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"The Force works in mysterious ways, it seems. There are times I'm not convinced it doesn't have a sense of humor."

~ Jedi Master Kavar

"Breath in, Padawan."

Syrra complied, her eyes closed as she drew in air slowly, keeping herself still and focused.

"Good... a little more.... now hold."

She went rigid, holding her breath, letting every molecule of oxygen linger and pass through her lungs and into her body. She could almost feel the transition, the delicate yet vital trade of her cardiovascular system.

"And... release."

A pause, and then a calm sigh as her breath poured from her muzzle, her head feeling clear and her thoughts sharper. It was a simple breathing exercise, yet one potent in its effects when paired with meditative focus. Her eyes flicked open to the sight of Master Cilghal standing opposite her, on the other side of an injured patient. The Mon Calamari nodded, a slight smile on her features.

"Very good, Padawan Syrra. I see you've been practicing rapid meditation."

"It helps keep me grounded when there's action, I've found," the Trianii said quietly, still feeling at peace. "It's more effective that I thought it would be."

"I was hoping you'd notice that it may help in a pinch," she replied. "A mind at peace will be of more service to you when it comes to tending to the injured. Focus is crucial to healing arts, moreso when it is used to heal oneself." She turned her attention to their patient, a young Twi'lek male with a deep gash on his arm. "I apologize for keeping you waiting, Padawan. I trust the painkillers are effective?"

He nodded, giving a shaky smile. "Yeah, I can't feel the injury. I... hope it's treatable, I was hoping you would be able to treat me instead of a student – no offense."

"None taken," Syrra replied with a calm smile, holding her paws out over his arm. "But I've treated these kind of injuries before, it looks worse than it actually is, thankfully. I think I can handle this one."

"I'm certain you can," Cilghal told her firmly. "Self-doubt can hamper your ability to treat a wound, but you've learned quickly these past two months." She paused, then sighed. "No doubt due to Captain Surnahm's propensity to put himself in dangerous situations."

"Well... yes," Syrra admitted, unable to prevent her smile becoming wider.

"You may begin when ready, Padawan."

She had started small, with scrapes, burns and bruises (often those that Kajex had picked up while on mission). Then she had moved on to more damaged tissue, ones at risk of infection. It amazed her how complex the process of healing was, just as it amazed her that she had picked up on it almost naturally. A blend of an honest desire to learn such a vital power and the knowledge she'd accumulated as an apprentice to her aunt and uncle, had seemed to make the process of training easier to deal with.

Now that accumulated skill was being put to work, the Force flowing through her body as she focused her energy towards mending the wound. Over the course of a minute her mental clarity did not waver, her breathing steady in pace. She could feel the muscle and skin tissue, the tiny sparks roiling withing the nerves of the limb as the flesh began to mend, leaving in its wake a pale outline where the scar had been. When at last she could feel no trace of the injury beyond it, she let out another sigh and drew her paws back, staring down at his arm.

The Twi'lek looked to Cilghal first, who nodded, before lifting his arm up and flexing it carefully, his expression brightening. "It feels... great," he noted.

"That's good to hear," Cilghal said, putting a finned hand on his shoulder. "Now, Padawan Syrra – remember the next part."

She nodded, and cleared her throat. "You're still under the effects of painkillers, so you won't be feeling any pain for a while yet. You'll want to take the time to relax, so don't do any moderate lifting for the rest of the day, or else you'll be feeling a strong ache when the anodynes wear off."

"I can just use the Force to bear the pain," the student started to say.

"I must insist," Syrra said firmly, putting her paw on his shoulder. "I get it, I really do – we don't want something like a cut or a scratch to put a damper on our Jedi training. That's why rest is just as important. Take a day off, for your mental well-being."

The Twi'lek student sighed, but nodded. "Alright, then. Thank you for healing me, Syrra." He got up from the patient table. "And thank you too, Master Cilghal."

"We were pleased to aid you, Padawan," she replied as both she and Syrra bowed to him. Once he had left she turned to Syrra. "You did very well. I'm pleased to see you performing past my expectations."

"Was that better than you expected?" Syrra asked, raising an eyebrow.

"It was," Cighal acknowledged, gesturing to a pair of nearby seats. "In the time that I've trained at this Praxeum and taught students to provide healing through the Force, I've seen only two other students excel as quickly as you have. In some ways, I'm a little disappointed that Master Skywalker did not assign me as your instructor, but I'm sure his decision to pair you with Master Moarn might have been based on your history in law enforcement."

"Possibly," Syrra said quietly. Mention of her former teacher was not a pleasant topic of conversation, though now that it had been broached she found herself with questions. "I never got to know him well. What did he excel in?"

"He was a Jedi Guardian at one time, or at least that is what I recall. Mostly his forte was with working alongside the Coruscant Security Force, and then with militias on smaller planets working to resist the Separatists." She nodded to the Trianii. "Master Skywalker might have believed that point of connection would make you best-suited to study under him."

"Well... to be fair, I think I only ever listed my work history as a Trianii Ranger on my application here," she sighed. "Who knows – if I'd mentioned my work under my family as a healer, I might have been paired with you."

"Hmm, possibly." The Mon Calamari paused. "To your detriment, I imagine."

That caused Syrra to frown. "How so?"

The older woman leaned in her seat, giving her a considering look. "I think the two of us, had we been paired together, would have got on very well. I also think that you would have learned less from me than you would have under your current instructor, Captain Surnahm."

"But... he's not even a Jedi," Syrra said, confused. "Why do you think he would have more to offer than a Jedi Master?"

Cilghal did not answer immediately, looking as if she were finding the right words. "When one reads up on the history of the Jedi Order, prior to the purge at the end of the Clone Wars, Jedi were seen as leaders of armies, or monks hidden away in studious solitude in a great temple. People at that time started to see them as being separate from the galaxy, in knowing what it was like. But when one reads up on the duties of the Jedi Sentinel, they find that they are what the Jedi of the past should have been – servants of the people."

"Were Guardians and Consulars not?"

"In theory, they were meant to be, yes. But in practice, you would find their interests focused elsewhere. Maybe these days, the galaxy doesn't need to see another gung-ho Guardian who lights up their lightsaber at the first sign of trouble; nor need to deal with a cloistered Consular who advises to trust the Force, when most of the galaxy cannot feel it as we do – we may as well advise them to trust in a shuffled deck or loaded dice." She smiled. "Maybe these days, the galaxy could use someone who meets with and deals with people face-to-face, using skills that anyone could understand, yet still able to rely on the Force and their training to fight and defend them."

Syrra nodded. "Maybe. But are you saying that you wouldn't be able to teach me this path?"

"Not nearly as well as Master Katarn or Master Horn," the Mon Calamari admitted. "And besides... your connection with the captain might make for a more effective catalyst for learning."

"He... has found ways to motivate me," Syrra acknowledged, feeling a hot blush on her cheeks.

Cilghal moved to speak, only for a ping from a terminal on the far wall to ring out and draw her attention briefly. "And as far as I'm concerned, whatever works, works. You do you – or him, whatever the case may be," she added with a smirk, getting up from her seat.

"That's not fair, Master Cilghal," the feline groaned, hiding her face and following the instructor.

Cilghal reached the terminal and keyed it in, a display flickering for a moment before showing the visage of Master Skywalker. "Good morning, Master Cilghal. I hope I'm not interrupting you or your patients."

"Not at all, Master Skywalker," the Mon Calamari replied with a bow.

"Is Padawan Syrra with you right now?"

The two women traded looks before she nodded and stepped to one side, gesturing Syrra. "She is."

"Good morning, Master Skywalker," Syrra said, bowing. "How may I help you?"

"I hate to interrupt your training with Master Cilghal, she has told me you have become very proficient in healing through the Force. But I've a matter I need to address, and I will need your help – and Talrik Lye's, as well."

"Talrik?"

"If you can, please bring him to the audience chamber in an hour's time." He paused, looking as if he were holding back a frown. "With Captain Surnahm, as well."

The Gold Rush had needed repairs in different parts of the ship for several years before its captain had taken on a Jedi Padawan and an ex-stormtrooper as his crew, but none of it was particularly vital. The wolf prided himself on being a fast and efficient mechanic, one of the many skillsets he had cultivated over time with his fathers teaching him, and so some systems were left to slide.

Having both Syrra and Talrik on-board made tackling those repairs quicker, once they settled into helping the wolf out, be it changing out the water filters, cleaning out the greywater tank, purging the vent systems, or running a full vessel diagnostic the day before takeoff. But even with them as part of the crew, one particular task sat neatly out-of-reach for all of them.

"Gotcha, you little fucker!"

A screeching noise echoed through the ship, immediately silenced by the sound of a boot crunching heavily upon a thick shell. A groan of disgust followed.

"Dammit... these boots were clean just yesterday, too." Talrik spared an annoyed glance at the remains of the ship parasite he had just dispatched, an insect about the size of his paw that had left a purple smear on the sides and sole of his footwear.

"I know, right?" Kajex sighed, tossing the fox a small, damp towel. "I've had to wash my footwear more times than I care to remember because of these damn things."

"Where did you even pick up these little bastards?" Talrik asked, scrubbing his boot.

"Somewhere between Coachelle Prime and Fibuli, I think. I never had the funds to get a targeted fumigation going, and anytime I try to nail the nest, their queen either moves, or they replace her too quickly."

"Well, that's the last one I was able to find on my end," the fox sighed. "Any luck on yours?"

"I got a few of them in the maintenance closet, but no nest. I'm going to have to see if Syrra can track them down, or maybe pull Garrett aside for an afternoon. Might make for a good test I can write up to Master Skywalker. Don't worry about cleaning it up right now," he added as the vulpine almost started to use the towel to wipe the remains.

The fox nodded. "Well, might as well still put the trap in- it's too much to hope for that I just squished the nest's top breeder," he said sourly, grabbing a bug trap and reaching underneath the ship's port engine, then wiping his paws and dirty face with the clean side of the towel. "Did you need something, Cap--" He caught his mistake quickly, started again. "What did you need, Kajex?"

"Nothing, really. Just wanted to talk, touch bases with you a bit. You been doing alright with our work, helping us out?"

Talrik hesitated, then shrugged and smiled. "Honestly? I'm enjoying it. Feels great actually using my set of skills for something that actually helps people, as opposed to subjugating them."

The wolf offered the younger fur a paw, helping him up. "Glad to hear it. And what about your time on the ship? I know you spend a lot of time on it, just wanna know if you think there's something about it to make it more comfortable."

"Honestly, it's beginning to feel a little like home, if that makes sense. I hope that isn't offensive or anything, seeing as it's yours."

Kajex waved dismissively, gesturing to follow him out. "Nah, not at all. As long as you keep helping us out and placing your shots where we need them, consider your room and board paid for."

"You got it, boss. Top of my class, like I said." He wiped the last traces of oil and dust off his muzzle. "It was about the only thing I enjoyed about my time at the academy. I hated most of the rest of it because... well..." He trailed off, ears flattening.

"Don't focus on it, kid," the wolf advised, thumping his back and leading him into the galley. "Keep moving forward. You liked being able to find out what you were good at, right?"

Talrik nodded, looking relieved as he took a seat at the table. "Yeah. The sense of accomplishment that came knowing I had a skill I could utilize. Best part was that even though there was a high risk of me having to put down an innocent civilian, I almost never got those assignments. The two times I did, I was skilled enough to subdue them with a non-fatal shot and blame it on the rifle optics."

"If I hadn't seen you in action, I'd hardly believe it," Kajex remarked, and he meant it. The fox had by now accompanied him and Syrra on four more operations, two of which had required Talrik's marksmanship. The last mission had ended in a completely successful hostage retrieval, thanks largely due to the fox's impressive accuracy. "I actually meant to ask you something, on that note," he admitted, as he pulled a pair of ale bottles from a nearby cooler.

"What about?"

"Were you actually aiming at that thermal detonator back on Kurah?" the wolf asked. "That pretty much ended the whole thing quickly, Syrra was glad you saved my life like that."

The fox grinned, looking proud of himself – Kajex kept himself from laughing, putting a bottle in front of him. "When you have to shoot, shoot. Besides, with five blasters aimed at you and you too injured to move, I had to end it quickly," he explained. "It's one of the few useful rules in Imperial sharpshooting, to prioritize targets."

"Well, I know I said it already, but thanks a lot for that – you saved my life back there. Keep those skills sharp," Kajex advised, before taking a brief swig. "You'll probably be putting it to more use soon. Anyway, was there anything you needed to talk about, or any concerns you feel you needed to bring up?"

Talrik cocked his head. "Why do you ask?"

Kajex sighed, rubbing the back of his head. "I admit that I was being an asshole when I took you prisoner, even though it turned out you didn't exactly have a choice. I really put you in a bad situation, and even though I got your kin out of danger, I guess it just bothered me, knowing that you were forced to be a part of something you had no decision in and having to stick with it."

"You got them out, you don't need to keep worrying about it," Talrik started to say.

"Well, it's not just that," the wolf continued. "I also still feel bad for initially refusing your request to join Syrra and me, even though you've shown you're just what we needed on this ship." He paused, taking a moment to choose his words carefully. "Syrra probably already told you that I don't trust very easily, and I'm trying to get past that, even with those who are unfortunate enough to be our former enemies. I recall being a little snippy before we ended up on Kurah."

"It's fine," the fox assured him. "It's like you said then, you were feeling the pressure of the mission with someone new. You're miles ahead of any of my commanding officers in terms of treatment. I think you actually treat me really decently, though maybe I don't have good experiences to compare to. You're a good guy, even with the rough edges – and I'm open to talking."

"Alright then. So, is there anything you need from me, or wanted to do?" Kajex asked encouragingly, taking the seat opposite the fox and leaning forward. "If you're going to be on board and away from your mother and sibling for days at a time, I should at least make things as comfortable as I can for you. So anything you can suggest that leads to me being less of an asshole, or makes staying on this ship easier to deal with, I promise I'll give it a shot."

"I appreciate that, Kaj. If I had to suggest anything..." he trailed off, taking a drink as he seemed to consider his answer. "Lynch keeps kicking my tail at Pazaak every time he's here. You heard him when he said he hadn't had a good streak since he started playing against you. I could use pointers, when you have the time- I'm down about fifty credits, and I'd like to get that back."

"I'm game, when we have free time to spare," the wolf agreed. "Wouldn't be the first time I've bonded over cards. Anything else?"

"Actually, yeah," the fox responded. "I see you and Syrra practicing hand-to-hand every so often. It's something I only had beginner courses in. The Imperial Academy didn't offer advanced Echani to my kind, and it could really supplement my marksmanship. If you think you could spare the time..."

"Syrra and I could both teach you Echani. Besides, I could use a sparring partner while Syrra is at the Temple studying. Hell, if you want, we could even teach you how to handle a vibroblade – if we're going to be facing Sith, Dark Jedi or arrogant Force-sensitive thugs like that one guy Syrra put down on Kurah, it might come in handy."

"That'd be great, actually," the fox said, his eyes lighting up and tail wagging slightly. "Other than that, though... I'd like it more if we did start talking more often. About anything, really. Just so I can know you a bit better."

"That, we can do. I think I'm good to open up to you, by now," Kajex nodded. "It can only help, I imagine. Syrra and I weren't really keen on each other at first, but once I started opening up..." He chuckled. "Well hell, I must have been doing something right, cause by the end of the week she was sleeping with me."

The fox snickered. "Lucky."

Talrik had only just lifted his bottle when he said it, and it was halfway to his muzzle when his eyes went wide, realizing what he had just said. For his part, the wolf's response died on his tongue the very moment the fox's single word had been mentally processed. Yet as awkward as the immediate atmosphere had become for Talrik, the wolf felt no such tension so much as surprise. After perhaps twenty seconds, more to spare the fox from feeling embarrassed, Kajex chuckled and broke the silence.

"Kid, close your mouth before the ship parasites consider paying your muzzle rent for the space," he suggested.

"I didn't mean it like that!" the Amaran insisted, looking panicked. "I just meant that... you're both lucky you've gotten together from it!"

"Right," the wolf said, fully aware that his smile was telling the fox he didn't buy that excuse for a second. "I won't argue that she and I are lucky to have been paired up as partners. I just think it's cute you think I'd believe that your remark was anything more than an observation as opposed to... envy, I suppose."

"Ah... look, I'm not-- it's not like I..." But whatever it was the fox was trying to say, the wolf wasn't interested.

"Talrik, I'd like to ask you something."

"... Do I have to answer?" the fox asked quietly, ears pinned back with worry.

"Well, no," he replied fairly. "But I will say that you don't have to worry about what your answer is – or what my reaction to it will be."

"... You promise?"

"I might have mentioned it, but I did use to have a boyfriend, once. I think I can handle your response. So..." He leaned in, giving the fox his best, handsome smile. "Do you find me attractive?"

For nearly half a minute Talrik didn't answer, looking away with an expression one might have when trying to generate some nerve, some semblance of a backbone that would enable him to meet the question with an honest answer; all while fighting back the urge to lie about it. But in the end, he did answer.

"... I... find both of you attractive," he finally admitted, hiding his face behind his paws. "The Force preserve me, I think you both look great. Now could you please stop giving me that sexy smile? You look like a buff Amaran pornstar with that look."

"Ha! I'll take that as a compliment," the wolf laughed. "But seriously, you don't have to be embarrassed about that."

"Not even if I think your girl is attractive?"

"She is attractive!" the wolf insisted. "What, you think I'll fire you for being honest about how she looks?" He shook head. "No need to answer, I know what's actually bothering you. I'm just toying with you, hoping you'll lighten up."

"So... you're not mad, then?" he asked, still looking a little anxious.

"I am not mad in the slightest," Kajex replied, nodding. "I'm actually kind of flattered that I've caught the eye of a cute guy who's jealous that I'm in a relationship."

"I'm not jeal-- wait." Talrik paused. "You... think I'm cute?"

"I do. In a lot of ways, you do remind me of my late boyfriend," Kajex admitted, feeling a smile on his muzzle as he recalled brighter days with Rik. "And not just because his name was similar, either."

"So... you really don't mind?" the fox pressed.

"Not at all."

Talrik held a gaze directly at him and in that time he was certain the fox was trying to read his expression and body language, looking for any subtle hint of a lie. Before long he looked away, a slight smile on his face.

"Well... it's not just physical, I guess I should say. You went out of your way to help me and my kin. How could I not appreciate that?" He paused, his ears folding back again. "Then there are those times when you and Syrra decide to take your intimate moments outside of your quarters, when you think I'm not around. I make it a point not to eavesdrop, I leave immediately once I hear you two going at it." He swallowed, smiling nervously. "But I can hear you both enjoying it. So... you can't blame my imagination running wild."

"Well... then you have my apologies for making things awkward," the wolf told him sincerely. "So, just so we're clear – I'm not mad and I don't believe for a moment that Syrra would be mad, either. And I'm not trying to give you shit for it, I'm really not. I just I think it'd help for you to know that I don't mind that you've got a thing for me. Above all, I want you to be comfortable here."

"I... don't know what to say," Talrik admitted, staring down at his bottle. But after a few second, a slight trace of a hopeful expression lined his features.

"So..."

The wolf cocked his head. "So...?"

"So... what happens now?"

The wolf considered the question. "For now? ... Nothing."

"Nothing?"

"Nothing," the wolf agreed. "It's something I'd have to discuss with Syrra, and then with all three of us, just to know where we stand. But whatever happens, and whatever we choose to do, you're still on this team no matter what, alright? And if that ends up meaning we get to be closer to you..." He paused, then reached out and put a paw on Talrik's. "Well, I know I won't mind."

The fox was blushing so hard at this point Kajex was surprised he could still discern the cream-colored fur of his undermuzzle from the rest of his pelt. "Well... talking about it would probably be a good idea," he muttered.

"Then how about you and I run it by her when she--"

Before he could finish, the sound of the ship's ramp hissed down the hallway, followed by the soft padding of Trianii footsteps. Kajex released the fox's paw, somehow getting the feeling that perhaps now wouldn't be the right time to broach the topic.

"Kajex? Talrik?"

"In here," the wolf called out. She appeared at the galley doorway, and sure enough she was bearing a concerned expression – more than enough to convince the wolf to shelf the conversation for later. "What's up, kitten?"

"Master Skywalker wants to see us." She looked to Talrik. "All of us."

When Syrra first joined the Jedi Praxeum, she had anticipated that he interactions with the primary instructor, Master Skywalker, would be sporadic. Indeed, she learned shortly afterward that it was considered unusual for a Padawan to have multiple meetings with him in a short period of time, unless they had become central to a possible threat from the Empire. Because of her encounters with a new Sith faction, however, both she and Kajex had been interviewed repeatedly, to provide as much information as they could about Locke, Keris, and Ulfric. The only one of their crew who had not, at this point, was Talrik.

That had changed, today.

"This looks alright, yeah?" Talrik asked, brushing his shirt off, his tail flicking anxiously as the trio boarded the lift up to the grand audience chamber.

"Easy," Syrra murmured, touching his shoulder. "I'm sure it's nothing serious. Master Skywalker didn't mention any urgency."

"Still, this is the first time he's had all three of us show up at once," Kajex noted. "Might not be anything negative, but something out of the ordinary seems to be happening. Call it a gut instinct."

"Sure that isn't a disturbance in the Force?" Syrra teased.

"Ha. I'll leave sensing disturbances in the Force to the Jedi Masters around here," the wolf chuffed, reaching out and ruffling her hair, just as the lift reached its destination.

They went silent, all three of them picking up what sounded like a tense discussion in the chamber ahead. Syrra couldn't make out the words clearly, but even without context the frustration in the voices was particularly clear.

"Okay... so not to make a joke of it, but that sounds like a disturbance in the Force," Kajex remarked. He glanced to the Trianii, a wordless expression that told her it was her call.

She nodded, taking the initiative and leading the other two into the audience chamber, standing at attention silently. Standing at the foot of the steps was Master Skywalker, still dressed in his Jedi robes, speaking to a Bothan female slightly shorter than himself, clad in the uniform of a New Republic Intelligence officer. Her fur was a greenish-gray, and her pale blue eyes held a cold gaze at Luke that seemed to indicate she did not care for him.

"I'll remind you once more, Master Skywalker, that the NRI prioritizes the acquisition of accurate information over the desires of the Jedi Order," she said in a calm voice. "By whatever reasonable means necessary."

"I'll not argue that point, Operative. What I will contend is the necessity of coming here for information that has already been provided," Luke countered, his arms folded and a displeased crease in his brow. "Prior notice would have been preferred."

"I'm not here to be polite, Master Skywalker," she replied, her face impassive save for the subtle narrowing of her eyes. She broke her gaze and looked to the trio, gesturing them to approach.

Syrra took a moment to look to the wolf, channeling her thoughts to him. You're my instructor. Don't leave me hanging.

The wolf nodded, assuring her that he'd heard her silent request. Satisfied, the Trianii approached the pair with her crewmates in tow, taking a moment to bow to Master Skywalker. "You wished to see us?"

"I did," Luke replied, stepping forward and extending his hand to the fox. "I'm sorry we haven't had a chance to meet formally, Talrik Lye. I would like to thank you for assisting Padawan Syrra on her missions. Should you ever require an employment reference for any reason, I would be happy to provide one for you."

"Thank you, Master Skywalker," the fox said, shaking his hand. "Though I think I'm just fine being crewed with the Gold Rush."

"All due respect," the Bothan said firmly, "I'm sure you can find time later for such pleasantries." Her eyes lingered on the wolf, a frown forming above them. "I was not aware you would be bringing the captain here."

"I asked for his presence," Luke replied. "Though if you would rather sit this one out, Captain Surnahm, I understand."

"Hmm..."

Syrra glanced to him, surprised to see him making a show of rubbing his chin in thought, as if mockingly considering his options. Before long he smiled and shook his head. "Nah, I'd like to stick around. I might not be a Jedi Knight, but you can count on me all the same, Master Skywalker."

"I appreciate that, Captain," Luke said, and Syrra was almost certain she could see a slight glint in his eyes. "Well, there you have it."

"I fail to see why he should be included," the Bothan said. "I'm interested in the defector, the Padawan, and her master – not her... chauffeur."

"Captain Surnahm is her master – or her instructor, rather," Luke amended himself. "And in that capacity he has been most effective. You have here the trio who were on Abaat months ago, the same three who filed the report. Whatever information you hope to get from them, I doubt you would have needed to come here personally for."

"I'll be the judge of that," the Bothan replied coolly. "Very well. I am Chief Field Operative Nett So'vay of the New Republic Intelligence Service. I require information about the incident on Abaat three months ago." She looked hard at Talrik. "The details of the missions are on record, but during a recent audit we became aware that you, the defector, were providing fire support during a Jedi Praxeum operation."

"That is correct," Talrik answered, looking mildly confused. "I asked to be employed, and Captain Surnahm was willing to give me a chance to help him and Syrra on their missions."

"The laws of the New Republic state that defectors may only volunteer for military or contracted service to the Republic after a six month period and multiple background checks." Nett folded her arms. "You have applied for neither. This violation will be logged and reported to the proper authorities."

It took Syrra great focus to hold back the sharp spike in alarm from the Bothan's words, suddenly worried that her friend and partner was at risk of being arrested. Talrik's look of worry only compounded that fear. It was Kajex's calm, almost bored voice that soothed her alarm.

"Yeah... no, you won't," the wolf sighed. "I've read the law. I had to, being employed by the Praxeum. The six-month restriction and background checks only apply to military service in the New Republic armed forces, or as a security or mercenary contract on behalf of the New Republic." He smirked. "The Jedi Praxeum does not serve as a political entity or armed service."

"He is correct," Luke replied with a smile. "Technically, our academy is a learning institution that provides law-enforcement and ambassadorial services, alongside of yet separate from the New Republic."

Nett leveled a cold stare at the wolf. "You've an understanding of the law, then?"

"I've worked with law enforcement before," the wolf assured her. "Syrra was a part of law enforcement. It's my job to know these things."

"Then you'd best watch your step," Nett warned him. "Mercenaries gain no leniency for stepping over the line, not even when they work for the Jedi."

"Right," the wolf muttered dismissively, scratching behind his ear. "So what did you want to ask? We're burning daylight here and it's almost time for lunch."

She held up her datapad, giving it a brief glance. "The weapons procured from the Kurah retrieval mission – several are unaccounted for. Standard procedure during such missions are to collect and impound such weaponry. One such weapon was a Stouker concussion rifle, which was logged but not turned in."

"That procedure only covers Rebel SpecOps," Syrra pointed out. "This was an operation requested by the New Republic, but undertaken by the Jedi Praxeum. On-site procurement of equipment is covered under the agreement between the Praxeum and New Republic."

"It means we don't need to ask for funding from them, while allowing us to stay reasonably armed," Luke acknowledged.

"Be that as it may," Nett continued, as if to ignore both of them, "upon inquiring the quartermaster at this facility, I was told he did not have the weapon in his armory, though it had been registered. I've my suspicions where it is."

"Yeah, we have it," Kajex said coolly. "So what?"

"The Stouker CR is a Class-3 heavy sonic weapon. Sales are limited only to military personnel."

"That's only for sales," Kajex started to point out.

"And usage is restricted only to those who have verified credentials for handling those weapons," she said more loudly, cutting him off.

It was now Talrik who spoke up, looking slightly miffed. "I have that license," he told her. "The fact that I earned it in Imperial Remnant territories doesn't change those credentials. And whatever else the Empire may be, the legal and professional process for earning it is clean." He paused, cocking his head. "Is that sufficient for you?"

Nett nodded, though it was clear she wasn't pleased. "As you say, then. Onto the next question, then. Your report did not include any criteria used by the Imperial Remnant to select soldiers to carry out the museum raid."

Talrik folded his arms and stared at her, frowning. "Yeah. It didn't. So what?"

Nett glowered at him. "Information like that could be vital in countering Imperial movements, especially those involving cultists. I need you to tell me what criteria they used."

"I'd like to know that, too," Talrik answered. "Orders came in only two nights before we left. It was a mixed bag from several Imperial-controlled frontier worlds. I was only one of three stormtroopers from Teeva, and neither of them were in the unit I was pulled from. But you already know that, because I included it in my report," he added.

"And the cultist in charge, Ulfric – he did not interview you nor any of the other members?"

"No. The fact is, he barely said more than a dozen words to us, mostly simple orders," Talrik said. "Some troopers even suggested he might have been mentally handicapped. But nobody was stupid enough to say it around him."

"I see," Nett sighed. "You produced bloodwork as per protocol, and your medical records were obtained from the Imperial medical database. That included midichlorian detection, did it not?"

He shrugged. "I assume so, yes."

"As a someone who has worked in in healthcare, it's a standard procedure for new patients," Syrra interjected. "Follow-up tests are done every five years, or upon request. It's true on the Trianii core worlds, just as it's true here – I've checked."

"Were those tests administered while under the influence of drugs or anesthetics?" Nett pressed.

"Were they-- what are you talking about?" Talrik cocked an eyebrow. "Of course not."

"Operative, is there a point to these questions?" Syrra asked calmly, though a bubble of annoyance had built in her. "I fail to see how this would have any bearing on what occurred on Abaat."

Nett did not answer immediately, shaking her head. "In my line of work, we look at all possible angles to ensure the full picture is being provided. Mr. Lye here has been provided an opportunity to prove himself. It is in his best interests that he not squander it by refusing to provide information that he has."

Now Talrik glared at her, clearly annoyed. "You know, if you weren't so damn paranoid and actually asked point-blank what the hell it is you're looking for--"

"That's enough," Master Skywalker cut in with a firm and calm voice, putting his hand on the fox's shoulder. "You've done as you were asked, Talrik. Unless there are any other questions for him, I suggest letting this go, Operative."

"Very well," she sighed, turning her attention to Syrra. "My only question to you, Padawan, is if you were aware of other cultists on the planet, apart from Ulfric."

Whatever question she was expecting, it was not this. She looked to Kajex, the wolf looking slightly unsettled, but he said nothing. "I... was not aware of this, no," Syrra admitted. "But it wouldn't surprise me, either."

"This is information you should have perhaps informed me of, Operative So'vay," Luke pointed out.

"You are now informed," she replied curtly, returning her attention to the Trianii. "Specifically, footage from Abaat's casino and starport security cameras show two members of the Circle of Syn, the same two you encountered in the Wild Space Region."

Syrra turned back to Kajex again, and this time his face was registering complete surprise. "Wait, hold on," he said quickly. "You're saying Locke and Keris were on Abaat the same time we were?"

"They were," Nett confirmed. "It seems they made no attempt to stop you, and footage in the casino suggests that the one identified as Locke actually may have aided you." She folded her arms. "As you can imagine that would raise more than a few questions."

Shocked though she was at this new information, Syrra could see where the Bothan's line of thinking was headed. "If you mean to suggest that we are allied with them, then you must think we had something to gain."

"Perhaps you did – like the release of your people from Imperial imprisonment," she suggested bluntly. Her eyes flicked to Talrik. "Or your family, for that matter," she added.

Syrra flinched at the words. It was like a slap in the feline's face, to hear the accusation. Talrik looked as if he had been slapped. It was Syrra who responded first. "... I beg your pardon? You'll have to be more clear." The bubble of annoyance was now a hot sphere of resentment.

"To release your people from Imperial captivity, allowing AS-303 to leave in the process? It's not that difficult to imagine."

In that accusation the sphere burst and her indignation took hold. "I was stabbed in the chest with a lightsaber!" she exclaimed, taking a step forward. "And Talrik nearly got killed by the giant Sith on Abaat!"

"Your uncle's medical reports claim as much," Nett shot back heatedly, matching her step. "Having kin working in the medical field is rather convenient."

"They were going to kill my family!" Talrik snarled.

"Were they?!" Nett snapped back, unfazed. "Then explain the presence of a Sith apprentice when they were rescued! Or perhaps your obedience as a spy would have kept them safe!"

"That's enough."

If Syrra had expected anybody to cut in before things got too tense, she would have foreseen Luke doing it. Thus she was surprised when it was Kajex who stepped in between them, looking both calm and furious.

"It's one thing to have questions, Operative. It's a hell of a different matter when you're flinging baseless accusations at us. Now, I don't know what the hell Locke and his apprentice were doing on Abaat, though now I'm starting to think I didn't just imagine possibly seeing him while we were being chased through the city; but if they wanted to make things easier, they probably would have stepped in to deal with Ulfric, or stopped the Imperials from advancing on us. And for what? So we could get away and deliver a Jedi holocron to the Jedi Praxeum? How the fuck does that even help them, Operative?"

The Bothan said nothing, her hot glare now reduced to a smolder laced with a reluctant acceptance. For her part, Syrra was relieved that the wolf had once again intervened before she had allowed her anger to get the better of her, letting Kajex take control of the situation.

"As far as the Trianii, you can get the interviews from the Trianii Rangers themselves," he continued. "They'll have more than two dozen reports to offer about the circumstances of their release. So unless you want to call each and every one of them a liar, all to justify your paranoid delusions, you should probably go back to the NRI and find another story to fabricate – because we refuse to provide more of what we've already given."

"Captain... I believe you have made your point," Luke finally said soothingly, before leveling a stare at the Bothan. "I doubt you'll get anything else from these three, not that I blame them at all. Rest assured, I will have words with your superiors about your methods."

Nett looked between all four of them dourly, before addressing him. "Do what you will, if you think you'd have that much influence – beyond that of your sister, of course."

"I make it a point not to flex my connections with Chief-of-State Organa," Luke informed her quietly. "But then again, I've no need to. I think you'll find my word counts for quite a bit, even among the NRI."

"That's uncharacteristically nepotistic of you," Nett chuffed.

"I will defend them my students and our allies, if I'm able."

Nett considered him for a moment before turning and walking away with a warning. "Do be careful who you choose to vouch for, Master Skywalker. The next time you do, it may cost more than an entire planet."

Once Nett was gone, Kajex sighed. "What a bitch."

"A paranoid one," Talrik agreed.

"Bothan culture tends to be paranoid as a rule," Luke explained."To the most traditionalist of them, the pursuit of their own self-interests supercedes everything else. If there's no clear certainty that you are working with them, they have a tendency to assume you are working against them."

"Sounds like an awful culture to work with," Syrra noted bitterly.

"Sometimes, yes," Luke sighed. "Still, I've known some very noble, wonderful Bothans personally, the kind of folks I'm sure you'd get along with. Bear in mind that people of any culture will have their own interpretation and perspectives." He shook his head. "Nevermind her, though. I thank you for coming, and apologize for both the disruption and your experience with Operative So'vay. Had I known how tense it would have become, I likely would have asked her to leave."

"It's okay, Master Skywalker," Syrra assured him. "Though... what did she mean by it costing more than a planet?"

A pained look flickered on his features before he turned away and bid them follow, walking up to the steps at the head of the audience chamber. "Many of my students have had brushes with the dark side. We all do. I'm thankful that most of them have stayed on the path of the light, but sometimes..." He paused. "Sometimes, they make mistakes. Sometimes... they make terrible mistakes. Like Master Kyp Durron." He turned and looked to Talrik. "I'm sure, as a former stormtrooper, you've heard of him."

The fox nodded. "He's the one that destroyed Carida with a superweapon. It's a well-known story among troops."

"He destroyed an entire planet?" Syrra repeated.

"He was under the influence of the spirit of the Sith Lord Exar Kun, looking to free his brother, Zeth from Carida Academy," Luke explained. "With the superweapon in his control, he threatened to destroy the planet and its nearby sun if his brother wasn't brought to him. For whatever reason, they informed him his brother had died in a training accident, and in his anger he fired the weapon's missiles at the sun. Then they told him his brother was alive, hoping he would be able to call off the attack, but it was too late. Kyp tried to save his brother, but... he died in front of him instead."

"That's awful," Syrra murmured.

Luke nodded. "In the aftermath, I told everyone the truth of what happened, that Kyp was under the influence of a Sith Lord's spirit. Of course, many thought the notion was completely ridiculous, and those who believed us did not feel that this in any way justified Carida's destruction. As it turns out many were supportive, considering it a grim irony that an Imperial superweapon was turned against them, eliminating the military backbone of the Remnant. But there are more than a few voices who thought that Kyp should have faced punishment as a war criminal."

"So he was let off the hook?" Kajex asked.

"No," Luke said firmly. "Chief-of-State Mon Mothma left the decision to me. I believe that anyone who sincerely regrets their mistakes and truly wishes for redemption should be offered that path. Kyp Durron will carry the weight of his actions, influenced or not, for the rest of his life, and that will be a severe punishment nough for someone with his good heart. Others, like Operative So'vay, feel very differently." He looked to Talrik, then to Syrra, before adopting a smile. "I'm glad that you were able to give a second chance someone who needed it most, a chance to do the right thing. Don't let her words get to you."

"Not even the ones about Locke?" Kajex asked, curious.

"Even him. A part of me hopes that he will turn from this Sith cult, for both his sake and yours. There is nothing wrong in wanting to maintain that connection to the only member of your species you know of. Speaking of which, as I have you all here, I think this is a good opportunity to provide some more information, if you have the time. I was hoping Operative So'vay might have had more to share, but I think we have what info can be brought to the table."

"Well, we've got some time before lunch hits," Kajex mused, giving his chronometer a quick look. "Got anything interesting for us?"

He inclined his head. "We've uncovered more information about this Circle of Syn. As we had discussed months ago, the name concerns the ancient Sith Alchemist, Sorzus Syn. We were able to learn from the holocron you delivered to us that Syn was responsible for the creation of many abominations – among them are the Howlers here on Yavin 4, and the now-extinct Leviathan of Kesh."

Syrra grimaced. "'Creation?'"

"The Sith are responsible for a great many advances in studying the Dark Side of the Force. Not all of their discoveries were inherently evil, but most of them were easy for them to abuse, as they tried to stretch the limits of their knowledge, always at the needless cost of many lives. Among their unnatural research was the creation of monstrosities that they would unleash upon the Jedi in their earliest wars against the Jedi Order. Sorzus Syn was among the first to practice this 'Sith alchemy', and was widely regarded as the most powerful among such practitioners."

"So this 'Circle' might be trying to replicate her work?" Talrik asked.

Luke shrugged. "As to that, I can't say. What is known is they have many dark force users on their side. We identified the one called Knight Ulfric as a human from Coruscant who went missing from a mental health institution about a decade ago. Since your last meeting, he has been sighted four separate times, always at the scene of great destruction on planets both within and without the New Republic territories." He paused, looking solemn. "We've lost three Jedi to him so far, a Master and her two apprentices. Thankfully all others have managed to survive their encounters, but if he is any indication of the caliber of our foes then we'll be hard pressed to drive him back. And this coming merely a year after the Disciples of Ragnos Crisis, no less..." he sighed, shaking his head.

"Is there anything else?" Syrra asked.

"They have been searching for Jedi and Sith artifacts, possibly to continue their experiments on kolto. From what you told me about the Trianii medical experiments, it seems clear that kolto reacts positively or negatively depending on the presence of light or dark side abilities and artifacts. The effects of the Healing Crystal of Fire in particular are both fascinating and disturbing."

"Why is that?" she asked

"The dead must be allowed to remain at rest. At some point, all of us must become one with the Force. Bringing back an organism like that is something of a violation of life, by cheating it of death. Moreover, we know nothing of the effects it might have on sentient beings, nor how long dead a corpse can be to still be affected. The organism might go mad, or suffer deleterious side-effects."

"Could they?" Syrra asked skeptically. "Jurah didn't seem to note any abnormal behavior to the hangar rat they used it on."

"Perhaps, but – and not to diminish their life as any better or worse – it was only a hangar rat, and may not have the same mental capacity as a standard sentient being. Last year, the Disciples of Ragnos tried to revive the Sith Lord Marka Ragnos. I assume you've heard of this."

"It was what prompted me to want to join," she admitted.

"Only a few years prior to that, the Empire and their dark-siders attacked the Praxeum after empowering themselves at a hidden Force nexus," he explained. "But it was power they had stolen from the nexus, taken by force rather than accepting it freely through peace and a desire to learn. They infused themselves artificially, so their connection to the Force was... warped. They were undoubtedly powerful but it came at the price of a twisted spirit and unsound mind. When the Disciples of Ragnos siphoned the same power from the Force nexus with the Staff of Ragnos and empowered others with it, the same thing happened."

"So you think the kolto experiments could do the same?"

"Possibly, and it would be foolish to try. Jedi are meant to meditate on the Force for knowledge, but even a Jedi needs the wisdom to understand when certain knowledge is dangerous. I fear that this kolto research could be used for the same purpose, and with the same effects. The only upside to it all is that we know for certain, through New Republic Intelligence, that the Healing Crystal of Fire is one of the relics they do not possess. Yet. If Jurah and his daughter were able to find one through their black market, there may well be other fragments in existence."

The Trianii looked to both Kajex and Talrik. "What should we do, then?" she asked, standing straighter.

Luke smiled, looking a little proud at her reaction. "What you should do, Syrra... is keep doing what you're doing."

She cocked her head. "I don't understand."

"He means to just take care of present, and the future will work out," Kajex told her, also looking proud. "We've been doing some good work, kitten. We just need to keep it going, while getting you trained. Try not to worry and over-focus on the what-ifs."

"Kajex is right," Luke agreed. "You've been here almost a year, and you've shown yourself to be among the best of my students right now. It would be detrimental for you to remain lax, yet at the same time you do need to rest and find some recreation, any way of easing the tension in your focus. I'll have another assignment for you three by the end of the week, something that will aid in this conflict." He squeezed her shoulder reassuringly. "I don't doubt that very soon you'll be put to the test in other ways. It would be best to be prepared for it."

She felt a thrill of excitement at the prospect of moving onwards as a Jedi, such that she barely contained her anxious tail-swishing. "Should I take that as indication that I could be seeing some... expansion, of my duties?"

"Ah, now that would be telling," Kajex chided good-naturedly, wagging a finger in mock admonishment, before tapping her nose. "You'll find out sooner or later."

"All I will say for now," Luke told her, "is suggest that you have all your bases covered. I'm afraid for now I have some other business I'll have to attend to, and it's about lunchtime in the galley, but I'm glad we were able to have this discussion." He bowed to them. "Please enjoy the rest of your day, and may the Force be with you."

"With you, too," she responded in kind, as all three of them bowed.

Talrik had decided to spend the rest of the day with his mother and little brother, bidding the couple a good day before leaving; though Kajex seemed to be a little pensive as he did. While Syrra would have normally asked what was on his mind, she didn't need to use the Force to see that he answer was "plenty." As such, she suggested taking lunch on the Gold Rush, guessing that he would be more inclined to talk about the bombshell they'd both been hit with – that Locke and Keris had been close by.

She'd nailed the target, dead-center.

"I had a feeling," Kajex sighed, pushing away his now-empty noodle bowl. "In the end I figured I was just seeing things I wanted to see, like the situation had gotten to me." He met eyes with her. "Is that weird, hoping that it was him that I saw?"

"I don't think so, no. He's the only member of your species you even know about." She hesitated. "Kajex... when we were on AS-303... you were going to go with him, weren't you?"

The wolf didn't speak immediately, but soon he sighed. "I... wanted to. Partly because it would have been an easy way to get your people off the station. And yes... mostly because I wanted to know. To talk with him, and learn more." He shook his head. "A part of me knew that you would have hated me for it."

"No, not hated," she assured him. "Just... resented the situation. If it were me in your shoes, I think I would have done the same." She shook her head, brightening a bit more for him than for herself. "But even so, it's not what ended up happening. We're together now. Like Luke said, wanting to know that Locke is out there, to have that connection, a chance to answer an important question – who am I? – is not something you ever need to defend. I support you in that."

"Thanks, kitten," he said, looking a little happier. "Well... I guess we know why that jackass security officer chose to let your punch slide, when you knocked him on his ass. Locke must have been using a mental trick on him."

"Assuming we ever see him again, and that we won't have to kill each other, I'll have to thank him for that," Syrra chuckled. "So... anything else on your mind?"

Kajex hesitated for a few moments, then nodded. "Yeah, actually. I got to talking to Talrik earlier, a little before you told us we'd been summoned."

"Anything private?" she asked, curious about his hesitation.

"Not really, no," he admitted, getting up from the table and taking a seat next to her. "More like things I think we should talk about, concerning him. I asked if there was anything I could do to make his stay here more comfortable, since this is technically where he lives when he's not with his family."

"What did he suggest?"

"That we both teach him Echani fighting, how to handle a vibroblade, how to kick Lynch's ass at Pazaak, and just talking to him in general," he told her, still looking slightly apprehensive.

"I see no problems with any of that," she replied, arching an eyebrow. "So... what's the part you haven't told me, yet?"

"Well... long story short," he said, rubbing the back of his head, "after a reflexive response and me taking a guess... he admitted that he thinks we're both attractive." He paused. "In the physical sense."

"Oh... ah." The Trianii sat in silence, completely unprepared for that answer. For a few moments she considered what to ask, or what topic to shift to, before settling on the first thing she could think of. "Did you... do anything?"

"Absolutely not," he said quickly, holding up his paws. "I know you said you were fine with the fact that I've slept with women before you, but I'm not stupid enough to assume that you're into polyamory because of it. You come first. That's why I'm telling you this now."

She couldn't help but smile at his bare honesty. "Thank you, Kajex."

"The point is," he continued, "I wanted to let you know, so that moving forward we know how to deal with it. I don't want him to be distracted, obviously, but I also don't want him to feel awkward or neglected just because we're close. And I certainly don't want to make him feel jealous."

"Is it that bad?" she asked, a little surprised.

"Well... he admitted that it does have an effect on him when you and I are a bit too noisy," he chuckled. "So... maybe?"

She cocked her head, a smile forming on her muzzle as she started to realize where this was going.

"... I'd like to ask you something."

The wolf's eyes narrowed. "That's what I said, and Talrik asked if I had to answer. Should I be worried?"

"Hey, I'm asking the questions here," she insisted, tapping his nose playfully. "Yes, you have to answer; but no, you don't have to worry about it, I'm sure."

"... Shoot."

She leaned in, looking him dead in the eyes with a grin.

"Do you wanna fuck Talrik?"

The wolf jerked and straightened up as if he'd been zapped with a stun prod, then chuffed and matched her expression. "Do you wanna fuck him?"

"I can't believe we're actually talking about this," she giggled, leaning into him. "Of all the things our relationship has become, I wasn't really expecting... this."

"So... you're not mad?" he asked.

"Not at all," she said. "Fact is, I'm... interested."

"... You. A daughter to a Trianii noble, former Trianii Ranger, and Jedi-in-training. Interested in having a second male partner?"

"Well, let's start with a quick affirmation," she said, giving his nose a quick kiss. "I love you, Kajex Surnahm. That isn't going to change just because there's a second cute male who might be interested in a bit of physical intimacy, and that's not factoring in that you've been doing a fantastic job on your own. He isn't going to replace you, not for a moment."

"Nor will he replace you," he assured her.

"That said," she continued, "we have to consider that neither of us are part of cultures that are strictly monogamous."

"Trianii aren't?" he asked, looking surprised. "I thought they were."

"Largely, yes," she replied. "But among Trianii matriarchs, some will opt to have more than one male mate, usually when they want to consolidate their power by being married to multiple land or business owners. Sometimes they even actually love their multiple partners," she added with a scoff. "Among civilians, it's not a taboo to have more than one partner if they aren't married."

"I wasn't aware," he admitted.

"And then there's you," continued, putting her paw on his chest. "And Locke, as well. If your species does have a culture, you're not a part of it yet. You've been open enough to have physical relationships with members of other species, including those of the same sex. So... if it's instinctive, then we can't eliminate the possibility that you could be part of a polyamorous species; and if not, then it comes down to your choice." She put her paw on his. "So... what would you choose?"

He looked away, though not with a look of shame so much as it was a pensive expression. "I made my choice to be with you, Syrra, however long we can be together, for as far as we can make it work. So far, I see no reason at all to disembark that ship." He paused. "But if I had to be honest... I wouldn't mind the opportunity to get a little closer to him."

"How close?" she pressed.

"Well, that's the important part – as close as he wants to be," he answered. "Let's not forget that he's had a rough history. If the goal is to make him feel comfortable, then we shouldn't be focusing on whether or not either of us want to sleep with him."

"Fair enough," she agreed. "Maybe he'll settle for snuggling instead."

"You pervert," the wolf chuffed, giving her a playful lick. "So... what about you?"

"What about me?" she asked. "You'll have to be clearer than that."

"Alright then. Did you ever happen to peruse through my male-on-male content on the ships servers?" he asked pointedly, his smile making it clear he already knew the answer.

Her cheeks burned – there wasn't much in his erotic content collection that she hadn't watched. "Y-yeah..."

"Did you see anything you liked?" he asked, pulling her into his arms as she giggled and buried her face in his chest to stave off the answer. "You can tell me, kitten, you know I won't judge."

She shook with giggles, but managed to hold them back. "I mean... you know the one with the Falleen and the Chistori couple, where the Falleen seduces the 'mercenary', but gets in over his head because the Chistori is bigger and stronger, and they have that hot spring scene and..." She trailed off, hiccuping nervously.

"I know which one you're talking about," he told her, grinning. "So, seeing a bigger guy give it to a smaller male turns you on?"

Syrra whimpered slightly, hiccuping again and hiding her face. "I feel like a pervert for admitting it... but yes."

"So... ever thought about what it would be like if I plowed our little fox friend?" he breathed into her ear, grinning wickedly as she shivered.

"Stooop," she whined, putting a paw on his face and pushing him back, though she found herself giggling as he let her scoot into his hug. "Okay, yes! I've wondered. Especially since you've told me you had a boyfriend, so... I kinda wonder what it must be like. It's kind of why I started playing with your tail lately," she admitted.

"I wondered what had brought that on," he laughed, making her blush harder. "In all seriousness I'll ask him what he thinks, after warming him up to the idea. Given his rough history, it's better that we make it clear that we have no intention of hurting him in any way." He paused. "If, that is, I have your permission."

She considered the question carefully, knowing he was giving her a final chance to back out if this was too unusual for her. "Alright... on three conditions."

"Anything."

She held up her left index finger. "First, he has to say yes. It needs to be consensual, like you said."

"Agreed."

"Secondly, you have to let me know when you're going to make your move." She hesitated, feeling hot around her cheeks. "I might want to observe you two."

The wolf flashed his teeth teasingly. "I know what you mean, and I'll let you know. And I'll try not to tease you too much about it."

She sat up raising a third finger. "Lastly, and this is most important – if I feel uncomfortable with the arrangement at any point and I say to stop, you stop. No questions asked."

Kajex sat up with her, scooting in close and wrapping his arms around her, nodding. "Absolutely. You come first, kitten."

"So, how do you want to approach this?" she asked, wondering if he would get started right away.

"Well, we can wait for a bit," he suggested. "I want to take steps to make sure he's really comfortable here, give him opportunities to feel closer to us. When the time is right, I'll ask him."

"Good thinking," she agreed. "Personally, though, I hope it doesn't take too long."

For the next few days neither Kajex nor Syrra did anything particularly direct where Talrik was concerned. The only change seemed to consist of a subtle, warmer shift in mood whenever the fox was around in the same room. Syrra was quick to point out that, at least for the first three days, Talrik was more reserved when the wolf was around, which they attributed to him being wary after revealing the attraction he held. Moreover, he seemed to be more polite and quieter around Syrra than he usually.

Over that time, Kajex fulfilled his promise to the fox and given him lesson on effectively playing pazaak, sabaac, and core world poker; and both he and Syrra found time to teach him Echani and spar, as well as give him lessons in handling a vibroblade. He'd taken to the exercises quickly, and by the fourth day he seemed to be back to normal, though perhaps a bit more upbeat and glad to spend time with the couple.

And of course, they talked. Talrik seemed comfortable enough to open up revealing more about himself, like that he was born on Naboo to his merchant father and technician mother; that he and his family had fled after the Battle of Endor; that they had arrived on Teeva months before the Imperial Remnant claimed the territory; that his father and his crew had gone missing when he was fourteen, presumed dead; and that he had been conscripted into Imperial training only a year later.

The discussions weren't completely sobering, though, as he seemed more at ease the more he talked to the both of them. Neither of them asked if he had any particular prior relationships before he'd been "kidnapped" as it seemed fairly clear the answer would have been no. Nevertheless, he'd still managed to have a somewhat decent life before he'd been forced to work for the Empire, though he admitted he had once wanted to apply to be a security volunteer back on Naboo. A childish dream, perhaps, but one that Kajex would argue he was starting to live out through very unusual circumstances.

With a third crewmember on board to help with training, it was now far easier to coordinate together during their jungle training exercises than he had expected. The bond that he and Syrra shared gave them a level of trust that seemed unfathomable, and Talrik's drive, discipline and eagerness to help was inspiring to watch at times. His drive to learn from the captain was rivaled only by Syrra, and it wasn't long before both of them were comfortable with hand-to-hand sparring. The end result of all this was that Kajex was finally starting to feel like the mentor Skywalker had hoped he'd be for Syrra- and that mentorship was rapidly extending to Talrik. So when the week came to an end and Kyle Katarn banged on the ship's hatch to give them their assignment (and get ready for card night, a get-together the captain had offered to others looking to enjoy their evening), Kajex had never felt more confident in his team, and looked forward to the evening with high spirits about the job.

Although, as much as he was beginning to enjoy card night, he still had his gripes.

"No, Kyle, I'm not going to stock Ruby Bleil on my ship! The last time I did, my boyfriend – may the Force preserve him – tripped and spilled it into the cargo grating; and now I have ship parasites that have been there for seven years! I've got Tony's Corellian Ale and Hutch Brew Light! And water! Take your pick!"

"That's it?" Katarn grumbled as he dropped into a seat in the lounge.

"This is a Corellian smuggler ship, not a Corellian bar!" Kajex shouted from the galley.

"So why are you making everyone besides me and Syrra pay for the drinks?" Talrik called back wryly, grinning.

"Because I'm the one that's purchasing the booze anytime I'm off-planet, and as you're my employee and Syrra is my student, you two get free drinks," he explained, having decided to extract the entire cooling box back into the lounge with him. "And no, I don't buy it with my sabaac winnings. You guys keep drinking me outta house and home, I'm gonna institute a BYOB policy for anyone that wants to play. Or I'll have to program some Core World Poker into the table and kick all of your asses with a proper, vintage card game to get my liquors." He set the alcohol case next to the holo-display table slid into the seat next to Talrik. "Who's coming tonight, Kyle?"

"Corran said he's out, Mirax went into labor a few hours ago and he wants to be there. Lynch isn't coming either, says he's waiting for a less busy night so he can screw more credits out of Lye's pockets." Talrik said nothing, though he looked a little irritated. "Garrett is bringing along Master Simetra, though. Syrra here yet?"

"She's picking up some ration capsules and other equipment from the quartermaster. So why couldn't Master Skywalker give me the details this time?" Kajex asked as he started passing around the bottles.

"He's off-world, visiting his sister and offering political counsel. Not that it's his forte, but he's still family. Got the briefing with me, though, if you want to go over it real quick before we start playing." He held up a datapad. "Mind if I connect here?"

"Fine, just don't spill your drink on the display," the wolf sighed as Kyle jacked it in. "Took me all of an evening to clean it off last time."

The holographic emitters sprung to life, casting an expanded image of the screen's contents suspended in midair in a ghostly blue light, just as the sound of footsteps at the ramp echoed through the ship. Syrra rounded the bend, carrying a trio of satchels and setting them off to the side, raising her eyebrows in interest. "Did I miss anything?"

"Not at all, you got here just in time. So anyway." Kyle tapped the screen, bringing up a holographic display of a massive belt of asteroids as the feline took her seat. "You'll be traveling to Southern Star Station, an interesting little series of asteroids in the Byssus Belt connected via AI-controlled gravity well projectors and reinforced tubular systems for transport. A right little marvel of pioneer ingenuity."

"Mining colony?" Kajex asked.

"Ship scrapyard, docking station and mercenary outpost, actually." The wolf grunted and Kyle smiled. "Figured this is right up your alley, Captain. And don't worry, the guild there is controlled by a former Antarian Ranger. They'll deal with Jedi fairly. He caught wind about the Remnant's recent interest in Jedi and Sith artifacts. In fact he was one of our trusted contacts who gave us leads during the Disciples of Ragnos Crisis a couple of years back, and now he's got something extra for us to look at."

"Do you not like working with other mercenaries, Kajex?" Talrik asked with a tilted head.

"The ones doing it solely for the money tend to be assholes about it," the wolf grunted. "I only ever met one or two who were decent women. Still, if it's an Antarian Ranger at the helm, they might not be so bad. So what are we going there for?" he asked, glancing at down the hall to the ramp as Garrett and a heavily-tattooed woman about his age walked in.

"One of the local scavvers there is a Force-sensitive, she felt a pull in one of the older vessels and investigated. The report states that came across a some damaged pieces of armor, which she says burned her hands when she tried to pick them up. That alone suggests it's probably a Sith artifact. Mission is pretty simple, get to Southern Star Station, meet with the guild leader and commander, Ray, and get the package back here safe. Couldn't be easier," Kyle finished.

"Please don't say that, Katarn," Kajex hissed, ears flattening as he reset the holographic display and passed around a few more bottles while Kyle, Garrett and their new guest paid for the drinks. "Every time someone says that, I either get shafted about three-hundred credits or something really bad happens."

Lynch rounded the bend, the portly blonde pilot grinning. "Guess that means I'm winning tonight."

Talrik frowned. "What are you doing here?" he asked, ears folded back. "Thought you were skipping tonight."

"I changed my mind to siphon more credits, kid. Hope your boss here is paying you well," he chuckled, dropping into a seat.

Talrik grimaced, then leaned in close to Kajex, muttering. "Core World Poker, you said?" The wolf nodded. "Do it."

Grinning at the vulpine, Kajex stood back up. "Alright, Sabacc night, folks. Glad to have Master Simetra with us tonight," he indicated politely the tattooed woman, who treated everyone to a peaceful smile, "so as she's new to this, let's go over the rules again: no mind reading, mind tricks, Jedi concealment, skifters, dirty topics, bad jokes, spilling any drinks on my table, non-Republic currency betting or sneaking into the galley for my frozen noodles. House rules tonight are Bespin Standard." Lynch groaned and Talrik pumped a fist in the air with as little subtlety as possible. "Bottles of ale are eight decicreds- spill any drinks on my ship and you owe me eight full creds, right?"

"Highway robbery," Lynch muttered.

"You want to pay the Praxeum chef for snacks next card night? No? Then respect the house rules," the wolf responded, as the rest of the players chuckled. "Now stop whining and let's deal!"

"Sir?"

Locke did not immediately look up, regarding the vixen resting in his arms with genuine affection as he ran a paw through her fur. It had taken three hours of intimacy to quell her desires, but it was easy to be dutiful and generous where she was concerned. When he finally did answer, his response was distant and preoccupied.

"I assume it's of great importance, Miles. Quietly, please – my apprentice needs her rest. And as I've said before, my friend, you may call me Locke."

"Alright, Locke. Long-range transceiver picked up a signal from the ISD Grand Finale. The transmission is coded and I've made all security checks to ensure it remains discreet."

The wolf shifted out of the bunk carefully, laying Keris down gently and rubbing her ears for a moment before nodding, getting his robes back on. "Thank you, Miles. I'll require privacy while I accept the transmission."

"I'll stay back here, keep a figurative eye on things," Miles stated, taking a seat in the room as Locke strode past him into the vessel's cockpit.

The knight had spent the last three weeks along the Outer Rim, tracking down known locations of Jedi who had escaped Order 66 decades ago. Though none of his targets still remained, as he had predicted, the artifacts they had possessed did. Tracking the items in turn had proven to be far less difficult afterward. The trio had been ordered to report in by the end of the month, though Locke suspected that if he was being contacted now by Inquisitor Voyde, then another trinket had been located and required immediate attention before the Jedi intervened.

He slid into the pilot's chair, tapping a finger on the console for a few moments before sitting up straight and activating the transceiver, his eyes on a small holo-emitter before him. The ghostly, blue-grey image of his master took shape, his wrinked, age-marbled skin almost grotesque. His glacial eyes were narrowed as he stared at the wolf with an expression bordering on dislike.

"Good evening, Inquisitor Voyde," Locke said with an insincere smile. "Couldn't sleep?"

The Sith lorekeeper glared at him. "I demand an update on your progress, Knight Locke."

The wolf sighed. "Very well. We've retrieved two Jedi war swords, one holocron, and a Jedi tome in the last three weeks. I intend to return to the Grand Finale to deliver these items to you before moving to the next tar--"

"Ignore the next target, Knight," Voyde said abruptly. "You're doing exceptional work, far beyond what I expected. But your next target will have to wait." There was a glint in the Inquisitor's eyes. "Another relic has recently been located. Inquisitor Tesque is aware of it, and has started to make her move."

Locke frowned. "Which means she sent Ulfric to intercept it, again."

"Precisely," the Inquisitor confirmed grimly. "This is a situation where we cannot allow that brute to approach. The prize here is too great a lure, the beast will take it for Tesque, if not himself. They cannot be allowed to possess it, so I am tasking you with getting to it first."

"Very well," Locke replied with a nod. "Where am I being sent?"

"To the Byssus Belt."