FSE

Furry search engine

formerly SoFurry search engine

A rising sun and a cool breeze bore down upon and through the canopy of Yavin 4's jungle, a cacophony of birds sounding from the branches. Unmolested by the fauna below, shielded from predators that might soar above, and miles away from the ancient temples dotting the planet's surface, the innumerable life forms chirping and resting in this narrow level of the forest were at relative peace in the early hours in the morning. Feathers of every color shuffled, some catching the shafts of light breaking the cover above, none prepared to take flight even as a distant roar rose along the horizon.

They all registered the sound at once- and in the space of ten seconds their reactions went from curiosity, to interest, then to wariness, and finally to fear. By the time the sound became deafening the flock was in chaos, as every wing took flight and burst from the canopy in unison. By some miracle, not a single bird in the panicked flight was struck by the massive, bird-like machine that tore through the sky, mere meters above the canopy. The ship's backwash threw parts of the flock in every direction, their panicked screams and chirps ringing loud enough to match the din. If Waxer had the ability or presence of mind to beep out an apology, he would have done it without hesitation.

But he had other things to worry about.

"Unidentified craft, this is the Praxeum ACT; you are in restricted airspace without prior authorization. We request for you to open your comm channel and respond. Fail to do so and our patrols will be forced to take action."

If Waxer could have cursed, he would have. The EX-wing was still too far out for the droid to deliver a short-range burst transmission from its own systems; the means by which he could contact the planet's lone air control tower. In another ten kilometers he'd be within range, but that would take time he almost certainly didn't have. And while piloting the ship was within his capabilities, the system that allowed him to do it was not optimized for atmospheric flight.

Three times the ship had been pinged with a comm transmission. The first time he had expected Jinory to answer and request an emergency landing.

But she didn't.

At this point all he knew was that she needed help. He poured on the speed, hoping he could make it in time. Seven kilometers left.

"Unidentified craft, this is your final warning! Decelerate now or our nearest patrol will open fire!"

It was not an idle threat. The droid equivalent to cold fear swept over Waxer as he detected no fewer than six X-wings appear on the ship's scanners. He turned his dome in their direction, able to see them visually as rapidly-approaching shapes on the horizon. Seconds later the cockpit let out a warning buzz, indicating that several of them had registered the ship as a hostile target. Though there was no way to know if they were warming up their weapons, Waxer could only assume that they would.

They must get attacked a lot here, the droid thought. But dire as things were, the droid could see a way out. Hoping the patrol would notice, he quickly shifted all the ship's power from weapons and shields to its engines, igniting a roar of sound and a visible increase in speed. It was too much to hope for that the X-wings would be unable to keep up, but perhaps if they saw its weapons were powering down they would mark him as non-hostile. Setting the ship to intercept comm frequencies, the squadron's chatter filled the cockpit and filtered into his audio systems.

"Tay, I've got a lock. It's... some kind of custom model. Picking up power fluctuations."

"It's put everything to engines- I'm sensing no life signs on the ship, it must be AI controlled."

No life signs...?

All at once, Waxer's processors seemed to cease function.

"Full throttle, Lode Squadron; we need to disable it before it tries to ram the Great Temple."

The droid was torn between grief that his only friend might be dead and panic that he was losing time. They were five kilometers out of range from the ACT, still too far to get a clean signal; yet any delay in getting help from the Praxeum worsened Jinory's chances. Knowing he only had seconds before they might open fire, the droid redirected his own scanners to the nearest starfighter and acquired it as a target.

"Pakka, you've got a manual lock!"

"Wha- how?! It wasn't even facing us!"

"It_has_ to be automated, get ready to fire!"

Waxer didn't waste a moment, blasting out a series of frantic beeps and whistles, hailing the ship.

There was a pause in the channel.

"... Tay? I think the ship's astromech just tried to contact me." Another pause. "Short-range burst transmission, my R4 is translating now."

"Why would the ship have an astromech if it's automated?" the second voice mused. Another pause. "Hold your fire, everyone- we need answers."

The tension lingered; their weapons systems were still active. Hoping they would stay their cannons, he sent another burst out to the locked ship.

"... The droid is saying it's carrying an injured passenger and needs assistance. Yavin 4 was the closest outpost it knew of." Another pause. "But if you didn't feel any life signs coming off of it, it's either lying..."

"... or the passenger is dead," the commander finished.

The very thought caused Waxer to send another burst out, refusing to believe Jinory was gone.

"It says it's not leaving until it can land and--" The voice stopped short. "Wait, what?"

"What is it?" the commander pressed.

"... It wants to see my cousin."

"Which one? Alisya or Syrra?"

"Syrra. If there's a chance this droid isn't lying and there's an injured passenger on board..."

If Waxer could have held his breath he would have, waiting for their decision.

"... Alert the hangar and get in contact with Knight Syrra."

With the Jedi Praxeum brimming with energy these days, there were fewer empty areas within the Great Temple's upper levels to conduct group training; as a result, these rooms were restricted to higher-level dueling chambers and telekinesis puzzles, with the outlying ruins serving as an ideal area to run drills in practical conditions. When students needed more space to work on lightsaber defense, however, there was no better place for a duel than in Hangar Bay 7- which by this point was known as the Wolf's Den. Situated as it was at the northern end of the base, and only rarely used, many people believed it was deliberately kept out of the way for any number of reasons.

But it never lacked visitors- or spectators.

"Keep your guard up!" Syrra called out above the excited crowd, clapping twice as her brother held up his lightsaber. A brief flick of his eyes in her direction assured her that Ra'Tasum was listening. "Focus and anticipate the attack!"

A subtle nod was all he could manage as the human Padawan darted forward, thrusting his blade at the male Trianii's face. Ra'Tasum leaned to one side and side-stepped, bringing his training saber up and flicking the sharp cut aside before it could hit his ear. Well within striking range, the duelists swept their blades around. The human aimed for the legs; the Trianii knocked the blade away and stepped in, shouldering the human and sending him staggering backwards. Seeing an opportunity to strike Ra'Ta rushed in and slashed at the human's ankle, scoring a solid hit and tripping up his opponent. A cheer rose as the human hit the floor with a yelp, continuing as Ra'Ta held his blade out defensively- a signal for his opponent to surrender.

"Solah," the human groaned, holding his hands up. Ra'Ta nodded and deactivated his blade, leaning in and offering his paw, helping the other Padawan up.

The crowd around them applauded, shouts of approval for both duelists ringing out- though it was one of the Kanj'Isha spectators, brown-furred and green-eyed, who cheered the loudest. The two Knights overlooking the duel approached the center, Syrra offering her cybernetic paw to the older, pleasant-faced female Twi'lek.

"You've been teaching him well, Knight Sevaz," Syrra remarked. "You should consider giving him a solo operation to work on, I think he's ready."

Knight Sevaz chuckled, giving the shorter knight a bow. "<I'm glad you think so. And you should be proud as well, your siblings have grown well since they joined. You have become an excellent teacher, Knight Syrra.>"

Syrra moved to speak, only to be interrupted by a soft tone sounding through the hangar- the signal for midday. "It looks like that'll be it for now," Syrra told everyone around them. "That was a good showing to all participants, I'm glad to see more of you using defensive styles. Go get some breakfast, and don't forget that limited mission applicants will be accepted later tonight. Get to registration early, it'll be first-come, first-serve for qualified Padawans to take solo missions." She turned to the nearby droid. "You catch all that, Vapor?"

The droid booped an affirmative, a simple ping she had recognized as a "yes" over the few months he had been with the crew.

"Good, we'll want to save the data for analysis." A pause, then a smirk. "And so we can send a copy my mother, just to show her I was right and she was wrong."

The crowd dispersed, with the last two to leave being Ra'Ta and his boyfriend Tegrim, paw-in-paw and deep in energetic conversation. She found herself unable to help but smile as they left, though nearby movement drew her attention.

"He's happier now than I've ever seen him," Alisya noted, folding her arms and sitting on an empty cargo crate. "It's been a long time since I've seen him smile like that."

Syrra nodded, noting the pleased tone in her sister's voice. "It's nice to see it," she agreed, turning to her. "What do you think about Tegrim?"

"He's sweet. I admit, I was worried for no reason." Her eyes flicked over to the only transport in the hangar, the Gold Rush. "If I hadn't given both of them a chance the way you took a chance on me, I think things would be worse off. I'm glad you did, though After what I put you through--"

"Hey, none of that," Syrra cut her off. "We made up and we're better people for it. Part of being a Jedi means being able to accept your mistakes, not linger on them; and part of moving on means being able to forgive yourself and others." She approached her sister, placing a paw on her shoulder. "I never wanted to lose you, and I know I won't now- seeing how much you've changed makes me believe that."

The older Trianii stared at her for a few moments, then broke into a laugh. "Syrra, you have no idea how much _you've_grown. This wisdom you have, it's completely unlike you."

"Blame my mate," she said with a grin, walking towards the ship. "C'mon, let's get in the ship and steal some of his noodles."

"Are you sure that won't anger him?" Alisya asked as she hopped off the crate.

"Nah, Vapor isn't gonna squeal on us, right?" she said. The droid chirped, his disc-shaped head swiveling side to side.

"He'll still be able to tell the next time he does inventory and sees that there are a few bowls unaccounted for."

"Oh he'll be annoyed, for sure- but I know how to make it up to him, too," Syrra added, keying the code to the hatch while giving the older Trianii a grin. "You ever want to lend a hand, you let me know."

"And end up suffering your fate?" she teased back. "Maybe, if he's game."

"He'd say yes, you know- and so would I," she added with a wink. "I know how to share."

"Like I said, you've really grow--"

Her words were drowned out as a soft klaxon echoed through the relatively empty hangar, and both women turned from the ship in surprise at the flashing red light fixtures overhead. The few inhabitants nearby also looked up, and seconds later a droid's voice broke through the speakers.

"Alert- unscheduled landing at Bay 7. Clear runway to 7; repeat, clear runway 7. Technicians needed for starfighter breach and tow."

Syrra's brow raised. "That's new. Most starfighter emergency landings are in the mid-afternoon, in the other bays."

"Squadron morning patrol is in the northern jungles, though," Alisya pointed out. "It's probably a minor malfunct--"

The speaker crackled to life again. "Medical team needed immediately, code K-38."

Syrra stiffened, her blood going cold at the code.

Alisya looked back to her with a frown. "What is a K-38?"

"It means... a possible cadaver," she said uneasily, watching as no fewer than five technicians dropped their work and jumped into action. "A K-40 would be a confirmed corpse on-site, a K-38 is for an unconfirmed report." Her brow furrowed. "But... if it's a dead body in a starfighter, then who's flying the ship?"

"Auto-pilot, maybe?" Alisya suggested. "Or a two-seater?"

"There wouldn't be a need to breach the starfighter if it's a two-seater, and an auto-pilot system would only fly as programmed, not land." Her gaze trailed to the tarmac beyond the hangar doors. "Something isn't adding u--"

"Attention- Knight Syrra Surnahm required in Bay 7; repeat, Knight Syrra Surnahm required in Bay 7. Contact ACT immediately."

The two Trianii traded worried looks- it was Syrra who reacted first, climbing down the ramp and keying the hatch code again to seal the ramp. "Ali, I need you to go find Padawan Mica, she'll most likely be at the mess hall with the rest of the Black Tomb pack. If I'm not here when you get back, lead her to the medical wing and straight to me- tell Master Cilghal I cleared it. Vapor, you're with me, maybe you can give the techs a hand."

"Got it- I'll see if I can't track down Kajex as well. Go do what you do best, little sister."

They sprinted in opposite directions, with Syrra making a break for the tarmac, Vapor following closely. Halfway there she pulled her comlink from her belt, stopping a few meters away from where the technicians were setting up. "ACT, this is Knight Syrra reporting, I'm right outside Bay 7- what's the situation?" Her eyes scanned the morning sky, ears flicking at the sound of a distant ship beyond the jungle.

"We have an unidentified craft approaching with a possibly deceased occupant," came the reply.

"Then who's flying it?" she pressed.

"The onboard astromech is controlling the ship and has requested clearance to land. Knight Tay and Ranger Pakka are leading a squadron to escort the fighter to your location; the droid specifically asked to see you."

She frowned, utterly confused at the idea of any droid that wasn't Vapor asking for her. "Me? Why me? I don't know any droids personally."

"NRI has cautioned that there may be possible surgical strikes being targeted against you and the _Gold Rush_pack, given your recent actions against the Circle of Syn, but Tay and Pakka have not detected any ordinance onboard. The astromech's translation logs state that it believes you can help the occupant, though we don't yet know who it is."

She looked to Vapor, though the droid did not offer any input. "I'd be glad- it's my job. But if the droid is asking me specifically then it suggests I know who the pilot is." She spent a few moments in silence, trying to recall any droid-owning pilots who she was familiar with beyond Kajex. "What's the ship model?"

There was silence for a few seconds before an answer came. "It's some kind of Ugly; readouts show it's cobbled together from an E-wing and X-wing."

"I don't know anybody who flies something like that," she admitted.

She wasn't given much more time to think on it before six X-wings cruised overhead and circled the Great Temple, while a lone starship slowed to a stop and descended with its landing gear engaged. The vessel did indeed look like a perfect amalgamation of both an E-wing and an X-wing, much cleaner than most Uglies she'd seen; yet it was still not a ship she recognized.

Vapor rolled ahead to aid the techs, his movement giving the Trianii an idea. "What about the astromech model?"

"An R6 unit."

She pondered on that, searching her memories- a distant memory from over half a year ago coming to the forefront, of a green astromech rolling through an open hatch. Her mate's voice echoed in that memory.

"An R6?"

"What's it doing here?"

"Waxer, smoke 'em!"

Her eyes went wide as the craft finally landed, the astromech clearly visible from her position; a green dome that panned around until its viewing lens was looking directly at her. Even from so long ago, she recognized the droid- and remembered who its owner was.

"Jinory...?"

The realization washed over her, just as it seemed to wash over Waxer- in the next second he started screeching frantically in her direction, tones that her limited understanding of Binary indicated mixed relief and desperation. More on impulse than on reason she ran to the starfighter, spotting the extendable ladder and yanking it down.

One of the techs shouted at her. "Knight Syrra, you need to step back, the ship could be tra--"

"Someone get me an active headset to the ACT, and get the medics here now!" she shouted over him before peering into the cockpit. Jinory was unmoving, her eyes closed and head resting to the side. She cuffed the canopy hard, trying to keep her agitation in check. "Jinory, can you hear me?!"

No response.

With a curse Syrra looked over to the droid. "Waxer, I need you to get this open- I can't help her unless we get her out!" The droid chirped in response and the cockpit hissed, the canopy rising up.

"Got the ACT on call, ma'am," one of the techs told her, handing her a headset. "We'll get the R6 out of there, hold tight while we get the towing braces fitted."

As soon as she had the headset secured she climbed onto the ship and leaned in. "ACT, this is Knight Syrra, the ship has landed at Bay 7's tarmac- if the medical team hasn't moved out, tell them we have an unresponsive patient! I need a link to Master Cighal immediately!"

"Understood, Knight Syrra, establishing link." A burst of static followed, then a different voice spoke.

"Knight Syrra, the medical team just hit the lift to Bay 7, they'll be there in minutes," Master Cilghal told her. "Give me an analysis of the patient."

"Patient is a Trianii, female, early twenties, Force-sensitive." She looked over the unresponsive woman, trying to keep calm, hoping she wasn't dead, bringing a shaky paw to her head and shifting it to one side. It turned easily- no rigor mortis. "Signs of bruising to the head, possible concussion, and--" She stopped short, spotting the burns on Jinory's right shoulder and lower right chest. "... I'm seeing at least two wounds consistent with lightsaber damage," she said grimly. "Minor cuts on the right arm and lower right abdomen, no sign of extensive bleeding."

"Take her pulse; we need confirmation on her status."

She reached in, feeling no shortage of dread as she pressed a pair of fingers into Jinory's neck and waited, trying to block out all other sounds and sensations to feel for a pulse, watching her face closely. For a few tense moments she felt nothing- then, the gentle throb beneath her fingers. Relief swept over the Trianii, as she noticed the subtle rise and fall of her chest.

"She's alive, Master Cighal," she sighed. "But I can barely feel her pulse, she might have internal bleeding."

"Calm your thoughts, Knight Syrra- if she's still alive then you can help her. Get her out of the cockpit if you're able to and accompany the medical team. I need for you to focus and heal her as she's moved into the medical ward." A pause. "If you have your crystal on-hand, I will leave it to your discretion on whether to use it, but bring her here for observation even if you do."

"Understood, Master Cighal," she replied, glancing back towards the hangar bay. Her Kanj'Isha Padawan, Mica, was trailing behind Alisya and a trio of healers with a medical gravsled, halfway to the ship itself. Knowing every second mattered, she reached into the cockpit and started undoing Jinory's seat harness. "How are we with the towing brace?" she called out.

"Almost done, ma'am! We'll start moving once your patient is out of there!"

"As soon as the ship is secured in Bay 7, I want you to get the records out of her navcomputer." She hesitated, briefly recalling Jinory's secrecy. "But do not log it in with the NRI. I want to have Sentinel Kajex take a look at them first before I question the patient." With a grunt she undid the last of Jinory's harness, planting both her feet in the cockpit and grabbing underneath her arms. "I'm sorry if this hurts, my friend- but I need to get you out of here."

Even with her short stature, the years spent training as a Trianii Ranger and Jedi made pulling another person out of a ship relatively easy for Syrra; most of the difficulty came in getting Jinory out of the cockpit without too much unnecessary movement. Once she had the unconscious Trianii over her shoulder, she brought her down carefully, getting to the ground just as the gravsled and medical team arrived.

"I'm ready to help," Mica told her, helping the team get Jinory onto the sled and hooking her up to the unit's monitoring equipment. Moments later there was a slow, steady beeping. "Who is she?"

Alisya got in closer, her brow raising in surprise. "Another Trianii?"

"A friend that I made earlier this year," Syrra explained, helping them direct the sled. "She's still alive but she may have internal bleeding. I think she may have fought a dark-sider and lost; she has a few lightsaber cuts."

"Syrra, is this..." Mica frowned at the readout. "Are these readings right?"

She looked to the heart rate monitor, her brow raising- the pulse was far too slow and weak for a Trianii, yet her oxygen levels were normal. "No, this... a body couldn't sustain these vital signs and still be alive for long. Not unless..."

She trailed off, returning her attention to Jinory as suspicion built. Hesitantly, she reached out and placed a paw on her forehead as they reached the lift. With a deep breath she reached out through the Force, a tendril of thought extending to the unmoving Trianii.

"... Jinory... are you in there?"

For several long moments there was nothing, no hint of awareness, not even a twitch to signal that she'd gotten through. But then came a subtle feeling of fear and hope, as something reached back.

"... Syrra...?"

She pulled back with a sharp breath, half-expecting to see her friend with wide-open eyes, yet the younger Trianii remained still. The pieces started to click together as she activated her headset. "Master Cilghal, the patient is in a trance."

"Say again, Knight Syrra- the patient is in a trance?"

"Confirmed." She hopped onto the medical sled, leaning over the unconscious feline. "She might have instinctively attempted morichro to slow the bleeding. Do we have Trianii blood packs on-hand?"

"After your delivery we have plenty, but don't worry about resources right now. Depending on how long she's been in-flight, she may not have much more time, you need to heal her now."

She glanced at everyone else, grabbing at the pendant around her neck and pulling it off. The golden crystal at its center pulsed with light, quickening as she brought it against Jinory's chest- it seemed to sense the Trianii's injuries. "I need you to keep the sled steady while I tend to her wounds," she told them. "I don't want to fall off in the middle of mending her."

"I'll keep you upright," Alisya told her, placing a paw on her back. "Just do what you must to save her; we'll get you both to the medical wing."

The medical sled remained smooth as she focused on the crystal, her senses dulling in a matter of seconds until she seemed to be immersed in the interior of the gem. What had a year ago been a feat of great concentration came easily now, her training and familiarity with her gift from Kajex almost felt like a part of her. But what immediately set this trance apart from all others was the feeling that she was not alone. From within the crystal she could see subtle shapes and movements beyond the cleavages and surfaces, feel the warmth and light that pulsed through its core; Force energy, a pool which seemed to rejuvenate her as she sought the injuries beyond.

Pain lingered beyond the crystal, injuries that even it could not easily mend, but she set to work immediately, pouring her concentration and energy towards healing the injured feline. It took little time for her to find the torn muscles and blood vessels that threatened to drown or infect her inner organs; the newly-formed blood clots only caused further damage. A novice doctor would have called it a lost cause, yet it took little effort for her to dissolve the clots, mending the torn blood vessels and arteries. Even still, she could not help but notice how close Jinory came to death.

She'll be okay, Syrra thought, calming herself. These injuries could have killed her, but she's safe now.

I forgot you were a healer... it feels... calm. Soothing. I feel safer now...

The healing slowed, Syrra's concentration faltered as she seemed to turn in place- if in fact that were possible, though she knew right now she was merely channeling herself into the healing crystal. Experience and training kept her locked within, but the sensation of another being's thoughts and feelings did not go ignored.

... Jinory? Is that you?

A pause- hesitation. ... I'm sorry for everything. I was going to say something earlier, find time to send you a message, but... it's only just now that I--

It's okay, Syrra intercepted quickly, finding enough focus to continue mending her while soothing her worries. We'll talk about it when you're well, but please be calm. I want to help you before this gets any worse, your health is my priority right now.

You... promise? I want to say so much.

I promise, she responded. I'm not going to abandon someone who needs help.

I'm just... I'm so used to being left behind that I--

I'm not the New Republic, Jinory- I'm your friend. And just like Waxer, you can count on me.

She pulled back with a deep breath, her eyes opening to new surroundings. When she faded into the healing crystal they had been riding the lift up into the Great Temple; now she could see they were in the medical wing, in the critical care section. Neither she nor Jinory had been moved from the medical sled, though she quickly noticed the others around her; Mica and Alisya were watching closely, while a Mon Calamari female talked to them.

"Ah, she's coming around," Master Cilghal said. "You got a close look at what she was doing though, yes?"

"Yes, Master," they both replied.

"It can take years to learn how to heal effectively the way Syrra does, even without the Healing Crystal of Fire to augment the process. Years of medical study are often needed for her level of efficiency. But it would benefit you both to have first-aid knowledge, especially as you both have family studying with us." She put a finned hand on Syrra's shoulder. "I had them stay and watch while you were working- how is the patient?"

"Better, now," she replied as she got off the sled, stepping out of the way while Mica and Alisya moved the still unconscious Trianii into a bed. "For internal bleeding we need to make sure the patient gets fresh blood, plasma, and vitamin K. Normally we'd have a droid here to monitor her, but I think it would be best to hold off on that."

Cilghal looked to her curiously, watching as Syrra moved to the patient. "She'll need someone to monitor her. If we can't spare a student or knight to keep her under observation--"

"I'll do it," Syrra said, putting a paw on Jinory's wrist. "I can sense Jinory tried to put herself into stasis with morichro. It'll take focus to ease her out of it, and it might be best if someone she knows and trusts does it."

"You know her, then?"

"I do. She... aided me, during a mission earlier this year; though she studies under someone else." She stared at Jinory, slight pain coming from the memory. While Syrra had wanted to keep her as a friend and help her learn the ways of the Force, they parted rather aggressively. Even with the younger woman's apology, Syrra wondered if there was some lingering resentment within. After a few moments she decided it was better to focus on treating Jinory, quickly getting her hooked up to an IV line.

"You mentioned something called 'morichro,' what does that mean?" Alisya asked.

"It's a Jedi technique that can slow a person's body functions to nearly complete suspension," she explained. "A master in the art could go for months, possibly years without food, water, or even air, as long as they maintain the trance. Supposedly, only a Jedi Master could perform the ability, and it was a 'banned' teaching to all but a handful of Jedi."

"Master Durron was able to do it instinctively," Cilghal interjected. "Though he did so out of desperation. It's not unfeasible for a talented Force-sensitive to attempt it when the odds are against them."

"But if it's left unchecked, you have other problems to deal with," a voice behind them said. They all turned to see Kajex at the door, leading Vapor and Waxer into the room. "My father, Bran, put me into a coma by using morichro, shortly before he died. It took me the better part of thirteen years for me to pull myself out of it, and Kane had to watch over me the entire time, keeping me hooked up to an IV line." His eyes lingered on the young Trianii. "Jinory, right? What kind of trouble did she run into?"

"I was hoping Waxer would be able to tell us," Syrra said, addressing the R6 unit. His dome swiveled to her, then to Jinory, before letting out a few hesitant chirps.

"He says that their mission was meant to be secret," the wolf translated for them, regarding the droid with a frown. "That's all well and good, but we might need to know if we should expect company." Once again, the droid looked to Jinory before answering, his beeps more open and positive. "He made sure they weren't followed by disrupting their tracking system before they left," Kajex translated. "If we analyze her fighter's navcomputer, we can confirm that and backtrack to her previous location."

"I don't think that will be necessary," Syrra said quickly, giving her mate a look. "I'm pretty sure we-- er... I can get her to open up. If she needs to keep secrets then we should respect that, but after today I think she'll be more receptive to talking things out."

Cilghal looked at the other two women, then nodded. "Then we'll leave it to you, Knight Syrra. I'll have your students help gather the necessary supplies and get your patient into a medical gown. Follow me, you two."

The three left, though not before Alisya gave the younger Trianii a proud smile and nod, leaving only her and Kajex alone with the droids. Even though it was barely an hour past sunrise she already felt tired, enough that she took a seat in a chair next to Jinory. There was an ache in her heart, knowing what this turn of events would mean, and yet when she looked up to Kajex she tried her best to give him a confident smile.

Thankfully, Kajex seemed aware of what she was feeling.

"Do you need anything, kitten?" he asked softly, standing beside her.

"I know what I need to be doing," she sighed. "It's just... I guess it's finally hitting me, knowing I have to divide my time like this. I'm... I'm sorry, Kajex, I--"

"Hey, none of that," he told her firmly, crouching down to her level and taking her paws in his. "Look, we both know neither of us were prepared for this, but I think we did a damn good job given how chaotic everything was. Everything with Rook, the Circle, the augmentation, what happened with Talrik, and then capping it off with the twins- I think we can say that we've had it much harder than most Jedi here in the Praxeum." He reached up, cupping her cheek. "But that's why the pack is important. Because it means the rest of us will be there when you or I can't be. And you can count on us for that. Right now, it's important for you to help Jinory however you can."

"You're sure?" she asked.

"We've got everything we need on the ship, and you know Keris loves to fill in for you when you need it," he chuckled. "But if you need anything, you just let me know."

It took her only a few moments to think of something. "Maybe bring the twins with you a bit later, when things have calmed down?"

"I'd be glad to," the wolf assured her. A desire to apologize built in her, but it only took a brief flit in telepathy between them enough for him to let her know he understood what she was doing, and trusted her.

She smiled again, and this time it felt genuine, a purr in her chest as she nuzzled into her paw as the regret was displaced with gratitude. "Thank you."

They leaned in and nuzzled, sparing a few moments for affection before the wolf got back to his feet.

"Well, for now I'll go give Waxer and the ship a look over for repairs- if you're alright with that," he said to the droid. Waxer beeped an affirmative and he nodded. "Good, it'll keep me close to the Gold Rush, so I can keep an eye on everyone, since you'll be working tonight. How long do you think it'll take?" he asked, drawing out one of his lightsabers.

"It'll take most of today to drain the internal bleeding, but she's out of danger."

He nodded, screwing the top half of his Jedi weapon off and revealing the focusing crystal chamber. The second of the three healing crystals pulsed brightly even as he plucked it from the chamber and handed it to her. "Use this if anything else comes up. We want her to make a speedy recovery, after all."

"I'll try not to be long," she promised him, pocketing the jewel. "I've never dealt with bringing someone out of self-stasis, but there's data in the archives I can use. I'll keep you updated when I can."

"Love you, kitten," he said, rubbing behind her ears.

"Love you too, puppy," she replied, beaming back up at him.

The last thing Jinory remembered was the rippling blue tunnel of hyperspace, a hypnotic view that made it easier for her to fall into a relaxed focus. Instinct told her that she was dying, that something deep inside her was irreparably wrong and that she needed help as soon as possible; the Force told her that she must trust in it if she wanted to live. More to quell her worries and to stave off the fear that would only make things worse, she followed the guidance of the Force- right into a trance.

It was lonely and dark, but also warm and comforting, a feeling not unlike being a child wrapped in a blanket. There was no desire for her to break the trance, though she did not know how she could. The best she could do, as far as she could tell, was wait.

When she heard Syrra's voice (or perhaps her thoughts?) in her head, it was with a cautious hope that Waxer had followed through. Feeling the older Trianii put her energy towards healing her put her mind at ease, though the ache to speak and talk to her grew with every passing minute. Before long she attempted to force her way out of the trance, finding the barrier within her mind pliable but unbreakable. Any attempt to reach out beyond that barrier was limited, so she could not tell what was happening beyond her body. She was in the middle of yet another attempt to push herself out when she felt Syrra again.

Easy, Jinory. Don't struggle.

Huh? Syrra?

The trance you're in is something you need to be eased out of- it can be damaging for you to try to break out of it.

She let out a mental sigh, ceasing her efforts. Am I trapped here forever?

Morichro can keep a person in stasis for over a decade, with assistance- my mate is living proof of that. But that was because he had to ease himself out of it, without another Jedi's help. You have mine.

She felt a tingle of hope. Can you help me leave?

There was a sensation that almost felt like Syrra was laughing warmly. That's why I'm here. Can you feel me?

It was impossible not to. It was almost as if Syrra had her arm around her shoulders and was leading her up into... whatever "upwards" might have translated to in her trance. Yeah, I feel you. But what do I...?

Just trust in me, Jinory. There was a tug on what felt like her paw. Now- reach out to me, and follow.

The sensation ended and Jinory felt a sudden flare of anxiety, but one that ceased when she realized Syrra wouldn't just leave her alone. Rather than push against the barrier of her mental trance, she focused inward and reached to Syrra instead, latching on to her friend's thoughts. In seconds she could feel herself being lifted, as if her paw was clasped around a rope being tugged skywards, the darkness giving way to a steadily growing light. Sensation started to return, starting with sound; the steady flow of blood rushing through her body, the rhythm of her heartbeat. Next was sensation; the warm grip of another paw on hers and the slight ache of an injured body. All the while the light grew brighter, until it was blinding.

And then she awoke.

The light dimmed into a blurriness as her eyes flicked open half a centimeter. Despite the subtle ache, there was a clarity and peacefulness in her mind and nerves that she'd only rarely had, as if she had spent an entire week in the most comfortable period sleep imaginable. She took a slow, deep breath, holding it in for a few seconds, then exhaled with a comfortable sigh and opened her eyes in full.

It was a clean medical room, she could tell, with an inactive holo-screen on the wall opposite her, warm light fixtures, and the soft, sweet smell of jungle air from an open window at her side. She leaned her head to her right, staring out into the vast jungle below, feeling the aura of life teeming within the branches. It was a sight that seemed to dull the ache in her body, though she still felt the slight squeeze on her left paw. She turned and found herself staring into the smiling face of a slightly older Trianii, her sapphire eyes calm.

"Good morning, Jinory," Syrra purred. "I'm glad you came back out with me."

Jinory opened her mouth to speak, certain she was going to ask a question; only to pause as she struggled to choose which one to ask. With no shortage of awkwardness hanging in the air she settled on something else, just to break the silence. "Thank you... for waking me up," she mumbled, looking away. "Did you..." She paused, started again. "How long have you been here?"

"I'm used to pulling all-nighters to tend to patients," Syrra told her, releasing her paw and getting up. "It would be grossly impolite for me not to do the same for someone I knew, especially if they were in danger of dying."

Jinory looked up again, brow raised. She'd suspected, if only instinctively, that her life had been in danger- now she was curious as to the damage. "What happened?"

"I was actually hoping you would tell me," she replied, reaching for a wall-mounted tablet and disconnecting it from its station. "But I'm certain you meant your injuries, and why the Force probably told you to preserve your life by going into an advanced-state trance." A few taps on the screen and a readout appeared on the holoscreen in front of her. "You suffered multiple fractures along your ribs and collarbone; torn blood vessels, but no major arteries; minor contusions along your lungs; a minor concussion, likely from explosive damage; mild trauma to several of your organs including your liver; and two cauterized, inch-deep cuts to your side and your shoulder." She lowered the data pad, and as she raised her cybernetic armor up she wore an expression which told Jinory there was no use hiding what had happened. "And believe me, I know lightsaber injuries when I see them."

The younger Trianii swallowed, unable to meet Syrra's eyes. "Well... yeah, you could say I had a run-in with a lightsaber."

"I_am_ saying you had a run-in with a lightsaber," Syrra confirmed, returning to the seat next to Jinory. "What I'm worried about is why. There are over six hundred Jedi in the Praxeum, and perhaps a few hundred more who have left after they finished their training. Only a handful of them have been in a legitimate, to-the-death lightsaber duel and survived. The ones who have are the ones who are talented enough to draw the attention of a dark-sider." She paused. "... Or those unlucky enough to cross paths with one."

Jinory opened her mouth to speak again- and like before, could not decide on what to say. For half a minute she went silent, the sense of comfort now displaced by a rising tension and fear.

Why can't I say it?

"... If... if I can't say what happened... then how soon will I need to leave?" she said quietly.

"'Leave?'" Syrra repeated, and the tone she spoke caused Jinory to finally look back up, noticing the hurt expression in her eyes. "... Jinory, nobody is going to make you leave- me least of all. Waxer brought you here because your life was in danger and you needed help. Just because you're recovering and out of danger now, doesn't mean we have any intention of kicking you back out. Even if you choose to keep your activities a secret."

Half the tension faded, though what remained was still strong. "Thank you," she muttered.

"That said... I won't hide the fact that it hurts that you can't trust me," Syrra continued. "I'm sure you have the best possible reasons for not revealing what you've been up to. But I'd still like to know- do you need help? Is there something we can do for you to keep you safe in the future? And are you being hunted by a dark-sider?"

"I... can't tell you about my mission," Jinory started to say.

"I'm not asking for the details of your mission," Syrra countered. "You don't need to tell me why, or what you were doing when it happened. But if I can do anything to help, then please know that you can trust me."

"I think... that I can," she admitted quietly. "I just wish I knew why you cared so much, after I... after what happened. I wasn't trying to ruin your mission, I just... had my own."

The stare Syrra gave her held no malice, only concern. "What little I learned after it happened, I think you made the right call in destroying the data. Where it concerns the duel we had, I can understand where you were coming from, even if the perspective is different. I was very much the same as you, a year and a half ago."

"You were?" Jinory asked.

Now the older Trianii was smiling, leaning forward. "I wasn't sure of my place in the galaxy. I just knew I wanted to be a Jedi Knight. Granted, that's not what you're aiming for, but the drive to do the right thing is the same. I was adamant on doing the best I could, to put in the effort non-stop. It was the kind of motivation that blinded me to what I was lacking- compassion. During one investigation I was... 'attacked,' I guess you could say. It was a shove more than anything. But I nearly lashed out in anger and I almost drew my lightsaber on a civilian, one who was going through his own emotional pain."

"Did you know then?" Jinory probed.

"Not then, no. I was stopped by Kajex, and he suggested I try talking it out instead. By the end of it I understood the civilian better- and I understood how lacking I'd been. I felt just as lost and ashamed as you might be feeling right now." She set the datapad aside, sitting on the edge of the bed. "But mistakes like that don't have to break us down- they can build us up into something better."

"How did you improve?" she asked.

"I started opening up a little more, adopting new methods that suited me. It took meeting Kajex and gaining a new perspective to realize that there's more than one way to help others. I also learned that I didn't have to do everything alone. I could rely on allies, family, and friends." She gestured to Jinory. "So I changed my focus just a little. Instead of being another soldier with a lightsaber, I split the difference and became a healer as well."

"But... you had another Jedi helping you, though," Jinory pointed out.

"Kajex_was_ a Jedi, and he is now; but when I studied under him he taught me from the mindset of a mercenary. We didn't have to share the same ideologies, because that wasn't what mattered. It only matters that we both wanted to help others." Syrra leaned in closer. "I don't care who you're studying under, or what you're learning. I believe you would never harm innocent people, that you're doing what you believe is the right thing. That's why I can still consider you a friend even after having a disagreement with you."

"Even after... nearly killing you?" Jinory asked, looking away.

"Did you really though?" Syrra countered, her smile a little broader.

A few moments of thought passed, the younger Trianii managing a weak smile. "I guess not. You acted like it wasn't that big a deal. I probably wasn't all that impressive, my form is sloppy."

"Speaking from experience and expertise, your form is good, actually," Syrra corrected her, getting up and putting her hand on her shoulder. "But it was clear to me that your heart wasn't really into it. I don't think you ever wanted to hurt me, that you were just caught up in the moment."

"But... I never said... I should have..." The words would not come out for Jinory. "I tried to tell you, message you- I had intended to somehow get in touch with the Jedi Praxeum."

"I'm here, now," Syrra pointed out. "And I'm not angry. I was_never_ angry. You can tell me anything you want."

Jinory stared up at her, still feeling the shame of her past mistakes as she looked into Syrra's sapphire eyes. But now that feeling was dulled, not nearly as sharp as it had been previously. To know that she was still accepted by a role model she had so much respect for, made finally saying what she'd meant to say possible.

"I'm sorry... I'm so sorry for being so stubborn," Jinory finally said, feeling her eyes burn. "I know that I wasn't a real threat to you, but it was still dangerous. I was scared of failing, and I didn't know how to resolve it any better without revealing what I'd learned from my mentor." She wiped her eyes quickly. "If there's any way I can make it up to you, just tell me."

Syrra shook her head, leaning in and embracing her. "There's nothing to make up for, Jinory. I'm just happy to see you again."

The act left her stunned for a few seconds- but once the shock had worn off, she hugged back, feeling calmer.

It was a massive show of trust for Syrra to explain how she was able to heal so effectively, and even after she'd given Jinory a clean bill of health the younger Trianii had not failed to recognize this fact. She'd never known about the Healing Crystals of Fire, that such a gem actually existed, but she was adamant on keeping it a secret now that she knew- and eager to repay Syrra and her family once she was able. It was only Syrra's duties as a teacher and healer that delayed the process.

It was Master Skywalker's suggestion that the interview be kept only to the members of the _Gold Rush_response team, though the data on the Imperial movements and Sith pretender would be made available to the NRI. Even now as they discussed the 'Sith Lord' Jinory had fought, both Waxer and Vapor were recording the information.

"'Darth Erutis Aekkur,'" Locke repeated with a scoff. "Well it's not the first time a Sith Lord has attached their name to the title, but it's rare for a reason."

"Do you know of him, then?" Syrra asked.

"Very little," the white wolf replied. "He wasn't noteworthy enough to be asked to join the ranks of the Circle."

"He seemed to suggest that he was a part of them," Jinory said. "Or affiliated with them at one point."

"All those who served the Emperor in some capacity are affiliated," Locke nodded. "Still, it would be vital to know if he plans to make any moves against us."

"Probably not," Jinory sighed, leaning back in her seat and crossing her arms. "I think he was specifically targeting me, to get at my mentor and allies. He stated flat out he'd been a former apprentice, and that he'd turned to the dark side the same way he was trying to convert me."

"If you didn't tell him anything, then they're still safe," Syrra assured her.

"Waxer said they didn't actually probe him for information," Kajex interjected. "He was able to blend in pretty well until he could get to you. You're lucky to have a resourceful, gutsy droid at you're side."

"I really am," Jinory agreed, smiling at the R6 unit.

"So, at least one Star Destroyer and an Interdictor," Syrra noted. "It's a small force, but also one that can move in and out pretty quickly while doing significant damage."

"We might want to suggest to the NRI to have more rapid-response patrols, just in case," Kajex added. "Pallaeon is losing the ground he caught early, but a handful of irate Imperial commanders can still cause a lot of trouble. If we're lucky, he'll call a truce at some point. But a small fleet with a Sith pretender isn't something we should just ignore."

"Let me and mine handle it," Jinory offered. "I can't promise that we'll be able to inform you of what we'll do about it, but I_will_ try to contact you if it it should become a problem for you or the New Republic."

Kajex looked to Syrra, who nodded, and he got up. "Then I think we're done here for now," he said, reaching out with a paw and shaking with Jinory. "Thank you for giving us the info you could."

"I just wish it could be more," she said.

"You have your secrets to keep, and I can respect that," the wolf replied. "And I can also understand you not trusting the New Republic- they're not perfect. If nothing else, though, you can trust us."

"I believe I can," Jinory said, giving him a genuine smile. "Thank you, Kajex."

"Locke and I will get this info to Master Skywalker, he'll want to know about it," he said. "You're welcome to stay here as long as you'd like, Jinory- there's more than enough room. I'll be back as soon as I can."

"It's been a pleasure," Locke offered kindly, shaking her hand as well. "Feel free to call on us when you need it."

She waited until the sound of their footfalls disappeared down the ramp before turning to Syrra. "So, what now?"

"You're cleared to leave whenever you'd like. Kajex had your ship repaired and restocked- he seemed pretty impressed with your ride. I think he meant to ask you if you built it yourself," she said, taking a seat across from her.

"I did," Jinory nodded, feeling more than a little pride blooming in her. "I built it from my father's X-wing and scrapped E-wing parts. But I wasn't expecting Aekkur to have actually kept it."

"I think he kept it around specifically to use it against you. Kajex found a tracking device welded under the ship. If he hadn't looked it over using mechu-deru, you might have ended up leading him back to your base." Syrra smiled. "But we got you covered. At most, Aekkur will know you only came here."

"Thank you," she replied. "I owe you so much, and I plan to make good on that whenever you need me."

"It's not necessary, but we'll keep it in mind," Syrra said. For a moment she hesitated, the leaned in. "I was hoping, though, to ask you a question."

"Anything."

"Are you okay with the Jedi, after everything you've seen since you got here?"

She mulled on that, then gave Syrra a nod. "I don't hate the Jedi. I... resent that they're beholden to the New Republic, more than anything. What happened with Cid, it wasn't the fault of the Jedi Order. The New Republic's pilots abandoned us, and it would be down to the NRI to report on ambushes against their fleet."

"They don't tell us everything," Syrra murmured. "Maybe it's in our best interests, but maybe they don't know what's best for us, either."

"Either way, it's not the Jedi at fault." She leaned forward, folding her arms on the table and resting her head on them with a sigh. "A part of me wishes I could stay here and study alongside you, maybe even under you. But I made promises to some people, and I don't think my mentor would approve if I stayed longer than necessary."

"Well, I won't ask you to make excuses just to stay a little longer," Syrra told her with a wan smile. "Some weeks it feels like Master Skywalker has us putting out fires across the galaxy, especially against the Circle, so even if you did stay I couldn't guarantee I'd be around to help you." She perked up. "But hey, at least stay around long enough for dinner tomorrow so you can meet the whole family, yeah? We'd love to have you here, and it sounds like you could use a break."

Where there had once been regret and guilt for the history they'd shared, there was now joy in knowing she had not lost the connection she'd had with Syrra. To be asked to build on the connection, if only for another day, brought out a genuine smile.

"I think I can spare that much time, at least," Jinory said.

Two days later, it was time to say goodbye.

She had promised to cherish the brief time she'd had with the Gold Rush pack, the family who had been nice enough to treat her as kindly as Syrra had. She'd come away from it with leftovers of the dinner and a simple brown package Syrra had given to her before parting. And while there was an ache that bespoke the pain of having to leave her Trianii friend and her family behind, to return to her work, there was also comfort in knowing she would be welcome any time she was around.

It helped that Syrra had insisted on working with the ACT to see her off.

"Pre-flight checks finished," Jinory told her, double-checking her instruments before gazing up into the morning sky. "I've got the orbital beacon on my nav-computer, and ready to spread my wings."

"Understood, Jinory- the ACT has agreed not to track your hyperspace vector or log your directions once you lift off. I'll personally make sure of it," Syrra promised. "You got everything you need?"

She turned to glance at Waxer. "You ready, little buddy?"

Waxer trilled excitedly.

"We're good to go, Syrra," she grinned, bringing her ship to a hover and retracting the landing gear.

"Copy that, you're clear for takeoff. Have a safe journey- and may the Force be with you."

"And with you and your family, too," Jinory responded, her left paw pulling back the throttle.

In moments Jinory's starfighter was skimming along the tarmac, curving in a smooth arc upwards into the sky and causing the trees to burst with birds below her. A thrill grew in her as she eased the ship forward, savoring the feel of the ship under her paws- something she had been too injured to appreciate, while Waxer had taken control. It had been years since she'd handled her vessel, yet it felt so familiar to the touch that it still felt natural even now.

A click in her earpiece signaled the disconnection to the ACT- they had made good on their promise not to track her departure vector. There was a beat in her chest, a short pang knowing she could not say anything more to Syrra; but even as she pulled the ship up through the atmosphere, she felt like she could still feel the Trianii Jedi reaching out to her through the Force. She relaxed, reaching back out to the sensation, smiling as she felt Syrra, like a warm wave of the paw as they bid each other farewell.

They didn't need words. They knew.

"Waxer... think you can take control for a bit?"

The droid chirped, his Binary response translated by the on-board screen. "Of course. Going to be occupied for a moment?"

"Syrra gave me a package and I'm a little curious," she admitted, pulling it from the net holder next to her. "I'm guessing it's a gift, but I wanna be sure."

"Go for it. I've got things covered."

The package was unremarkable, just a slim, rectangular box wrapped in brown paper and twine, though Jinory assumed there was no time nor need to hand her a gift with a more flavorful exterior. She undid the package carefully anyway, her brow raising as she pulled away the top of the box and revealed a datapad. Curious, she tapped the screen.

A few moments passed as the data loaded, before the screen flickered to life and showed what appeared to be the recovery room she had been resting in. A smile grew on her muzzle as Syrra entered the frame, clad in casual attire and taking a seat on the bed before looking directly at the recorder.

"Hi, Jinory. I'm hoping you opened this up immediately after leaving. I don't know where you're going, but I figure that any jump into hyperspace is going to take a few hours, so I might as well give you something to pass the time." She paused, looking pensive. "Honestly, there are a couple of reasons I wanted you to have this. As much as I wanted to see you again, I would have preferred it didn't mean you needed me to save your life. I can't be there to help you in a combat situation, or to heal you directly. But being a Jedi Knight means that I've had to be a teacher as well. And even if you aren't a student here at the Praxeum, that doesn't mean I can't pass on what I've learned to someone I know and trust to put it to good use. If it keeps you safe so I can see you again, all the better- moreso if you can use it to help others."

"I believe you're strong enough that healing yourself through the Force is within your ability to control, but what you really need is the knowledge on how. It's best to have a good working knowledge of medicine, to know how to mend an injury or treat a wound." She gestured to the room. "I'm more than happy to give you a primer on first aid, basic triage, and medicine. It was my intention to provide this to the Praxeum for new students, as part of a compilation made by me and other healers here. I'll do my best to make it interesting, and to that end I've asked for a volunteer to help."

"Hi, Jinory!" A gray paw entered from out of the frame, waving at her.

"I'm still working on the intro, go get ready- go on, shoo!" She waved the wolf off with a giggle. "Although I'm almost done, so... I'll finish by saying that I remembered your offer to help us if we need it. There may come a day when I will ask for your help. I will completely understand if you're not able, but I've attached my e-mail address in a note with this gift. Shoot me a message when you have time so I can get yours, and... well, hope for the best."

She took a deep breath, exhaled, then nodded. "So... until next time- keep yourself safe. Don't be a stranger. And may the Force be with you, my friend."

The video ended, replaced by a menu screen with multiple options. Jinory smiled, raising her paw to tap the first option before stopping short. "Say, Waxer."

"Yes, Jinory?"

"How long will it take to get home?"

"It will take six hours in hyperspace to arrive at our destination. We are approaching the orbital beacon, and the coordinates are set. We're ready to go."

She nodded, tapping the first option. "Jump us in, buddy- I've got an in-flight movie all set up."