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_ "Much as I wish I could, there is no means through the Force to take away what has happened to you in the past; even erasing your memories, which I would never do, will not undo your scars." _

_ "Have I any hope?" _

_ "Always. Trust in the power of compassion and companionship to seek a brighter future." _

~Unknown Jedi Healer and refugee

"Hey, just got off the cockpit console, got some great news!"

Kajex looked up from the workbench, lifting his welding goggles out of his eyes and tilting his head as he noticed Syrra's happy expression. "What's up, kitten?"

"It's from Calya- she and Markus are tying the knot on Ekibo!" she stated, barely containing her enthusiasm as she slightly bounced on the balls of her feet, her tail dancing side-to-side.

Talrik looked between them, confused. "Who's doing what where, now?"

Kajex smiled. "A Trianii friend of ours whom we rescued, from when Syrra and I first met on Syrra's homeplanet- she'd been having a relationship with a Besalisk named Markus. That's great news, though- did they say when they're performing their union ceremony?" the wolf asked, setting his welder aside.

"Next year, about 8 months from now- and they want us to attend!"

Kajex chuckled. "Alright kitten- we'll attend the ceremony, don't you worry. If you haven't already sent a reply, tell them we accept, that we say congratulations, and that we'll be bringing a third person."

Talrik raised an eyebrow. "Me? I mean not that I'd say no- but they don't know me and I don't know if it'd be proper..."

"Don't sell yourself short, kit- you want to be a proper part of this crew, you gotta celebrate with us," he said, tousling the Amaran's cherry-red hair as he slid the fox's concussion rifle to him. "Finished adding the new scope, by the way- that must have been satisfying to buy from the quartermaster before we left."

Talrik grinned vindictively. "Lynch had it coming," he replied, leaning back in his workbench seat and reminiscing. "Gods... the look on his _face_when I pulled out that Idiot's Array last night- for a second there I thought he was gonna throttle me! It's a good purchase, I'm glad I had enough credits to cover it- and that you could tinker with it." He hefted the weapon up, noting the hinges on the scope base. "Adjustable?"

The wolf nodded. "Just in case you want to rely on good old-fashioned, reliable iron sights." He turned back to Syrra, waving her in. "Could use some help getting the equipment calibrated. What about Aarn and Iaora? Have you been keeping in touch with them?"

She nodded, her smile fading as she seated herself between the two. "Aarn's business is _almost_back to normal... except now my mother is starting to squeeze into his affairs," she said a bit shortly as she started analyzing their power cells.

"That doesn't sound good," Talrik remarked apprehensively as he handed her a couple tools to help.

"She's always been the controlling type. She seems to take it personal when her kin is being targeted. She didn't like the fact that I refrained from keeping her informed of my mission progress because it kept her out of the loop- the fact is that I _wanted_her to be kept out of the loop, specifically because I knew this nonsense would occur. Now that she knows, she wants to devote the region's Rangers towards defending their trade routes and star ports more stringently. Iaora is trying to keep in good spirits, but..." she trailed off, biting her lip. "My mother has always had a quarrel with Iaora."

"Why?" Kajex asked- this information was new even to him.

"Iaora, as you know, doesn't fit the typical stature of a Trianii female- better than me since she's taller, but she's has always had more compassion and was more able to sway people than my own mother... when she wanted to, that is. It's why she's been asked repeatedly to represent the _yu'nar_on Ekibo." She set a power cell aside a bit carelessly, sighing. "I think deep down, my mother knows that Iaora could do her job much better and far more efficiently- this move of hers is her way of trying to convince everyone she's the better politician."

Talrik considered her sympathetically as he got out of his seat, securing his rifle on the armory rack. "Even benevolent politicians tend to act as if their jobs are at risk. When does her tenure end?"

Syrra chuckled mirthlessly. "When she's dead- or when she chooses me as her successor."

The wolf frowned. "Why you?"

Syrra flinched, looking irritable. "Because I'm not a priestess and I'm the youngest female in my family- matriarchs have always had the option of submitting their youngest daughters as political successors, to be voted on later. And I'm also unmarried, which is ideal because it means she can build my image from the ground up by setting me up with some nice Trianii noble I don't give a damn abou--" She stopped short, clenching and relaxing her fists as she sighed. "I'm sorry... my mother and her political life are sore subjects to me."

Kajex regarded her sympathetically. He reached out with his tail, gently brushing it against hers. She jumped slightly at the touch, then relaxed with a sigh as her tail coiled around the end of his. He gave her a few seconds to relax before putting a paw on her shoulder. "Do you ever intend to tell her about us?" he asked softly.

There was a look of pain in her eyes as she shook her head. "I don't know. It would only be fair to her, but to be honest I have no reason to tell her anything about my love life until I announce my own marriage."

The wolf smiled. "Are you _proposing_to me?" he asked lightly.

She jumped again, going red in the face. "N-no, I just meant--!" She squeaked as he wrapped his arms around her midsection.

"Awfully unromantic of you, proposing to me in the armory of an old smuggler ship," he teased, nipping and nuzzling the back of her neck, making her purr.

"Kaaaj," she whined, giggling as she leaned into his affections, putting down her power cells.

"Well, as long as you two lovebirds are going to mark the armory off your list of places you haven't fucked each other in," Talrik said quietly as he made for the doorway, "I think I'll head to my bunk, go over some reading, and just stay out of the way for a bit." Kajex's eyes shot up just as he saw Talrik leave, a cold feeling settling into his stomach as he saw the Amaran's pained expression for half a moment before he disappeared down the hall.

"... He's upset, isn't he?" the wolf asked as his ears folded back guiltily. It dawned on him that his frequent displays of affection towards his apprentice and co-pilot might put the fox on edge.

Syrra looked troubled. "Very. I'm reading a bit of jealousy right now. He's not angry- just hurt." Her shoulders slumped a bit. "We're probably the first two decent people he's had such positive interactions with in a long time, I guess I can't blame him for having sore nerves if he's attracted to you." She nuzzled him. "You should go talk to him."

He nodded. "Yeah. I think it's time I finally ask if he's interested in our idea." Their eyes met. "Before I do, I want a final confirmation."

She smiled. "Yes. I don't mind you getting close or intimate with him. Just don't forget about me."

"You? Impossible. I love you, kitten," the wolf stated simply, holding her close.

"I love you, too, Kaj." She hugged him tight. "You two play nice."

"Hey kit... you okay?"

Talrik looked up from his datapad, seeing Kajex at the hatch and regarding him for a few moments before nodding. "Yeah. Sorry about that."

The wolf waved dismissively, stepping into the crew quarters and sitting on the edge of the fox's bunk. "No need to apologize, Talrik. I should be the one apologizing- I keep forgetting we have 3 people on this ship instead of 2, and all 3 of them are attracted to me."

"... Don't you mean 2?"

The wolf grinned. "I'm allowed to think that I'm hot, kid."

Talrik chuckled. "Fair enough. But it's alright, really. It was wrong of me to storm off like that just because you were being affectionate with Syrra. You guys... you really do love each other, and I get that- you saved each other's lives, it was bound to happen, right?" There was a strained effect in his smile that Kajex noticed.

The wolf shrugged. "Maybe? I mean if that's a standard rule in the universe of romance and companionship, that'd mean I'm bound to fall in love with you, since you did the same thing, right?"

Talrik blinked before looking away a bit shyly- but at least his smile was sincere this time. "I guess."

The wolf glanced at his chronometer. "Hey, we still got about 4 hours before I have to adjust our hyperspace route- wanna do some sparring?"

Before long, the ship was echoing with grunts and the impact of muscle, the mild smell of male sweat permeating the air in the lounge. Kajex grinned at his partner's progress- he'd taken their lessons to heart as he moved in time with the wolf, countering his efforts and meeting him head on each time the drew close. The fox was panting hard, but less so than he had in the past when he was less-experienced and had been paired up with Syrra.

"Keep it up kit, you're doing great- don't stop until you're certain you can't fight anymore!"

Talrik grit his teeth, raising his gloved fists up and swinging rapidly, cutting into the air with fists and feet and trying to break the wolf's guard as he applied his basic knowledge of the Echani arts into his attack. Each time Kajex sidestepped, Talrik sidestepped with him- each time the wolf dodged behind him, the fox shifted his stance smoothly to prevent being flanked. The fox's footwork was almost flawless- yet Kajex had not attacked once yet.

Without warning, the wolf swung with an overhand fist, hoping to catch the younger male off balance while he was feeling winded- only to grin with pride as Talrik's moment of hesitation was replaced with a block. Bracing himself as the fox grabbed his arm, he felt Talrik strain slightly as he twisted and wrenched the wolf's arm over him- despite being shorter, the vulpine soldier managed a well-executed hip-throw, flooring the wolf solidly and backing away, amazed.

Kajex grunted as he hopped back up to his feet, smiling at his training partner. "Now see, that? _That_was excellent. I was half expecting to club you over the ears, I'm impressed you reacted so well."

Still panting, Talrik relaxed visibly, getting to his knees and catching his breath, though he looked appreciative of the wolf's compliment. "Thanks. It's different, going hand-to-hand with someone else- much more exhausting." The Amaran took in a deep breath and closed his eyes. "How long was that round?"

The wolf checked the time as he stood at the other end of the training mat. "I'd say roughly 10 minutes that time. You need to work on your endurance a bit until you get skilled enough to end conflicts quickly- but it's nothing more jogging and training won't help. We do need to work on you getting through my guard- we'll put your precision to use so you can get in at those weak points much better." He strode over and offered his paw, hefting the younger male up. "We've been at it an hour, it's a good time to take a break and hit the showers."

Talrik flinched a bit. "Ah, sure." He started heading towards the crew's fresher, pausing as he saw Kajex following. "You're... not going to use your own?"

The wolf glanced over his shoulder. "Syrra's doing a bit of meditating in my room right now, since it's soundproof and helps her focus a bit more. I'd prefer not to interrupt her, since she needs all the Force training she can get." He looked back to the fox. "You don't mind, right?"

"I... I guess not," Talrik said quietly as they made their way to the fresher. Kajex furrowed his brow at the soldier's reluctant face, wondering what was wrong, but said nothing about it as they both sat at the locker bench. "I put some fresh tunics in lockers 3 and 4- I think 4 has the ones that are more your size."

Talrik nodded, not looking in his direction as the two stripped down. "You, ah... you ever use this room often?"

"Not so much since I started owning this vessel. Maybe once or twice when I had to get the plumbing done." He chuckled as he tossed his training shirt into a nearby hamper. "Bran used to say he'd save up to purchase a sonic shower- I used to tell him this was a smuggler ship and not a luxury vessel. Once I get the credits, though, I'll try to fix that little hiccup in the ships systems that draws all the hot water from here to my fresher- I know it can't be pleasant having to wake up earlier than me just to have a chance at a hot shower," he admitted sheepishly, giving the fox's shoulder a friendly squeeze as he got up and kicked his pants off.

"Never liked communal showers," Talrik admitted quietly. "But it's your ship."

Kajex stared at him for a moment, ignoring the fact the fox was now naked and that it was his first look at the male completely bare. Something in his voice seemed off. Deciding it would be best to move along and keep up the conversation he punched at two of the shower activators and ducked into the rightmost stream.

It was a few moments before Talrik joined him, standing next to the captain and rinsing off quietly, not saying anything- Kajex continued. "I'll look into dividers for each showerhead, if that'd help. Dunno if you're naturally shy about showing yourself off, but if it helps you feel comfortable I'm okay with the investment." Talrik continued to remain silent. "... I mean, not that I think you have anything to be embarrassed about," the wolf admitted, smiling. "Pretty good looking, if you ask me."

It was the truth as far as the wolf was concerned. He allowed himself a glance at the Amaran's frame. It was not the body of a pornstar, but that of an agile and moderately trained soldier- toned to a degree, yet at the same time with gentle curves around his buttocks and hip area that made it seem almost androgynous- he, like Kajex and Syrra, also possessed digitigrade leg structure which only seemed to enhance the curve of his rump. Were it not for the vastly different pelt coloration and difference in tail structure, Kajex would've said the fox was almost like a younger clone of himself, albeit with a thinner, slightly less-muscular frame.

He would've said it- if it weren't for the fact that Talrik seemed to look nervous.

"Hey... what's wrong?" Kajex asked, feeling concerned. The younger male almost looked sick.

"It's nothing," Talrik said weakly.

"You're sure?" He paused. "I meant what I said, I'm not poking fun at you at all, if that's what you're worried about." Now the Amaran was beginning to tremble, alarming Kajex. He reached out, put a paw on the soldier's arm. "Talrik, what--"

"GET YOUR FUCKING HANDS OFF ME!!!" he yelped suddenly, lashing out with a paw and clawing at Kajex's forearm deeply as he stumbled back, slipping and falling to his backside. The wolf snarled in surprise and pain as the fox drew blood, holding his arm as searing pain ran down his hand and up his shoulder. His heart was racing as he watched the fox back up the entire length of the communal showers, until he was opposite Kajex, wide-eyed and looking scared out of his wits.

All at once, realization set in- a spark of insight told Kajex exactly what had happened, and why. It took only a moment for physical pain to be completely displaced by deep sorrow and sympathy for the terrified fox, a lump in his throat building and a constricted feeling in his chest settling in as he hesitantly stepped towards Talrik. The fox flinched, pressing himself against the wall and backing into the corner as Kajex approached, tears in his eyes as his breathing accelerated.

Guilt, above all else, coursed through the wolf's heart as he knelt in front of the trembling male, his ears folded back in shame. "Talrik... I'm so sorry..." He reached out tentatively and Talrik drew back, squeezing his eyes shut and drawing his knees up to his head, trying to curl into an upright fetal position, face hidden in his arms as the male started to heave. Hoping to settle the fox's nerves, he reached up, placing his paw behind the fox's head and caressing his ears gently.

The effect was immediate. Talrik froze for a moment as the wolf rubbed his fingerpads against the base of his ears, then shook silently as his body was wracked with quiet sobs. Slowly, Kajex drew in, kneeling in front of his younger companion and squeezing his shoulder soothingly. "It's alright, kit... I swear on my life I would _never_hurt you like that."

Without warning, Talrik flung his arms around the wolf and buried his head in the older male's chest, sobbing silently. "I-I'm sorry," he whimpered. "I didn't mean to-"

"No," Kajex cut him off gently, "you have absolutely nothing to apologize for. Don't say anything, kit, just cry it out- I'm here to hold you, alright?" Doing nothing more than embracing the fox and running a paw down his back slowly and soothingly, he helped carry Talrik through the storm of emotions, letting him shake and shudder violently in his arms as he nuzzled his ears. Not even the severe pain in his arm was enough to distract him from putting all his focus and concern into Talrik's well-being, knowing full well the fox possessed injuries that, unlike Kajex's wound, would not be healed with the simple application of bacta.

Slowly, the fox started to master his emotions, his shaking becoming less tremulous and his snuffles growing quieter as he started to take deep, steadying breaths. Kajex broke the embrace a little, keeping his paw on the fox's ears and stroking them soothingly. "How long have you been holding this in?" the wolf asked sadly.

Talrik shivered, wiping his face. "Way too long... I just..." He swallowed, looking unable to speak.

"Don't force yourself to talk if you'd rather not- it's enough to know that you were hurt in the past," Kajex assured him, squeezing his shoulder gently.

He shook his head. "No... I need to tell you," he said quietly but firmly. "I hurt you just now, you deserve an explanation..." He took in a deep breath and leaned into the wolf again. "I didn't even last day one. I mean... conscription laws demanded the first-born of any family after the age of 15, but a lot of people enlisted willingly at 18... I was easily the youngest that year, wasn't part of any schooling program because I'm non-human... and there weren't any other non-humans in my unit." He swallowed, resting his forehead on the wolf's chest. "I was also the smallest and weakest... didn't take them much to just..." He choked, shaking again. "Kajex... there were so many--"

The wolf tried to swallow. "Kit, it's alright, they're not here to hurt you anymore. And rest assured, if I knew _any_scumbag fuck were aiming to hurt you or _anybody_like that, I would end them without hesitation," he proclaimed firmly, squeezing the fox close. "Did you ever tell anybody about this?"

Talrik nodded once, trying to calm down. "I tried... even the Empire cracks down hard on rapists and sexual assaults, but it was my word against a dozen others, and the officers there didn't bother to check my claim. They didn't even bother to perform the necessary tests to confirm my claim... wasn't until after I'd graduated that I got myself tested for infection- I was so happy when my results came back clean I cried the entire day. But I couldn't press any charges, not with a lack of evidence. My assigned physician could only direct me to counseling services, ones that turned me away for being non-human..."

Kajex sighed. "Complete bullshit. I'm so sorry..."

The fox shook his head. "It wasn't your fault, Kaj- you didn't do anything wrong."

The captain shook his head. "No, it is. I feel like I've done everything wrong ever since you and I met. First there was me treating you roughly and taking you hostage so Syrra and I could get out alive, then there was me putting your remaining family at risk by taking you with us... I rejected you initially when you tried to ask for work even though it was impossible for you to find it anywhere else, and when I did let you join us I was an abrasive asshole. Then I put your life at risk by putting you out in the field alone- it's my fault your arm and leg got busted back on Kurah, if I'd cared enough back then I wouldn't have let you face everything alone. I completely dismissed your personal feelings for me and caused you pain flirting with Syrra, and I was completely fucking _stupid_to join you here in the showers when it was the most likely place you'd have gotten abused back in the past. As far as I'm concerned, Talrik, I'm the only one to blame here. If I were any better at treating you well, you wouldn't have seen me as another scumbag trying to take advantage of you and lashed out like you did- and I'm _so sorry_for that," he finished with a sad whine, looking into the fox's green eyes.

Talrik looked up at the wolf, sniffling slightly. "I... don't blame you. I think _maybe_I might've taken what happened to me better if I knew somebody gave a damn about me... worst part was that as much as I hated being forced into it..." He grimaced, shaking his head and not continuing. "Anyway... you've treated me so much better than anyone else has... I didn't mind that you were abrasive, I understood why- Syrra told me you don't trust people easily until they show you what kind of person they are, and then you admitted as much later..."

"That's still no excuse for me treating you poorly and expecting the worst, just because of your affiliations." The wolf sighed, sitting next to the Amaran and putting an arm around him. "I'm glad you think I treated you better than _I_think I did. I just hope you believe me when I say... I do care about you. If I didn't... see, back when we were on Kurah, and your headset got destroyed, I heard the explosion before the transmission was cut. I knew something bad had happened to you. And I wanted to go back so I could get you out of there and someplace safe. If Syrra hadn't calmed me down and told me to put my trust in your skills, I would've gone there, too."

"Really?"

"Absolutely. And she was right. You did so well despite you being injured, and kicked a lot of ass. You saved us both by keeping us covered and risking your life to keep the focus on you. And you saved my sorry tail when I was surrounded. You showed me on our _first_mission the kind of person you were. You deserved better than how I treated you from the start." Pausing for a moment to decide what to tell him, he chose to be honest. "That's why I wanted to spend time with you a bit more. We both know you were attracted to me, and to be as honest as possible the feeling is mutual. And I didn't mind sharing that kind of connection Syrra and I have, if it meant helping you feel more comfortable around the both of us." He frowned. "Some genius idea _I_had..."

Talrik took in another deep breath, wiping at his face. "When you say 'sharing that connection'... do you mean you wanted to be intimate with me?" he asked softly.

Kajex half-nodded, half-shrugged. "Among other things. I wanted all three of us to be open with each other. Having that kind of bond with Syrra is something I've grown to love. I don't need to have more- I'm fine being in a monogamous relationship with her. But at the same time, how could I _not_want to be close to you, too? You're a sweet guy, Talrik, and I don't say that to just anybody. You actually give a shit about other people, you're focused, quick-thinking, and you have a great head on your shoulders- and attached to that, a really good-looking body," he admitted, smiling a little.

Despite the somber mood, Talrik managed a weak but appreciative smile. "Thanks..."

There was a long silence between them as they sat next to each other, each immersed in their own thoughts as the showers continued to run. Both of them perceived the coppery scent of blood as Kajex continued to bleed slowly, but even though the wolf glanced at the fresh wound he couldn't spare any real concern towards it, though at this point his lower arm was turning a slight shade of red.

Talrik sighed. "Fuck... I feel like such an emotional bitch for this," he groaned, putting his face in his paws.

The wolf frowned. "Kit, dealing with the kind of bullshit you dealt with wouldn't be easy for anybody. I've saved a lot of people in my line of work, including rape survivors. Some take it in stride despite how much it hurts- others just kinda drown themselves in their grief. But one universal thing about them is that it never goes away, and they always need a little help to get past it. Absolutely _nothing_about your reaction just now labels you as a 'bitch'. If anything, the fact that you faced that fear and swung at it shows more strength than it does cowardice- even if you didn't really have anything to fear from me." He hesitated. "You... you know that, right? That I would never do anything to hurt you that way?"

The fox nodded vigorously. "I believe that, Kaj. I just got caught up in those bad memories that I forgot it was _you_standing next to me." He sighed, leaning his head on the wolf's shoulder. "I just want to... forget. Or maybe not forget, just..." He swallowed, blushing a little bit and casting his eyes to the side. "I... _do_want to be intimate with you, without worrying that I'm going to be taken advantage of, you know?"

"Would you be willing to let me help you?" Kajex asked.

"At this point, I wouldn't _want_anybody else but you or Syrra to help me."

The wolf pulled him into his arms. "C'mere." Talrik chittered slightly in surprise as the older male drew him in close, turning him face to face so that the wolf's back was to the wall while the fox was guided into his lap. Before he could ask what he was going on, Kajex had touched his nose into the fox's neck, breathing in deeply and taking in the scent of wet fox, growling affectionately as one paw rubbed the younger male's back, the other returning to his ears and treated them to gentle caresses. "It's going to take more than affection and holding you close to help you," the wolf murmured. "I can't take away what happened to you- but I'll do my absolute best to help you feel loved, kit." He smiled up at him.

A hopeful look appeared on the fox's face. "So... you really want to be with me, too?"

"Yes, I do- but I want to stress the importance of it being _your_decision. So I'm going to make the same promise I made Syrra- this will only go as far as _you_want it to go. You have the stick and the throttle, it'll go where you want it to, as fast as you want it to."

Talrik swallowed, shivering slightly- yet Kajex was pleased to see it was no longer out of fear, as the Amaran's tail swished side to side positively, a small smile on his muzzle. "Can I--"

"You don't even need to ask permission- right now, _I'm_at_your_mercy."

The fox hesitated, staring into the wolf's golden eyes for a few seconds before flinching slightly and abruptly bringing his muzzle the wolf's with a small, relieved whimper. A small smile played along Kajex's lips as he returned the kiss, the fox no longer shaking in any way. The change seemed imperceptible but the wolf caught onto it, noticing Talrik's movements becoming more receptive as his paws left the wolf's shoulders and stroked down his chest. Kajex said nothing as a firmness poked into his toned abs, though he was unable to stifle a silent chuffing chuckle as the fox broke off, blushing hard but looking immensely pleased. Talrik panted slightly as if he and Kajex had just gone another 3 rounds on the lounge training mats, no longer looking upset, but hopeful and positive.

"... Wow."

Kajex grinned. "That's just adorable, kit." He nuzzled into the fox's chest.

Talrik let out a quiet moan. "Is this... too fast?" he asked.

The wolf chuckled, though he considered the question seriously. "Syrra asked me the exact same thing, and she and I hooked up about a week after we met, after she saved my life- you saved my life about a month ago, you and I have had more time to bond." He smiled. "My first boyfriend, Rik, slept with me after the 3rd day- it took us a few weeks to come to terms with it, but I know what we felt for each other was genuine, despite how fast it formed. I think it's more than possible for people to bond so quickly, when they actually care about who they're bonding with. But if you were to ask me if I feel anything for you, the answer would be 'yes, I do'. With you, though, I figured it'd be a mistake to rush things."

Talrik nodded lazily, rubbing the wolf's ears for a change as he nipped, kissed and licked the vulpine's chest and neck. "Is that why you waited a month, so I could be more comfortable? So you wouldn't scare me off?" When Kajex nodded, he brought his paws up, lifting the wolf's chin and pausing for a moment before kissing him again, this time purring softly into the older male's muzzle for a few seconds before breaking from the kiss, a wider smile on his face. "Thanks, for looking out for me like that. And... Syrra doesn't mind?" he asked, ears folding back slightly.

Kajex grinned. "Kit, whose idea do you think it was in the first place?" He chuckled as the fox blushed harder, nuzzling his cheek. "Mind you, she's going to want some of your attention too, if you're okay with that."

It was almost as if a red blur had been attached to the fox's lower back as his tail flicked around excitedly. "I don't mind at all- she's sweet and she's really done a lot to help me feel welcome. It'd be unfair and dishonest if I said I didn't think she was... really sexy, actually." He cleared his throat. "Though I guess she already knew that. I just didn't want to make you angry in case you didn't like the idea- and besides that I really prefer guys, I have since I was old enough to figure out how my junk worked. I really prefer you, to be honest."

Kajex said nothing in response, merely smiling and continuing to treat the male in his lap to affectionate teases. A particularly firm nip at the collarbone made Talrik moan, the effect causing him to reactively roll his hips into the wolf, hissing as his firm member slipped against Kajex's abs. The sound, meanwhile, caused the wolf's loins to stir in arousal, his jet-black maleness emerging from his sheath as he kissed, licked and groped the fox. Talrik jumped the moment the tapered tip of the wolf's cock nudged the underside of his balls, carefully shifting back to get a look.

To say that both their phalli were vaguely similar would be a lie- now getting a good look at both at once, Kajex was reminded of how similar Talrik was to him in almost every physical respect. 10 inches of ebon flesh stood at attention, grazing against the younger man's respectable 7 and a half inches of deep red foxprick. Shape-wise, they were exactly alike- tapered at the tip, the thickness curving out, then slightly in before curving out once more at the base, with appropriately-sized testicles resting in a fluffy pouch of damp white fur. A paw reached between them hesitantly, grazing against the wolf's cockhead and drawing out a satisfied 'wurf' from Kajex, his tail wagging excitedly.

"Heh... bet you make Syrra happy every night with this, don't you," Talrik said wistfully as he wrapped his paw around it, squeezing gently.

Kajex hesitated. "You know... it could make you happy, too," he suggested.

The fox swallowed. "Here?"

"No. Not here." He smiled as the fox's ears drooped and pressed his muzzle against the fox's once more, growling affectionately as the fox moaned. "But if you're up to it, and if you'll give me 5 minutes to get a bacta patch on... I'll meet you in your room to show you, alright?"

"But... why not here?" Talrik asked.

"Because I want you to be comfortable, kit," Kajex answered seriously. He grinned. "And also because we've let the water run far too long."

It took a little longer than Kajex had promised to get back to the Amaran after the latter had left for the crew quarters- Talrik's reaction had affected the wolf badly, enough that he had needed a few moments to himself to steady his nerves. He was immensely happy that progress had been made, but he still cursed himself for his stupidity, even if he had managed to salvage the situation. Once he had gotten ahold of himself he tended to the wound- it fortunately looked worse than it actually was, and within a few minutes he had cleaned his fur of the blood and bound the wound with a bacta patch and painkiller salve. Now dried and clean, he quickly dressed in a fresh shirt and pants, grabbed a couple of extra items from the medical cabinet and made for the crew quarters barefoot.

He arrived to the sight of Talrik fidgeting on the end of his bunk, looking up apprehensively at the wolf and still dressed in his tunic. "Having second thoughts?" Kajex asked kindly as he set the items aside.

The fox shook his head, nerves tingling in anticipation as he stared at the floor and tried to get ahold of his breathing. "Just nervous. Technically it wouldn't be my first time, but... this is the first time I've wanted to do this with someone I've wanted to do it with," he admitted. "I don't want to screw it up."

Kajex sat next to him, wrapping an arm around his shoulders. "You won't. If you want, I'll just lie back and you do whatever you would like to do tonight. Or even better, we don't even have to do this. If you just want to talk, snuggle or spend the night alone, I'll help you in any way I can."

"I've talked enough," Talrik said firmly as his tail flicked to the side, curling around the wolf's, his heart thudding as he slipped his paw into Kaj's. "I've said that I like you and talking about it doesn't seem like it's enough anymore. You've spent time and effort training me so I can keep up with you and Syrra- I want to spend time with you like this, too, instead of just dreaming about it every night." He flattened his ears, smiling shyly as his cheeks burned. "I... just don't know what to do."

The wolf leaned over, nuzzling and licking his new lover, growling softly as Talrik reacted positively, letting out quiet purrs as he reciprocated. "Do you mind if I lead, then? I swear on my life I'll stop when you tell me to."

"I'd like that, yeah," the fox moaned as the wolf pressed his incisors against his neck. He let himself relax, feeling a slight twinge of apprehension as he put his well-being into the wolf's paws. Within a few moments the hesitant sensation had vanished, as Kajex treated him with nothing but gentleness, exposing the fox slowly and baring his stomach and chest, kissing up his body and leaving a flutter wherever his lips landed, until Talrik's shirt was up to his neck. "If I'd known I'd be taking these off so soon..." he started to say, smiling sheepishly as he pulled it over his head and tossed it aside.

"Much as I like how you look in the buff, I've always felt stripping one's sexual partner is half the fun," the wolf replied good-naturedly as he pulled his own tunic off. "I asked Syrra if she wouldn't mind a clothing-optional policy on my ship, but she said no- she likes being able to tease me. And I wouldn't want to miss out on the opportunity to fluster you, kit."

Talrik laughed. "Quick with the pet names, aren't you?"

"It's less of a nickname and more a term of endearment," Kajex corrected him politely. But should I not use it? I think you're cute- and to make it clear, just because I think you're a handsome and cute guy doesn't mean I don't also think you're strong, capable and lethal in a fight. It just means that I can watch your ass and enjoy it while you're kicking _other_people's asses."

"I appreciate you thinking so- but I like 'kit', honestly," the fox said blushingly as the wolf pushed him to his back. "Only between us though, right? I kinda want to keep this between you, me and Syrra."

"Anything you want, kit," the wolf replied softly as he tugged Talrik's trousers off, getting another clear look at the younger man's member as he propped himself up on his arms. "May I?"

Talrik nodded, spreading his legs apart a bit as the wolf lay flat on his stomach and off to the side, placing a paw on the length. Kajex's first sexual contact, barring when Talrik had squeezed his length earlier, made the fox jump slightly as he curled his fingers around his younger lover's flesh, smiling as precum formed rapidly at the tip and dribbled down his length. Content for the moment to focus on stimulating the fox's prick, he gave it a healthy downstroke, growling approvingly as Talrik shuddered and almost seemed to melt into the bunk. He gave it a slight twist and stroked downwards again, eliciting a loud moan from Talrik, his paw snapping up to his muzzle to stifle any more vocal reactions.

Kajex chuckled, making a mental note to help the soldier get comfortable with his own vocalizations as he jacked the fox off at a slow pace, treating the prick to firm squeezes as his paw slid up and down the length. Precum smeared along the surface of the foxcock, the member starting to glisten as Kajex squeezed more natural lubricant out of the fox's piece, coating his length carefully with his fingers slathering the output along Talrik's shaft. He shifted his position a bit, pausing briefly to lay beside Talrik and pulling him in close before resuming his ministrations, his thumb dancing along the tapered tip and circling around it repeating. Warmth borne from affection and satisfaction started to glow in Kajex's chest as the fox writhed in place, legs tensing as he started to thrust into the wolf's paw.

Kajex kept a close eye on his partner's facial expression, which changed as the wolf increased his pace. An increase in the rhythm made the fox moan as the wolf's paw slid faster along the cock. Kajex jerked downward hard and squeezed the base of the fox's cock, making Talrik cry out as a heavy jet of precum jumped from the tip and splash against his sheath and balls. Immediately, Kajex slackened his grip and paused his paw's vertical motions, watching Talrik's face fall as he struggled to thrust into the wolf's palm, whining anxiously when Kajex did nothing.

"Wh...why did you stop?" the fox whined softly. "It was feeling incredible..."

"I'm keeping you on edge," the wolf explained honestly, pressing his nose against Talrik's in an affectionate gesture. "I don't want you to blow too early- I still have two hours before I have to adjust our course, and then we have the rest of the night to ourselves for another ten. I want to be sure I wear you out," he growled playfully, mock-biting into the shorter male's neck and making him laugh and moan pleasantly from the stimulation. "Besides, the longer I keep you waiting, the better it'll be when it ends."

Talrik sighed, looking genuinely happy and causing that warm glow in the wolf's chest to increase just from the sight of his lover's smile. "Would it be selfish of me to say that I _don't_want this to end, Kaj?"

"Absolutely- but you're allowed to be a little selfish, kit. You deserve something good from life for once and I aim to give it to you."

Talrik's response was to forgo words and lean in, kissing the wolf deeply as his tail wagged. He moaned into Kajex's muzzle as the wolf resumed stimulation, using gentle tugs and rubs on the fox's length. It was with heavy reluctance that he allowed Kajex to break their kiss, purring gently as the wolf pushed his chest down and crawled back a little, until his face was level with the fox's cock. With no hesitation the wolf dipped down, tongue slipping out from his muzzle and dragging against the fox's length, the captain treating his crewmate to well-trained oral stimulation as his tongue swirled around the foxcock's head, mixing his saliva with the coating of precum.

It was as if the softest and silkiest cloth in the universe had pressed against his member, when Kajex start lapping his cock. Immediately he found his head swimming with incredible lust as the thick and well-experienced tongue danced around his length, slathering the shaft with slaver. Sounds he didn't know he could make were sounding from his throat- for about half a minute he grit his teeth to muffle his moaning, but gave up soon after as his prick was subjected to toe-curling oral bliss. "K-Kaaaaj," he whined, panting hard as he writhed.

They were sounds that Kajex was glad to hear, an affirmation that he was doing well- each time he lashed against the bare flesh the fox whimpered and shuddered, hiding his face and writhing around as the wolf expertly sucked his cock; each time he suckled on the tip, the fox whined and moaned, clawing at the plush blanket beneath him in a futile attempt to steady himself. Just the sight of Talrik actually enjoying himself, moaning the wolf's name, filled the wolf with nothing but deep affection for his new lover as he squeezed his lips around the tip. He waited a few moments, letting the fox get his stamina back before launching another assault on his length, teasing it with kisses and quick slurps at every angle- careful, gentle nips along the side drove the fox wild, causing Talrik to whine and his tail to return to a state of persistent blurriness as it swished rapidly.

But for all the intensity Kajex put into his efforts, he was careful to gauge Talrik's reactions to prevent the fox from blowing too soon- though the wolf found it slightly difficult as Talrik's pre-ejaculate was pleasing to the palate. Putting years of experience to use he busied his paws on the fox's ballsack, hefting and squeezing it a bit as the vulpine squirmed beneath him- his other paw demonstrated his deep appreciation for Talrik's backside, rubbing and groping the red-furred rump with firm squeezes. Every so often he paused, substituting a gentle paw for his skilled muzzle as he let Talrik catch his breath. By the time he stopped for a longer break, the fox's prick was throbbing, having easily increased at least half an inch, bringing it to a full 8. Kajex grinned up at him.

"I gotta tell you right now, kit- Syrra's gonna love_this thing as much as she does mine." He regarded the twitching member with appreciation. "If I didn't know how genetically different we were, I might wonder if I'm some sub-species of Amaran- I wasn't expecting us to be so... _similar, you know?"

Talrik panted quietly as he recovered, looking delightfully disheveled, his fur standing on end in random patches. "Do you.... have a knot?" he asked in a winded voice.

"I do- and you actually kinda _taste_similar to me." He grinned, sliding back up to Talrik. "Have a sample," he growled playfully, pressing his muzzle into the Talrik's and kissing deeply, sliding his pre-slick tongue into the fox's muzzle and making absolutely sure his lover got a good long taste of his own cock-lube. Talrik's enjoyment was immediately apparent as he reciprocated, his tongue dancing against the wolf's as the two made out. With both paws on the fox's side it was easy to feel Talrik shaking from the effect- concerned that the fox was losing his nerve again, Kajex pulled back.

"Are you alright?" he asked, concerned.

Talrik nodded and grinned, taking in a deep breath as he sat back up. "I feel incredible. It's like I'm terrified of how good this all is, and I love it." He nuzzled timidly into the wolf's chest. "Fuck... I feel like if I don't say what I want to say right now, I'm going to blurt it out and it's going to sound stupid and turn you off."

Kajex chuckled. "Then say it. I don't think you could ruin this moment."

"I don't want to come between you and Syrra, though," the fox said with a nervous whine, though he was still smiling broadly.

"Kit, you're _going_to 'come' between me and Syrra one way or the other, and that's because we want you to," the wolf joked affectionately. "If you say what I think you're going to say, I think you'll be pleasantly surprised with my response."

Talrik swallowed nervously. "So... if I said that I think I'm falling in love with you..."

"Then I would say that I'm happy to hear it, and that the feeling is mutual," Kajex said with absolute certainty, smiling at his younger lover as both their tails started to wag anxiously. "I'm proud to have you on this ship and glad to have you at my back- I trust you with my life, and to have gained that trust so quickly speaks volumes about the kind of guy you are. In the 2 months I've known you, I've gotten enough glimpses your character to know that I'm attracted to who you are. Even if Syrra changes her mind and tells me she wants me to reign it in so that I'm tied to her alone... I still want this to be your home, Talrik." He cupped his lover's face as the fox's eyes glistened.

"Dammit... half an hour ago I was getting weepy over my abuse, now you're making me weepy by turning all of that around," the fox chuckled, wiping his eyes. "Must seem like a loser to you right now- top-class sniper, disciplined trooper... overemotional kit."

"Nah- I like knowing there's a lot of sweet sides to you, Talrik. Need a moment?"

Talrik shook his head, smiling. "I'm fine. And I'm ready to keep going," he added.

"Then I have an important question for you," the wolf replied, holding up a slim, square package. "Do you want me to use a sheath for this, just for peace of mind? I know I'm infection-free, and I'm going to use lube anyway," he added, thumbing at the clear bottle he'd set on the bunk's side-tray, "but I want you to be comfortable."

"You're doing everything perfect, right now," Talrik sighed, regarding the wolf with admiration and affection. "Even protecting me from you. But it's fine- I'd..." he swallowed, looking excited. "... I'd like you to fuck me bareback," he breathed timidly, his face going red.

Kajex nodded, setting aside the synthetic sheath and grabbing the bottle of lube he'd taken from the med-kit in the 'fresher- he'd kept one on hand since Syrra had come into his life on those occasions where they wanted a little extra spice, and now the wolf was glad they'd kept it around as he applied it to the Talrik's exposed pucker. The fox shivered as the cool gel slickened his tailhole, shivering a little as Kajex pressed a finger against it. Almost immediately Kajex found out how flexible the ring of flesh was as it seemed to yield almost willingly when he applied more pressure into it, Talrik letting out a deep moan as the digit sank into his backside, the pucker squeezing reflexively around the wolf's intruding forefinger. With Talrik's sphincter so relaxed it was far less difficult than Kajex had expected to apply a considerable supply of lubricant to the orifice. But with Talrik's moaning, Kajex found himself reticent to withdraw his finger immediately, instead pushing another into the fox's backside, grinning as it yielded and chewed around the intruders firmly. He swirled the fingers around a bit, testing the elasticity of his lover's hole with interest.

"Do you use toys on yourself, kit?" the wolf asked. Talrik shook his head, his eyes glazed and tongue hanging out slightly as Kajex fingerfucked him. "Really? You're pretty pliable in here- I wonder if I should chalk that down to your physiology. But I don't think you'll have to worry about taking me," he assured the fox with a smile.

Once he was sure there was enough lube to last a good long while he slid a third digit into Talrik's rear, slowly teasing him while he used his second paw to focus on himself- he had staved off from tending to himself as he had teased and treated his vulpine lover, yet he remained firm and ready, a string of precum hanging from his tip. Now that he had finished preparing Talrik, he flipped the bottle over and squeezed out a healthy glob of lubricant over his cock. The cool gel pooled over his length and caused him to shiver as he tossed the bottle aside, allowing him to massage it into his flesh. Before long, his prick was at full mast, throbbing and glistening from the lighting.

Talrik eyed the ebony prick apprehensively. "Will that even fit?" he asked hesitantly.

Kajex chuckled. "Given enough time and effort, you'd be surprised what you could probably handle."

"Personal experience?" Talrik asked with a shrewd grin.

Kajex looked away, rubbing the back of his own neck. "I'm not gonna answer that. Anyway, I'll only take it as far as you want it. I'm trusting you to tell me when it's too much, alright?"

Talrik nodded, ears flattening against his cherry-red hair as he spread his legs apart once again, tensing as Kajex slid between them. A shudder and a shivering moan ran through him as the wolf slid his extra-slick schlong along his length, throwing his head back against his pillow as the older male attacked his neck with tender nips and kisses. The sensations relaxed him, his eyes drooping until hey shot back open again- Kajex had started pressing his sizable prick against his backside, testing the fox's tailhole gently. Unable to see what was going on, Talrik could do little more than grip the sheets tight and tremble- he caught Kajex's concerned glance and calmed himself, knowing the wolf would stop if he even suspected discomfort, though it was hard to steady himself.

After a few moments of testing Talrik's tailhole, Kajex slid into his rear with a firm nudge, sucking air in as the fox's rear yielded almost naturally for him. Gold eyes peered carefully as Talrik let out a heavy moan, arching his back as Kajex slowly continued to sink inch after inch into his body. The wolf marveled at how easily he was progressing, pausing after half his length was buried into Talrik's backside, staring down at the fox and running a paw through his hair- Kajex found himself hissing slightly as his cock was subjected to reflexive squeezing around his shaft. "You doing okay kit?" he groaned.

"Your cock is amazing," Talrik whined quietly, his trembling paws grabbing desperately at Kaj's shoulders. "It doesn't even hurt- just take me slow, please..."

Heeding Talrik's request, the wolf drew back his hips a bit, sliding part of his length out of the warm tightness and waiting a moment before sinking back in. A cool shudder ran down his spine as he worked his dick into the fox, rocking into him with careful precision and drilling an extra half-inch with each gentle movement. Each jab was punctuated with Talrik moaning and grunting as each one plumbed his curved rump deeper. After a dozen movements the wolf drew back his length almost in its entirety until nothing but an inch remained inside- Kajex paused briefly, catching the fox's muzzle in a deep kiss as he put power behind his next blow, hammering his hard cock into the foxhole and hilting with enough force to make Talrik hiccup abruptly before he let out a long, loud moan into the wolf's lips.

Kajex waited until the moan subsided into quiet, pleasured whines before detaching from the fox's muzzle, Talrik gasping once his muzzle was free. "I-I said to go slow, Kaj..." he breathed, though he bore a lust-drunk grin.

"Sorry, kit- but you were doing much better than I anticipated, I had to see whether or not you could take it," he replied, rubbing his vulpine lover's muzzle.

"I-it's oka-aaahhhn!" Talrik threw his head back in a passionate cry as the wolf drilled firmly into him, grinding his cocktip into areas of his rear he never even knew existed. A haze of bliss clouded his senses as he clung to Kajex, wrapping his arms around his back as their chests pressed together. He found his lower back leaving the bed as Kajex shifted position and lifted part of him up into the wolf's lap. Any worries he had about his decision in letting the wolf fuck him, any fears that his tormented past would sour the experience, were completely dispelled moments later as Kajex started to move his hips again, drawing back his hips and starting a smooth, slow pace. The friction of Kajex's thick prick gliding past Talrik's squeezing pucker sent tingles of indescribable pleasure up the fox's spine, which failed to cease while Kajex moved. Somewhere in the back of Talrik's head instinct seemed to take over, the fox's tail sweeping to the side as he gave himself to the older male.

Despite the pleasure, Talrik saw that Kajex was holding back for him. Affection mixed in with the erotic tension, encouraging him to lick and kiss whatever part of Kajex he could reach as the wolf continued to breed him. Every time he hilted, Talrik flexed and squeezed around his lover, whining as nothing he did kept the male buried within him for too long even though the extra pressure sent jolts up his back. He could not help but wonder how wrecked his tailhole was at this point, the girthy invader plowing into his backside with enough force to make Talrik's teeth chatter in an oh-so-delicious manner.

Not that Kajex wasn't still careful- he still kept an eye on the fox attentively, though he nuzzled and smiled his vulpine lover once he was sure he wasn't hurting him. His heart seemed to sing as Talrik's movements became more receptive, the look in his half-lidded eyes indicating to Kajex that the fox trusted him completely, enough to give himself to the wolf. He joined in Talrik's affections, growling audibly as he met the fox's snout with his own, touching noses together, tongues brushing each other tenderly as Kajex continued to breed him.

The minutes wore on as they ground desperately against each other, Talrik's legs wrapped around the larger male's waist, squeezing his midsection. Even without having touched his own cock, the fox felt the ache of orgasm approaching- yet he was content enough with clinging to his lover closely, satisfied with having his backside hammered that he said and did nothing. The sound of the wolf's heavy balls bouncing against his rear was erotic enough that each audible slap made the fox's prick twitch, to say nothing of the incredible sensation of the wolf's girth pressing against his prostate.

"You're close," Kajex whispered.

"I've_been_close for over half an hour, Kaj," Talrik replied softly, another whine whistling out his chest.

"Point is, I'm close too," he growled softly, holding the fox close to him. "You're still in control- where do I end?"

Talrik didn't require any time to decide. "Tie with me... please?"

Kajex stopped and Talrik wondered if the wolf had not wanted him to suggest that- only to find himself being dragged in as Kajex pulled him closer, grunting as he cut loose on the fox's rear. The words Talrik had tried to form before the assault died on his lips as they were quickly replaced with incoherent moaning- he became dimly aware of why the pace had changed so suddenly, as the wolf's fully-formed knot slammed against his tailhole. There was slight pain of an erotic sort, a pain Talrik kept to himself as he secretly enjoyed the sensation- an ache in his tailhole that made him want to beg like a bitch for the wolf's knot. He added his own feeble attempts to accept Kajex's knot, pulling him in hard with his legs- the extra effort was all he needed as it finally sank into Talrik with a pop.

They both cried out simultaneously, both losing control as they tied together. No fantasy Talrik had experienced had allowed him to produce a climax as powerful as the one he was now experiencing- rather than a short spurt of male seed on the sheets, he found himself arching his back and thrusting his hips erratically as his cock spasmed repeatedly, spewing an unprecedented amount of hot spunk into the space between himself and Kajex. Warmth splattered across his face as the first shot landed across his muzzle and forehead, followed by more seed falling and pooling on his chest and belly, much of it having painted parts of the wolf's chest. The intensity of his orgasm, however, seemed little in comparison to the ecstasy of having his rump claimed by the wolf. He could feel the volume and searing heat of Kajex's spunk blasting into his belly, the powerful throb of his cock and incredibly thick knot with every beat of his heart. The sensation of the wolf's tool twitching inside him sent a sharp tingle up his spine as he started purring, his tongue hanging out the side slightly as he drowned himself in his post-orgasmic bliss. What little strength he possessed was being used to maintain his clinging grip to Kajex, and soon enough that had ebbed away, Talrik releasing his lover reluctantly and laying back as Kajex leaned forward, licking the fox's face and cleaning off some of his cum.

The taste brought a smile to Kajex's face as he curled his tail around the vulpine soldier's waist, growling softly, lazily, as he shared in the afterglow with gentle kisses and rubbing paws. He waited for Talrik to get his stamina back, watching as the fox took in deep breaths while his fur bristled with a shudder. Gold met green as Talrik finally opened his eyes, blinking rapidly as if to clear them before staring into Kajex's eyes.

Kajex smiled. "Comfortable?"

Talrik laughed. "That's... one word for it, yeah," he admitted, nuzzling the wolf. "'Incredible' would also properly describe how I'm feeling right now." He squirmed a little, watching Kajex shift up and give the fox a nod- Talrik returned it, bracing himself as the wolf tugged back hard, groaning as his hips drew back and pulled the knot out with a pop, Talrik letting out a sharp yip as it left him. Now free from the fox's grip, Kajex slid back into place next to the fox, holding him close as they recovered.

"You know," Kajex said softly after a few minutes, "I wasn't actually expecting today to end like this. I had my hopes, but I figured it was a long shot, especially after the shower."

"Really?" Talrik asked. "I mean... if you'd just asked me, I think I would've considered it. I like being on this ship. I like doing the work we do, alongside the Jedi. And I like you and Syrra, a lot. I want to be a permanent crew-member, Kajex." He paused, fumbling for words. "It's like... connecting with you, I feel like... like you're an older brother I've never had- just this really great guy who has helped me become better than I already am."

"An older, _incestuous_brother?" Kajex asked, grinning and arching an eyebrow.

Talrik seemed unfazed, smiling sincerely. "Well... yeah."

Kajex blinked, not expecting the blunt confirmation. "I... I'm not sure what to say," he admitted, though his tail swished in satisfaction.

"I do!" a female voice chirped from above. Syrra's head appeared from the overhead bunk, grinning ear to ear as her eyes glinted at the two males. "That is so sweet!"

Talrik gaped as Kajex started laughing. "H-how long have you been there?!" Talrik exclaimed as he sat up, his tail bristling anxiously as he used it to hide his loins.

"I was in here before_you walked back in from the showers- Kajex even saw me as he walked in and was sweet enough to say nothing about it so I could watch you two go at it," she explained good-naturedly, staring at the pair upside-down as her devotion beads swung side-to-side. "I felt and saw everything that happened- and I'm glad it happened the way it did," Syrra added seriously, though she smiled. "I think that you opening up to Kajex was good for you both, and I'm glad that you trust him enough that you'd let him be intimate with you. So I dodged out of the Captain's quarters and decided to nap up here, thinking you two would use that room- instead, you came in and I kept myself low, and Kaj let me watch as he got you _goooood," she teased, giggling as the fox's face went red.

"B-but... everything I said, about me falling in love with him and wanting to be a part of his family--"

"I heard it all, and I'm 100% behind you, Talrik," she stated, beaming.

"Didn't you say you wanted to be married?" he asked, swallowing as his ears folded back in embarrassment.

It was Syrra's turn to blush, though she continued to smile, looking at Kajex directly. "Honestly... I would love for that to happen in the future. Right now, though, I'd like to focus on becoming a proper Jedi before I commit to it."

Kajex nodded, smiling back. "I understand, kitten. And as much as I love you, even I think it's too soon to be thinking that big." He squeezed Talrik's shoulder. "But as for you, kit- I'm coming around to the idea that my fathers, my mentors, wouldn't have wanted me to be alone, to have a family of my own. And right now, I kinda like the family that I'm getting."

"And I'm certainly not going to stand in the way of family," Syrra added encouragingly, "not when he wants someone I consider a very good friend with a _really_nice body to be a part of that family," she purred. "Or as we've come to call it... a 'pack'."

Talrik's ears perked up. "Like a feral wolf pack?"

Kajex nodded, rubbing the fox's perked ears affectionately. "You've got all the qualities of the wolves Bran used to tell me about- you're a great hunter, you work well in a team, and care about both of us enough to save our lives without hesitation; and like Syrra did before you came into our lives, you showed us the kind of person you are and gave us every reason to trust you with our lives. You, Talrik, are a good 'wolf' in our opinion- and I would love for you to be a part of our 'pack'."

It took all of Talrik's willpower not to wag his tail, intent on hiding his still somewhat hard maleness from Syrra. "I... yeah," he said, feeling a smile grow on his face. "I'd love that."

"Then from now on, just consider this place your home, Talrik," Syrra said as she flipped off the bed and landed in front of them- both males' ears perked up as they immediately noticed she wasn't wearing anything but a smile on her face, as she leaned in and licked the side of Talrik's muzzle, the fox freezing from the affectionate gesture, his face burning. "... Was that yours?" she asked, her tongue dancing around in her muzzle as she experienced the flavor.

"You... were getting off to us?" Talrik asked weakly.

"I couldn't help myself," Syrra admitted sheepishly as she sat on the edge of the bunk. "Seeing the two of you go at it absolutely trumps anything that Kajex has in his erotic content folders."

Talrik considered her claim. "Even the one with the hot springs, the Falleen and Chistori?"

"My favorite," Syrra said with a laugh. "But yeah... there's a lot to be said about what happened here- it was hotter because it was genuine. Even if you can't admit it, I _know_how much you love Kajex deep down, Talrik, and I know you like the idea of getting closer to him. I know that kind of love too, and to me it's probably the best thing I've experienced in my life. All I'd ask is to promise not to cut me off from him, and I swear on my life not to do the same- and to be honest, I don't think you're that kind of person."

"I'd promise it anyway," Talrik said quietly, smiling. "I want to be a part of your 'pack', Kajex- if you'd have me."

"You don't even need to ask, kit- you're here," Kajex side, kissing the side of his muzzle just as Syrra leaned in and kissed the other side, each hugging him close. A few seconds later, a high-pitched beeping sounded from down the hall, the captain cursing as he jumped out of the bunk, grabbing his pants and shirt. "Fuck, that'll be the nav-computer. You guys talk, I gotta adjust our coordinates before we hit the Alderaanian Graveyard- I'll be right back!" He disappeared down the hall, his footfalls echoing along the way.

Talrik sat back against the wall, regarding Syrra apprehensively. "You're really okay with this?"

She nodded, placing a paw on the wall as the ship lurched forward, coming out of hyperspace. "I had my reservations, because I didn't know whether allowing it would spark jealousy. But seeing the two of you hit it off so well put a lot of my fears to rest. And seeing you open up to him..." she trailed off, smiling sincerely at him. "Talrik, you _need_him in your life, for the comfort he's giving you. You need _anyone_in your life that's willing to stand by you against adversity, hold you when you're down, cheer for you when you triumph and mourn for your losses and injuries. Kajex and I are both willing to be there for you like that- you have my word."

"I... thanks, Syrra," he said, feeling warm and fuzzy from her words. He didn't draw back as she leaned in and caught his muzzle in a kiss- instead, he returned the kiss as the glow burned deeply into affection, letting out a quiet sigh. The ship lurched again and she fell into his arms, the both of them purring as they held each other.

Kajex appeared before long, shirtless but wearing trousers as he crossed his arms and tapped his foot in mock sternness while watching them make out. "Nuh-uh, not cool, Talrik. Your bunk is _way_too small for all three of us." He jerked a thumb over his shoulder, grinning. "C'mon you two- we got 10 hours before we get to the Byssus Belt, and I'm expecting the both of you to be up for at least 4 of those hours instead of sleeping. You might as well do it in my quarters, the bed is big enough."