while treating him poorly!"

At that Bast stood back up again, and in that one motion the seven-foot tall Trianii's glare had become potent. But if anything shocked and scared Syrra more at that moment, it was the pain that was mixed in with the expression. "You think I don't_love your brother?!" Bast snapped, her tight grip on the holocron causing her paw to shake. "You think this is about_politics?! You think I didn't go out of my way to protect him as well as I protected you and Alisya from discovery by the Empire?! Every day_I'm reminded of the choices he's made to sin against the gods! And every day I pray to Kunik, to judge him by his heart instead of his degeneracy; I pray to Trian, to give wisdom to my son so he'll turn away from his path; and I pray to Ekibo, so that when my time comes,_all of us will meet in What Lies Beyond!" She stopped, breathing in deeply as she trembled. "I know you don't believe as most Trianii do, Syrra... but to those of us who do, we fear we will never see him again when Kunik claims what she is owed."

"And how is that worse that rarely seeing him at all_because you clung to your beliefs instead of clinging to him?" Syrra countered firmly. "Why can't you just value him as a member of our _family, regardless of what you believe, or what might happen when we die?"

She would have continued, had she not borne witness to something she had never seen before. The words were halfway out of her muzzle when she froze, her eyes spotting the single tear that rolled down the matriarch's face. From a distance one might have assumed her expression was that of displeasure, but so close to Bast, Syrra could see her trembling, pain behind her eyes as she seated herself again, casting her eyes to the floor. To witness Bast, someone she had known to express an unfathomable amount of pride and strength, expressing grief tied to a claim of love, was enough for her to back down. After a few tense seconds, Bast sat back down- but this time her posture was lesser for it, her shoulders slumped and her head hanging low in sadness.

"I lost your father, Syrra," she said huskily. "_We_lost him. It was the single most painful moment in my life, and despite his infidelity with my own sister... I know he loved me all the same. We will see him again at the end of our lives. But I _beg_the gods that our family is whole, when we do. The gods do not look favorably upon a broken family."

Syrra regarded the matriarch despondently, wondering how long Bast had known of the relationship Iaora had with her father, and why she'd never mentioned it. "I think... our family is already broken," she said quietly, a pang of sadness aching in her chest.

Bast nodded, bringing a paw to her eyes and wiping them impatiently. "Perhaps so. Perhaps... some of the blame lies with me. But as much as it pains me, I will not apologize for doing what I strongly believe is best for our family."

Syrra sighed shakily, sitting back down, her posture matching Bast's. An entire lifetime of assumptions, her perception of her own blood-mother, had been swept aside by several admissions she had not been prepared for. And yet, while a strong part of her wanted to argue against her blood-mother and deny these claims, she could not sense the matriarch lying to her, nor see any advantage in doing so. A stronger part of her clung to the words of her father, spoken only the day before.

"There may come a day when she needs your strength, even if she's too proud to admit it. Don't judge her too harshly, and be ready to embrace her if she should ever take that step."

She could not say for sure that this was the moment- but as a healer, Syrra knew better than to let an open wound fester into something worse. When she finally managed to speak, it was soft, but with clear conviction; she would try to heal this rift, if she could.

"I still don't think you're going about it the right way," she started slowly. "Although, I think... I can understand why. Even so, you can't protect us from our choices, or the consequences of making them- not without preventing us from growing and learning from them." She paused, then started to remove the white linen glove on her right hand. "But if my time with Kajex has taught me one thing, it's that family is worth saving, and loving; even if they're not perfect, and even if they make choices we don't agree with. We may stumble, and we may lose some of what we are- maybe permanently." She pulled the glove free, revealing her songsteel paw to the matriarch- an injury she sensed Bast had no idea about. "Sometimes the costs of those choices are significant- sometimes you suffer greatly for them. And yet, in my opinion, that's not nearly as bad as losing someone because you chose to push them away."

Bast stared at the prosthetic limb, her expression unreadable. It was a while before she spoke. "Your father used to feel the same way. I knew of his dalliances with my sister, and I resented him for it for a while. But make no mistake, cub- I loved him. If you had any fears that I coerced him into our marriage, or captivated his mind, you can put them to rest. Ka'un wanted to help me, just as he did others, and went to great lengths to do so." She looked up at Syrra, managing a small smile. "Ridiculous lengths, truth be told. Perhaps you are right, and he simply tried to do whatever it took."

"Like you. Sometimes... love makes us do stupid things," Syrra replied, the corners of her muzzle curling into a reluctant smile. "A lesson I also learned from Kajex."

For a long while, neither of them spoke. An air of awkwardness loomed around them as the two sat quietly. Though Syrra was certain the two had held discussions as long as the one they were having now, she could not remember what they were about, or when they had happened- certainly long before she had joined the Trianii Rangers, that much she was sure of. After what seemed like hours (though Syrra was sure only minutes had passed), Bast broke the silence.

"I beg your pardon," she said quietly, "but I never did answer your question."

The Trianii Jedi straightened up. "You didn't? I mean... which question?"

"You asked why I was here. I was honest when I said I wished to attend your union. If are worried that I've come here with your siblings today in an attempt to object against your wedding... then I will tell you right now that I have no intention of interrupting you."

Syrra opened her muzzle, then closed it, trying to think of what to say. This had been her most pressing concern for Bast's presence, but now that it was off the table she could not help wondering why. "What changed?" she asked.

"You've already taken this man to be your mate," Bast pointed out. "You didn't even need to have this union, your heart and mind are in tandem when it comes to him. There's nothing I _can_do to stop you. I have given up attempting to change your mind."

"It didn't stop you from sending a bounty hunter," Syrra reminded her, keeping calm as she said it. "And it didn't stop you from putting 2nd Sinth Chaq up to the job- he nearly murdered Kajex on Kunik."

Bast's brow furrowed. "... A Trianii Ranger tried to murder him?"

"Yes? The one you sent?" Syrra pressed her, feeling slightly cross that the matriarch did not remember. "He attacked two of my friends and used the Burning to main Talrik's arm, leaving Kajex vulnerable. If I hadn't taught him how to heal himself through the Force, he would be dead now."

The matriarch looked disturbed by this, shaking her head. "I swear to you, Syrra, I have no idea who you are talking about. The Selonian was the only gun I hired to eliminate your fiancee. This 'Chaq' you mentioned had nothing to do with me- I certainly would not have hired a thug willing to perform the Burning on anyone."

The Trianii Jedi folded her arms, frowning at her blood-mother. She could sense no deception from the matriarch, but the knowledge that she had sufficient skill in the Force as well as a past desire to have him removed was enough to cause her to wonder if the truth were still being hidden from her. Still, unwilling to throw out accusations and focused on mending the gap between them, she sighed and brushed it off. "Alright... so you say Chaq wasn't your idea. Fine. But you still sent Rook. So what _really_changed since then? You never liked Kajex."

"And I still don't," Bast chuffed. "He's boorish, temperamental, foul-mouthed, and lacks respect for those in positions of divine or political authority. He is without any sense of subtlety in his words or actions unless he's trying to disguise himself as a commoner, is prone to outbursts when attempting to protect those he cares about, and will underestimate those who work him up." She paused, before sighing and giving Syrra a wry smile. "But... he is also a good man, and I admit my attempts to have him eliminated were unnecessary. When he first told me he fought alongside his fathers to protect our people in the past, I had believed it to be a baseless claim meant to curry my favor, while casting his parents in a positive light. Now, I admit that I misjudged him- and if he was speaking truly of his fathers, I misjudged them as well. I'm told he stood at the forefront of battle alongside the Trianii Rangers, and was responsible for saving many lives. So... for that... I suppose he has earned a small measure of my trust."

Syrra arched an eyebrow. "If that's the case... it would help if you told him."

"The hell I will, cub," Bast scoffed, folding her arms- though there was slight upward curl in her muzzle. "I'll give up my position as matriarch first, before he ever hears those words come from _my_mouth. But... I will stop trying to maim him. And I will allow him to have this union with you."

"We don't need your permission," Syrra said defiantly, folding her arms and holding her head up- though she allowed herself to smirk. "But... thank you."

"Don't thank me, Syrra- by all means, be defiant if you wish. In that, cub, perhaps you take a little after me," Bast suggested, her expression softening somewhat. "In any event, there are other reasons for my presence today."

"Such as?"

Bast held out the holocron to her. "I have gained all the knowledge this device will allow me to access. I am not a Jedi; but while your Jedi Praxeum may espouse a different ideology than those that came before it, I'm confident it will yield its teachings to you- and your students. Consider it one of my wedding gifts to you."

It was with a feeling of shock, gratitude, humility, and hesitance that Syrra stretched her songsteel paw out, paused, and then allowed Bast to place in her palm. The sensors in her mechanical paw transmitted the weight and feel of the cube, but it was the slight surge in Force energy that she felt more, the weight of potential knowledge within that caused a larger reaction within her nerves. With a solemn nod, she held it close to her. "Thank you. I'll see to it that its lessons will reach others."

"Be sure that you do," Bast replied, holding her head high. "If our people must mingle with the rest of the universe, let it be in this way- with Trianii wisdom being offered by a Trianii Jedi. You have thus far become an example to our people, a paragon of bravery and strength to follow; even now, your name is known in almost every Trianii household. Cubs will grow up to learn your name, and I'm certain our people's history will name you one of its heroes." She folded her arms, now giving Syrra a genuine, broad smile. "So... try not to disappoint."

Syrra winced. "Well... damn. You certainly know how to throw the weight of duty on to me effectively. You're _enjoying_this, aren't you."

"Immensely, cub," Bast acknowledged with a slight chuckle. "Not the political figure I hoped you'd be... but it will suffice. And as long as we're on the subject, be sure to let your husband know that- there's no need for him to drag _you_down to his level, even if you like it."

"Yes, I happen to like being on his level when I don't need to hide who I am. But I'll let him know in a week- I'm in no hurry to spoil the mood," she told Bast, before sliding the holocron into her satchel. "You said there were other reasons you came here today. What else is there? I don't want to hold up the grooms for much longer."

"Fair enough- they've certainly been kept waiting," Bast agreed. "As we have discussed, you and your Jedi allies will be prohibited from entering Trianii space for the purposes of conducting operations. That will still stand."

"Very well," Syrra nodded. "I still think it's a mistake, but we've already said yes. So, what about it?"

"I recall hearing that you will return to the Jedi Praxeum on Yavin 4. I will likely not see you for a while. So when you leave here..." Bast said, hesitating for a moment, "... I want you to take Alisya and Ra'Tasum with you."

Syrra's eyes went wide. "You-- what?"

"I have taught Alisya all I know, and it was not enough to best you in combat," the matriarch explained. "There is potential in her, but it will not be realized here. Sending you to the Jedi Praxeum was the best course of action in your case- perhaps it will be for her."

"It was Kajex that helped me realize my potential," Syrra corrected her, "even though you may not be pleased to hear it."

"My point is that you needed to find someone to help you. If I cannot help Alisya, someone else must; I have discussed this matter with her, and she agrees, so she will be traveling with you. Perhaps she will learn better from a non-Trianii. Ideally, she might learn from you... and your mate," she added reluctantly. "But there are other reasons. This Imperial Remnant, and Circle of Syn I was told of- they have struck against the Trianii, and one of our own has sided with them. I cannot abide this injustice. Our people may be at stake in the future, but if it should come to that, I would have you be a hope to them- and I would like for my blood stand at your side to see this evil be ended."

"It's not the Jedi way to seek vengeance," Syrra said. "But I_will_ do my part to end the threat. For the Trianii, and for the rest of the universe. And I'll help Alisya learn all I know." She paused. "What about Ra'Tasum?"

"I don't expect much from him, to be honest," Bast answered. "But I was wrong about you- perhaps I shall be wrong about him, as well. For my peace of mind, perhaps service to the light will absolve him from the sins of his... preferences. Besides," she added with a sigh, "due to his inability to code his messages, I've become aware that he's currently enamored with one of the Sentinel's people. Might as well let him go with you so he'll stop being so miserable."

"You_really_ need to start respecting other people's privacy," Syrra remarked, shaking her head. "But fine, I'll prove you wrong- again. I'll see to it that I trump every expectation you have, and maybe open your eyes in the process."

"See that you do," Bast replied, getting to her feet and nodding. "Then I suppose we have nothing more to discuss. All that is left is to give you my final gift."

"What's that?" Syrra asked, sitting up and cocking her head slightly as Bast reached into her satchel again, producing a well-polished hardwood box.

The elder Trianii gazed down at her. "I had expected that you would succeed me in politics when you were born, for you were the last child I planned to have. But your spirit is as Ka'un's, and I have no right to pull you from the path you have chosen- the path he would have wanted you to follow." She opened the box, revealing a silver-wrought circlet with a single, sapphire stone set in the middle. "Yet you are still my child by blood; and I would have you, just like your triplet sisters, to carry the stone of your birth on your brow."

Syrra stared at the circlet, swallowing. It was truly a beautiful piece of jewelry, a work of art that was both simple and elegant. "As a Jedi--"

"You are not meant to covet material things," Bast finished for her. "You alone can tell me, either through the Force or with your heart, whether I am attempting to purchase your love with trinkets- and what my gift ultimately means to you." She smiled. "But if I may say so... I believe it would look fitting with your robes and hood."

The younger Trianii's eyes lingered on the headpiece for several more moments before they flicked up to stare into the matriarch's visage. It was difficult for Syrra to remember when her blood-mother ever smiled with sincerity, but a long life of knowing her mother was enough for her to recognize when the matriarch was being honest. Bast's smile, while calm and composed (and still a little haughty), was genuine- and so Syrra's returning smile, while reluctant, was also genuine.

"Well... let me put it on, so we can finally get this ceremony started."

One of the the estate's servants had informed everyone present that the brides were ready, and that ceremony would start minutes later. Relief swept through the attendees and the grooms, as more than an hour without word from Iaora had left the ceremony at a standstill, even with Alisya's assurances that neither she nor her siblings had any intention of objecting. Having no clue what Bast intended by speaking to Syrra, and with constant sour looks from Mehti and Imrou that spoke of their discontent, Kajex spent the entire time in silence, hoping that the wedding would eventually continue without a hitch. He nearly had to restrain a whoop of joy upon hearing the ceremony was back on track.

Keris was the first of the brides to arrive, the vixen looking excited and almost incapable of restraining her grin as Etina Lye guided her down the white linen path. The elation Locke felt was so immense that it nearly overwhelmed Kajex by proxy, their connection to the Force causing his own pulse to quicken. When she finally stood before Locke and held her paw out, Locke took it without hesitation- Etina released the vixen and stepped to the side, her smile broad and her arms folded.

"How do I look?" Keris asked.

"As you always do," Locke answered warmly. "Nothing short of perfect for me."

The three Jedi turned to the doors where Keris had exited from, waiting for their fourth to appear. After a minute of silence, the doors drew open again.

He wasn't sure what had changed, as his eyes fell on her. It was not the smile on her face that was different. The hood and white linen gloves were not a part of her usual ensemble, but they matched perfectly with her Jedi robes that Kajex wondered if it had simply been a few missing pieces she'd never worn. The ornate silver circlet, while pretty, did nothing to add to or diminish to her attractiveness. No part of her robes were revealing, though they followed the form of her body easily. No makeup adorned her features to highlight the color of her fur, or her eyes, or her lips.

_So why does she look like the most beautiful woman in the universe?_Kajex wondered.

It was impossible to not feel simultaneously awed and humbled by the approaching Trianii Jedi, and all at once Kajex experienced a feeling of inferiority. Gray-pelted, black-haired, and probably no better than average-looking by Kanj'Isha standards, he felt utterly shabby in comparison to the alluring feline, ears pinning back unconsciously as she neared the center of the courtyard. Were it not bad enough, she was being guided by both Iaora and Bast, the latter of whom looked down at him with an imperious look as they reached the platform, though any feelings of apprehension melted away as Syrra smiled at Kajex.

"I'm sorry for taking so long," Syrra murmured, her blue eyes bright and hopeful as she looked up at her mentor and mate.

"That's_my_ line, kitten," the wolf said quietly. "I'm sorry for my... I mean... I must look like a scruffy mutt right now."

But she shook her head, her smile widening as she reached up and cupped his face. "You look like the man I fell in love with. That's all I ever wanted."

Feeling bolstered by her words, he took her paw and managed to smile back. As Iaora and Bast stepped away from the Trianii bride, and the Sentinel pair squeezed each other's paws, Master Moarn stepped forward in front of a small table holding a lit candle and a long stick of incense. After waiting for complete silence, he began.

"The question of marriage in the Jedi Order has, throughout history, been a subject of contention among its masters and grand masters. Despite many exemptions made throughout time, it has become established knowledge that Jedi are prohibited from marriage. It was, I feel, a mistake to shun one of the most prevalent emotions and traditions that almost every known sentient being shares- those of love, family, and long-lasting companionship. For this reason among many, the New Jedi Order possesses no prohibition on marriage, and gladly accepts and recognizes the marriage of these four Jedi Knights. The bonds we are all gathered here to recognize are not of possession; but of loyalty, mentorship, love, and compassion. It is the hope of our order that these unions, like all others, will lead to happiness, peace, wisdom, and a better understanding of the Force."

"And kids, hopefully," a very quiet voice whispered. Kajex had to hold back laughter as So'Rah shared his barely-audible wish with his twin.

"Many of us are connected to these four through our experiences with them," Master Moarn continued, "some having known them for merely months, while others have known them for decades. Some of us are indebted them for their part in freeing us from captivity; others moved by simple acts of compassion and courage that have drawn us to stand behind them for support. Those same acts of love are what brought these two couples together. In times of darkness and doubt, may these men and women be among many shining lights of comfort in the universe."

The Trandoshan's gaze flicked between both couples, before gesturing to the table before him- the candle floated off the table. "In accordance with Trianii tradition, I will light the ceremonial incense, which will burn for three minutes. In that time, those in attendance may offer prayers and wishes to the success of these unions. And if there are any present today who would voice their objections to either union, they are permitted to speak until the last ember falls."

The candle floated to the tip of the incense, and immediately began to burn.

"It's... overwhelming," Keris said silently, looking up to Locke. "I figured everyone would be wishing for Syrra and Kajex to have a happy marriage, but... I feel everyone rooting for us, too."

"They believe in you- in us,"_Locke responded, holding her paws. _"These aren't just friends attending, but family. Something I always wanted for myself, to not be alone."

"Is that why you reached out to me?"_Keris asked, staring up into his silver-blue eyes. _"Because you didn't want to be alone?"

"I reached out to you because you needed me just as I needed you. Not for your skill, but for comfort and safety. You saw in me that I was not a monster, and even after years of seeing what I could do... you still saw me as I was- even when I truly believed that I was a monster."

"Then tell me what you believe you are now, Locke,"_she suggested, smiling up at him. _"Who you are is who these people in attendance believe you are."

"I am no monster... just a poor fool with a good woman and a bright future ahead of him." he answered, smiling back. "All because of you."

"Because of Kajex," she corrected him, but he gave her a subtle shake of his head.

"He was there to pull me into the fold, it's true. But you... you were, and always will be, the light that kept the darkness away. You were what kept me from losing myself, the warmth that prevented me from abandoning compassion and hope. All of what I am... I still am because of you."

A deep blush filled the vixen's cheeks, her green eyes glittering. "You were there for me when I needed you. I will always be here for you when you need me."

The sea of approval within the crowd was almost overwhelming to Kajex, with almost every being in attendance exuding their feelings silently, unconsciously. That made it all the easier for him to pick out the two large spikes of disapproval near the back, where the majority of Syrra's siblings were seated; for while most of her sisters wore smiles, Mehti and Imrou looked dour, unpleasant, and about three seconds away from jumping up and saying something offensive. Mehti flinched and almost seemed to stand up for a split second, only to settle back down into her seat looking oddly subdued. Kajex would have said something, had Syrra not squeezed his paw and turned his attention to her, wordlessly speaking to him.

_"It's alright. We're in the clear. They won't stand to speak up- and even if they did, I wouldn't listen."_She smiled up at him, causing his chest to flutter.

"And Bast?" Kajex queried.

"We've found a common ground," she told him. "She won't stand in our way."

"You could let them speak, if you wanted to. I mean, why are you marrying a big dumb dog like me?" he asked playfully, grinning back down at her.

"I love your heart, your passion for life, and your faith in me,"_Syrra continued, keeping her eyes on Locke and Keris even as she spoke to Kajex. _"Every flaw you possess makes me appreciate every strength that makes you who you are. I don't want perfection- it would be boring, the exact opposite of who you are."

"So...would you fault me for saying 'ditto'?"_Kajex asked. _"Because I think I figured out what I want to say, and... I'm not sure if it would be enough."

_"Romance me now, jerk; no time like the present,"_she told him, shaking as she tried to hold back a giggle- which stopped as Kajex's golden eyes gazed into hers, a genuine look of seriousness and sincerity within them.

"You made me believe in love again, when I was scared of its pain. You made me strong enough to reach out and bond with others, when I feared losing people I loved. You taught me what I never learned about the Force, even as you learned what taught I you about it. You compelled me to be better than I was, to grow and mature as you did."_He chuckled quietly, his smile sheepish. _"But if you can believe it, that's not what I wanted to say."

"Then what do you want to say?"

"What I wanted to say, is... that other people throughout the universe, and throughout your life, will only ever know you as Jedi Knight Syrra Surnahm, hero and healer of the Jedi Order. But what makes me feel like the luckiest guy in the universe... is that you allowed me to be the only person in the universe to know your heart better than anyone else."

For a few moments, Syrra could only stare at the wolf in shock, completely caught off-guard with his words. When her smile returned, it brought a deep blush with it.

"... I don't think you could have picked a more perfect moment to say something so perfect to me."

Three whole minutes passed as the rapidly-burning stick of incense receded, releasing a subtle scent of wildflowers into the air. The last lingering embers of the stick glowed and winked out, the remains crumbling onto the table and signaling the end of silence. It was here, that Master Moarn continued, looking to Locke and Keris first.

"Guardian Locke Surnahm, do you take your fellow knight as your mate and life companion, to be bound forever in love and loyalty, in the face of hardship and triumph, until your final breath and beyond?"

Locke nodded and smiled. "I do."

"Knight Keris, do you take your fellow knight as your mate and life companion, to be bound forever in love and loyalty, in the face of hardship and triumph, until your final breath and beyond?"

"I do," Keris answered, grinning back up at Locke.

"Sentinel Kajex Surnahm, do you take your fellow knight as your mate and life companion, to be bound forever in love and loyalty, in the face of hardship and triumph, until your final breath and beyond?"

"Yeah, I do," Kajex said without a moment of hesitation, his tail wagging.

"And Knight Syrra, do you take your fellow knight as your mate and life companion, to be bound forever in love and loyalty, in the face of hardship and triumph, until your final breath and beyond?"

"Yes, I do," Syrra said quietly, still red-faced and happy.

Master Moarn nodded, his smile broad. "From these four, many of us have learned a vital lesson about the nature of the Force, and of our connection to others; that while the Force flows from us, through us, and around us, it also flows between us. It is a lesson that hearkens back to the days of the Jedi Order where its Knights and Masters were not just servants to the light, but allies and friends to the universe. In these four, and in the bonds they have established in the time they have known each other and reached out to those in need, there is hope that it may become so once again. May the bonds they had forged with all of us remain strong, and their unions to each other stronger; and may the Force be with them." He gestured to the four now-married Jedi. "You are free to express your love to all."

Kajex took a breath, reaching up and tracing his paws over Syrra's hood, drawing it back. A feeling of overwhelming anxiousness seemed to overtake him as he stared in the Trianii's sapphire eyes, and for a moment he felt more content to be lost in them than to follow through. It took a small squeeze on his paw to draw him out, Syrra smiling up at him expectantly.

They drew close and met, kissing deeply; and in that moment the wolf found himself unable to care that he was being watched by dozens of friends and family. Fear and apprehension for what the future held melted away, replaced by warm reassurance and affection. Even as Kentoh, So'Rah and Sa'Rah cheered loudly and sparked a roar of acclamation, even as the sharp snap-hiss of lightsabers and clang of ceremonial swords rang through the air in salute, and even as an unexpected gust of air blew into the central courtyard and whipped around the newlyweds, he couldn't care less. They might as well have not been there at all.

In that moment, there were only the two of them, Kajex and Syrra- Jedi Knights and mates.