Canderous
That evening was one of the most enjoyable I had spent in a long time. Jennet instantly bonded with Jolee, and liked Dustil enormously almost on sight. I had to admit that Carth's son was a likeable fellow. He'd learned some hard lessons at the hands of the Sith, and had a maturity about him that was similar to one of my own race at that age. We learn through trial by fire; most Mandalorian men in their early twenties have been in and out of combat for a decade. While Dustil lacked quite that level of experience, there was an underlying seriousness about him that balanced natural youthful enthusiasm.
Mission, however…she and Jennet seemed sisters on sight, and I smiled to see it. The young Twi'lik was a few years Jennet's junior but had been self sufficient and streetwise at fourteen, when I had met her. Jennet hadn't had to live as hard as Mission, but had been holding her own in battle rings from a young age. Yet neither of them had grown hard or cynical. They both had a gift for mangling languages, too. I enjoyed watching the two of them chatter away, cheerfully making observations and swapping stories.
And, I admitted to myself, neither of them had ever judged me by what I had been; only what I was now. Or in Mission's case, then and now. For some reason, I found this…refreshing. I wasn't willing to amend that to comforting.
The one bit of sawdust in the gears was Bastila. Jennet disliked her from the start, which is unusual for her, and Bastila seemed to return the favor. While unfailingly polite to each other, the tension was thick enough to be cut with a vibroblade. I was amused at some of the comments Jennet shared silently with me.
You know, I kind of wish she'd stayed evil. At least I wouldn't feel guilty for wanting to strangle her. Does she have any sense of humor at all?
It's there, I said honestly, stifling a chuckle that threatened to break free.
Yeah, well, if so it's buried so far up her ass it requires surgery to find.
Not that I'm defending her, Wildcat, but why do you dislike her so much? You hardly know her.
I didn't like her calling Ladria 'the Exile' like she wasn't a real person. Fer gods' sake, Bastila actually was helping Malak for a while; Ladria at least turned back after she knew he'd gone over. What right does she have to judge Ladria?
She wasn't; she was just referring to Ladria the way the other Jedi did. Like I say jetti; it isn't an insult, really, just a designation.
And you're defending her…why? She doesn't like you any more than she likes me.
I told you I wasn't, and I'm not. But I have seen her at her best and worst. She isn't so bad, once you get past the hard shell. I never did, not that I tried or cared enough to, but I saw her with Revan and Carth and the others.
Well, I believe you…I guess. But I still say she has all the approachability of a rampaging ronto.
On that, I agree.
So can I accidentally throw her to the cannoks? Jennet said hopefully.
Better not…at least not until the treaty is signed, I chuckled back.
The bonfire that night didn't last as long as usual; almost everyone was tired, either from ongoing negotiations, drilling, or travel. But we managed a respectable evening of it, heading to bed just before midnight.
Negotiations the next morning were simply a polishing of the terms we'd come to. Jennet has a mind like a sponge, soaking up information, but occasionally gets overloaded when she's unfamiliar with the subject. The treaty talks were hitting her data limit, although she did a fine job of paying attention and contributing. She also had something else on her mind, just under the surface thoughts, that I didn't probe into, being busy with the discussion at hand, and respecting her privacy. I'd noticed that there was nothing important to her so far that she didn't get around to telling me.
Bastila had joined the talks at Carth's and Ladria's invitation. As one of the surviving Jedi, her rank within the Order was at the moment unclear; however, she had enjoyed some influence with the previous Council. Ladria, on the other hand, was even murkier in some ways. Redeemed wasn't quite the word for her. She had reestablished her connection to the Force, and was now more powerful than most remaining Jedi that we knew of. She had also been a Master long before Bastila, from what I could pick up between the lines and with Jennet's help on Jedi rank structure. Bastila was not being hostile toward Ladria, and Ladria was being perfectly pleasant and friendly. But there was some tension; any warrior could sense that a room away.
Carth quickly recapped the agreements so far, primarily for Bastila's benefit. When we got to rank, she broke in incredulously.
"You're making a woman with no leadership experience a general?" she asked sharply. "Is that wise?"
Jarxel growled softly next to me, and I more felt than saw the honor guard stiffen behind us. Jennet opened her mouth to reply, but I flashed her mentally and she closed it. It was Carth that answered Bastila.
"Jennet is the second highest rank of the Mandoa, a gifted leader, and an accomplished warrior. This is an alliance, not a recruitment; we acknowledge the rank held within our ally's military structure," he said politely enough, but with a touch of steel.
Bastila, intent on her point, didn't hear the warning. Nice to know some things never change.
"I understand that," she said dismissively, "but I am concerned that to put an untried leader in a position of such authority may ultimately cost lives. This alliance with the Mandoa has enough unknown variables."
I felt Jennet start to leap to her feet in fury, but I stopped her with a hand on her arm. She subsided slightly, glowering at Bastila.
"Would you care," I said, low and dangerous, "to explain that?"
"Simply that the assimilation of Mandoa and Republic troops will likely be an uneasy coexistence, and the addition of a leader with unknown skills won't help the situation," Bastila said seriously, completely oblivious to the rising hostility.
"Jennet," I said carefully, "is the best natural leader I've seen since Revan and Ladria. Secondly, it is the Mandoa rank structure that counts here, and she most definitely is second in command. Third, you are not part of these discussions; you are here by invitation and have no authority or say. Shut up, or get out."
"How dare you speak to me like that?" Bastila said hotly. "You always did have the manners of a schoolyard bully."
"And you have the sensitivity and tact of a spoiled child," Jennet snarled, leaping to her feet. "You don't know me, so I can forgive your concerns about my qualifications. But if this is an example of your leadership ability, I am seriously questioning yours. This is not your call. Furthermore, if you continue to insult the Mandalore or our people, you will not be welcome in this camp, and I will have a clause entered into the treaty that you will not be allowed on board our ship without specific invitation from the Mandalore or me. And if you are lucky enough to be granted access, it will be with full escort."
"You would take such actions over a petty disagreement?" Bastila asked scornfully.
"I would protect the morale of my troops and the safety of one who is currently my responsibility, whether wanted or no," Jennet snapped. "You are dangerously close to being challenged on several levels. Care to face the whole camp in the battle ring, one at a time?"
"You wouldn't allow that," Bastila said, less confidently, but still looking down her nose.
"So you admit I have that sort of authority over my men?" Jennet said with a nasty smile. "Good of you. Now watch your mouth or I will have that clause written in. Full escort means even 'fresher breaks. And we're a bit short on female warriors right now."
"You wouldn't," Bastila snapped.
"Try me," Jennet snapped back.
"I'd write it in," Carth said calmly, and everyone turned to the admiral. "Bastila, you are a talented Jedi and intelligent woman, but Jennet's right: your leadership skills are lacking, and always have. I appreciate input, but if you continue to antagonize our potential ally, I will have you removed."
Bastila sat very still, face going blank. She appeared to be struggling with something, and took a few slow, deep breaths. Exhaling a third time, she turned to me and Jennet, and very carefully, but sincerely, spoke.
"I apologize for my comments. They were not meant to be insulting, but I can see that they were insensitive. I spoke out of turn," She said quietly.
There was a moment of silence where I almost thought Jennet was going to tell Bastila to go to hell, treaty or no. It was in her thoughts, and truthfully, I almost told her to do it; I was almost as angry as she was. But practicality won out, and I heard her silently reigning in her temper.
With admiral dignity and exquisite politeness she answered. "Accepted." She paused and said quietly, "Thank you."
The rest of the meeting went smoothly enough, and we left the mess hall after lunch, both sides reasonably satisfied with the arrangements. Tomorrow we would sign off on the agreement, and transmit the data to the Senate.
It was about five minutes to two as we headed into the main camp, and I saw Tagren hurrying to intercept me.
"Mandalore," he said seriously, "There's a situation on the battlefield. I think you better get there quick."
"What's the problem?" I growled, wondering which warrior did some damn fool thing to antagonize a Republic soldier.
"It would be better if you just hurry," Tagren said.
"Did Zuka or Kex piss off Sgt. Quarn?" I asked Tagren in an undertone as we all hustled to the new battlefield.
"Not exactly," Tagren hedged, and I gave him a sharp look.
"You know," I said in my dangerously calm voice, "it's a lot easier to do damage control if I know what the situation is."
"It's…complicated." Tagren said, not looking at me. "Better just get there. Take too long to explain anyway."
We arrived, and as far as I could see, everything was fine. Most of the warriors from both sides were hanging around, talking and sipping water and stripping off armor. I spotted Zuka and Kex standing with a clump of fellow soldiers, apparently peaceably bragging about something or other. I searched quickly for other known troublemakers and found nothing out of the ordinary.
Exasperated, I turned to Tagren. "What the hell is going on? I don't see anything that requires my attention."
"There, Sir," he said, and pointed up.
I looked, and saw a dark shape approaching the battlefield, which quickly resolved itself into an unknown ship, obviously intending to land. Jennet, who had lagged behind somewhat, caught up and followed my gaze.
"Shit," I said under my breath. "Jarxel," I barked, "full alert; we've got incoming."
"I don't think so, Mandalore," Jarxel said, grinning.
"What, am I hallucinating?" I growled. "Unknown ship approaching; call alert."
"Belay that," Jennet said, her grin matching Jarxel's. "I know who it is."
"Someone want to explain what the fuck is going on here?" I snarled.
"Just trust me," Jennet said softly.
She was blocking me firmly but I had a sudden insight: the shopping trip on Onderon, when she was looking for a wedding gift. This must be the delivery of whatever she had found. I wondered what in the galaxy she had bought that would require a ship that large to bring it. My irritation evaporated and I waited with the others as the ship approached, shading my eyes from the afternoon sun. Glancing around, I noticed everyone watching expectantly, many casting sideways glances at me and grinning. Whatever it was, people obviously expected me to like it.
Tagren was still near me and I shouted over the noise of engines "Jennet put you up to that little stunt?"
"Yes, Sir," he yelled back, grinning all over his face.
"Remind me to beat you later," I growled good-naturedly.
"That's what I told her, Mandalore," he replied, not the least repentant.
The cruiser landed, creating a backlash of wind, sending loose bits of grass and dust flying everywhere, and threatening to knock anyone too close off their feet. There was a reflexive backtracking from many of the spectators, and when the hatch opened, Jennet and I were at the head of the crowd. To my surprise, Atton, Bao Dur, Megari and Danni exited, all with proud happy smiles on their faces. Well, Atton was more like smirking, and Danni as usual was rather grave, but the air of expectation was evident. I approached the ship, Jennet by my side, with Atton and the others meeting us a few paces from the hatch.
"Mandalore," Atton said formally, struggling to contain what suspiciously looked like a smug grin, "allow me to present the Falcon class private cruiser Soul of the Phoenix, a wedding gift from your Mate."
I blinked at him, completely taken by surprise. Atton stood there, grinning, his hand outstretched. I automatically took it, then shook Bao Dur's, who smiled with quiet pride and presented Megari.
"Megari was an invaluable help getting the Phoenix ready," the Iridonian said in his soft voice. "She was in excellent condition, but we've made some modifications that greatly improve her performance."
"Thank you," I said to all three, giving Megari a smile and managing to find my voice. "This is incredible."
Jennet was practically vibrating next to me, outwardly calm, if smiling hugely, but I felt her anxiety under it. The magnitude of this gift hit me full on and I turned to my Mate, grinning and astonished.
"Holy shit, Wildcat," I blurted, a huge smile breaking over my face, "you got me a Falcon?" Then something else registered. "And you named her the Soul of the Phoenix?"
"Well, no," Jennet said modestly, but I felt the tension ease out of her, relief and elation replacing it as she felt my delight. "She's used, and that was her name to begin with. But yeah, she's a Falcon. Atton and Bao Dur, and, well, everyone I guess, have told me it's a good class of ship."
"Serious understatement there, cyar'ika," I said, unable to stop smiling. "It's the best there is. They're all built to order, so they're rare. Hell, Davik wanted one badly, but had to settle for a Hawk; it was going to take too much time and too many credits to order a Falcon. Who the hell let this girl go?"
"As to that," Atton broke in, "I did some checking, and the original owner was an Ondorian noble who died about two weeks ago. Not on board, I'm happy to say. He apparently was a bit of a spendthrift and his family sold off everything of value they could to pay his debts. His widow hates traveling, and she was glad to get rid of her. Jennet really lucked out; it had been on the lot only a couple of days."
"So you like it?" Jennet asked, hand on my arm.
In response, I jerked her clean off her feet and kissed her senseless. I set her back down, her face flushed and a little dazed.
"Like it? That," I informed her, "is like saying I'm 'rather fond' of you, Wildcat. Now everyone get out of my way; I want to inspect my ship."
I kept my dignity while looking the Phoenix over, but only just. I wanted to rub my hands together and cackle with glee. I was deeply grateful that the only one that suspected this was Jennet. I wasn't going to spoil her moment by blocking her, so I let her witness my utter delight over every detail of the Falcon. To everyone else, I hoped, I was merely extremely pleased and appreciative. The group that followed us on board was the Ebon Hawk crew, the honor guard, Carth, Mission, Dustil, Jolee, and, surprisingly, Bastila. It might have been a tight fit if everyone was grouped in the common area, but they all spread out in little groups, inspecting the cabins, cargo hold, garage, and so on. Bao Dur, Atton, and Jennet stayed with me, with the Iridonian explaining the mechanical modifications and Atton enthusiastically crowing about her maneuverability and armament. Jennet was, surprisingly, mostly silent, simply basking in my verbal and silent appreciation.
"I upgraded her jamming system so that she can block just about any transmission. While we were on the Ravager, I downloaded as much information as I could on Sith codes, transmission frequencies, and so on," Bao Dur was saying.
I nodded, remembering that he had turned that information over to Lt. Grenn just before we'd left Telos, who had promised to get the data to the Republic. I hadn't realized Bao Dur had kept a copy, though it didn't surprise me.
"I've had some time since then to analyze the data, and had an idea a while ago of creating a program that hides in the jamming frequency and extracts data from the computer of its target. It will simultaneously download the contents of the databank as it jams, completely undetected. I've been working on it off and on for nearly a year. I tested it against the Ebon Hawk while you were negotiating with Admiral Onasi. Works beautifully; I installed it on both ships. I was going to talk to the admiral about using it in Republic warships," he finished with quiet pride.
I whistled. "That is an incredibly simple and brilliant idea. It will be instrumental in aiding the Republic. I don't suppose you've considered it's extremely valuable as well?"
"Well, I'm not stupid," Bao Dur said with a grin. "I've considered that, yes. But I couldn't withhold this sort of information on the basis of personal gain. Plus, I'm uncertain of my standing now as Jedi; I had no clue if it's acceptable for me to profit from something like this."
A year ago I'd have told him to hell with noble purpose; he invented a valuable commodity and deserved to be compensated. But I'd learned a lot since then, and understood better his hesitation.
"Talk it over with Ladria," I said, nodding. "And Carth. They'll steer you in the right direction."
"I talked to the General," Bao Dur said. "She's of the opinion that compensation isn't out of bounds. We'll talk to Admiral Onasi together some time soon. This was the first test; it might require modification for restricted systems. But I know I can make it work. The data collected from the Ravager was invaluable in helping me perfect my program. Anyway, I thought that having the system might be useful; I figured you'd take the Phoenix with you when you join the Republic forces."
"It very well might," I agreed. "Especially if we can download it into whatever ship the Republic gives us. Thank you."
"I like to look out for my friends," the Zabrak said, shrugging. "I fine tuned the gun turrets and maximized engine efficiency as well. She's a beautiful girl, Canderous, and she'll be good to you."
I put my arm around Jennet and hugged her close to my side, kissing her forehead. "That she is," I agreed, gazing around the ship. Then I looked at Jennet, and smiled. "Yes she will. Thank you for all you've done."
"It was a pleasure," Bao Dur said, smiling widely. "But I didn't find her; Jennet and Atton did that. I would have paid good credits for a chance to tinker with a Falcon."
"Thanks, Atton," I said gruffly, and shook his hand. "I have no idea how you found her, but thanks."
"Ah, no problem," Atton said, grinning. "The look on your face when I came out of the ship was worth it. And Jennet was anxious to find the best she could for you. It was fun helping."
"I can't imagine it was all that fun for you, Wildcat," I said, marveling at the effort she'd made. "I don't believe you care overmuch about ships."
"I don't," she admitted, smiling. "But it seemed a good idea, and I had excellent help."
"She's beautiful, cyar'ika," I said softly, kissing her briefly but thoroughly. "And she carries your name; how perfect is that?"
Jennet looked startled. "When Atton told me what a find she was, and the salesman told me the name, I knew she was what I was looking for. But I thought of the Mandoa, rising from the ashes of their culture, becoming strong again. And you leading them; their center. Not me."
"The Lady of the Mandoa is what you are; the spirit of my people. And you wear the badge of the Ordo clan – a phoenix. The soul of the phoenix – mine," I said, and had the satisfaction of seeing her tear up. That's a perfect indicator I've said something right.
Wordless, she held me tight until she got her face under control. Bao Dur gave me smile over her head, and Atton, strangely, said nothing at all.
I could have spent hours going over every inch of the Phoenix, but settled for a lengthy tour, with Bao Dur leading us around, pointing out improvements. Atton chimed in from time to time, and Jennet, smiling nonstop, pointed out the comfort level when we have a full crew; two cabins, eight bunks, plus room for more sleep space in the engine room, cargo hold, infirmary, and garage. Even the common area could convert to sleeping space, and the seats in the cockpit not only lay flat if needed, but were surprisingly comfortable when horizontal. All in all, we could sleep as many as thirty people, more if it was a short trip. With its guns and jamming upgrade, it could be used as an effective small party raiding ship if the need arose.
When not on campaign, it would be very comfortable for traveling with the honor guard; enough bed space for everyone, privacy for me and Jennet, an extra cabin for the senior officer, enough 'freshers to go around. Plus, the galley was top-notch, efficient and ample storage for foodstuffs.
This is perfect for traveling with children, I said silently, partly to see Jennet blush, but also because it was true.
She did get a little rosy, but answered readily enough, I thought of that too. It's a good ship for family travel, I think.
I've been remiss, Wildcat, I said silently. I've thanked everyone but you.
You did already, she assured me. When you called me your soul.
"Cyar'ika," I said seriously as we started to disembark, "this is the second best gift I've ever gotten. Thank you." I leaned over to kiss her, but she stopped me with a hand to my chest.
"Second?" she asked, eyes narrowing.
"I got my best gift when you woke up in that ally," I said, grinning, "and agreed to come with me to the Ebon Hawk."
"Oh," she said, her voice small. "Well, that's okay then."
She let me kiss her then, and returned it with enthusiasm. We were interrupted with Atton making 'get a room' noises, and we laughed.
We left a guard stationed outside the Phoenix, but left the hatch open so the camp could tour her. Apparently, everyone had known what Jennet was planning, and were eager to take a look. People were already filing in as we strode away. I couldn't help but look back at her as we headed back toward the main camp.
Everyone was pleased with my reaction to the Phoenix, and Carth, who had been let in on the secret a couple of days ago, expressed his envy.
"You're a lucky bastard," he said frankly, smiling. "I'm not bad off, but I couldn't afford a Falcon. I have a Hawk on board the Eternity, and she's a fine ship, but I'd trade her in for yours any day."
"Not a chance, Onasi," I said, grinning. "Save up for your own."
"Take Atton with you," Jennet said helpfully. "He has a knack for finding ships."
"Just identifying them," Atton said cheerfully. "I'm pretty sure you were the good luck charm."
"Good point," Carth said thoughtfully. "Can I borrow your wife when I shop for a new ship, Canderous?"
"Sure," I said gravely. "Right after I become a Jedi."
"Guess that'll be about when it snows on Tatooine," Carth groused.