[i][b]"I have never seen an Antarian Ranger run from a fight..."[/i][/b]
[i]~Jedi Master Tahl[/i]



[i]Talrik Lye,[/i]

[i]It has come to our attention that you have been providing exceptional services to the Jedi Order of Yavin 4. Word has reached us of your skills, bravery and willingness to sacrifice your life in the face of the dangers that threaten the peace and security of the New Republic. While this alone would be considered noble and impressive in its own right, that you have defected from the Imperial Remnant and stood and fought against the Sith is even more extraordinary. The ages-old foes of the Jedi have always sought to dismantle justice and order throughout the galaxy, and to see a non-sensitive stand against such deadly adversaries speaks volumes of your commitment to either the Republic or the Jedi.[/i]

[i]I represent a paramilitary force that, for the last 630 years, has stood beside our Jedi allies and aided their order in keeping the peace. In that time, we have served in several wars and aided the Jedi during some of their hardest and darkest moments, including the Jedi Purge. Though most of us do not possess much in the way of Force ability (in fact, most of us have none at all), we have dedicated ourselves to following the Jedi Code, even when that Code has changed and its leadership espouses different philosophies. We are always on the lookout for potential recruits, often servicemen who have displayed exemplary skill and the ability to adapt in adverse situations, regardless of their race, gender, religion, sex or sexual orientation.[/i]

[i]We were told of your exploits and skill by Master Luke Skywalker, who has informed us that you have, for the last 5 months, fought alongside a Jedi padawan and her civilian instructor. He and several other Jedi Masters and security personnel have informed us that you would likely make an ideal candidate for our organization, and, after going over your Imperial service record and mission reports from the Jedi Order, we agree. We would like to offer you a chance test your skills in person, and determine if you possess what it takes to join our ranks in the Yavin 4 unit- you will have access to some of the best (legal) weaponry and equipment on the market, as well as the knowledge and training of dozens of our veteran members, some of whom have served the Jedi since before the Clone Wars.[/i]

[i]If you are interested, please send us a reply at your earliest convenience, and we will begin discussions on when and how we can personally assess your abilities. We can assure you that, should you succeed in joining, you will be allowed to remain with your current team if you desire.[/i]

[i]May the Force be with you,[/i]

[i]Ranger Captain Matthias Barnn, Antarian Rangers, Yavin 4 Division.[/i]






"Kaj... Ka-aj..."

There was a low growl. "Busy, kit. Need relief."

The Amaran whined, shivering as the wolf's teeth nipped firmly into his neckfur. "Me too, Alpha... but Syrra..."

"Is busy right now at the Temple. She's not going to mind me fooling around without her, I told her before she left and she said yes. I need you, Talrik," the wolf breathed into his ear as he pressed him into the training mat. "I feel like I've been neglecting you lately. I wanna make it up to you..."

The fox moaned beneath his alpha, purring as the older male continued to nip into his neck and shoulders, his jumpsuit already zipped down to his abs. Talrik had come to look forward to Kajex's advances whenever the mood struck him, but he was usually not so forceful- not that the fox minded when he was. There was something about the wolf mock-pressuring him into fucking that made Talrik's heart race and want it all the more. He knew Kajex would back off if he said he was not in the mood for sex. But despite still trying to get his breath back from their hand-to-hand sparring session, he [i]was[/i] in the mood, and he [i]did[/i] want to be fucked.

So he allowed himself to be vulnerable, whimpering and whining as the wolf growled and bit at him in mock aggression, establishing his dominance over the fox as he peeled back more of his suit and revealed his lightly-toned body little by little. He 'fought' back playfully, snapping up at him with his teeth while the wolf pinned his paws down, attacking him erotically with his lips and teeth- his older 'brother' growled back happily, tail wagging as he pulled away his jumpsuit completely, snagging Talrik's boxers and getting them all off him in a single, smooth motion that left the fox completely bare.

"Kit... you don't mind me being a little aggressive, do you?" Kajex asked. The grip on Talrik's wrist tightened, keeping him to the floor and offering no means for the fox to escape while the wolf cupped his sheath. Though Talrik was already aroused to the point that a couple of inches of his cherry-red prick peeked from its sheath, it took little more than a few firm squeezes on his package, followed by a deep, loving kiss from the wolf, to coax the rest of his length out. Talrik purred into his lover's muzzle and marveled at how Kajex seemed to know exactly where to hit him, never leaving the fox without a moment where he wasn't moaning.

"N-no," the fox mewled softly. Despite the trauma of his sexual encounters prior to graduating the Imperial academy, Talrik had found he enjoyed being dominated- as long as it was Kajex doing it. The knowledge that his alpha would stop for him, would never hurt him (too badly), dispelled any fear he would have otherwise felt from anyone else. "I want you t-to... breed me like a bad bitch," he moaned, blushing hard as he laid bare his desires. To Talrik, rough fucking was an occasional treat he liked to have in small doses, and with at least a good 4 hours left before the fox had to be anywhere else he intended to make sure Kajex left him good and sore by the end of it.

Those words spurred Kajex into action, growling savagely and grabbing the younger man's scruff. With a frantic yelp, Talrik felt himself being lifted up by the neck, whimpering as he was forced onto his knees in front of his alpha. Kajex stood over him, a droplet of precum dripping from the wolf's black cock and splattering against the tip of the Amaran's nose. Talrik cowed before him submissively ears folded back, whining as he stared up at the older male. With another growl, Kajex had grabbed his muzzle, pulling it up and pressing his cock heavily against his lips, the salty precum smearing against his teeth and jowls.

"Open up, kit- I don't want to have to take you [i]dry[/i]," he warned through grit teeth. Talrik shuddered at the threat and complied, letting the wolf's prick slide between his lips and into his muzzle, his tongue slathering saliva around the ebony surface. The wolf groaned as Talrik started sucking his cock expertly. Months of practice had made the fox more lethal in both ranged and close combat; more reliable working as a member of the pack; and a far better at sexual intercourse than he could have imagined he'd be at. Hours of practice were demonstrated as he slid his muzzle around his alpha's hard tool, moaning as he struggled not to swallow the enticing cocktail pooling in the back of his throat. He applied as much of the slick mixture to Kajex's prick as possible, pulling back and squeezing the base with a paw, jerking it repeatedly as he started to kiss and bathe the wolf's balls with his tongue.

Yet the wolf seemed to want more- and abruptly forced Talrik to give it to him. Both the wolf's larger paws grabbed the sides of Talrik's face, pulling his muzzle away and forcing it towards his crotch, sliding all ten inches of throbbing wolfcock down the fox's throat. Talrik braced himself in time, moaning and purring around the girthy intruder as it slid between his lips. He held the Kajex's thighs as wolf started to face-fuck him, his tongue frantically lashing against the underside of his alpha's sizable tool as it speared repeatedly into his muzzle. So high on erotic tension, he couldn't help swallowing small amounts of the wolf's salty precum, moaning as the surplus leaked from his muzzle and dribbled down his neck. He shuddered as he felt a string of it hanging from his chin, the thread splattering against chest. By this point, his own ignored foxprick was at full attention, throbbing with aching need though he obediently kept his paws off it- one way or another, he knew it would be attended to at some point.

Kajex kept his thrusts careful- but powerful and fast, bucking into Talrik's face with enough force to cause his balls to knock against his chin repeatedly. Talrik almost found himself overwhelmed by the position- at which point he reached up and squeezed the wolf's paw desperately. Kajex slowed down at the touch, giving a few more feeble thrusts before drawing his tool from the gasping fox's lips, letting Talrik's face go.

Immediately, the fox's paw returned to the wolf's hard, glistening cock. Even over his own excited heartbeat and labored breathing, he heard Kajex groaning in satisfaction from the effort, a large paw resting between his ears and rubbing gently, causing Talrik to purr. "Good bitch," Kajex growled softly, bucking his hips up and forcing his cock to slide against the fox's paw. "You've learned well, I'm proud of how far you've come along." The fox blushed at the praise, hesitantly glancing up at his alpha as his tail wagged, though he was mindful to keep pumping the wolf's dick. He purred contentedly as the wolf reached down and cupped his face gently. "On your hands and knees, kit- you want to be bred like a bitch, you better show you know your place."

Talrik fought back his stupid grin, tail swishing excitedly as he turned away from the lupine lover. Kajex had, for the first few weeks of their relationship, offered to bottom for the fox, but while Talrik did enjoy sex with Syrra, he loved it better when he was the one being penetrated. Having an older, more experienced, longer and thicker male breed him like a bitch in heat... he shuddered as he spread his legs apart and flagged his tail up for the wolf, turning his head and looking up hopefully. His eyes followed the wolf's descent to his knees, a sharp chirp ringing out from Talrik as Kajex grabbed his tailbase firmly, though he was careful not to tug irresponsibly.

He blinked, noticing the bottle of lube in the wolf's paw and wondering when he had brought it out. For a moment he wondered if perhaps Kajex had planned and brought it out beforehand, and the fox just hadn't noticed it until it became pertinent. He hissed, moaned and squirmed slightly as Kajex squeezed out the cool, slick compound against and into his tailhole, stifling his voice with a paw. He whined as Kajex wrenched it away, pinning it against the training mat beneath them as he leaned over the fox's shoulder.

"I saw that... don't hide your barking, kit- I wanna hear you moan and beg."

"K-Kaj..." he mewled softly.

Talrik felt a strong paw grab his hair, wrenching it up. "I'm sorry, what was that, you little bitch?" he growled into the fox's ear roughly.

"A-Alpha!" he cried out, gasping as his nerves tingled. He could see enough of the wolf's muzzle out the corner of his eye to notice him smirking.

"I like how you look like this, little brother," the wolf teased, squeezing Talrik's backside firmly. "Though I wonder what you'd look like with a nice, black collar around your neck- let everyone know whose pack you belong to, and which Alpha you belong to." He nipped the Amaran's shoulder, snuffling into his fur as he leaned in closer, spearing his slick, drooling cock between the fox's curved rumpcheeks. His flesh slid lazily up and down the gentle valley a few times. But while Talrik felt every heartbeat through the throbbing cock against his ass, most of his focus was on the wolf's paw as it caressed his neckfur, tracing along his throat.

"I-if you did," Talrik breathed tensely, "I would proudly wear it, Alpha."

It was as if the response were the trigger, the signal telling Kajex to proceed. With one fluid motion the wolf had drawn his hips back and slid his cock away, angled it against the fox's pucker and breached the tight hole with a single push, sheathing 10 hard inches of throbbing wolfcock into the fox's body and hilting with him with a sharp crack, his hips striking against Talrik's ass. A stronger blush filled the fox's cheek as he moaned shamelessly, shifting his upturned rump into the thrust weakly. Before Talrik could savor the feel of his alpha's cock lodged in his fuckhole, Kajex had slid much of it back out, winding up and hitting again. The fox squeaked as his head was pushed into the training mat firmly, holding him in place as the wolf started breeding him like a proper bitch.

Even after 3 months as part of the pack, 3 months of incredible sex with Kajex and Syrra, Talrik had not grown numb to the feeling of his tailhole being pounded. Even after rough fucking sessions, the ring of flesh currently clenching around the wolf's girth remained tight and pliable. Shocks of electric heat sparked through his spine as the pole stabbed into his ass repeatedly- even with a well-lubed tailhole and drool-slathered cock, the friction remained incredible. Talrik's balls started to ache as his alpha bucked hard against his backside, the wolf's larger pair of orbs colliding and bouncing against the fox's with near-bruising force.

Talrik's cock remained unmolested, untouched, swinging beneath his belly with every buck the wolf laid into him. Though perfectly capable of bringing Syrra to orgasm, in sessions like these it was always left alone- he didn't [i]need[/i] to touch his own cock. A brief pause in coitus, a subtle shift in position- Talrik felt his alpha's cock spearing lower, at a different angle that battered mercilessly against the fox's prostate. Had Talrik's head not been clouded with lust, he would've screamed. As it was he still howled repeatedly as Kajex bred him deep and fast, abusing his prostate good and hard. "[i]Ka-aaj![/i]"

He yelped as his hair was pulled again, whimpering as the wolf growled ferally into his ear as the fox's head was wrenched back one more. "Say my name one more time again you little fox-slut, and I'll [i]stop![/i] [i]Who am I!?[/i]" Kajex ceased moving his hips, and Talrik knew he was waiting for him to responded the correct answer.

Talrik's eyes watered; not from pain, shame, fear or sadness- but from the raw bliss he was being subjected to at the moment. His cheeks burned at the abusive language- which did nothing but turn him on more. He knew full well what the right answer was. "[i]A-Alpha!![/i]"

He started to moan again as Kajex resumed, putting more power between his sharp thrusts- yet his alpha did not release his grip on his hair, using it to keep him in place and pull him in with each thrust. He punctuated each blow by pausing each time he resheathed his cock between the Talrik's asscheeks, dominant growls pouring out of his throat as he ground his hips against the fox's sore ass. The fox wheezed, eyes bulging as Kajex's thick cock crammed as deep as possible into his backside, every roll of the wolf's hips feeling as if he was getting the wind knocked out of him. His tongue hung out of his muzzle lazily as he failed to find the energy to remain upright, his paws limp against the training mat as he let himself be hung by his cherry-red hair. The shock of each blow against his abused pucker was absolutely amazing- but to Talrik, it paled in comparison to the sensation of the wolf's cock stirring his insides wildly.

Tears of pleasure and pain ran down his face as he continued to endure the brutal fucking, now completely at the mercy of the wolf that was breeding him. A haze of pure pleasure had overtaken almost every sense the Fox possessed- the scent of sex, sweat and musky balls filled his nostrils; the punctuated slaps, incomprehensible moans and savage snarls echoing in his ears; he could still taste Kajex's delicious cock in his muzzle; and the incredible bliss of his fuckhole being thoroughly [i]ruined[/i] by his alpha's wolfcock, as it pounded again and again, against his prostate. The only sense he felt failing him was sight, going out of focus and only blurring further from his tears.

Then he felt it- the knot. It was as if he had become Force-sensitive for a moment, the combination of several senses coming together and forming a moving image in his mind as he saw the large bulge at the base, swollen and slick. The sensation of his tailhole being stretched coincided with the vision of the knot pressing up against it, the tight ring distending substantially each time the wolf rammed against it. Desperate to be claimed by the wolf he pushed his ass back into the wolf's hips, whining loudly as he felt his fuckhole give way to the breaching intruder. Kajex let go of his hair and the fox fell forward, feebly rocking backwards.

Indescribable pain of a blissful kind jolted through him, instinctively howling as the wolf finally claimed him sexually, his knot forcing past the resistance of his tailhole. His muscles moved of their own accord, causing him to writhe around as his endurance ran out- he felt each stinging jet of hot foxcum blast from his cocktip, splattering against the training mat. Yet it didn't stop. A few jets of cum were always expected, yet Talrik could not recall ever cumming so hard in his life- nor could he every recall the wolf cumming in [i]him[/i] so hard since they had started fucking.

But between each pleasurable pulse of his prick, he could feel Kajex's output. Every jet, every ounce, every single drop of potent wolf spunk; he could feel it all as it flooded his ass, even feeling the excess pouring- not leaking- out of his asshole and dribbling down his sore foxnuts, pooling between his spread-out knees. When, after what seemed like a lifetime, it finally ebbed away, Talrik felt like he could perceive a sloshing effect in his lower belly, moaning softly and shuddering as he relaxed.

Kajex groaned, his arms wrapping around the fox tightly as he pulled pack card, whining as the massive knot continue to lock the two in place- but after a few seconds of pulling he managed to wrench it free, the fox yipping as it popped out and moaning again as a deluge of cum poured from his unplugged fuckhole. Talrik purred loudly, laying face-down on the mat as he panted, tongue lazily hanging out again- moments later, he felt the wolf's strong paw on his arm, gently coaxing him to his side as Kajex laid down next to him.

The abrasive, abusive veneer Kajex had adopted was gone. Talrik purred as the wolf's arms wrapped around him. His ears twitched as he heard Kajex whining softly, sounding worried. "Are you okay, kit?" he asked, concern on his face.

The fox chuckled. "I'm fine, Kaj... you were amazing..." he said, his breath still not quite back to normal.

"I mean... I just get worried when you ask me to be rough with you. I don't want to scare or hurt you," the wolf said defensively, nuzzling and licking his face.

Talrik silenced the wolf with a gentle kiss on the lips, a weak paw rubbing the wolf's chest as his tail swished around happily. When the Amaran soldier drew his muzzle away, there was a smile on it.

"You didn't hurt me more than I wanted to be hurt, Kajex," he assured him. "I know it sounds weird, given my past... you'd think someone like me would hate abusive sex, but... as much as I hated it, it [i]did[/i] feel good back then. And with you..." He paused, nuzzling into the wolf's chest. "I [i]know [/i]you would never hurt me. You'd stop if I asked you to. That's why I can trust you to 'abuse' me whenever I ask you to."

Kajex sighed, smiling unsteadily. "I love you, Talrik."

"And I love you too, Kajex," the fox responded, purring gently. "I trust you with my life- and my butt."

The wolf laughed. "I appreciate your vote of confidence, little bro- I really do." He sat up, stretching a bit. "So... that's two workout sessions. Do you want to hear my assessment?" he asked.

Talrik nodded, sitting up and wincing a bit. "How'd I do?"

"Your skill in Echani is improving a lot, and you have the endurance to keep it up a long while- I don't know what the Antarian Rangers expect of you on that front, but you're good enough to do mercenary work, for sure. If they decide to test you on that front, you're bound to impress." He reached over and tousled the fox's hair. "And I know I don't have to worry about your marksmanship."

Talrik sighed, smiling appreciatively. "Thanks, Kaj... anything else?"

"You're fun to muzzle-fuck."

The fox laughed. "You gave me a lot of practice- I was hoping you'd like that." He struggled to get back onto his feet, feeling exhausted. "I just hope my mom doesn't start asking me why I'm walking funny," he said, smiling sheepishly.

Kajex shrugged. "She already knows I'm fucking you, right?"

"It's my [i]mom[/i], Kajex," the fox said with a blush. "I know she knows, but... I feel like I'll die if she teases me about it." He groaned, nearly swaying off his feet- quick as a flash, Kajex grabbed him and picked him up, lifting Talrik off his feet as he chirruped in confusion.

The wolf grinned. "I'll clean up this mess later. Let's get you to the showers, kit- if she can't smell it, she's got nothing to say."






Kajex had things to attend to on the ship before he could accompany Talrik to his interview (first on his agenda being cleaning up the mess they had made), leaving Talrik to seek out Syrra on his own. Even after 4 months of working with Kajex and Syrra, living on Yavin 4 with both his families, it seemed a little surreal watching Jedi training both in and out of the temple. He wasn't the only one to be amazed by what he saw, either- almost as soon as he exited the ship he spotted a pair of padawans dueling with training sabers in an empty docking station, their blades clashing excitedly as a crowd surrounded them. Even from a distance, he could make out two bushy Amaran tails sticking out from the circle.

Talrik grinned as he started jogging towards the ring of onlookers, taking a moment to watch as one of the students handily disarmed the other with a glancing blow to the wrist. The crowd cheered and applauded from the demonstration, a couple of masters in the crowd nodding in approval or offering advice as they backed up to get ready again. He stood behind the smaller, brown-haired Amaran wearing a blue tunic and pants, smiling warmly as he put a paw on the younger fox's head.

"Hey squirt," Talrik said affectionately.

Arrik Lye jumped, whipping around as his eyes fell on his older brother. With an excited laugh, the younger fox pounced forward and hugged around his midsection. "Talrik! Kajex said you were back yesterday, but we didn't see you around!"

The older female Amaran, Etina Lye, jumped at the name, turning and smiling widely as she finally noticed her oldest son. She stood a little shorter than he did, with her scarlet hair in a bun, wearing a well-oiled utility suit and toolbelt. Despite the grime, the idea of messing up Talrik's clean coveralls with grease and dirt was of absolutely no concern to either of them as she embraced him tightly. "We missed you, kiddo- where were you yesterday?" she asked, whining slightly. "I was kinda aching to see you again, you know how much we worry about you."

Talrik's ears folded slightly in shame, though he smiled. "I'm sorry. I know I said I'd get back to you guys after were returned from Ekibo, but I got a message via HoloNet a few days before we left and I ended up doing about a day of training afterward- when we landed I was so worn out I decided to turn in early." This was partly true- 'training' had consisted of Kajex and Syrra 'testing' his sexual endurance to celebrate.

Etina cocked her head. "Yeah, Captain Surnahm mentioned you were exhausted, though he kept it to himself as to why. He said it was good news you got. So, what was so exciting that a message made you want to do training, Talrik? You're good enough a soldier I can hardly see you needing more than you already get."

Talrik straightened up, pride welling up in his chest. "I got contacted by the Antarian Rangers, Mom. They want to test me to see if I'm good enough to be added to their ranks."

He had expected to see them both light up at the news- and he was not disappointed, both their eyes widening excitedly. Etina lunged forward and embraced her son again, laughing in amazement. "That's incredible, Talrik! I'd always hoped the skills you struggled to master would be put to better use than for Imperial oppression, and now... my oldest kit is gonna officially be helping the Jedi [i]officially[/i]." She snuffled slightly, a tear forming in her eye. "I know your father would've been proud, kit... I have to find time to thank Kajex and Syrra... if it hadn't been for them, we'd never have been freed."

Talrik nodded, affection for the wolf welling up in him- that act of kindness would never be forgotten as long as the fox still breathed. "It won't pay much more, Mom, but I'll have better equipment, armor, training- you won't have to worry as much everytime I leave with Kajex and Syrra, and I'll still be assigned to them either way," he assured her, nuzzling her cheek.

Etina chuckled, wiping her eyes. "I'm always gonna worry about you, kiddo. That's just how mom's are. But as long as you stick with those two, I know you'll come back to me and Arrik safely. When will you be undergoing tests?"

"I'm interviewing in an hour," he answered. "I gotta find Syrra first, though- want to come with?"

Etina winced, shaking her head. "I'd love to, son- but I gotta help Captain Lynch figure out what's wrong with one of the transports before he takes it out again."

"Can I go, ma?" Arrik asked hopefully, his olive eyes widening as he put on a puppy-dog look.

Their mother chuckled. "Go on, get outta here, kit. Just don't wander out of Talrik's sight." She leaned in, gave Talrik a kiss on the cheek. "Good luck, son- say hi to Syrra for me."






"So how are you liking it on Yavin 4, squirt?" Talrik asked as they ambled through the Great Temple.

"It's [i]awesome[/i]," Arrik said, as if he had only just arrived and was in awe of the goings on of the entire facility. "Like watching everyone spar with lightsabers, or floating huge rocks in the training hall, or training out in the jungle- these guys do [i]everything[/i]!" He said excitedly, causing Talrik to chuckle at his younger brother's enthusiasm. "But [i]you[/i], though- you get to [i]work[/i] with two Jedi, I'm so jealous!"

Talrik grinned. "Kajex isn't a Jedi, kid- though he [i]is[/i] an asskicker all the same, and it [i]is[/i] pretty awesome, I'll give you that. Watching him and Syrra at work is nothing short of amazing at times, even if I [i]am[/i] able to keep up. How about the other kids here, are they treating you okay?"

Arrik nodded. "Yeah, they're pretty cool. It's like they don't care that I can't use the Force like they can, they're always up for hanging out or helping me finish up remote schooling. So where are we going?" the kit asked, scooting to the side as a trio of Jedi knights walked by.

"Gotta find Syrra," he answered, waving to Garrett as he passed by. "She's been taking a few lessons on healing from Head Healer Cilghal. I think being back on Ekibo kinda prompted her to kick her training up a couple notches."

"Why's that?"

"Well, before we left, her au-- er... her 'mother' gave her a collection of datacards with medical and surgical procedures to kinda support her own first-aid skills- plus a readout of Kajex's biology. I think that kinda got to Syrra, so she wanted to start learning how to heal patients more efficiently right away," Talrik explained.

The younger kit cocked his head. "Why'd they give her a readout of Kajex?"

"'Cuz nobody really knows what he is," Talrik answered. "We've only ever met one other member of his species in the universe, and he's a Sith. I think Syrra's mom thought it would help if Syrra knew exactly how Kajex's body works."

Arrik snickered. "Not like she doesn't already know how his [i]and[/i] yours works."

"Don't let Mom hear you talking like that, squirt," Talrik chuckled, ruffling the kid's hair.

"No seriously," Arrik said with a grin. "Why're ya walkin' funny?"

"Okay, that's enough outta you!" Talrik snarled playfully as he grabbed the kit and started messing up his hair.

It took them a few minutes longer than usual to get to the medical wing of the temple, since the shortest path to it required taking a turbolift and walking past the levitation and telekinesis training rooms, and Arrik had insisted on stopping for a few minutes to watch from the viewports as trainees and even masters shifted tremendous blocks around with the Force, holding aloft full cargo containers or a collection of smaller stones, stacking them atop one another. It fortunately didn't take too long for them to finally reach the healing center, which was unusually busy.

The Twi'lek padawan at the registration terminal glanced up at the Amaran pair, smiling warmly at both of them. "Good afternoon- how can I help you today? Seasonal flu inoculations are being administered today, if you'd like to set up an appointment- should have an opening in about 30 minutes."

Talrik shook his head. "We're good, thanks- I'm actually looking for Syrra- is she still here?"

"Oh, yes- she's in the minor trauma center, down that hall," she pointed to their left, "and the 4th room on the right side."

Deciding it would be best to get out of the way, he quickly thanked the receptionist and shuffled out of the way of a coughing Wookiee, taking the hallways she'd indicated and making sure Arrik stayed near him. He peered around the doorway, seeing three figures within- Cilghal, who smiled and waved them in quietly the moment she noticed them; Syrra, who was in deep concentration with her paws hovering above their patient; an elderly man who appeared to have suffered a bite to his right calf, his trouser leg bunched up to the knee. The wound had been cleaned and sterilized, though it was unbandaged.

They all watched as Syrra inhaled and exhaled slowly, her brow furrowed slightly as she immersed herself in the task of healing the man's wound. Each deep tooth puncture seemed to brighten slightly, as if illuminated by an invisible light source, before they slowly resealed one by one, over the course of 5 minutes. The Trianii Padawan seemed to tremble slightly as she worked, breathing in a little deeper each time she inhaled. The task finished moments before she let out an exhausted gasp, steadying herself against the medical table, coming out of her trance.

Cilghal smiled widely. "Check with your patient, Padawan."

Syrra nodded, leaning in and squeezing the old man's shoulder. "How are you feeling, sir?"

The elderly gentleman groaned in relief. "Much, much better, thank you. It felt warm for a bit, but now there's no pain or anything."

The Trianii nodded. "I'm glad to hear it. It's my first time treating a patient officially and I'm glad it went so well." She cleared her throat, standing up straighter and taking a moment to catch her breath. "I think... we should probably give you a few antibiotics to prevent possible infection- and you'll probably be feeling hungry right now, so be sure to focus on proteins. For now, just take it easy on your legs, and let me or one of the healers know if you feel any pain or inconsistency near the wound." She smiled. "And from now on, let one of the Padawans handle scaring away more howlers that wander into the speeder pool- or better yet, find my friend Garrett; he'll coax them back home next time."

The old man grinned as he sat up and got to his feet. "Yes ma'am. Thank you kindly for your assistance."

Talrik chuckled. "<Teaching a lesson while learning a lesson?>" he asked smoothly in Trianii as he stepped aside, letting the old man shuffle out of the room.

Syrra turned, spotting Talrik and Arrik and laughing. "<Something like that.> You're getting better with my language. Keep it up and you'll be speaking it like a professional in no time."

"Nah, I just learned the phrase and figured I'd use it at some point- but thanks for the vote of confidence."

"Is there something we can help you with?" Cilghal asked.

"Yeah, I gotta borrow Syrra for my interview with the Antarian Rangers in about an hour- but don't lemme interrupt your lesson," the fox assured them.

The Mon Calamari nodded and returned her attention to Syrra. "You closed the wounds efficiently without leaving behind significant scarring- you expended a little too much energy trying to do it, though. It'll take time, but someone with your rate of learning should be able to overcome that with time and substantial practice. If you weren't off-planet so often, I'd suggest giving you a part-time posting here, but..."

Syrra grinned sheepishly. "That'd [i]probably[/i] help, but I tend to have enough practice just keeping Talrik and Kajex on their feet."

"Exactly," Cilghal agreed. "It would probably be more effective for you to learn out in the field. Desperation can make a good motivator, and your friend and mate will no doubt need you."

Syrra's ears folded shyly. "Why does everyone keep calling Kajex my mate?" she said, though she smiled.

"Because people think you guys go well together they automatically assume you are- and because you two are wearing devotion beads," Talrik replied as he grinned. "Hell, there's probably already rumors going around that we went to Ekibo [i]just[/i] so you two could get married."

The Trianii's eyes narrowed. "Wait... are you--"

"Anyway," Talrik cut in, looking a little alarmed, "you were saying, Cilghal?"

The Mon Calamari shook her head in amusement. "Right, so my suggestion is to come here at least once a day while you're on planet and spend enough time here to treat at least one patient. It doesn't need to be a healing job, either, doing intensive diagnoses can sharpen your abilities and make the process of healing easier."

"I think I can arrange something," the Trianii assured her healing instructor. "Anything else?"

"Yes, keep studying those medical texts you said your mother gave you- a thorough understanding of alien biology is a key element to administering Force healing abilities. And keep practicing civilian methods of first aid and medical treatment, it's always useful to have a reliable backup to the Force, just in case." She put a finned hand on the padawan's shoulder. "Other than that, just mind the rest of your studies, and don't worry- you'll get there, I'm sure of it."

"Thank you, Cilghal." He glanced at the two Amaran. "Just give me a moment to grab my jacket and we'll get going."






Kajex was already waiting for them at the Great Temple's Ceremonial Chamber, whistling an aimless tune as he leaned against some of the stonework. Normally full of students at times where announcements or group lessons headed by Master Skywalker were held, it was unusual and even a little imposing when it was nearly empty. Besides the wolf, Skywalker himself was seated at the stone steps leading up to the speaking spot- behind him, a simple desk and a series of chairs had been set up- three of the seats were occupied by two human lightly-armed guards in visors and brown bomber jackets; and an older, taller, ebony-skinned human in a brown longcoat, who was currently reading the contents of a datapad- next to the desk was a small, sealed case.

He looked up as the turbolift's hatch closed, the hissing echoing through the open hall, and watched as Talrik, Syrra and Arrik approached. With a nod towards his men, he got to his feet, regarding the approaching Amaran critically, but hopefully as they reached the desk. "Talrik Lye?" he asked with a deep, calm voice. The Amaran swallowed, nodding, and he held his hand out, shaking the fox's paw. "I'm Ranger Captain Matthias Barnn, I was the one who contacted you about our offer. It's good to finally meet you. You're a little earlier than necessary, but that's fine. Please take a seat, everyone." He grinned at the younger Amaran, who looked a little out-of-place and nervous. "You too, kid- we're not gonna turn you away just because you're under-aged, I'm sure you're eager to see whether your big brother gets the job."

All of them complied, Kajex sitting to his right and Syrra to his left while he took the center chair. He knew he was keeping his face serious and impassive, but inside he could feel every nerve on high-alert, his ears flicking at almost every sound. Matthias sat back down, grinning. "So before we get started, maybe you'd like to tell me what's wrong with this little scene right now."

Talrik blinked, realizing he was already being tested. He glanced to either side of Matthias, frowning. The answer came to him within seconds. "You... haven't introduced your associates even though they're seated. You're unarmed, but they aren't. Logically, they should be standing to either side of you, or at the turbolift, but... they aren't."

Matthias raised an eyebrow, nodding approvingly. "Very good. So what kind of positions should they take, then?"

Talrik glanced at their weapons- both carried the same sidearms. "SE-14c blaster pistols. 5-round bursts, good for clearing hallways or pinning down foes. I'd put one at your back left, and another near the turbolift."

"Why is that?"

"Because Syrra and Master Skywalker are on your right and could cover your escape if you needed to dodge that way- you need a body to take a shot for you on your left," Talrik pointed out. "Those weapons are good for suppression in a hall this big, not direct engagements- having a man at the turbolift gives you someone to hose the lift as it opens, or cover your escape as you make a break for it."

Matthias glanced to Skywalker, nodding. "[i]Very[/i] good, kid. You not only considered my men, but the Jedi that are with us, which is exactly how a Ranger should operate. The only thing you left out is what you'd have Captain Surnahm do."

Tarlik grinned at the wolf. "Whatever he thinks is best. I've learned to trust his judgment, and he's got good instincts."

"Well fortunately, so do you. You heard the man, get into position." Immediately, the armed Rangers obeyed, one of them sprinting to the turbolift as the other stood at attention next to the Ranger captain. "So, here we are, then. I was actually fairly pleased that you got back to me so quickly to discuss bringing you in as a member, especially since we've been trying to get our numbers back up to what they used to be."

"I admit, I jumped at the prospect," Talrik replied, looking to his crew. "I love helping out these guys, and being able to do so on a more official capacity, getting a little extra pay to support my kin- how could I not want to join, if given the chance?"

"Very few get the call who aren't connected to someone who isn't affiliated- but you're one of those few." He gestured to the Trianii. "Syrra here made notable positive mentions about your performance in each of her reports- that was the first thing that clued us in on your capabilities. The way Master Skywalker is running things is great, don't get me wrong- but so far, Syrra's reports are the only ones that mention civilian support. Once we saw the mentions, we set about 'procuring' your military dossier."

He gestured to the datapad he'd set down. "Full marks for the sniper and marksman courses, references to possible recommendations for deployment into warzones... which I'm guessing they only turned down because you aren't human," he suggested. "Which is fine, given that you don't seem to have the temperament to put down innocent civilians- your service record mentions defusing 3 separate hostage situations through superior accuracy, without killing the perpetrators. It takes a very skilled marksman to get that kind of outcome. If it weren't for the fact that it was the Imperial Remnant that kept these records, I'd wonder why you didn't get a Commendation for Valor and Justice."

Talrik nodded, sighing. "Didn't prevent them from being executed, though."

Matthias nodded back solemnly. "You did your best, I'm sure. But in any event it shows that you've got a good, brave heart in you, which is something all Antarian Rangers need." He leaned forward. "I'm going to be frank- this interview is more of a formality. You have most of the skills needed to be an Antarian Ranger, and as far as I'm concerned... you're in. Hands down. No bullshit."

Talrik gaped. "I... wait, really?!" The serious exterior he had tried to adopt crumbled in a matter of seconds, his tail wagging as he felt the corners of his muzzle tug upwards into a smile.

"See, I knew you had it in you!" Kajex laughed, slapping his friend roughly on the back as Syrra embraced him. "Big enough of a badass you didn't need to show it off, did you!"

Happy as he was, there was no sense in pretending he wasn't confused. "But, why?" Talrik asked.

"Your service record and the reports of you working with Syrra and Captain Surnahm already speak for themselves- you're already doing the kind of work a Ranger should be doing. Granted, I'd still like for you to have to undergo testing all the same, but I'm granting special exemption and bringing you into the fold. I'll be having you tested primarily so I can see you in action for myself, maybe see if you can show the other cadets I have for consideration a thing or two- maybe see if you can raise the bar for the standards our prospects should have." Matthias grinned. "But first, more than anything, I'd like to have a chance to discuss what we're about and then hear from your allies to assess your temperament. So tell me... what do you know about the Antarian Rangers?"

Talrik cleared his throat. "Well... I know it's a paramilitary force that was established as a civilian means of supporting the Jedi, some 600 years ago by... a Force-sensitive Gotal businessman, if I remember right. He was turned down for Jedi training, but he used his business connections and donations from others to establish the Rangers on Antar 4. Because they worked so well with the Jedi without actually drawing funding from the Jedi Order itself, they got along just fine. When the Clone Wars swung around they were fighting beside Jedi and becoming leaders of the Clone Army, even- until the Purge, when the Empire declared them allies of the Jedi, and thus traitors."

Matthias inclined his head, digging into his pocket and putting an old, worn badge on the desk. It bore an image, a replica of the Jedi Order insignia, lacking the central, elongated starburst that represented both the Force and the lightsaber- in its place were red crosshairs.

The Ranger captain gestured to the badge. "That... belonged to a friend of mine, who died during the dark times. Because of our service to the Jedi and the Republic, many of us were killed during the Clone Wars- after being branded as traitors, many more of us were murdered. We committed ourselves to hiding Jedi Knights, Masters, even padawans. Some of those Jedi went on to helping the Rebel Alliance, like General Rahm Kota, but for the most part the Rangers let the Rebel Alliance do their work- it helped keep the Rebel Alliance's activities in the dark, since the Emperor considered the Jedi more dangerous than the Rebels." He grinned. "Obviously, he was wrong."

He leaned back, staring wistfully into the distance. "Unfortunately, we still took some severe losses. One of our enclaves on Toprawa was destroyed, a few of our high-profile members were caught and publicly executed. Some of us joined the Rebel Alliance- a lot of us outright disbanded. But a few of us still maintained contact and kept ourselves out of sight until after the Battle of Endor. Even though most Jedi masters were dead by that point, we still managed to keep some of their teaching material and belongings with us. Wasn't until about 3 years ago that Master Skywalker found out about us and asked for our help- I'm about one of maybe 7 veterans of the Rangers still alive today, that I know of."

"So what have you guys been doing since he found you?" Arrik asked abruptly.

The captain grinned at the much younger fox. "Anything we can do to help, kid. For a while, that was mostly guard work and setting up some training exercises for some of the Jedi here. Eventually it moved into helping the Jedi recruit Force-sensitives; ferrying them to their operations safely and discreetly if they couldn't fly themselves; offering contact information to get ahold of people the Rangers trust to help them; and rounding up equipment and credits to help fund both ourselves and the Order. But lately... we want to get back into it, and do what we used to do. We've been getting to it slowly, but we're picking up steam." He gestured to Talrik. "People like your brother, who have solid combat skills and balls of steel, are exactly what the Rangers need."

Syrra cleared her throat. "A-ah, Ranger Captain, he [i]is[/i] a kid, maybe you should..."

Matthias laughed. "I'm just telling you all what being a Ranger requires. Moreover, it's slowly becoming a positive symbol, just like the Jedi. Back in the past, people used to seeing the Jedi as being a little elitist, above the law, answerable to nobody- a lot of people used to think they were autonomous, though they weren't. Master Skywalker's Jedi Order is different- they have civilian workers helping them out, Jedi who work closely with civilians instead of cloistering themselves. But..." he half-smiled, "... not everyone is Force-sensitive. Alot of people want to be Jedi, yet can't be. The Antarian Rangers are the kind of fighting force that would allow people who are interested to train to the point where they can do as the Jedi do, without having to be Force-sensitive. Selfless deeds and heroism shouldn't be limited to just Jedi- it should be practiced by anybody who has the heart to do it."

He returned his attention to the Amaran soldier. "You came here, which means you were at least interested in hearing what is necessary. But I'm not going to lie to you- if you say yes, you're adhering to a commitment. If you join us, you're in it for life. I can understand your loyalty to your friends, but loyalty to the Rangers has to be at least on-par with your own family. Do you understand?"

Talrik nodded. "I understand, sir."

"Another thing," he added, glancing at Skywalker, who looked peaceful and serene as always. "We make it a point to try to follow the Jedi Code, even if we aren't Jedi. That means when we deal with the rest of the galaxy, we comport ourselves as if we're one of them. Do you think you can do this?"

Talrik hesitated, before looking to Syrra, who smiled warmly. "With some help? Absolutely."

"Then the only thing left is to get the opinions of everyone here."






"Didn't think when I first met him that I'd end up hiring him, or becoming best friends and more. In fact, I thought for a few minutes I'd have to end up killing him. I'm glad I didn't, very glad. Talrik's been a solid member of the team since he first started helping us on Abaat- that was [i]before[/i] I hired him, when he was still a member of the Imperial Remnant."

The wolf looked at Talrik. "The first thing that told me he wasn't the typical Imperial stormtrooper was when we were running from a giant of a Sith Knight, down the snowy streets. I had my rifle up to his back and we could hear the screams of people behind us as the big bastard slaughtered everyone and destroyed everything in his way- and yet the first thing he asked was 'shouldn't we do something?' Even then, he was thinking less about himself and more about others. Later, when that same Knight cornered us near my ship, he grabbed my pistol from my holster. He [i]could[/i] have shot me, escaped, pledged that he was still loyal to the Empire- and he didn't. He shot at the brute instead because he knew it was the right thing to do."

"Since then, he's saved my life on at least 3 separate occasions. He has stood fast against Black Sun, the Empire and even Dark Jedi and Sith. He even challenged a Trianii politician who threatened me, told her under no uncertain terms that he'd not let anyone hurt me or Syrra without him putting up a fight. And even though he made that pledge because he's a member of our pack, I know he wouldn't stand for any kind of injustice that he could put a stop to. [i]That[/i] is the kind of person he is. Even if you turn him down, he'll still have a place in my crew."






"In the week that followed after Talrik came with us to Yavin 4, despite the fear he felt in potentially losing his sibling and mother to Imperial questioning, his time on the ship allowed him to demonstrate his compassion and selflessness. I'm in love with Captain Surnahm, and us being separated that long was... a trying time, for both of us. Yet every day, when I wasn't training, Talrik was there, ready to talk and calm my nerves, lessen my fears, even though I knew at the time he was hurting and fearful for himself."

She put a paw on the fox's shoulder as the continued. "When he became a member of our crew, and later our pack, he made every effort to show us how capable he was, training with me and Kajex diligently. I thought [i]I[/i] was the one who took training seriously, but Talrik...? At the time I wondered if he was so driven because he wanted to show us he was at least as capable as a Padawan, but over time I realized he did it because he wanted to be the best- so that he wouldn't have to worry that any lack of skill might cost someone's life. Even when he was severely injured, he never gave up, fighting back tenaciously and ready to go down swinging."

"As a former Trianii Ranger, I can say he easily matches up to any of the Trian system's best, both in skill and in honor. As far as I'm concerned, Kajex is right- anyone who stands up to Dark Jedi, Sith and criminal organizations unwaveringly, deserves a position as an Antarian Ranger."






"I regret that I know so little about Talrik Lye beyond what both of his companions have told me- which has been significant, at least. I know that he cares very much for his mother and younger brother. I know that he's been a positive force both for Syrra and for Kajex. I know that he's been accepted by many others in the Praxeum who have gotten to know him, despite his past affiliation with the Imperial Remnant. And I know from mission records that he has demonstrated loyalty and bravery that would make any military force proud to have in their ranks."

Luke smiled. "And while that may be due to the fact that he has become a part of Kajex's and Syrra's unusual but loving family, that doesn't negate his integrity and willingness to do the right thing. With his family free from the Empire, he could have been content with an easier life just working with the Jedi Order as a trainer, or doing repair work with his mother. Instead, he went right to Kajex. I believe he would be a great asset to the Antarian Rangers- and if he'd been Force sensitive, I believe he would've been an exemplary Jedi Knight."






Matthias looked between all 4 of them as Master Skywalker finished. "Then I guess there's no question about it, kid- you're definitely fit for our ranks." He smiled, reaching over and offering his hand. "Congratulations."

Talrik's head was swimming so much that it took him a moment to shake the Ranger captain's hand. "I... thank you sir, I'm honored."

"Here's how this is going to work out- I'm going to have 10 cadets come in a week to try their hand and see if they've got what you got. You spend that time getting any training you think you'll need done and we'll meet at the hangar near your buddy's ship. Effective immediately, your rank is Ranger- you'll be officially assigned to padawan Syrra and Captain Surnahm and have limited access to our mobile armory in bay 6." He bent over and grabbed the sealed container next to the desk, placing it on top.

"One last thing," he added, unsealing the case and opening it. "We don't have any true official uniform or armor standards, except for our coats- this one is yours."

Inside was a medium-sized brown leather jacket, the exact design as the ones the other two rangers were wearing. Talrik hesitated for a moment, paw outstretched briefly, before he finally scrounged up his nerve and grabbed it. Numbness seemed to overtake him briefly as his paws shook, making it tricky, but not impossible, for him to put it on, his heart hammering all the while.

Matthias grinned. "You wear it well, kid. I know you'll do it proud."

Talrik could barely find words to say. "Thank you so much, sir."






Kajex had hugged, nuzzled and laughed with the fox moments later, congratulating him and reassuring him that he'd do great as a Ranger, promising to help him cover any deficiencies he might have before the training session the following week. Syrra had done the same as well, and Arrik had stayed just long enough to tell Talrik he would tell their mother before sprinting off. Even Master Skywalker had offered his congratulations to the Amaran.

Syrra had left with the fox to head back to the [i]Gold Rush[/i], while the Master had left to oversee a lightsaber training session below, leaving only Kajex and Matthias. The ebony-toned human chuckled as the Jedi and Ranger hopped into the turbolift, talking excitedly. He waited until he was sure they were alone before addressing the wolf.

"So... he seems like a nice kid, Kaj."

The wolf nodded, staring at the turbolift with a warm smile on his features. "He is. Really great guy. I owe him my life a few times." He turned to the human. "Listen... thanks for giving him this post. I know he'll do a great job. I know it's unorthodox to have him join without having him tested, but... he's worth it."

"It's fine," Matthias assured him. "I was telling the truth when I said his record was solid enough- I agree that he's just the kind of guy we need in our ranks." He paused, regarding the wolf proudly for a moment before moving out from around the desk and standing next to him. "... You know... I was hardly able to believe it when Rei contacted me and told me you were alive. I'd seen so many good men die, always expecting the worse and then hearing it... once I'd heard that you were still alive, it gave me hope again. I dunno where you went and what you did- and I don't wanna know, because it doesn't matter. You ended up coming back without being asked, and started finding the right people to keep doing what you did before."

Kajex swallowed. "Because of Syrra."

"If you say so- but I'd been hearing you still did good work helping people out. You made the best possible choice sticking with her and continuing to do the work you've been doing for years." He smiled, putting a hand on the wolf's shoulder. "I was sorry to hear about what happened to Bran and Kane... but I know they would've been proud of you."

Kajex smiled back. "Thank you, sir."