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_ "She is the God-Ender; The One Who Judges; The Final Shade; She Who Accompanies the Fallen. Her claws kill our foes and end our own lives in turn. Blessings to Kunik, who settles all scores. Her children shall know justice- her enemies shall know wrath. May she watch over us all, and judge us as we should be." _

~Trianii Ranger daily prayer

Trianii religion detailed the creation and 'death' of the Six High Gods, reborn as the six central planets of the Trianii space- Trian, the high goddess of wisdom; Perin and Pypin, her younger siblings and muses; Fibuli, her adventurous husband and sacred hunter; Ekibo, gentle and compassionate soul, gardener and harvester; and Brochiib, the guardian and sword-brother. The offspring of these gods and goddesses formed the lesser pantheon, representing important facets of birth, life, service, and eventually death. The last of these facets were the sphere of Kunik. Scarred and bitter, she was said to be a wraith devoted to death and judgment- often, in that order specifically.

The legend detailed the eternal rest of the gods, as the eternal black was incapable of housing the ever-populating Trianii people. Ekibo appealed to his older sister to give up their lives and be reformed into worlds the Trianii could claim as their own; with the greater gods in agreement, Kunik was tasked with ending their lives, while her brothers and sisters worked tirelessly to reform them into celestial bodies upon which the Trianii would live and thrive- in the end, they would also pass and become planets themselves.

Whatever the truth of such myths, the colonization of each planet was well-recorded and the names of the Trianii greater pantheon matched the qualities of their deities- Triani would be the centerpoint and capital planet of the Trianii and the political movements; Perin and Pypin would become centers of commerce and the arts; Fibuli would be a rugged world dedicated to hunting, training and the practice of martial arts; Ekibo would be a world of healing and harvest, feeding much of the rest of the system; and Brochiib would be the birth planet of the Trianii Rangers- the sentinels of the system.

Kunik and her siblings, however, would also have planets named for them. And as the Gold Rush neared the planet named for the lesser god of bitter retribution and death, Syrra felt it was more than a little fitting that the colony was an untamed world of marshlands and dense jungles. A deep, sickly green obscured by pale gray clouds gave the planet an ominous appearance, culminating in an uncomfortable shudder running up the Trianii knight's spine.

"Blessings to Kunik, who settles all scores," she murmured.

Kajex glanced at her. "Hmm? Did you say something, kitten?"

"Nothing... just an old prayer," she sighed, staring distantly at the planet, before her attention was drawn to the ship's scanners. "Two RX4s on approach- standard Ranger patrol ships," she elaborated. "They have their weapons up."

"Easy there," Kajex told the crew. "We're in their territory, they need to show their fangs so we know they mean business."

A ping rang out behind her. "We're being hailed," Locke said, seated at the communications terminal. "Caller is tagged as Razor 1- patching us through."

Soft static filled their ears for a few moments as the connection was established- it disappeared abruptly, and moments later a calm voice spoke to them. "Jedi vessel Gold Rush, this is Razor 1 of Kunik's Ranger patrol- we have you on our scanners. You have been granted permission by Kunik's matriarch to make landfall at Juhty City Spaceport. 1st Sinth Pakka and his team are awaiting your arrival there."

"Thank you, Razor 1," Kajex responded calmly.

"Follow my ship closely, Gold Rush, and be warned- any major deviation in your flight pattern, and we will open fire on your vessel. Are we clear?"

"Perfectly clear," Kajex replied. "I'll set to autopilot and match your speed."

"Yikes," Keris said, wincing. "They aren't messing around."

"They can't afford to out here," Syrra told her. "They have to put up with pirates and other aggressive factions that want a piece of the world for themselves."

"Well... as long as we have nothing to do, we better get to talking," Kajex suggested, turning his seat to the empty space on the dividing console between him and Syrra- Revan's holocron had just stirred to life, a half-foot holoprojection of the ancient Jedi standing on the disk's surface. "Anything you can tell us about this planet, Revan? Any Sith establishments, in particular?"

All eyes in the cockpit turned to him as he waited a few moments before speaking. "I've re-analyzed all pertinent data concerning the region that I pulled from the Inspired, things I didn't know about it and that've occurred since my time," the holocron stated. "Sections of the Tingel Arm served as the starting point for the twelve Jedi Exiles to expand their Empire, after they began expanding past Korriban and Dromund Kaas. I know that multiple worlds in the Arm were infiltrated while they built their power. What I've learned since then is that the region would be their staging point prior to the Great Galatic War- but I didn't come across any records about active or abandoned temples, academies or factories on this planet."

"Which might not mean anything," Locke said. "The Sith are exceptional at hiding."

"That they are," Revan agreed. "Is there any reason you're curious, Sentinel?"

"We told my cousin to get back to us with any colonies that came across ruins or temples of unknown origin- Kunik was the first world that came to mind," Syrra answered. "Apparently, some type of ruin was found that was not thoroughly investigated. The locals seem to be fearful of it."

"Then it would be a wise move to approach the site with caution," Revan suggested. "This close to the Nache Bhelfia hyperspace lane, it would have been within the influence of the Sith Empire- smart money would be on it being affiliated with the Sith, at least at one point." He hesitated for a few moments. "... Sentinel... I know you might not think much of the idea, but I really think you should bring me along for this."

"Out of the question," Kajex told him firmly as he returned his attention to flying- they were moments from breaching the outer atmosphere. "Not that I don't trust you, but... I don't. Not completely. It'd be a stupid decision to bring you to any site with possible dark side influence."

"I'm stronger than that," Revan countered as he folded his arms, "and I wasn't suggesting you take me directly to this site, either. I'm only suggesting you take me with you while you're investigating the merchants. Am I correct in saying you'll be dividing up into teams?"

"That was our intention, yes," Locke acknowledged, grabbing a nearby handle to brace himself while the ship was buffeted by turbulence.

"And your gunner, Miles- he can detect items of Force influence like any other Miraluka. I can do much the same thing, and I'll likely be better able to identify what any artifact can do if I'm close enough to analyze it," Revan reasoned. "Sound good?"

"Orders were to keep your existence a secret," Syrra said. "Granted, I can understand if you don't like the idea of being cooped up in the ship the entire time, but..."

"It's not that," the ancient Jedi assured her, as the rocking tapered off. "But I did promise to help you folks put an end to your Sith problems. I'd like to be an active part of it, is all. And you wouldn't need to reveal anything, just stick me in a satchel and get me close. Material barriers won't inhibit my ability to sense things through the Force."

"I think he should come, brother," Locke followed up. "Leaving Revan on the ship unattended might not be a wise course of action. If the Trianii Rangers feel any need to investigate the vessel on the basis of not trusting us, it'd be best they not come across him and confiscate him."

Kajex stared at the projection for a few moments before sighing. "Alright... he can come with- but I'll be the one carrying him, and he needs to keep it on the down-low. You agree, Revan?"

"If I need to tell you anything, it'll be through the Force," the holocron replied. "Just be careful, all of you. The Jedi established themselves in the Core, to be the light of the center- but the power of the dark side grows in the shadows far from such light."

"Fair enough," Kajex replied, glancing up and peering through the fog. "Heads up, we're nearing the settlement."

It was only through the Force and his ship's sensors that the Sentinel was able to detect the signs of civilization through the dense mist and tall, kelp-leaved trees, but it did not take long for them to attain a visual on city of Juhty. Activity upon the marshland surface was unusually high, and it occurred to the wolf that perhaps the settlement was larger that he could see, or else very densely populated for its size. From what little was within visual range, however, he could see that the locals had certainly noticed his ship's approach- high though they were, Kajex was certain many heads had turned to the sky.

"They must not see many Corellian ships," he mused.

"Captured CEC ships tend to be used by the Rangers," Syrra corrected him. "But I'm certain they've noticed our ship lacks the insignia of the Rangers themselves."

"They know we're outsiders," Locke said. "I'm sensing a lot of apprehension- we'll have to be on our best behavior."

The Trianii were well-equipped to receive transports, even on such a misty planet as Kunik, with multiple landing transceivers allowing the Gold Rush to pinpoint its assigned landing pad, suspended over ten feet of green-gray water. But while the pad itself was professionally constructed and well-maintained, the only things connecting it to the rest of the medium-sized spaceport were a series of questionable-looking wooden bridges. It was with a sidelong glance of worry that Kajex regarded Syrra, but any comment he would have made was quelled when she shook her head and sighed- she would not attempt to defend the spaceport for it, knowing full well how irresponsible it was. Shrugging, he grabbed Revan's holocron and slid it into his back belt-pouch, intent on keeping his word to Revan.

"Oh good," the holocron muttered. "Thanks."

"Don't mention it," Kajex sighed. "Just remember--"

"Keep it quiet, right."

"We have an entourage," Keris said, her head cocked to the side. Sure enough, a full dozen Trianii of considerable height were crossing the northernmost bridge leading from the central starport hub. Each wore sleeveless forest-hued light armor, with slugthrower rifles slung across their backs and unlit firebrands at their hips. A glint of metal at the end of each of their tails caught the overhead lighting. "What... are those on their tailtips?" she asked hesitantly.

"Exactly what you think they are, love," Syrra replied. "Tail blades. Every Ranger learns to use them as part of training- even me."

"They look ready for a fight," the vixen pointed out with a subtle tone of concern. "Which one is your cousin?"

Syrra opened her mouth to speak, only to come up short with a frown as she peered at the group. "... None of them. He's not here."

"Just relax, it's probably just a group to escort us to him- he might have had something to attend to," Kajex suggested as he powered down the ship and made his way down to the lounge, where the rest of the pack was waiting. "Whatever anybody does," he added clearly, "don't do anything to antagonize the Rangers. No mindtricks, no backtalk, and if you have something to say that you wouldn't to a politician, don't say it at all. Let Syrra and maybe me do the talking."

"You're the alpha here," Syrra said as she followed him to the ramp. "You should be the one to speak on our behalf."

"But you're the Trianii Ranger," he countered. "They'll listen to you before they listen to me. I'll work with you, though, and supplement anything you say. We ready, then?" Everyone nodded and he activated the ramp.

They found themselves buffeted by warm, wet air as they strode down the ramp, the sensation of considerable humidity marked by the scent of pungent stench of muddy wetlands, and all manner of wildlife calls. Yet if there were any among them who were uncomfortable, they uttered no words as they waited at the base of the ramp, as the squad of Trianii Rangers approached.

At the front of the group was a black-pelted male who stood a head taller than Kajex and possessed visible scars along his arms. His fiery orange eyes scanned the group with an expression that Syrra was certain was suspicion- at least, until the Ranger's eyes fell upon her, whereupon his gaze softened considerably. A subtle pulse of jealousy emanated from the wolf to her side, yet he neither said nor did anything beyond give her a gentle nudge of mental encouragement. She took a step forward and bowed to the squad respectfully, before speaking clearly in the Trianii language.

"<A warm day to you all,>" she remarked politely. "<I am Syrra, a Jedi Knight and member of this team- this is my partner and fellow knight, Kajex Surnahm.>" The wolf nodded and bowed low, and she could sense that Kajex agreed it was a wise decision not to mention that their relationship was anything deeper than partners.

The black-furred Trianii, who seemed to be the leader of the group, bowed at Syrra and seemed to completely disregard Kajex entirely. "<A warm day to you, honored warrior. I am Chaq, 2nd Sinth of this team. We were told one of our own was coming today, one blessed by the gods to use the Force- but they neglected to mention both her youth and beauty,>" he purred deeply. Several of the Rangers behind him seemed to chuff with amusement; but a couple of them seemed to have been perceptive enough to notice both Syrra's and Kajex's devotion beads, though they said nothing.

"<Thank you for your kind words, Sinth Chaq,>" she replied evenly. "<I was told we we're to meet my kin here- is he nearby?>"

Chaq hesitated a moment before returning his wary expression to the rest of the pack. "<...We're to escort you and your... allies, to Sinth Pakka- we shall begin once they have relinquished their weapons.">

Syrra said nothing for a few moments, glancing at Kajex and Locke. She did not need to turn around to know Talrik had flinched at the words; and she could feel the wariness in both the wolf twins. She cleared her throat. "<Our weapons?>"

"<Their weapons,>" he corrected her, folding his arms and giving Kajex a cold stare. "<You are a former Trianii Ranger, you alone are trustworthy among this group- these outsiders are not to be trusted so easily, and will have to earn that right.>"

Though the request was troubling, she kept her expression neutral and her tone polite. "<I am a Trianii Ranger- my oath to protect Trianii worlds did not cease when I became a Jedi. And while I'm fully aware of our methods concerning off-worlders, I do not recall this being one of them.>"

"<You were stationed among the inner systems, young one- but trust does not come easily out here,>" he answered with a subtle growl.

"It's alright, Syrra," Kajex said abruptly, reaching out and touching her shoulder, his eyes fixed directly on Chaq as he cleared his throat. "<You say you wish for us to relinquish your weapons?>" he asked, to the general bewilderment of the Ranger squad- each member glanced at each other, apparently unprepared for a non-Trianii to be able to speak the language so fluently.

Chaq took a step back, glaring at the Sentinel with distrust. "<You know our tongue?>" Kajex nodded but said nothing further, folding his arms and giving Chaq a steady stare, waiting for an answer. It took several seconds of awkward silence for the ebony Trianii to oblige. "<... Yes. We demand your weapons. All of them.>"

"<Then I suppose we have no choice but to agree,>" the wolf replied, turning to the rest of the pack. "The Rangers here are asking for us to give them our weapons," he told them- Syrra watched as Rook, Miles and Keris glanced at each other, looking troubled. "I'm not interested in antagonizing anybody- we'll play it their way."

Rook glared at Chaq. "And if any of us tell 'im to fu--"

"Rook," Syrra hissed tensely, cutting her off and turning to her. "Don't do this. Not now. We need you, but we can't do this if they won't let us pass." The Selonian bristled, but looked a little apologetic for her near outburst.

"Right... sorry boss," she sighed. "But this is a personal weapon of mine- it ain't something I'm gonna just hand over."

"<If the runt is asking what will happen if she refuses,>" Chaq rumbled, returning the Selonian's glare, "<then tell her she will be forced to remain on your vessel. But she will not enter the star-port without giving up her polearm.>"

"<Very well,>" Kajex said, frowning- it was clear he did not care for the Ranger's slight against Rook, though he said nothing about it. "He says that if you won't give up your glaive, you'll have to stay on the ship. Think this through carefully, kid," he added. "I know it's a tall order, but I promise it won't last long."

The otter growled briefly, before letting out a frustrated sigh and slapping a trigger on her shoulder- the mag-plate on her back disengaged, allowing her to pull the glaive off. A few of the rangers raised their rifles warily, but Chaq raised a paw, watching carefully as she moved past Kajex and Syrra, stopping short five paces from the Ranger.

"... I'm going to get this back," she said quietly, her eyes regarding Chaq coldly as she handed it over- there was a tense moment as the Ranger grabbed the weapon, where both of their paws held the glaive tight. A tiny jerk-like movement passed, as the commander attempted to tug it away from her, yet Rook held fast for a few moments, before letting it go.

Syrra took in a deep breath, trying to steady her nerves. "<She says the weapon is a personal keepsake,>" she told the Ranger calmly. "<It is generally unwise to ask a Mandalorian to part with his or her weapon- I'd ask that you keep her weapon safe, above everyone else's.>"

"<A Mandalorian,>" Chaq repeated as his eyes flashed dangerously, glaring at the otter. "<It is also generally unwise to forget that Mandalorians are invaders. Tell her she should be so lucky that we're allowing her to even set foot in this colony- and that she is deluded if she thinks I'll re-arm her when she leaves.>"

"Well, this is going south in a hurry," Syrra remarked to Kajex telepathically, trying her absolute best not to groan in both shame and frustration as the rest of the pack started to disarm themselves slowly.

"Buck up, kitten," he responded as he pulled both his lightsabers from his belt. "You're doing the right thing here. Rook knows we wouldn't just let that stand, and right now we have more to worry about from the Rangers than from her." He cleared his throat and stepped up next to Rook, who was still looking sour- with a moment of hesitation, he held out both weapons, and one of the Rangers stepped forward to take them, just as the rest of the pack moved in slowly to hand their weapons to their escort.

Chaq regarded Kajex for a few moments, and Syrra was certain the Ranger had only just noticed the wolf's devotion beads. A swooping feeling of apprehension filled her as his eyes flicked towards here- the connection was made, another flash flickering in his eyes. Yet whatever he was thinking, he still made no demands for her to hand in her own weapon.

It was instead to Kajex that he spoke to. "<Your satchel.>"

The wolf froze. "<... What about it?>"

"<Turn it in.>"

"<... I possess no other weapons beyond my lightsabers,>" he replied warily. Syrra tensed- having Revan confiscated would be less than ideal.

"<That remains to be seen, Jedi,>" Chaq growled. "<I fully expect to board your vessel and find an armory onboard- that shall be confiscated too.>"

Syrra frowned. "<Is this really necessary, Sinth Chaq? I can vouch for everyone here, they are noble and brave people.>"

"<You keep strange company, Jedi Syrra. But while you may be comfortable in their presence, the will of the Rangers takes precedence- your compatriots will comply.>"

"<That's enough of that!>" a voice snarled out from the fog. The Trianii squad turned abruptly and backed away from the bridge, allowing Syrra to see a lone figure stride up the bridge. Syrra's spirits lifted as her cousin march through the mist into clear view, wearing red-gold light armor and an expression of disappointment on his features as he turned his eyes on Chaq. Immediately, the squad stood at attention, holstering their weapons and saluting Pakka.

Chaq's expression was unreadable- but Syrra could feel the discontent within him. "<... 1st Sinth. I wasn't expecting you here.>"

"<I should think not,>" Pakka snapped, "<particularly as you seem to have ignored your orders to contact me the moment the Gold Rush was detected. It's a good thing I was already waiting in case of an early arrival- I certainly don't remember giving you orders to escort the Jedi team, nor confiscating their weapons.>"

"<It's standard Ranger procedure out here, Pakka,>" Chaq challenged. "<Or have you forgotten?>"

"<Indeed it is. Of course, the will of the regional yu'nar supercedes Ranger procedure in the face of any special dispensation. ... Or have you forgotten?>" Chaq said nothing, allowing Pakka to continue. "<I told you that Matriarch Sami has granted these offworlders the privilege of keeping their weapons.>"

"<You think because the Matriarch wills it, that we should lower our-->"

"<Paranoid as you may be, Chaq,>" Pakka cut him off with a raised voice, "<not every spacer or off-worlder is out to do us ill. You dishonor the Matriarch by ignoring her will; the Jedi Order by assuming they are dangerous and untrustworthy; and my cousin by implying she lacks the wisdom to choose her company wisely. You are skirting dangerously close to painting our ranks in a poor light. Now, be so kind as to return the weapons to the offworlders.>"

Syrra watched as the two male Trianii stared at each other- while Pakka stood at Kajex's height and thus a head shorter than Chaq, he possessed an aura of authority that the taller Trianii, for all his glaring and subdued growling, seemed reticent to defy. With an annoyed chuff, the 2nd Sinth tossed Rook's glaive to her- she said nothing, though her eyes were cold. Chaq did nothing more but wave a paw dismissively before striding away, leaving the rest of the subdued Rangers to begin handing back the pack's gear, a few of them muttering quiet apologies to them.

Pakka folded his arms and nodded, though his gaze was stern. "<Good... now, while I'm sure you were told these offworlders would need to be escorted into the city proper, I'm sure you'll soon realize that this is unnecessary. Return to your posts and await further orders- I need to speak with my cousin and her friends to make accommodations.>" The Rangers saluted at once, turned and bowed at the pack, and then hurried single-file through the bridge- Pakka watched until they were out of sight, at which point he sighed and smiled. The overall effect of this positive expression softened his otherwise harder features pleasantly, as he strode forward and held out his arms.

"It's been too long, cousin," he purred as they embraced tightly, the Trianii Jedi purring back affectionately and giving him a nuzzle. "By the Six Gods, look at you- all grown up, and a Jedi Knight to boot!"

"And you- a 1st Sinth," Syrra replied happily. "Bast used to think you'd never reach my father's rank, yet here you stand in your armor- you do your parents proud, cousin. How are they?"

"Same as always- barking orders at me on-duty, then asking why I haven't visited lately off-duty," Pakka replied, rolling his eyes humorously. "Mother said she was sorry she couldn't be here to meet you, but like every other pyorn she has her own trisector to keep track of. I think she was interested in meeting both you and your fiancee," he added, turning to the wolf with his paw outstretched. "Kajex, was it?"

"Pleased to meet you," the wolf replied genially. "Thanks for the back-up. We were ready to go with it, even if it was a bit unexpected."

"Says you!" Rook snapped, sounding irritable. "Don't think I didn't catch what the asshole was sayin' earlier- I may not speak the language, but I could tell he didn't like it when Syrra mentioned I was Mandalorian. I bet he was sayin' he was gonna keep my glaive, right Talrik?"

The Amaran winced. "He said... yeah... and he wasn't exactly polite about it."

"I wouldn't have stood for it," Kajex told her, reaching out and squeezing her shoulder. "If I had to steal it back myself, I would've gotten it back to you."

"Not that I would advocate theft in any form, as punishment involves removing a paw," Pakka mentioned casually, "but I would not have stood for it either. You have my deepest apologies, ma'am." The Ranger bowed. "Regardless of your lineage or culture, we would have been better served treating you with as much respect as my cousin. I'll be sure to tell Chaq he is not to antagonize any of you like that."

The otter stared at him a few moments, still looking a little sour, before sighing and relaxing. "Yeah... it's fine. I appreciate you tryin' to smooth things over."

"Is he normally like that?" Locke asked, looking off to where the Rangers had left.

"Chaq and his descendants were from Fibuli, before CorpSec turned much of the planet into a wasteland- they were hunters and fighters, and some of the fiercest warriors set against the CSA," Pakka sighed, as the skies overhead rumbled. "He is loyal, but does not trust offworlders easily- if at all. Add that this planet has its own share of criminals and dangers, and what you have is someone who prefers to expect the worst of others he does not know. Still, while the squad I hand-selected are from the same flotilla, he is the only one from his unit. The others will likely treat you better."

"I hope so," Syrra replied. "The last thing we want is conflict."

Pakka nodded. "Agreed. For now, let's get you all into the city- night will fall soon, and a storm is scheduled to approach in the next hour. I'll lead you to an inn- nice place, good rooms and food."

"Oh, that's not really necessary," Kajex responded. "We can return to the Gold Rush, if it would lower any costs on your part."

Now Pakka was grinning, which softened his otherwise grizzled features pleasantly. "Nonsense, Sentinel- I insist. Besides, we'll want some good drinks while my cousin tells me of her adventures."

Having been raised by a former Trianii Ranger and spending a part of his early life fighting alongside them, Kajex was very much aware of how laid back and relaxed they could be. Though fiercely loyal and territorial, they were very much family-oriented, their ranks and units as much dependent on lineage as they were by deeds. Thus, while Pakka was fully aware of the fact that Syrra had lost her right arm during a mission, he was nevertheless interested to her the tale itself- moreso since the inn's dim interior and raging, rumbling storm outside made the mood ideal for telling stories, enough so that Kajex noticed a few of the inn's regulars were listening closely.

He proved a good listener and entertained audience as they talked and drank, interested in knowing how the Jedi functioned in the past and present, watching in awe as they demonstrated simple cantrips of the Force (little more than telekinesis and telepathy, which the commander still found impressive), and the enemies they were currently facing. As the night wore on, they'd huddled closely near a few lit candles, save for Rook and Talrik, who were engaging in a friendly game of knife-throwing with a few of the inn regulars- but Kajex could tell they were keeping their ears open for the conversation they were having with the commander.

"They sound like a lethal lot, this Circle of yours," Pakka said, briefly turning his attention to a barmaid as she passed another round of drinks and waiting until she left. "Raiding tombs, raising the dead, stealing dangerous artifacts- even if I didn't believe the Force were real, I'd mark them as dangerous for such cultish beliefs. Thankfully, I can't say I've heard any reports about such a cult- at least not on this colony."

"And in others?" Syrra asked.

"Hard to say- you would have to check in with each trisector's pyorn and punctino to know if they heard any particular rumors. That, of course, takes time."

"How do ranks work among the Trianii?" Keris asked as she set aside her drink.

"It mirrors what used to be the yu'nar triumvirates of the old days," Pakka explained. "Three Matriarchs used to be elected to oversee a third of the planet, though now that number varies depending on the world- for Trianii Rangers, each sector is divided into thirds, and a punctino is elected to guard their trisector, commanding the fleet like your Republic admirals."

"No part of the fleet is as big as a capital ship, though," Kajex pointed out.

"True," Pakka conceded. "Something the Rangers are struggling to overcome. Anyway, serving under them are pyorn, commanding a few dozen ships like my father. After that are the sinths like me, functioning as captains- and leading most of the ground forces, when necessary. But because that chain of command can be so extensive and yet functions as separate divisions, it can take time for rumors to make rounds- I'm sure you would all agree that the Trianii are a bit behind the times, in terms of culture and technology."

"So then you've heard nothing about this Circle, or any sort of Sith activity?" Syrra asked.

"If we have, then not by those names," Pakka replied darkly. "There are plenty enough troubles in the outer colonies that don't have names. You asked me if I was aware of any ruins on any planets colonized by the Trianii- ruins that preceded our presence. I know of a few that have been located in recently-uncovered colonies, but the one most discussed is the one here on Kunik, west of the settlement."

The Sentinel glanced to Locke, trading a subtle yet significant look with his twin. "Is there something that sets it apart from other sites?" Locke asked quietly, leaning in.

"It is known among the locals are the Temple of Tides. It has only ever been explored three times, to my knowledge- it possesses one known blast door, but although it appears to be powered, it won't open to any stimulus we possess, particularly since we have very few slicers among our ranks. Anyway, the exterior of it is ominous enough, so the few scholars that were sent to investigate the ruins were reluctant to study it further. We do know that the ruins are pretty large- a lot of it must be submerged."

"Any guesses as to what is inside?" Locke asked.

"None, but the hatch is inscribed with a script we've never seen before- it's certainly not galactic standard or aurabesh," Pakka informed him. "It does have the remnants of statues around it, though- no faces, but the figures are robed and holding swords."

"Don't sound like it could be Sith if it's just swords," Rook suggested as she glanced in their direction and picked up a knife, gauging the distance to the target board. With practiced form, she flung the balanced blade forward and embedded the weapon a foot right from dead center. "You'd figure it'd be lightsabers they were holdin'."

"Not all Sith favored lightsabers," Locke corrected her. "Some preferred vibroswords for the massive damage they caused- Marka Ragnos was said to prefer a war sword, favoring the feel of blade cutting through flesh and bone. Either way, these ruins certainly bear investigation."

"Can you take us there tomorrow?" Kajex asked.

Pakka shook his head, looking apologetic. "It's called the Temple of Tides for a reason. The good news is that it's about a day's walk away- the bad news is that it's inaccessible while the tide is high, and it won't be low enough to travel there for at least another three days. Worse, there's no place to land a ship at. The surrounding terrain for miles is safe to walk on, even safe enough to have a simple wheeled cart follow, but it will swallow up anything heavier than a pregnant herdbeast. I can lead you there once the tide is low, but after that you'll have three days to investigate before it rises again."

"Sounds doable," Kajex replied, feeling this wasn't as bad a limitation as it could be. "We can spend that time talking to the locals and questioning merchants- it'll give us time to plan out how we'll approach the ruins."

"Then make sure your plan includes weapons," Pakka suggested. "Kunik has five cities in total, but also possesses a handful of smaller settlements- usually independent farmers and hunters, who also tend to bring any salvage they come across. They don't pose any real threat, but they're also not the only inhabitants out there."

"Criminals?" Syrra asked.

"And worse," Pakka warned. "This is not like Ekibo or Trian, where our people have tamed the land and are well-prepared for its predators and dangers- there are beasts that call this planet home, monsters which make expansion and settlement difficult for even the Trianii Rangers." He paused for a moment to check his chrono, sighing. "Much as I'd like to linger here and listen to more of your stories, I'd better return to the barracks and check up on our squad. I suggest you all get some rest for tomorrow, as the black marketeers on this planet like to wake up early."

"Anything else we should know before you leave?" Locke asked.

"Only that while this investigation takes place, you'll have Rangers assigned to your groups for translation and questioning. Give it some time with the locals, they don't open up immediately to off-worlders," Pakka informed them.

"Thanks for the room and the drinks, Commander," Kajex said politely, shaking paws with him.

"It was a fine trade for some good stories," Pakka replied, grinning. "If your work is as interesting as you tell it, I'm sure I'll enjoy working alongside you. I'll see you tomorrow morning. Take care, Syrra," he told the Trianii Jedi as they embraced.

"You too, Pakka," she purred. "Mind the rain."

As they watched the commander leave, Locke spoke. "He's less soft-spoken than we were initially led to believe," he remarked. "Very pleasant individual to speak to."

"He's gotten much better since he was a cub," Syrra agreed. "I'd never heard him raise his voice in the past, hearing him talk down another Ranger is encouraging- the Rangers could use strong leadership in these parts, the kind that keeps their pistol holstered until they really need to shoot."

"Well, he's got the right idea about getting some rest," Locke remarked. "I suggest a half hour meditation before you turn in- or whatever you intend to do before you turn in," he added, eyeing Kajex and Syrra in amusement.

"It's like you know us inside and out," Kajex replied with a grin, as Syrra leaned her head on his shoulder and purred.

It was generally a rule of thumb for independent mercenaries to keep on the move. Saph knew the general guidelines. Don't agree to a job outside of your skillset. Don't stay in a system longer than half the time it took to complete a job. Don't give away personal details. Don't get employed by the same client more than twice, or they'll think you'll want to take up their cause. Find a safe place you can hole up for a few days if necessary. And most importantly- don't get friendly.

But in the face of Knight Thresher's offer, all those rules seemed to have been chucked out the window. She wanted someone's life to be ended, yet lacked the funds to hire a bounty hunter, assuming there was one capable of taking out a trained Jedi, let alone four of them with three soldiers at their back. She'd stayed longer in Sith company than she had anticipated; had divulged personal reasons for remaining with them; had agreed to remain allied with them for the duration; and had even agreed that the Jedi should be wiped out- as long as it meant the end of Surnahm.

So as Thresher led her into a training area clearly meant for the Sith, she fought back whatever fears she possessed and remained silent- her eyes flicked between the massive stones in one corner, a collection of droid scraps in another, as well as several low-powered blaster turrets mounted along magnetic tracks on the walls and ceiling. What few articles of clothing she had brought with her had been stored away, after she'd been assigned clothing directly from the shark- black in color, with boots to match, it seemed like an older variant of the Stormtrooper Corps officer uniform, minus their ridiculous caps. She'd been allowed to keep her modular pistol system and equipment, though Thresher had warned her that in the near future she might not need either.

He raised his hand and she stopped, standing at attention with her paws behind her back as he turned and regarded her carefully. Not a word passed through her lips as he circled her, seemingly assessing her small stature and stance thoroughly- she could almost feel his eyes tracing her body.

"... What do you know about the Sith?" he asked quietly.

The Lepi considered the question for a moment. "... I know that they were once feared throughout the galaxy, that they're the mortal enemies of the Jedi; and that they use the 'dark side' of the Force, whatever that is. I know they've conquered parts of the galaxy every now and again, before sorta disappearing." She paused, trying to remember more as he disappeared from her peripheral vision. "I know... that they're dangerous opponents to have. A Jedi will arrest you and only kill as a last resort- but from what I hear, a Sith will cut down anything they think is an obstacle."

Seconds passed before Thresher returned to her peripheral vision, his arms folded. "These are meager assessments, but broadly correct," Thresher acknowledged. "The history of the Sith can be traced to a schism in the original Jedi Order, perhaps seven thousand years ago; melded with the Sith species, a culture the developed some one hundred thousand years ago- two philosophies and cultures, melded into something superior, which has several times held the galaxy in its grip. It is power, and to be respected. Bear this in mind as you serve under me, mercenary."

Saph frowned, but nodded. "Alright... am I expected to refer to you as master, or some other nonsense?"

"In time, perhaps," Thresher conceded with a small, cold smile. "Yet as it stands now, you are merely an... employee. The Circle has plans set in motion that I have insisted you become a part of, once they have been refined. I've no doubt you will acquiesce to what I have in store for you when the time comes- but for now, your service as a slicer and combatant will be enough."

"Fair enough. So what happens until then?" Saph asked.

Thresher smirked at her a few moments before raised his hand and snapping his fingers. Immediately, a hatch at the far end of the training area and three figures entered, or so Saph thought at first. As heavy, metallic footsteps echoed in the chamber, she quickly made out the form of two large weaponized combat droids dragging a huddling, injured human male in robes by the arms. She watched as they pulled him across the floor, his feet kicking out feebly before he was thrown to the cold tiles, wheezing and trembling- bloodstains streaked along his robes, and what little of his face she could see was battered and bruised.

"Who is this?" she asked warily.

"A Jedi spy," Thresher answered. "Few answers were obtained from his capture, though it is clear that he works closely with the NRI. Just as the Imperial Remnant and Sith have infiltrators in Republic ranks, the Republic possesses the same advantage." He glared at the Jedi with disgust, approaching him until he was close enough to place his boot over his arm. A pained cry tore through the man as Thresher stepped down hard, grinding his heel into the man's wrist. "The problem with Jedi spies, however, is they usually lack the ability to sheath themselves in the shadows, the way a proper Sith does. Eventually, they are almost always caught."

Saph stared down at the man as he moaned from the agony, wincing slightly as an audible crack sounded, making him yelp. "I see. So then I suppose he's going to be executed by the Remnant, right?"

Thresher treated her to another cold smile, one that sent a chill up her spine as he removed his boot from the Jedi's hand. "As it happens... no. The Remnant have proven multiple times in the past that they cannot be trusted to hold Jedi captive for any length of time. It falls on the Sith to end their lives instead," he told her, pulling his lightsaber from his belt- her eyes followed the inactive weapon warily.

"And... you brought me here to watch you execute this man as a warning to me of what happens if I choose to betray you?"

Thresher actually laughed this time. "You assume too much. Who said I was the one who was going to execute him?"

The words confused her for a moment, but before long her eyes widened as she realized what he meant- the shock of the revelation was enough that when he tossed her his lightsaber she fumbled to catch it, backpedaling away a few steps. Trepidation set in as she stared at the cold, steel hilt, her thoughts racing- she could almost feel the raw power bursting from the weapon as it lay in her paws.

And despite the fear she felt from that power, she could not deny the thrill of it.

"... Why me?" she asked.

"To demonstrate your loyalty."

She frowned. "You said you would buy my loyalty by having Kajex Surnahm killed."

"I said no such thing," Thresher responded patiently. "I merely offered to make an arrangement with you. It is clear that I would be depriving you of the vengeance you truly seek if I were the one to enact it. You told me that you lost kin because of the whelp- a brother, I think."

Saph said nothing for a few moments, her eyes still resting on the lightsaber. "... My older brother, Rik."

"... What was he like?"

The polished, silver hilt she held in her paws showed a distorted and stretched reflection of herself, but the same eyes she saw in that reflection drew memories from her mind, of eyes not unlike her own. "He was... brave. Adventurous. Liked to travel the universe in his own ship, looking for trouble to get into. I used to call him 'Star-Bounder', because every time he visited home, he'd be planning another trip." She paused. "He used to call me 'Star-Hopper' in return... told me when I was old enough I'd come with him." She frowned, shaking her memories away. "I don't understand, why is this important?"

"It's important for you. You alone possess this memory. While it may be meaningless to me, you require a focus to draw strength from," Thresher answered. "So, to that end I'll ask what happened to him."

She stared at him for a few moments, wondering if she should answer- but soon enough, her eyes trailed back down to the lightsaber he'd tossed her. A spark ignited as a grey, wolfish face flashed before her eyes. "He left us one morning, saying he had an important mission. Wanted to save some people, said it might be dangerous. He was in a relationship with the bastard at the time, used to say he was going to ask Surnahm to marry him someday. He followed him to make sure things went alright, said he'd be back in a week."

There was a long pause as the searing heat of tears formed in the corners of her eyes. "That motherfucker... he swore he'd bring Rik back home safe. Said he'd do all he could to bring him back to us. He came back a fucking week later with my brother's dead body and a bunch of fucking brats- said they'd saved everyone they could, but he took a shot near the end." The tears trailed down her face. "That fucking liar... he promised us... It should've fucking been him! It's not like he ever had a family! I know Jedi, I've heard about how most didn't even know their parents, and that they're taught to never feel emotion, like mindless fucking robots! He... he never loved my brother. I know that. I know that because even though he pretended to mourn for Rik, I never saw that son of a bitch's face again... not until it showed up in the mission files I sliced into. I never forgot his face- and I never will."

"Indeed, for being among the last of his kind, it's difficult to forget a face like that. You are no doubt angry, yes?"

"What kind of question is that?" she growled. "Of course I am!"

"No doubt," Thresher murmured with a sneer. "Perhaps all the more because of how meaningless it is to everyone in the universe except you."

"Fuck you!" Saph snarled suddenly, glaring up at the shark as heat and hatred filled her. "I don't give a shit if nobody cares- you don't have a fucking clue how much it hurts!"

"We all know pain, young one," Thresher replied darkly. "The weak choose to live with the pain and never seek retribution. But some of us choose to use that pain to fuel our actions. And while you may not be Force sensitive, you possess the same options- you can either wallow in your pathetic pain, or set it against the ones who have hurt you."

The Lepi's tail swished furiously as she glared at him- a moment later, she remember his weapon was still in her grip, her paw forming a trembling fist around the hilt. "... You said... that you want me to show my loyalty, in exchange for an arrangement. What the fuck do you want from me? What are you offering?"

Thresher eyes cold eyes fixed upon the weapon in her paw, lingering there for a few moments before speaking. "I am offering you power. In exchange for your loyalty, I will grant you the means necessary to destroy Kajex Surnahm and his allies. I offer only the chance, but if I have the measure of your integrity and drive correct... then it is my opinion that there is much we can achieve through our combined efforts."

"And executing this Jedi right here will be enough?"

"Of course not," Thresher growled. "You will need to perform other tasks, both with us and solo, to gain our complete trust. But performing this execution will be a start. It will show that you can stomach the idea of slaughtering a Jedi, something you will need to have if you ever intend to engage Surnahm. He possesses three other Jedi allies, and three well-trained non-Jedi- all of them are ready to fight and die on his behalf. If you can't even strike down a weak Jedi, one whose death is assured whether or not you do it, then you will never possess the means to engage the Sentinel directly. Do you understand this?"

"Don't... do it," the Jedi wheezed. "He will... turn on you..."

A surge of fury filled the Lepi as she sprang forward and kicked him in the face, making him cry out in pain as blood gushed from his nose. "Shut up! Not everyone in the fucking galaxy has forgotten how the Jedi started the Clone Wars and stole kids from their families! It was the Jedi that turned on everyone else! What the hell would they know about love and companionship, when they tore families apart and started wars that fractured the galaxy!?"

Thresher grinned. "My, my... a civilian who actually gets it. It's true, the Jedi are out of touch and content to ignore the pain they leave in their wake. One might think it would benefit them if they had just a sliver of understanding for the pain you must feel."

Saph's breathing was strained, her paw still gripped tightly around the shark's weapon as she glared down at the Jedi. Her thumb flicked up and depressed a shallow indent within the hilt, and a snap-hiss rang out as a blood-red blade of light sprang from the cylinder. Unable to contain her anger, she bent over and grabbed the Jedi by the hair, wrenching him up so he was on his knees. Thresher gestured to one of the war-droids, who grabbed the man's head and kept him upright, as she held the weapon with both paws and aimed for his neck.

"I know I'm a dead man."

She hesitated.

"I'm sorry for your loss... but you're wrong. If he does not manipulate you for his own needs, he will destroy you when you no longer serve a purpose to him- and if you should strike him down first... your soul will never know peace..."

Confusion set in. The voice came from nowhere but within her mind.

"Kill me. Now. If it protects you for just a little longer... my death will be worth it."

Time seemed to freeze as the Jedi's eyes rolled up, staring into her own. A pang of horror rent through her as she realized what she was about to do.

In the next moment, she had done it anyway.

The sharp cry of the energy blade cutting through bone and sinew echoed in her ears- she'd followed through completely, removing the Jedi's head and snuffing his life out in an instant. She'd taken lives before, shot and killed men and women who had tried to kill her first, but there was a difference here, she realized numbly- to feel the weapon itself, the energy blade connecting both her and her helpless victim for that brief moment, she swore that she could almost feel the death as it happened.

A choked cry passed through her throat as she dropped the weapon and stepped back in horror. She sank to her knees as she saw the last glimmer of life ebb away in the eyes of the decapitated head.

Trembling from the shock, her heart raced as if she'd just sprinted a mile. A hand rested on her shoulder and she nearly jumped- but a peace seemed to fall on her a moment later, and she stopped trembling. Thresher's voice was soft, calmer than she'd ever heard from him.

"It is only natural that you found this task difficult- but you succeeded. And while dispatching the Sentinel will take time and training, you have at least shown you have the potential and drive to see it through. The Circle will help you... if you serve the Circle."

"... I'm not a... I can't use the Force," she muttered huskily.

He squeezed her shoulder encouragingly. "That matters little. I can give you a chance- it will require weakening the Sentinel, and strengthening you. You have taken the first step towards power- walk away now, and you'll never have what you desire; stay on the path, and you will have what you want, and be of a critical service to the Circle."

"H-how?" she breathed, still staring into the lifeless eyes of the man she'd just murdered.

"You will use your skills to obtain something for the Circle. Complete the mission, and you will have my full trust; it will be important, eventually necessary for the second step," he assured her as he stepped back. "It will be power earned by your hands."

The promise caused her to look up at the shark. He did not look away. For all his intimidating stature compared to her, she realized he was regarding her with seriousness and honesty. She swallowed and took in a breath, let it out.

"... I'll do it."

Thresher nodded. "Good. For now, report to your assigned room. I'll need time to arrange your mission details."

She nodded. "Yes sir."

"I am a Sith Knight," he said patiently, his arms folded. "You may curse me, direct your profanities at me if it pleases you... but you will address me correctly."

"... Yes, my lord." She held the lightsaber back out to him, but he lifted his hand.

"That is not my blade. That is yours. Keep it. You may not know how to use it now- but it may be of use to you later. You are dismissed."

Saph stared at him blankly as he left, the two war droids following him out of the training are. Even after he had exited, she continued to stare at the hatch he used for what seemed like hours, before her eyes trailed back down to the weapon- the same one she'd just used to end a life. Her voice was quiet, but clear, as her grip tightened around the Sith weapon.

"... Thank you, my lord."

Though Kajex had initially believed Juhty to be a small settlement, that presumption had been shattered the next day, as the Gold Rush pack was paired up with Ranger escorts. The city was not restricted only to the towers that jutted out from the earth, but those which had been safely submerged into the depths of the land. It soon became apparent that the Trianii Rangers would be crucial to the investigation- as they knew the city better they would be vital in helping the pack get as much work done each day, making splitting up and going in separate directions vital.

Miles paired up with Rook and Talrik and a extra pair of Rangers on their own, as his Force sight would be as necessary as Talrik's proficiency in the Trianii language; Keris and Lock paired up with a team of their own, as Keris had not imbibed any kolto solution to allow her to speak Trianii; Syrra was assigned to Pakka and two other Rangers- leaving Kajex (and the still hidden Revan) to be paired with Chaq and two of his "trusted Rangers". Though this assignment was met with suspicious stares from everyone, Pakka included, Kajex assured everyone he would be fine.

"And you're sure this won't be a problem, love?" Syrra asked him, holding his paws as she regarded Chaq with a subtle frown.

"Relax, Syrra- I had to work with migraine-inducing teams long before I met you," he replied with a smile. "Chaq won't be an issue for me- maybe I can get him to trust us better. And you've taught me enough about Force healing that I should be alright if something happens."

She sighed, but nodded and smiled all the same as she drew close to him. "Alright, then. Take care of yourself, and let me know if something happens. I love you, Kajex."

"I love you too, Syrra," he replied with a grin, before their muzzles met.

Without evening needing to look around, his lips locked with his feline fiancee's, Kajex could feel the eyes of a dozen Rangers and other Trianii civilians staring at the both of them. There were a few mutters of surprise as they kissed- even non-Rangers that were nearby stopped to regard the scene with awe (and some with expressions of disgust). When they broke off and nuzzled, the silence became deafening.

"... Alright, you lot- quit loiterin' around for a look-see!" Rook barked, making several Trianii jump. "Ain't none o' yer business, keep movin'!" Though Kajex doubted many of the locals understood Basic, the tone was unmistakable and the Selonian's hard stare was enough to get the point across. Doing his best to hold back a chuckle, he let Syrra go and watched as she and her cousin broke away from the group, heading to the northern part of the city.

He and Locke traded looks and grins. "Y'wanna kiss too, bro?" Kajex asked.

The Guardian chuckled. "Tempting- but we shouldn't give the locals here a reason to hate us. Be safe, Kajex."

"You too," he replied, watching as his twin and Keris headed south. "And the same to you, little brother," he added to Talrik.

"We'll keep in touch," the Ranger assured him.

"C'mon Fox-Boy," Rook grinned, grabbing his arm and following their escort east. "Let's put your tongue to good use in a different way this time."

It was not until the Sentinel was alone that he noticed Chaq staring at him through narrowed eyes, his arms folded in an intimidating posture. Kajex cleared his throat before addressing the commander. "<Alright then... would you be so kind as to lead the way?>" he purred politely. Chaq said nothing, choosing instead to gesture to the Sentinel to follow him west.

It was not as if Kajex were expecting some manner of discussion, even with everything the commander had seen and learned of the pack since meeting them- the silence suited the Sentinel just fine. There was no need to antagonize the Ranger for his personal opinions, not when he'd left them unsaid- particularly since it gave the wolf a chance to survey his surroundings and take in the sights of the city.

He'd been to the core Trianii worlds, appreciated them for their beauty and architecture, yet Juhty City was different- composed of gray and greenish tones in their stone structures, there was a ruggedness to the sculpted stone, a haggard, almost pained appearance in the worn walls. And while the Trianii people bustled around, going about their business, he could feel the undercurrent of determination within each of them. Despite the dreariness of the weather and the dangers likely lurking beyond the city limits, these people were determined to scratch out a living.

Before long, however, the Sentinel felt compelled to ask a few questions. "<I'd like to know if the merchants here are capable of accepting Republic dataries.>" Silence lingered between them as Chaq provided no answer, though one of his Rangers supplied one.

"<They are capable of accepting most forms of currency, honored Jedi. It is simply a matter of how you intend to transfer funds,>" the female Ranger informed him. <"For your sake, however, you should not reveal how much you carry upon your person. The Trianii Rangers are steadfast, and administer justice when they see a crime has been committed- but this does not always prevent crime.>"

"<I'm sure you do excellent work,>" Kajex offered politely, thinking of things Locke would say to ease relations. "<You have my thanks for escorting me safely through the city.>"

While the female Ranger looked slightly pleased by this appreciative comment, Chaq chuffed derisively, keeping his words clear. "<Spare us your condescending words, Jedi. We're fully aware you have the ability to cut down anybody within range if it were your decision to do so- the purpose of our assignment here is as much to protect our people from you, as it is to conduct this investigation of yours.>" A few Trianii ears perked up, dozens of worried eyes catching the Jedi trailing behind the tall Trianii Ranger- it was apparent Chaq had meant for his comment to inspire distrust in the Sentinel.

Yet Kajex managed to smile and respond evenly as he kept up. "<I'd be a pretty poor Jedi if I suddenly decided to go mad and start hurting people. Then you'd have other Jedi coming to put an end to me. It's alright though- I understand many people have that misconception. No doubt the wisdom of the Trianii Rangers will see that the Jedi mean only to help others.>"

"<You have many high hopes, Sentinel,>" Chaq growled.

"<I like to dream big,>" Kajex replied with a chuckle.

"<Take care your sense of self-worth matches reality, or it will be cruel for you to face it when you find it lacking,>" the commander remarked. He stopped, signaling to the Rangers. "<Run up ahead, tell old Jaima to expect us with her black market goods.>" The Ranger pair saluted and rounded the corner, tails flicking out of sight as Chaq turned and regarded Kajex with a glare.

The wolf cocked his head. "<Something to say?>"

"<I know who Syrra is,>" Chaq growled quietly. "<Youngest daughter of Matriarch Bast, and the Trianii hero and pyorn, Ka'un. You play a very dangerous game by using your sorcerous ways to ensnare the Jedi's heart as your own. Someone born from both heroism and nobility, who know and accepts the ways of our people, would never willingly consort with a grotesque outsider like yourself.>"

Kajex chuckled. "<Ouch. Well now you're just hurting my feelings, Chaq.>"

"<I've not given you leave to use my name, outsider!>" he snarled, his left paw grabbing the hilt of his heat-brand. Kajex did not react in any way, identifying the action as a show of intimidation. "<Just because 1st Sinth Pakka is foolish enough to trust invaders does not mean I will lapse in my duties! Attempting to warm me up to you will not work.>"

"<And my status as a Jedi grants me no leeway, I'm guessing.>"

"<A wise Jedi would have left us alone and sent one who truly understands our people to aid us, like Syrra,>" Chaq acknowledged. "<You may speak the language with perfect fluency, but what makes you think that you understand our people as well as a Ranger does, enough that you think it's within your right to steal the daughter of a noble as your own?>"

"<If living on Ekibo for over 20 years and being raised by my adoptive Trianii father, a former Ranger, doesn't suffice,>" Kajex replied, now starting to feel slightly cross, "<then I expect nothing will suffice, at least for you.>"

Chaq paused. "<... Who was he, this father of yours?>"

"<His name was Kane, a former Trianii Ranger who operated on Fibuli. He raised me until his death, more than a decade ago.>"

"<... Did he leave to join the Republic?>" the Trianii asked, his eyes narrowed.

The Sentinel's heart leapt, and he nearly forgot to keep his face neutral- he was not expecting this Trianii to have known Kane. "<... He did. He served as an Antarian Ranger during the Clone Wars.>"

The Trianii Ranger's muzzle curled up in a contemptuous sneer. "<I know him. A former associate of my father. A tail-raising faggot, who betrayed the Trianii. He's better off rotting in hell.>"

At that point, something occurred that Kajex rarely experienced- a surge of rage, sparked from the insult Chaq had formed about one of his fathers, a man he loved as deeply as blood. The impulse to grab one of his lightsabers crossed his mind- yet was countered at the same moment by a voice.

"Easy there, pup," Revan cautioned him, the holocron's voice silent yet his words echoing in the wolf's head. "This scum is trying to rile you up, make you give him an excuse to make things harder for you. You need to let go of that anger and calm down. You'd dishonor both your dads if you let this asshole get to you- he's not worth it."

Kajex glared at Chaq, but Revan's intervention had been enough to defuse his anger. He managed a deep breath and a sigh, shifting his expression to one of seriousness. "<Look... regardless of how you feel about it, antagonizing me isn't going to help anybody. I get it- you don't trust me. And I'm not going to waste time and effort trying to change your mind, when it could be better served doing my job. I just hope you come around eventually, and at least try to make this easy for the both of us.>"

The Ranger's eyes smoldered, but when he spoke it was with a far calmer voice. "<Fine. You may ask your questions, find your treasures, and seek your ruins- and I shall be watching.>" Another few moments passed where the two stood staring at each other in silence- but it was Chaq who tore his gaze away first. "<Follow me.>"

Kajex nodded and kept up, taking a moment to channel his thoughts to the holocron in his satchel. "Hey... thanks, Revan."

The holocron spirit's response was warm and reassuring. "Don't mention it. And don't worry about him. He can watch you all he wants- I'll be watching right back."