A Match for the Mandalore

Canderous

The next morning after breakfast, the Elder council began the second phase of the Trials. They took Jennet to one end of the hall, me to the other, and set up a screen between us. They blindfolded her first, gave me a datapad, and told me to read it silently, projecting to Jennet. It was a Mandalorian folk tale, written in that language, and Jennet recited it perfectly, much to the crowd’s appreciation. Then they reversed the process.

They gave her a Teloian book of poetry. I don’t speak that language, and stumbled on a few of the unfamiliar syllables. Finally, she started translating before projecting and I said it in Galactic Basic, then Mandoa. It was love poetry, and I was glowering at the Elder’s sense of humor. The men got a good laugh at my expense, however, so it wasn’t as bad as it would seem; I don’t mind helping morale.

They brought us forward after the demonstration. Elder Gregor cleared his throat and the laughter and talking died down.

“It seems the mental condition is present. We’re going to take Jennet some distance away, and try again. Elder Drane will stay with the Mandalore, with Disciple as scribe. Elder Evana will be acting scribe with me. Jennet, if you will?” he turned to her, and she nodded gravely.

“Of course,” she said, and followed them out of the hall. I sat, wondering what was next. Elder Drane smiled, sitting silently.

About twenty minutes had passed when I got a sudden silent shout from Jennet.

CANDEROUS, THEY’RE TAKING ME AWA-

I sprang to my feet, the chair clattering behind me. I spun to face Elder Drane.

“Where are they taking her?” I shouted. “What is this trick?”

“Part of the Trial,” he answered calmly. “They won’t hurt her, you have my word. They’ve merely taken our shuttle. It’s your task to get her back.”

“They’ve knocked her out,” I snarled. “How is that not hurting her?”

“She’s proven she reacts poorly to drugs,” Elder Drane said implacably. “She heals fast; they won’t hurt her beyond keeping her out until they reach their destination. It’s not a complete test if she knows where she is; she could merely tell you. You need to track her through your connection.”

“Why not take me instead?” I growled. “I can take drugs. Or is this going to be repeated?”

“One test should be sufficient.” Elder Drane said serenely. “It is a much better proof of being Mates if you can track her; Jennet’s jetti abilities can explain much of what might guide her to you. You need only wait a few hours, and then I’ll allow you to follow.”

I glowered at the Elder, but kept my peace. I could feel her still, and was getting glimpses of dreams; but the connection was indistinct. Then suddenly she was gone.

“I can’t feel her anymore; what are you people doing to her?” I kept my voice as steady as I could but I didn’t like this at all.

“They put her in stasis,” Elder Drane said. I looked over at Ladria, and gestured. She came over, a concerned expression crossing her face.

“Will putting Jennet in stasis harm her?” I asked without preamble. She looked surprised, but answered readily enough.

“It shouldn’t. If they have neuro dampeners attached to the unit, it will likely interfere with your connection, though,” she said in her quiet voice.

“It has,” I said shortly. I turned to Elder Drane. “Where did you get a stasis unit?” I demanded.

“We sent a crew for one the day before you arrived. We were fairly certain Cressa was not being truthful, and the Trials would commence,” he said with a grim smile.

“Nice of you to say so now,” Mira spoke up scathingly.

Elder Drane looked at her, expressionless. “It is not for the Elder council to prejudge a case, merely to mediate. The fact that the situation worked out as expected has nothing to do with the process. All trials should be judged fairly, not by preconceived notion.”

I grunted. It was true, and I had no argument. I didn’t like the fact that Jennet and I had been put through the trial, but I saw that it had to be done. I said something to that effect, and Mira subsided.

“Well, no harm was done, I guess,” she grumbled.

“Am I allowed to take anyone with me?” I asked the Elder.

“Only me, and Disciple, who will be recording the proceedings. You may choose one more, but it must be Mandalorian; no jetti.”

“Disciple is jetti,” I pointed out.

“Yes, but he is the scribe, and will not interfere with the Trial. He has been briefed; if he attempts to aid you in the quest, he will be restrained. With force, if necessary. He has given his word.”

I nodded. I admitted that while this quest wasn’t likely to be dangerous, it wasn’t a bad idea to have a jetti on hand if things went sour. I questioned how a lone Elder was going to restrain Disciple, a young man in his prime, but on the other hand, Elder Drane was far from decrepit. Age and experience can outmaneuver youth and strength, not that it would be necessary. I’ve had my differences with the kid, but Disciple doesn’t give his word lightly.

I considered who to take with me. Jarxel would be my first choice, but I needed him to keep order in the camp while I was gone. He’d understand. Any one of the honor guard would be honored to go, but Dax was the most obvious choice. As official Champion, it was his place to protect her – well, with Jennet it was more support than protection; truthfully, I almost felt sorry for anyone that messes with her - if I could not.

“Dax, get ready to go. I want to head out as soon as Elder Drane gives the word,” I said.

Dax nodded. “I’m all set, Mandalore.”

The hours ticked by agonizingly slowly. I paced most of it, keeping my senses wide open, waiting for a glimmer. I made a quick trip to my quarters, grabbing a few things, including my and Jennet’s credit pouches, then strode back to the hall. Finally, I heard her again.

I am going to kill Elder Gregor, was the first fuzzy thought I heard. I smiled. If she’s bitching, she’s all right.

I’ll be there as soon as I can, Wildcat, I told her, and announced she was fine.

There was a collective sigh of relief, and sudden activity. Dax, Disciple, Elder Drane and I headed to the shuttle bay. Boarding the ship, Dax took the pilot’s seat and looked at me.

“Where to?”

“Onderon,” I told him. “Dock at Iziz; I’ll lead us from there.”

The trip was only about fifteen minutes, and we landed without incident. I took care of docking fees and visas, then stood still, eyes closed. She was somewhere south of the docks, on the other side of the city.

“Follow me,” I said abruptly, and strode through the city streets.

The streets were crowded; business had picked up since the revolution was settled. I walked quickly through the mob, and people got out of my way. The other three men followed in my wake. It took almost an hour to get to the other side of the city. I paused, and got my bearings again. We were in a residential section, a little run down, but respectable. Third door on the left. I strode over, and kicked in the door. Elder Gregor and Elder Evana were sitting at a table, looking at me and smiling. Jennet was across the room, looking furious.

It’s about time you showed up. Get me out of this thing.

Sure thing, Wildcat.

I went over and powered down the stasis unit. They had rigged it so she was conscious, just couldn’t move. She stepped out, glaring at the Elders, who were all smiling. Turning to me, she stood on tiptoe and kissed me. I returned it with enthusiasm.

Sorry cyar’ika, I had no idea they would do this.

It’s all right, ti’karta, I’m not really mad; just irritated. I know it was necessary.

We turned to the Elders, and they nodded as one.

“Let the records show that the mental connection that marks Mates is present in Canderous Ordo and Jennet Jax,” Elder Gregor said solemnly.

Disciple, a huge smile on his face, tapped furiously on his datapad. Dax grinned and made a victory gesture. Jennet simply hugged me. I picked her up and spun her around, mostly because it makes her smile, and there’s little else that makes her more beautiful when she’s not fighting. Setting her down, I handed her the credit pouch I’d retrieved from our room.

“I thought since we’re here anyway, we could get you a few things. I’m willing to bet you’d like more than three sets of clothes,” I rumbled. I really hate shopping, but there were a few things I needed too.

Jennet’s face lit up, and she nodded, eyes shining. “Yeah, I could use some more clothes, and there’s a couple errands I need to run too. Um, would you be terribly upset if I said we should split up?”

“Nope. I was going to suggest it myself,” I said easily. I turned to the Elders. “Do you want escort back to Dxun?”

“Actually, I was hoping at least Elder Evana would consent to help me,” Jennet said almost shyly.

“Of course, child,” she said, surprised. “Whatever you need.”

The other two Elders and Disciple decided to head back to Dxun. Elder Evana stayed with Jennet, with Dax to escort them both. My wildcat was resigning herself to rarely being alone. She gracefully accepted protection she didn’t need and made those who offered it feel honored to guard her. I was very proud of her; I wasn’t doing that well myself with the constant presence of the honor guard. I was almost gleeful about having no companion for a while.

We agreed to meet back at the shuttle in three hours, and went our separate ways. There was a little shop I knew about near the palace; I wanted to find a ring for Jennet. I also wanted to order some supplies for the wedding feast that could be picked up later, and electronic equipment that would help Bao Dur rig energy dampeners. He had inventoried our reserves, and let me know what was needed; might as well do it now.

I also wanted to find Jennet a wedding present. I had gotten her the locket, armor, and weapons – I needed to find something else. Tradition among my people is some sort of practical gift that symbolizes the partnership of the bridal couple. She’d probably torture me slow if I gave her a household appliance or anything that suggested she needed to stay in the house and away from fighting. I had an idea, but wanted to get the other errands done first.

I found an electronics merchant and arranged for the parts to be picked up the next day. The grocer agreed to import some of the less common foodstuffs and have it ready in a month. I had been mulling over the idea of Jennet’s wedding gift while I took care of these mundane tasks, and suddenly inspiration struck. I made another stop, and spent nearly two hours, deep in discussion. It didn’t leave me much time to pick out a ring, but I managed to find something perfect almost upon entering the shop.

I knew she wouldn’t want anything fussy, and that if it had a stone of any sort it couldn’t be mounted in such a way that it could get caught on things. What I found was simple and unusual. A platinum band, not too wide or too narrow, with a twist in the middle – a tiny metal Mobeus strip. That would have been perfect alone, but it had also been engraved all around with a delicate design of a flowering vine that I recognized as Crysallis. A medicinal plant found on Telos, it can also kill if not harvested or administered properly. The flowers are highly prized by those who can afford them. Rare, beautiful, healing but deadly if not handled right; I could not have found a better symbol for my Wildcat. I handed over the credits and arranged to have the ring sized.

I headed out of the shop, feeling pleased with the day’s work. I never felt a thing when the stun grenade went off.


Jennet

Elder Evana proved to be an interesting and lively companion. She voluntarily offered her age – “I’m sure you’re curious child, but too polite to ask; I’m 103.” – and without the restraints of her office she was much more talkative and friendly. I questioned her about Mandalorian wedding ceremonies, in particular that of the Mandalore.

“The ceremony itself is pretty standard, not so different than a civil union found anywhere in the galaxy. The only addition is the blood ritual; no more than a quick slash to the palms; hardly a scratch,” Elder Evana said cheerfully.

“So we do the blood thing, exchange vows, that’s it? What do we wear? Would it be okay to have our friends in the ceremony?” I had been wanting to ask all these questions for some time and was bursting to have them answered.

“Yes, that’s it,” Elder Evan answered my queries in the order asked. “The Mandalore will be in armor, of course, and as you’re a fighter too, it would be appropriate for you to as well, if you wish. It’s not a requirement; many female fighters opt to wear formal clothing instead. Attendants are optional as well.”

I thought about this for a moment. “Symbolically, it would be good for me to wear armor,” I said slowly. “At least for the ceremony. Perhaps I could change afterwards, for the reception? And would people be insulted if we have our friends in the ceremony? I haven’t really gotten to know any of the Mandalorian women yet, or I would ask them to participate as well.” I was worried on this point; the Mandoa are clannish.

“The universe is changing, child, and we will adapt as well. For the first time in our history the Mandalore has an outlander mate.”

I smiled. “So we don’t need to prove it?” I couldn’t resist baiting her a little.

She grinned back. “Nice try, dear. No, I’m afraid you’ll have to finish the Trials; it needs to be officially proven. Privately, I at least need no more convincing, and I’m certain my fellow Elders feel the same.” She patted my arm, and addressed my last concern. “Have who you will in your wedding; no one will question it.”

“Thank you,” I said warmly. “I wanted to find a wedding dress, or whatever garments are appropriate. Would you mind helping me?”

“I’d love to,” Elder Evana beamed at me.

“I have another errand too, at the financial center,” I said. “It won’t take long.”

We strolled toward the merchant square, Dax in tow. I felt a little sorry for him; escort duty to two women shopping can’t be fun. But he was being a good sport about it, not glowering a bit as we peered into shops, finally finding one that sold ready made clothing and advertised that they tailor custom garments. Elder Evana and I examined the holo portfolio and I found a dress that was absolutely perfect. The woman who owned the shop helped me pick out fabrics and took my measurements. I also commissioned, at Elder Evana’s suggestion, capes for Canderous and me to wear with our armor during the ceremony. I made my deposit, gathered my purchases, and we exited the shop, heading to the financial district.

I found the small private bank my parents had used, and went in. The attendant pointed the way to the vault. I went through a retinal scan checkpoint, got on a lift, and went down I don’t know how many levels. Exiting the lift, I passed another security scan, this time of my palm, and just before entering the vault area, suffered a quick poke to the finger for a DNA check. I was glad security was so tight, but not thrilled with all the poking, prodding and electronic invasion of privacy. I had left Elder Evana and Dax up in the lobby. I appreciated their company, but wanted to be alone when I emptied my lockbox.

I punched in the code to call up my box, and soon it arrived on the small lift at the back of the room. Another code opened the secure container, and I gazed down at all that was left of my childhood and parents.

There wasn’t much, really. My parents’ wedding rings and marriage contract, my birth records, an album of holos, a couple pieces of jewelry. A pouch, containing gemstones and gold. I had converted my parents’ estate into this, and had added to it over the years; sort of my retirement plan. Gold and gems never depreciate in value, are relatively easy to convert, and are portable. I’d seen too many financial institutions fail to want to trust them. I wasn’t wildly wealthy, but I wasn’t bad off either. I collected the small bag, putting it carefully in my credit pouch. The documents I slipped into a pocket, along with the jewelry. The album I put into a satchel I’d purchased at the market square.

The last items in the box made me pause, and swallow. Three light sabers. Dad had fought with one in each hand, and had taught that technique to me. Mom used only one, but it had been extra long, and tweaked to be a more powerful blade. His blades were blue, almost the color of Mom’s eyes. Mom’s ‘saber was an intense golden yellow, like concentrated sunlight. I ran my fingers over the hilts, not removing them for a moment. Then I carefully placed them one at a time in the bag, slinging it bandolier style across my chest. ‘Sabers aren’t particularly heavy, but I felt their weight against my hip as I headed back to the lobby. It was sort of comforting, like having my parents nearby.

I got out of the lift and smiled at Dax and Elder Evana. Something must have showed on my face, because Dax looked at me sharply.

“Everything all right, Jennet?” he rumbled at me.

“I’m fine, Dax,” I assured him.

Then I staggered, feeling an invisible blow smash across my head. I probably would have fallen if Dax hadn’t seen me falter and grabbed my elbow to steady me. I looked up at him, eyes wide and startled.

“Canderous,” I gasped. “He’s hurt.”

I bolted out the door, following where I’d felt him last. Dax was at my heels, and I had a sudden guilty thought of Elder Evana, left alone in the lobby of the bank. I needn’t have worried; a quick glance showed me she wasn’t too far behind, waving us on with a breathless shout that she’d catch up. Dax shouted something about a comlink. I ignored it and poured on the speed. I couldn’t hear Canderous’s voice in my head. I could tell he’d been knocked out, and was getting flashes of confused dream images. I zeroed in on his location, and ran faster. Dax had been keeping up well, his long legs easily keeping up with my shorter stride. But I had him on stamina and speed; he was losing ground.

I rounded a corner, and stopped short. Canderous was moving; I tracked him going toward the docks. Whoever had him was trying to get off planet. Dax nearly ran me down as he barreled around the turn. I said shortly, “Docks,” and headed that direction at a dead run. I heard him talking into his comlink as he struggled to catch me up, probably advising Elder Evana where we were headed.

I knew when it was too late; we had just passed the checkpoint to the docks when I felt Canderous leaving rapidly. He was still unconscious, aboard a ship that I didn’t have a clue about, heading to Gods know where in the galaxy. I ran faster, trying to find the space traffic control room. Finally locating it, I burst in, Dax right behind me.

“How many ships just took off from here? Did they file their destinations?” I barked at the startled controllers.

One of them glared at me, not getting up from his chair. “Look lady, I don’t know who you are, but you’re not authorized to be in this room. Get out or I’ll call security.”

“Please,” I said, rapidly switching tactics. “My husband has been kidnapped, and I know they just took off. I didn’t get a good look at the ship, and I need to know who they are and where they’re going. Please help me,” and I burst into noisy tears. Crying almost always works; most men will do whatever you want just to make you stop.

The controller’s face lost its glare and he looked distinctly uncomfortable. “Calm down, ma’am. Six ships have taken off in the last five minutes.” He gave me the information on a small datapad. I pocketed it, tearfully thanking him.

“I’m going to go report this,” I said in a helpless simper. “Thank you so much.”

“No problem, ma’am,” the controller said, still looking uneasily at my tears. “Hope you find your husband.”

I nodded and got out of there. My tears magically stopped the instant we were out of earshot of the control room. Dax looked like he would have liked to laugh, if things weren’t so distinctly unfunny at the moment. I gave him an ironic lift of an eyebrow.

“He’s off planet now,” I said grimly. “And still unconscious. We need to get in touch with the camp, and find Elder Evana.”

“Right here, dear.” She bustled up. “He’s gone?” she asked, seeing my face.

“Yes. But I’m going to get him back,” I said, steel in my voice.

“Of course you are,” Elder Evana assured me. “Let’s contact the camp.”

We found a public communications system, and I got a hold of Jarxel. Rapidly telling him what happened, he swore savagely, and promised to have the Ebon Hawk and its crew up to us within the hour. I told him where we were docked ourselves and signed off. I swore in every language I knew; Dax put a comforting hand on my arm as the three of us headed back to the docks.

“You’ll find him,” he said seriously. “You two are linked, there’s no place far enough they can go that you can’t follow. They obviously want him alive, or they wouldn’t trouble to take him off planet.”

“You’re right,” I sighed. “What I’m worried about is what they’ll do to him in the meantime. Whoever ‘they’ are.”

I was monitoring Canderous, keeping my senses wide open. He was still out cold, and suddenly I remembered something he’d said when he first suggested we were Mates. I stopped with the recollection. Dax and Elder Evana walked a pace or two before realizing I was no longer next to them. I was concentrating hard, following our link, and feeding healing down it. After a moment, I felt him stir, then awaken.

What the fuck? I heard him think confusedly.

Don’t show them you’re awake yet, I cautioned. We’re getting the ‘Hawk up here so we can follow. Are you okay? I asked unnecessarily. I knew physically he was fine; I just wanted to hear him tell me it.

I’m fine, Wildcat. I’m restrained, though, strapped to some sort of stretcher. What the fuck happened?

I don’t know exactly. I just felt you get hit by…something, and knew whoever did it had taken you to a ship and took off. I missed you by minutes.

I think they used a stun grenade. From what I can see without letting them know I’m awake, this is a small cargo ship, like a lot of bounty hunters use. But with the exchange off my back, I couldn’t tell you who would put a price on my head.

Well, you did tell me there were other people that wanted you dead, I thought resignedly. Any ideas who would want you alive?

Several, he said ironically. But most are dead.

Thanks, that cleared things up nicely. I said coldly.

I’d name names, Wildcat, but it’d take a while. Probably be better to just let them take me wherever they’re going. That way, we can eliminate the threat at its source.

Good idea. I thought brightly. And I can kill them.

Gods, I love you woman.

I love you too. We’ll be along within the hour, I promised. We’ll follow, but not overtake. Let’s see who’s behind this.

I reported the conversation to Elder Evana and Dax while we waited for the Ebon Hawk to arrive. I paced and talked to Canderous as the minutes ticked by. Finally, she landed and the three of us boarded. The entire honor guard was there, including Jarxel, to my surprise. Canderous grunted in my head.

Tell him to get his ass back to Dxun; I need him there, not running after me.

I opened my mouth to more diplomatically convey this message when Jarxel glared at me.

“Tell him to save your breath; I’m going, and that’s final. I’ve left Zuka in charge, and the Elders will be there. Elder Evana, Jenks here will pilot you back to Dxun. We’ll let you know when we have the Mandalore back.” Jarxel said politely.

She nodded, touched my arm in farewell, and left with Jenks.

I just looked at him. “How did you know what I was going to say?” I demanded.

“I know you’re talking to Canderous, and I know what he’ll say. He’s a damned stubborn bastard, but so am I, and I’m not the one that’s kidnapped. He can find himself a new XO if he doesn’t like it.” Jarxel scowled at me, as if Canderous could see him.

Canderous growled in my head. I shushed him.

“I’m not going to argue with either of you,” I said tartly. “Let’s just get going.”

“Sure thing,” Atton said. “Where?”

Good question. I scowled. “I need a map,” and called up the local navigation charts on the common room table. “Okay, we’re here,” I pointed, and concentrated on Canderous. “He’s heading that way,” I pointed.

“Have they hit hyperspace yet?” Atton asked, his face set in concerned lines. “Can you track him if they do?”

“I think so,” I answered tersely. “I haven’t had to try before, but Canderous said distance shouldn’t matter.”

“All right then. You man the chart, comm me if they change course. The plan is to follow, not overtake, yes?”

“Right,” I confirmed.

The next few hours were awful. I stayed at the chart, eyes fixed on the course I felt Canderous was following. I felt it when they hit hyper drive and alerted Atton. Ladria pressed a glass of water on me, and Bao Dur shoved some food under my nose. I ate, but didn’t taste a thing.

Canderous had officially awakened now, and reported he was alone in a med bay, and from what little he could see was likely in a Hawk class ship. Of the owners, he had seen no sign. He could hear faint voices occasionally, but no one was checking on the prisoner. His frustration with being restrained and helpless was nearly overwhelming. Whoever had taken him was efficient; they had hit him, strapped him to an air gurney, and had him on the ship and heading off planet in minutes. They had been smart enough to use extra heavy duty strapping as well; he was trussed tight with barely enough slack to breathe.

I concentrated on keeping the link open, and where they were going. According to the nav charts, there were quite a few planets they could be heading to: Nar Shadaa and Tatooine among them. I didn’t relish going to either place, but at least they were relatively known to us. There were a few smaller planets they could be headed, most of which I knew little about.

There was a sudden jerking in my head and Canderous’s link was down to sporadic dream flashes again. I snapped my head up.

“They put him out,” I said. “Must have used a hypo spray.”

“Can you still tell where he is?” Jarxel asked tensely.

I touched a spot on the map. “Right here.”

Jarxel looked at the spot critically. “There’s a moon there, not far from Tatooine. I’m betting they’re landing there.”

I closed my eyes and tried to reach Canderous, sending healing down the line. He stirred faintly, then came slowly awake as I fed him energy. I talked to him, and again he pretended to be out. With a little concentration, I could see a bit through his eyes, which he kept just barely slit open. It was a strange feeling. During battle, things move quickly; I have to adjust fast or die. This time, it was a slow adjustment. Unlike when we shared battle ecstasy, I could either see through his eyes, or my own, not both. I watched as two men, one a Mandalorian that looked familiar, approached. I felt Canderous’s rage at the sight of him, and he projected a name at me. It was a huge effort for him to maintain the pretense of being out.

The Mandalorian activated the gurney they had Canderous bound to and they took him out of the ship. I got a quick glimpse of bright sun and what looked like a private airstrip before having to pull back. I reported to Atton where we should land, and sat for a moment, head in my hands, breathing deep and trying to regain my equilibrium.

Our normal link is comforting and natural, sometimes invigorating. During battle, the ecstasy gives us both strength. This far out without the adrenal rush of physical activity, it was draining. I could maintain the purely mental connection with little strain, but seeing through his eyes and healing him was an effort that I couldn’t maintain too long. With little appetite but knowing I needed every scrap of energy I could store, I went to the galley, got myself some more food and a big mug of water, and made myself eat. The fuel helped, but I felt a little queasy as reaction was starting to kick in. I grimly ignored it.

The effort to keep my dinner down suddenly became nearly unbearable as a wave of pure pain rolled through me, dropping me to my knees. I barely managed not to scream, and clutched my stomach, keeping from vomiting by sheer force of will. Dax saw me fall and was by my side a moment later, trying to help me up. I shook him off violently, too agonized to be touched. I got control of my gag reflex just as another bolt of pain shot through my upper body, then I felt an invisible blow across the face, once, twice, three times, followed by a bruising punch to the gut. I barely had time to catch my breath when the lightning bolt of agony slammed through my body again. I grayed out, trying to assimilate the sensations.

When I came back to my senses, I was ringed around by grim faces. Hands pulled me to my feet. I stood, a little shaky, but okay. Canderous was out for the moment; I didn’t have the control yet to heal him.

“They’re torturing him,” Jarxel said. It wasn’t a question. I nodded mutely. He looked grim, and no one seemed to know what to say. “You need to block yourself,” he said finally. “You can’t help him if you’re knocked off your feet or otherwise incapacitated.”

“I can’t block completely, or I won’t be able to find him,” I pointed out. “And I hate to tell you, but a Mandalorian is involved. I didn’t get a chance say so before. I caught a glimpse of what Canderous was seeing; he was pissed as hell when he recognized this man.”

Jarxel stared at me, his face blank. “Did you get a name?” he asked in a deadly calm voice.

I nodded. “Travik.”

Jarxel, Kex, and the other guard members swore colorfully; only Dax didn’t seem to have a reaction. I looked around, knowing there was a story here but not understanding. I caught Dax’s eye and he shrugged, as lost as me.

“Anyone want to tell me what’s going on?” I asked crisply.

“Travik had a run in with Canderous a few years back,” Jarxel explained. “Challenged him for the Helm, even. We all thought the Mandalore was foolish to let Travik live, but he insisted that our numbers were small enough that every man was needed. Travik had been defeated, and agreed not to challenge Canderous again. Until today, it seemed to work. Apparently, Travik got a hold of someone that wants Canderous to suffer before he dies.”

“How would he know that, and who could it be?” I demanded.

“Travik was one that scouted for Mandoa survivors, and did mercenary work on the side. He got around; if someone had a bounty on Canderous, he had the opportunity to find out. In fact, he had only gotten back from a job a few days before your arrival. My bet is he had planned to wait for an opportunity to take him away from the camp, and the hunter he’s with has been on Onderon for some time, just looking for an opening,” Jarxel growled. “Travik had a small shuttle he used to go back and forth to Onderon. He must have slipped up here shortly after Canderous left to find Jennet.”

I felt Canderous abruptly awaken, probably by a bucket of water dashed over him. I took a deep breath, and tuned in.

Get out of my head, Jennet. I don’t want you here, He ground out at me.

Tough. If you block me too much, you’ll wish Travik killed you after I’m done with you. I have to track you, and I won’t leave you alone.

Dammit woman, I won’t have you hurt. I can feel how it’s affecting you; stay the hell away.

No, I told him stubbornly. And don’t you shut me out.

He did.

“Gods damn him, stubborn moron!” I bellowed.

The chattering around me stopped, and everyone stared at me. I went back to the map and jabbed a finger at the moon displayed there.

“This is the closest I can figure he’s at. He’s blocking me now,” I gritted through my teeth. “I’m going to kill him.”

Jarxel smiled. “You’re his Mate, all right,” he said with grim humor. “Only a wife would want to rescue and murder him at the same time.”

“You don’t?” I asked, smiling unwillingly.

“Well, yes,” he admitted. “Let’s land, and go get that worthless leader of ours.”

We were still some distance away. Twice during the rest of the flight I was hit with pain, but it was almost ghostlike; Canderous was blocking well. Apparently, he couldn’t keep it all from me when in serious pain. I used each incident to try and pinpoint where he was. In between, I studied the datapad I had gotten from the space traffic controllers.

Only one Hawk class had taken off, the Scarlet Raptor. According to the records, the owner/pilot was Regar Dunne. That could be true, or not; either way the name meant nothing to me. I had been in the bounty trade, but had few acquaintances and none I would call friend. The really good hunters often were relatively unknown even by others in the trade; anonyminity was a huge advantage. Some, such as Mira, were just so good that they get famous, or infamous as the case may be, whether they wanted the reputation or not. I myself was middling ground; good at it, but I didn’t seek out the spectacular captures, or take enough jobs to be widely known. But among the strange little world of bounty hunting, I had a solid reputation, and a good track record.

I ran the information by Mira, and Jarxel, and failing that, the general populace. I also commed Atton, who seemed to know personally, or by reputation, an amazing collection of both respectable and seedy characters. No one had heard of the Scarlet Raptor, or Regar Dunne. I was inclined to think that the ship was legit, the owner’s name not; it’s harder to hide the registration of a vehicle than a person, weirdly enough. It was entirely possible Regar Dunne was the actual name of the actual owner of the ship, and the bounty hunter was simply using the name for convenience, or had killed the owner and taken the ship, or a million other possibilities that were getting me nowhere. I realized I was using my habit of over-thinking to distract myself from worrying about Canderous.

Finally, we arrived and I was able to tell Atton where to set down. We gathered in the common area. It was standing room only with all thirteen of us crowded around. I asked Bao Dur to scan the area, and we located a large estate deep in a wooded area about two klicks from where we had landed. We were able to ascertain about eighty people on the grounds, about half inside the structure itself.

“Not even as many as were on the Ravager,” commented Mira. I nodded.

“Yeah, but we were able to board her with a shuttle,” Atton pointed out. “This place has security we have to get through first.”

Bao Dur snorted. “There isn’t a shield I can’t get through, and we can get by most electronic security. We’re six and a half Jedi, and seven Mandalorian warriors, what’s that against eighty, especially if they’re spread out?”

“Don’t get too cocky, Padawan,” Ladria warned, but she was smiling.

“I have a better idea,” I said. “I give myself up at the gate, find Canderous, heal him, and we fight our way out while you guys fight your way in.”

There was a storm of protest at that. Dax yelled that Canderous would kill him if he, Dax, allowed me to go in alone, Kex said absolutely he would see me in hell before I did such a damn foolish thing, and Mira looked ready to throw me into the cargo hold and lock me in. But Ladria, and interestingly, Jarxel, were nodding slowly and I focused on them.

“They’ll disarm me, sure, but I can fight barehanded, and I can recover my weapons, probably, or pick up some. They can’t stop me from healing Canderous, and if I can free him, we fight better together and can take on quite a few until you get to us. Time it right, and you’ll be there before things get too hairy, anyway. Plus, they might believe that I just ran after him without backup,” I said earnestly.

“It’s ballsy, and it has a good shot at working,” Jarxel said thoughtfully.

“Travik will never believe that I let you go alone,” Dax said loudly. “He knows about your link, and that I was there on Onderon when Canderous was taken. He won’t believe you got away from me and just took off; he’d reason you brought the Ebon Hawk here; the shuttles wouldn’t make it this far.”

“Fine, you come with me, then. I just hope they don’t kill you on the spot; they’ll keep me alive at least long enough to kill me in front of Canderous. Whoever has him wants him to suffer; they won’t care about you,” I pointed out.

“All the more reason to go,” Dax snarled. “Trying to kill me might be distraction enough for you to get to the Mandalore.”

“Fine,” I snapped, pissed beyond measure at the thought of losing another friend.

“We’re getting nowhere sniping at each other,” Ladria said sternly, before I could get a real head of steam going. Dax snapped his mouth shut on whatever reply he was going to make. “Jennet will go in the front gate with Dax; hopefully they’ll take both of them in to where Canderous is. If it looks like they won’t, fight your way to him however you can. I’ll lead the Jedi on an assault from the East side of the complex, Jarxel the Mandalorians from the West. We have plenty of grenades; that should blow the walls. Any questions?”

No one spoke. Ladria nodded. “Right, let’s do this. Jennet, you and Dax go on ahead. We’ll give you five minutes, and follow through the woods.”

I gave her a short nod, and headed out of the ‘Hawk with Dax.

It didn’t take long to get to the gates. We approached, bold as brass, and the guards surrounded us immediately, blasters at the ready. I had my hands carefully away from my weapons, face blank. Dax glowered.

“You must be the Mandalore’s little whore,” one of the guards sneered. I was so tired of being called that. I looked at him, memorizing his face. He was a burly dark man, on the short side, and looked like a small Bantha. Dax growled something under his breath.

“I’m Jennet Jax. I’m here to bargain for Canderous Ordo’s life,” I said calmly.

“Frisk them,” Bantha-boy said, and one of the guards eagerly pawed me, removing my swords, my father’s light sabers, and three daggers. He missed one and I carefully didn’t smile. Apparently molesting a woman makes one stupid; he didn’t check behind my neck. They took Dax’s weapons as well, and led us into the complex. I managed not to breathe a sigh of relief that they hadn’t killed Dax out of hand.

I reached out for Canderous and felt him ahead. He was unconscious, so he couldn’t block me. I sent some healing at him slowly, enough to mend the worst of the damage. I felt him stir, and before he could block me, I sent a thought.

I’m here, Dax is with me, and the rest of them will be attacking soon. Don’t let them know you’re awake yet, and don’t BLOCK ME ANYMORE YOU MORON!

Glad to hear you too Wildcat, he said, resigned. Don’t do anything stupid.

Too late for that, idiot, I already said I’d marry you.

That got a wry chuckle in my head.

I’m going to heal you, and you’re going to let me. Just don’t let on that I did, okay?

Right. Did I give you the impression that I lost some IQ points somewhere along the way? He growled at me. I have a slight clue about surprise attacks, you know.

Don’t push it, you’re credits aren’t too good right now.

Just get me the hell off this gurney, and we’ll see how my credit is.

We arrived in what seemed to be a receiving hall. Travik was standing to the right of a man seated on a thronelike chair in a raised alcove. I counted a total of twelve men, including the one seated. Canderous was front and center, several instruments on a table nearby. I suppressed a shudder at what they had been used for. Canderous himself was a mess; blood soaked the front of his shirt, one eye was swollen shut, and his nose was broken – again. I tried to go to him, but two guys grabbed me. I had known they would, and put on a good show of struggling with them, subsiding after a moment. Out of the corner of my eye, I saw Dax similarly restrained. The man who had taken our weapons put them down on another table about ten feet behind me. I marked where the ‘sabers were and faced the dais.

“You must be Jennet,” the seated man said pleasantly. “I’m so glad you could join us.”

“Who the fuck are you?” I asked rudely.

“Falken Rikes, my dear lady. I’m a past associate of Canderous’s,” he said, ever so polite.

He was a slender man, but I could see he was well muscled, and when he stood, it was with the grace of a warrior. He had thinning hair between blond and brown, worn long enough to tie back with a thong. His clothes weren’t showy, but were fine quality and fit beautifully. His eyes were gray and colder than the Hutt’s I blew up. I began to wonder if I hadn’t been stupid after all to come in here.

He nodded to the thug standing near the table of torture, who picked up a bucket of water and threw it in Canderous’s face. Canderous spluttered and realistically jerked ‘awake’.

“Look who has joined us, Mandalore,” Rikes said silkily. “Your little Mate.”

Canderous glared at him, snarling suggestions about what Rikes could do with himself, most of which were biologically impossible. I tried not to laugh. Rikes just smiled, and nodded again. The thug grabbed an electric prod and shoved it into Canderous’s side. The roar of pain was deafening, and everyone stood still for a moment. Except me.

I sagged against the two holding me, who had unwisely loosened their grip, yanked my arms free, and leaped back as they turned toward where I had been. I grabbed the dagger behind my neck and slashed it across the face of the one on the right. I was grimly pleased that it was Bantha-Boy; teach him to call me names. With a spinning kick, I smacked the one on my left into his bellowing buddy and ran to the table that held my weapons, stowing the bloody dagger as I went. I grabbed the ‘sabers, whirled around, cut down the one that had followed me, strode forward, and silenced Bantha-boy forever. Then I ran for Canderous.

Dax meanwhile had taken advantage of the distraction to yank hard against his guards, stepping back and smashing their heads together. He grabbed a blaster off one as they fell, shot them both, and started pumping energy bolts left and right. I dove for the gurney, and sliced through the straps holding Canderous down. He hadn’t been wearing armor, but did have a shield strapped to his wrist; as soon as he was free he slapped it on, and waded into the brawl. We kept back to back and somewhere along the way he managed to grab a sword, and reach behind him to snag my dagger.

As we danced through the thinning crowd, I saw Dax go down and threw some healing his way. He shook off the blow that had felled him and jumped up, smashing a foot into the gut of the thug who had hit him. The man staggered back, and Dax shot him between the eyes.

I couldn’t see where Falken had gone, and in any case was too busy to try and find him. Canderous and I took out two more, including Travik, and I felt Canderous’s savage satisfaction in dispatching the betrayer. Suddenly there wasn’t anyone left to fight. The three of us tracked around the room, counting the bodies. Eleven, and Falken was nowhere to be found. We recovered the rest of our weapons, and then I spotted a door behind the throne on the dais. As one we ran over to it, yanking it open. Dax lead, me and Canderous right behind. We found ourselves in a long corridor, with a door at either end. Before we had time to choose, the one farthest away burst open, and Bao Dur came barreling in, the other six Jedi on his heels.

“This way!” I shouted, and ran for the other door.

It opened into a large windowless storage room. Another door lead out of it, and I was there in seconds. Locked. Canderous shoved me out of the way and smashed his foot against it; the door held but the wood of the frame splintered. One more kick and we were through.

There was a pitched battle taking place in the courtyard we ran out into. All the Mandalorians were blasting away at about forty men. Ladria and the others threw themselves into the fray. I spotted Falken across the yard, now armed. He turned toward us and smiled, his hand in a farewell salute.

“Another time,” he mouthed at me and Canderous.

“I don’t fucking think so,” I snarled, ran forward, and threw my light saber at him with all my strength.

I don’t know why I did it, and had no idea if it would work. I was about twenty feet away when I hurled the ‘saber, and I was drawing on the Force completely without conscious thought. The beam of blue light flew like a boomerang, sideways, and struck him in the chest. A look of pure surprise was on Rikes’ face as he fell. My ‘saber fell to the ground, blade snuffing out.

He was still alive when Canderous and I reached him, wheezing and clutching his chest. I picked up my ‘saber, and looked at the fallen man. He glared at me, struggling to his feet.

“Your Mate killed my wife and children, and turned me in to the Exchange,” he snarled at me. “You protect a killer.”

“Because torture and kidnapping and attempted murder is so much better,” I said quietly. “I know what he was. I know what he is now. What you are, you did yourself.” I turned my back on him, and walked away. There was a sound behind me, and I whirled, igniting my ‘saber to block the dagger that Rikes had thrown at me. Simultaneously, a shot rang out, and Rikes fell, dead. I looked around, and Dax lowered his weapon. Canderous had neatly skewered Rikes at the same time. Three times dead, that one.

“Thanks,” I said.

Dax nodded. Canderous shook his hand, and we surveyed the damage. Bodies were everywhere, but no one on our side was seriously hurt. I felt healing energy going around, and checked out Kex. He was grinning from ear to ear, loudly exclaiming how good it was to fight properly again. I smiled at his enthusiasm.

“Well,” Disciple said thoughtfully, “that didn’t take long.”

“Any survivors?” Ladria asked quietly.

“We haven’t gone through the place room by room, but I doubt there’s anyone left,” I said, equally quiet.

“Who was that guy?” Mira asked curiously.

“Someone I turned in to the upper echelon of the Exchange,” Canderous said simply. “They sent me to kill him; I thought I had.”

“He must have been pretty evil for the Exchange to want him dead,” Atton observed.

“Into every illegal vice you can think of,” Canderous said. “Not that that bothers the Exchange much; they only care if you’re cheating them, or trying to take over. He was doing both.”

“And what he said about his wife and children?” Visas asked quietly. “I know you didn’t kill them, who did?”

Canderous stared at her. “I appreciate the vote of confidence, but what makes you so sure?”

“You forget, Canderous, I am a Seer. I felt the lie in his words when he spoke them,” Visas said softly.

“He had every reason to believe I had,” Canderous said shortly. “I might have, if things had gone differently. As it was, when I got there, they were already dead, and Rikes was gone. I tracked him down later, we fought, and I was sure he was dead when I left.”

“He was assassin trained,” Atton said flatly. “They have tricks that can make you appear dead.”

Canderous looked sharply at Atton, then nodded. “He was, yes. You could tell?”

“Yes,” Atton said shortly, and turned away.

I had remained silent during the conversation. I had not believed Canderous had killed Rikes’ family, but a part of me was relieved to know I had been right.

Don’t worry Wildcat, I don’t blame you for doubting.

I wasn’t…

You were, a little. It’s okay. I’m not a good person.

You are! I thought fiercely.

I am when I’m with you. Maybe. I’m glad you think I am. Someday I might be.

Stubborn, irritating… Mandalorian!

You got a problem with that?

I walked away, breathing through my nose and trying not to hit him. To cover my irritation, I started frisking the bodies.

“Good idea,” Jarxel said, and the rest of the party followed suit. Disciple said he was going to go check out the house, Kelborn, Xarga, and Mira joined him. Seeing Mira disappear into the house, Dax hurried to catch them up. The rest of us finished up and followed them inside.

There was a lot of portable wealth in the house; we debated looting, and decided to on a limited basis. Disciple made an interesting discovery in the private office off the master bedchamber. Falken Rikes liked to keep a journal, apparently. Canderous took a few of the datapads Disciple had brought out and scanned them. After a short time, he handed them back.

“Burn them,” he said. Disciple looked startled, and a little disapproving.

“They’re monstrous, yes, from what I read,” he said, protesting. “But they give invaluable insight into the mind of a purely sociopathic personality. These diaries may help catch others like him.”

“Or it might give someone just as twisted ideas,” Canderous growled.

“I’ll do as you say, if you insist,” Disciple said quietly. “But I think you’re wrong.”

Canderous looked at him, clearly assessing what the blonde Jedi had said. Finally, he shrugged.

“Keep them, if you think they’re helpful. Just don’t expect me to read them.” He turned to the rest of our friends. “I haven’t thanked you all for the rescue,” he said, clearly uncomfortable, but standing straight, and obviously sincere.

Ladria smiled. “No thanks among friends,” she chided gently. “You’d do the same for any of us.”

A look of surprise went over his face and he stood very still. “Yeah,” he said after a moment, “I would.”

I squeezed his arm, wordlessly, and he smiled down at me. “Let’s go home, Wildcat.”