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 Evan'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."