#bolo and ketch | Explore Tumblr Posts and Blogs

techtalksfics · 1 year

Text

Just As You Are (Tech x Reader)

Summary: Everyone is a little fragile after the Ipsium incident and Tech wonders if you'd be better off with someone...well, less like him.

Authors Note: Sorry if this is awful.

Warnings: None

Word Count: 3k

When you walked into Cid's parlour, you could feel that something was different. Very different.

The air was uneasy. All the usual happiness, the playfulness of relaxation was gone.

Yet, the bar was quiet as usual. Bolo and Ketch were certainly normal. Their boisterous laughter was the only sound in the room.

Cid was fixing one of the slot machines and the Bad Batch were not speaking to her and she was not speaking to them. There was a painful silence suspended in the air around them all.

Suddenly, you knew what was different. Your favourite clones were silent, contemplative and one clone was missing. Where on earth was Tech.

His usual spot at the end of the bar was empty.

"Where's Tech?" You asked as you made your way around the dirty tables. Hunter had spotted you as you came through the door but he had sensed your approach moments before. He noticed that you were still in your formal work dress and boots. You'd come straight here because you knew they'd returned and Hunter knew exactly why you'd come.

He knew you couldn't resist seeing Tech.

"He's fixing the ship. He didn't seem to want any company so we left him to get on with it." Hunter muttered most of those words, the deep intonation of his voice rumbled through the uneasy air. He took a long slurp of the drink in his hand before he placed it on the bar. Despite this action, his eyes remained fixed on you.

Your eyes drifted to Omega. You had been worried for her since Tech had informed you in a message that he had stayed behind on Coruscant. She looked broken and you knew how much she missed Echo. You also knew how much she feared being left behind by her brothers.

And now that was becoming a reality for her. You felt a paroxysm of sympathetic pain in your chest as you looked at Omega, then Hunter and Wrecker. They all looked disgruntled, tired and a little bit lost and you didn't think that Echo was the only reason. Though his absence clearly did not help.

Truthfully, you were shocked that Echo had decided to stay behind. You understood why but surely he knew the pain that Omega would feel.

As you approached her, she finally looked up at you and offered a tired smile.

"Holding up okay, kid?" You asked with a quirked brow. She always giggled slightly at the odd expression on your face. She nodded her head and as you placed your hand upon her shoulder, you felt her cool hand immediately reach for yours. She kept her hand atop yours.

You wanted her to know that you were there. It wouldn't stop her missing Echo but you could reassure her that she'd never be truly alone.

Your finger gently brushed over the Kyber crystal around your neck. A dear friend gave this to you before Order 66, before the Empire. You also thought it protected you as you fought against the Empire. Omega watched your fingers graze over the crystal gently.

You took hold of the thread that held the crystal around your neck and lifted it off. You held it out for Omega. As she took hold of it, her face lit up.

"Now Omega," you began, bending down onto one knee, your eyes level with hers, "this crystal was a gift from a dear friend who died a long time ago. He saved me when I was scared, when I was alone. He told me that it would protect me and it always has." She looked at you and tried to hand it back to you.

Qui-Gonn has been with me for all these years and now your neck felt empty but you knew Omega needed the comfort of the crystal more than you.

The bloodstone crystal was in her small, soft hand and the thread hung loosely around her sides of her hand. Her index finger reached to softly stroke the crystal and you could feel the force glow around it. Qui-Gonn would be happy with you giving it away. After all, he had given it you when you were only a lost child and now you were doing the same.

You folded your fingers around hers so that she grasped the crystal, "and now I am gifting this to you. It will keep you safe. Keep your brothers safe, even Echo."

"Thank you," she whispered and placed the crystal around her neck. With a nod, you stood and grabbed Hunter's drink from the bar. You took a small sip and smirked at Hunter. Normally he would be bothered by the action but his heart had softened at your kindness to Omega.

"Tech definitely at the ship," Omega quipped as her fingers played with the crystal, "if you want to go see him, do. He may not want our company right now. But I think he'll appreciate yours. He wasn't sure if you were in Ord Mantell so he didn't know if she should contact you."

Omega was far too intuitive for her own good.

With that kind affirmation, you fixed your dress and headed out the door.

------------------------

If Omega believed Tech was in the dockyard, then that is where you wanted to go. As you approached the Marauder, you carefully approached the toned legs sticking out as the rest of the body was covered by the Marauder. When you were close enough, you gently nudged the leg that was raised up. "Hello Tech," you offered as he continued his work.

You heard him mumble a gentle but saddened hello.

For a moment, you stood back and simply watched his nimble fingers rewiring the ship. As his hand took the hydrospanner from his belt, he continued on with his work.

He was unsually quiet.

Even the dockyard felt different. You called out his name gently and he immediately rolled out from under the ship, his eyes fixed on you. There was a melancholy edge to his gaze. Those wonderful brown eyes, which were usually so confident and happy, glistened with doubt and insecurities.

“Are you okay?” You slowly asked as he dropped his head back down, looking at the ship. He didn't continue working, yet he feared looking at you as he couldn't give away everything he was feeling.

He blinked at you and asserted, "I am fine, thank you." He played with the spanner in his hand and pushed himself back under the ship. He began tweaking away. You rested your arm against a metal crate that was beside the ship. You shivered as the cool metal lowered your body temperature. The air cooled considerably as you simply watched him work.

You knew he wasn't ready to talk.

So, you took out your PADD and began looking at your work briefs for your upcoming trial. A case of criminal negligence by an important official in Naboo. A somewhat unpleasant case to deal with but you prided yourself on fighting for those who cannot fight for themselves. You had limited time on Ord Mantell but even a moment with Tech made the trip to this planet worth it.

For a while, you both worked away. You read through the brief and reviewed the submitted evidence. You only stopped to hand Tech the tools he needed that were out of his grasp.

Secretly, you loved these comfortable silences where productivity was valued over baseless conversation and you didn't want to push him into talking about whatever had placed sadness in his eyes.

Suddenly, Tech pulled himself out from under the ship and stood quickly, his eyes fixed on you. He brushed off his blue trousers and adjusted his goggles, as he always did when he was nervous. He sucked in a breath and bluntly asked, “would you not prefer to be around someone who expressed emotions the way others do?”

“What?” You asked, shocked by his unexpected outburst.

“I know that perhaps I do not focus my attention on you the way I should. I upset Omega simply because I could not understand her reaction to Echo’s temporary departure. It led me to wonder if I am capable of being a suitable companion to someone as wonderful as you.”

You are so much more than a companion Tech, you painfully admitted to yourself. Your actual response was perhaps a little more conservative, you'd never really discussed what you were to each other. He had approached you slowly and positioned himself next to you, his back and hips pressed against the crate.

“No Tech,” you reached for his free hand, “I prefer you. I prefer your fascination with everything unexplained, everything technical, everything wonderful. I prefer your mind, your way of speaking. The way you explain everything to me. You are so much more than suitable. You are more than enough. I just…” you gave his hand a gloved gentle squeeze and his cheeks coloured, his head turned away, “I just prefer you.” You pulled at his hand gently, encouraging him to look at you again. You couldn’t help the slight frown that crossed your lips as you were pained by his self-doubt. His eyes remained on the floor. “Why would you ask me such a thing, Tech?”

“On our most recent mission to mine the Ipsium, Omega truly believed that I did not care about the absence of Echo. I –“ he laced his fingers through yours, adding strength to a previously limp connection, “I was unaware that this was the brashness I was presenting. I managed to upset Omega, Wrecker…even Hunter. Simply because I process information and situations differently than they do.”

“There is nothing wrong with the way you process information, Tech.” You raised his hand gently and kissed his fingertips, yet you noticed that his expression remained pained. However, he let out a soft sight as you placed a second careful kiss to his fingertips. You wished he wouldn't wear gloves. Well, pained for Tech. His eyes were lingering on the Marauder and his lips ever so slightly frowned. You looked at the ship which was lit under the soft glow of the moon from above and a harsh glow from the spotlights below the ship fought with the soft light of the moon as the light glimmered on the ship.

“That is not all that happened on this mission.” He sighed gently and you gave his hand a reassuring squeeze.

“Do you want to talk about what happened?” As he began to explain what happened to Omega, the conversation they had in the cave, the ‘failures’ he had encountered from his behaviour to the kid that had stolen their ship, you felt your heart ache for him. Your chest tightened with every snippet of information he discussed, and he discussed many.

He hadn’t let go of your hand. This simple act of affection meant everything to you.

As he finished his tale, you let out a pained whisper, “Tech.” He still didn’t look at you.

“Is there a different way I should be expressing my emotions?”

“No, Tech. The way you are is just fine.”

“But perhaps –“ He began and before you could allow his thoughts to spiral, you interrupted his pained thoughts. “If you think for even one second that you need to change the way you are then you must listen to me.” He let go of your hand so that he could rub at the back of his neck. You place your hand on his cheek, feeling the heat of his embarrassment. “You are magnificent, and you are wonderful, just as you are.”

His expression was still pained. I had better confess it now, whilst I am trying to express my emotions, he thought logically. “I also worry that you may also be unaware of my true feelings at times. That was my true reason for asking.” He said it so plainly that you couldn’t help but experience a bolt of lightning hitting your stomach. Not only did he care; he cared about you in a way that he had never truly expressed.

“Tech, I know how much you care for your brothers. For Echo. For Crosshair. But I also know that you care about me.” The corners of your lips twitched as the heat reached your cheeks. The cool air made the heat of your cheeks tender.

“I was not simply confessing that I care about you. Not in the way I care for my lost brothers.” He countered gently and the dusted pink of his cheeks began spreading to his neck. He looked into your eyes, searching for evidence that he should not continue, that you were uncomfortable with his train of thought. Yet, he only found the usual caring gaze in your emerald eyes. He had always loved the depth of green he saw when he looked into them deeply. “I was referring to my ardent and, at times, amorous feelings for you.”

“The amorous feelings you have for me?” You repeated slowly, as if you were entirely unaware of them.

He hadn’t ever directly mentioned them before, although you had suspected them. He always took the time to explain technical things to you. He sat closer to you than he did anyone else. You had caught him staring at certain revealing outfits you had worn for political events. You noticed the way he smiled when you were heatedly debated things with Echo. Simply put, you had noticed the little things.

“Tech, if you think I am unaware that you care a great deal about me then you are, possibly for the first time since I’ve known you, sorely mistaken.” He looked perturbed at the notion he had been so obvious. He thought he had been discrete.

With a soft chuckle you let go of his hand and hopped up onto the metallic crate that your body had been resting against as you’d spoken to him. As he simply watched you, with a sheepish but doe-eyed expression, you couldn’t help but shake your head with a chuckle. You indicated that he should sit next to you.

With a little pat, pat on the space beside you.

He complied and quickly moved to sit next to you. His shoulders uncharacteristically sagged a little. The pain of the recent revelations clearly weighing on his body. You gently whispered his name as you looked up towards the moons effervescent light. His head didn’t quite face you but you could tell you’d dragged him from his thoughts.

“I meant what I said, my darling clone.” The pink hue reappeared on his cheeks. “I prefer you. I would even say that I care about you more than anyone. Plus,” you chuckled faintly again, “I am hardly an expert on excessive emotion. I am a lawyer, a politician of sorts I suppose. Reason, logic and knowledge are the things I cherish the most. You have all of those things in your marvellous brain in abundance.” With a startled stutter, his eyes finally snapped up to yours. “Did you think I have a wealth of work on Ord Mantell? I don’t come here for legal debate. I come here for you. I will always go where you are. I can’t seem to help myself.”

My god, how could he not know?

You hadn’t noticed the silence that filled the usually cluttered and crowded dockyard. It floated around you both melodiously. But as you noticed that he had no intention of speaking, you continued with your confession, “Tech, it’s okay that you don’t express things the way others do. I understand you and I understand the little things that you do for me. I know what it all means. I know you care. I wouldn’t ask anymore of you because what we have, even though we haven't labelled it, is wonderful, just as it is.”

“Thank you,” he whispered gently, taking hold of your hand once more. You took the opportunity to rest your head on his muscular shoulder. It was softer than you expected.

And then he did the truly unexpected. He rested his head atop yours.

“I am glad that you understand me, meshla.” He said it so gently that you weren’t absolutely sure that he’d said it. He sighed and said, “I have so many repairs to do. We have issues with the skip drive, the power grid is slightly damage from the scrappers who stole the ship and Omega has broken her communications device again.”

“Again?” You laughed as you spoke. That kid breaks that device every time they leave this planet, you thought gently. Tech uttered a yes as he pulled the device out from his belt. The buttons blinked erratically, and you could see the plate was bent out of place.

“Sorry,” he whispered as he lay his back on top of yours, “I suppose I just ruined the moment.”

“Not at all. If anything, you proved that you will always be the magnificent Tech that I care so much for. Fixing everything and impressing the hell out of me.” Your eyes closed softly as you enjoyed the warmth radiating from him. “You could even say that this is romantic.”

“How is this” he gestured to the cluttered dockyard, “romantic?”

“We are sitting together under moonlight.” You laughed and confirmed, “that’s pretty damn romantic to me.”

"You look very... pretty this evening. I -" he smiled softly as his fingers played with the fabric pooled around your thighs. "I find this dress very distracting, it is simply gorgeous."

"Thank you. I had another silly corporate dinner." You feel into a comfortable silence.

“I suppose now would not be an appropriate time to start fixing the comm device.” You laughed at this statement, knowing he was eager to get back work.

“No it wouldn’t,” you lifted your head and gingerly reached towards him, placing a soft kiss to his cheek, “but do it anyway. But let me tell you a secret first.” He looked shocked as his head finally turned your direction. You kissed his cheek again, liking the way it made his cheeks flush deeper. He was almost crimson now. After that little kiss, you were close enough to reach and whisper in his ear. “I find it extremely sexy when you work on the ship.”

He arched an eyebrow and afforded you a true Tech smile. He was calm once more. You always knew the right thing to say.

Sexy, he wondered, how on Earth was it sexy? He realised the why didn’t really matter. What mattered was how he could keep you thinking that.

And so, he reached for his tool belt and pulled out a small hydrospanner. Time to get to work.

#tech bad batch x reader #the bad batch #tech bad batch #hunter bad batch #wrecker bad batch #reader insert #bad batch tech #tech bb x reader

352 notes · View notes

eriexplosion · 2 months

Text

Time for our breather episode, Common Ground

The scenery in this show is so damned good, the way I am instantly in love with Raxus and the gold tones.

Honestly this episode fits much better given what we see in Spoils of War/Ruins of War, emphasizing the humanity of the people in every system. TCW triedddd to do this with the 'heroes on both sides' but they really just kind of said it and then showed us like one lady that didn't suck in the entire show. She died immediately. So I appreciate these episodes.

Also I just love the Senator's droid she's hilarious to me.

Avi Singh is voiced by Alexander Siddig and it made me trust him immediately like all those people in the crowd cheering that is me hearing Julian Bashir's voice come out of this little animated man.

HOW can the scene of them just walking contain so many of my favorite character moments? Omega feeding Wrecker a piece of Mantell Mix, Tech steadying Omega when Hunter helps her off Wrecker's shoulder to make sure she doesn't fall over, her smiling up at him, this expression of UTTER DUBIOUSNESS and SUSPICIOUS SNIFFING from Echo

I headcanon that Echo has hella digestive problems after a large portion of them was replaced by technology so every food must pass this sniff test and 90% of them do NOT but especially not whatever sugary concoction goes on this space popcorn.

I do NOT get why people thought for so long that we don't see Tech caring for Omega because every time she stumbles Tech is right there to steady her, he takes such good care of Omega oh my god. Sometimes love is making sure your baby sister never ever falls over!

Which he also does when she gets on a chair and he is right there like JUST IN CASE.

Adolescents often exhibit lack of balance as they grow best to be within two inches of her at all times in case she wobbles.

GRANDMA CRIMES WILL BABYSIT DON'T WORRY ABOUT IT. DON'T TRUST HER BUT SHE'LL TOTALLY DO IT.

I do think it's very funny that the one time Hunter successfully keeps her out of a mission by leaving her on another planet, she immediately becomes central to a gambling ring.

I want a count of how many times Echo complained about this job while Tech is just YOU KNOW WHAT'S GREAT, EARNING MONEY TO EAT WITHOUT PUTTING IT ON CID'S TAB. And Wrecker is just excited to mark off a new system on his Visited Locations list.

"Now are you convinced?" "No >:[" Echo has very valid reasons to not be thrilled about this job but unfortunately separatist doesn't mean much anymore and also they're so cute when they're Grumby.

When you clean SO sadly that Cid comes over like STOP BEING A MOPE. Omega's really leaning into her early teens attitude with SOR-RY.

ANGY.

Bolo and Ketch's DISAPPOINTED HEAD SHAKING is so fucking funny. You UPSET the CHILD Cid. Go fix it. Like they weren't taking bets on her fucking up her bow training earlier.

I know Hunter's mentioning Omega is supposed to be Feelsy a little but I do admit it misses a little bit because it's not like she's missing or anything. I do wish they had done something like this with Crosshair early on, like in Rampage when he orders Echo to be eyes in the sky, switch it to him saying Crosshair's name instead and then correcting.

THIS ANTIQUE VASE IS PRICELESS, BE CAREFUL :C I love herrrrrr

You know the senator is in real trouble because they took his hat.

AND BEHOLD! I HAVE SAVED YOUR MOST PRIZED VASE :D

Quite a bit of time is spent on Grand Theft Walker in this episode. Also I'm glad they're using stun bolts but oh boy is it concerning to stun a bunch of clone troopers in the same area where walkers are fighting, this is such a way to get squished.

As always I'm a big fan of Tech getting Punchy I love that he's not at all a docile nerd.

Echo stepping forward to encourage Avi to leave because he can't help his people in custody is sweet but would have been slightly better if we got a little more one on one interaction between the two of them. Even just one solid scene would be good.

I'll give the batch one thing, their success/failure rate is slightly better than I remembered, they are up to 3 successes and only 1 major failure

Frankly they should stop doing merc work though and just let Omega gamble her way through the galaxy.

SHOW A LITTLE GRATITUDE TO MY FRIEND. Cid is officially Affectionate towards this small child.

Another good character moment is Wrecker giving Hunter an EXTREMELY SERIOUS *TALK TO THE CHILD* LOOK

Really the main plot of this episode is a good breather but it really shines in tiny moments that make me Squeal a little. Just those little character interactions that I ADORE.

#the bad batch rewatch

23 notes · View notes

nahoney22 · 1 year

Note

Howdy!! Congrats on 3k!! That’s awesome sauce and you deserve all the love❤️ could I have a sfw fic with the prompt ‘wait, you think i’m cute’ with echo? 💜💙🤍

Prompt List Celebration 3000 Followers

Echo X F!Reader

word count: 820

SFW

prompt:

“Wait, you think I’m cute?”

warnings: none, pure fluff. Female reader, reader becomes flustered around Echo, Echo being a flirt.

Authors note: thank you dear! Kicking and squealing writing this one. Enjoy.

"Do you have a type?"

The unexpected and whimsical query made you stifle a chuckle, almost spitting my drink across the bar.

Sitting with Bolo and Ketch, two regulars of Cid's bar, although it often felt as though yourself and the Batchers were becoming regulars as well. "What do you mean?" You asked, taken aback by the sudden question, clearing your voice from the surprise.

Bolo, with a mischievous grin, nudged Ketch and asked, "You're single, right? So, what's your type?"

"Definitely not you," You quipped with a playful smile, earning a round of laughter from the two.

Despite their jesting, they persisted with the same question. "To be honest, I don't think I have a type," You admitted, though it wasn't entirely truthful. There was one characteristic you looked for in a partner, but it just so happened to belong to a certain Clone.

"Hasn't any of those guys you hang out with asked you out?" Bolo, the lthorian, asked with a hint of intrigue, causing a warm blush to rise to your cheeks. The compliment was flattering, but the thought of being asked out by your friends was both awkward and endearing. But with Echo and his kind heart and constant support, immediately came to the forefront of your mind.

He was always there for you, a shoulder to cry on (although the was a little timid about it at first) and your go-to in times of need. He was simply… lovely.

As you glanced around the dimly lit bar, you’re reminded that your friends were off on a mission and it was just the three of you. Perhaps it was a moment of bravery, or perhaps foolishness, but you decided to share a secret with the two fools. "If I tell you something, you have to swear not to tell the others."

The pair of them gazed at each other in surprise, clearly taken aback that you were willing to confide in them. They nodded eagerly, leaning in closer with interest.

"I, uh," your voice carried a stammer, feeling bashful as you prepared to divulge your feelings for Echo to these two. "I do have a crush on one of the guys."

"Yeah?! Who?" they asked in unison, their grips on the table tight with excitement.

Taking a deep breath, chewing on your lower lip, Echo's name escaped past your lips.

"Him? Killjoy?" They both looked at each other, confused. "Why?"

You couldn't help but giggle, swirling the last remnants of your drink around in my glass bashfully. "I just feel happy when I'm with him. He's kind… dreamy." You trailed off, seemingly lost in thought and forgetting I was with company.

"Dreamy?" Bolo scrunched up his brows in mock disgust, though you could sense his excitement at this new revelation.

Your cheeks flushed red as you realized you had spoken your thoughts out loud. "He's cute. Okay? Are you happy now?"

“Wait, you think I’m cute?”

The sound of Echo's voice startled you, causing your heart to skip a beat and your eyes to widen in surprise. You’re frozen to your seat as you stare straight ahead at Bolo and Ketch who are now instantly standing up and running off.

Slowly, you turned around on your chair to find him standing behind you.

“Hi.”

“Hello.” He says with a soft chuckle escaping his lips and placing his helmet down on the table beside him before approaching you.

"Hi," you repeated again, obviously feeling a little flustered by the sudden appearance of the man who had been the subject of your secret confessions.

"Anything you want to talk about, pretty girl?" Echo prompted, standing in front of you as his fingers gently push a strand of hair behind your ear, sending shivers down your spine.

"I-I-I uh-," you stammered, feeling completely tongue-tied and flustered as he gazed down st you with warm, sparkling eyes

"Well for the record," Echo interrupted your stuttering, tilting his head as he looked at you with a charming smile. "I think you're cute too. And dreamy." He repeats what you had said previously which only adds to your embarrassment.

But… he said you were cute? And dreamy, too? Does this mean…?

His words sent a rush of heat through your body, leaving you feeling completely enamored and unable to say anything in response. To which, Echo takes pity on you and almost cockily, a sudden boost of confidence shooting through him, leans forward and places a kiss to your cheek which was very, very close to your lips. “Speak after? I need to have a chat with Cid.”

He takes a step back, scoots up his helmet and sends you a wink. Where did that confidence come from?

You watch him leave through to the back room and as soon as he’s out of eyeline, you sucked in a deep breath, finally catching your breath back and let out a squeak of excitement.

Did that just happen?

Masterlist

Prompt list

Tags: @nunanuggets @andyoufollowyourheart @littlefeatherr @kaitou2417 @eyecandyeoz @captxin-rex @cwarssimp @jesseeka @ashotofspotchka @oohyesplease @megafrost4 @theroguesully @equalityforcats @mustluvecho @misogirl828 @ladykatakuri @jambolska-grozdova @chxpsi @arctrooper69 @padawancat97 @rain-on-kamino @either-madness-or-brilliance @staycalmandhugaclone @ko-neko-san @echos-girlfriend @fiveshelmet @tech-aficionado @grizabellasolo @cosmic-persephone @imalovernotahater @the-good-shittt @whore4rex @photogirl894 @s1st3r @taskfork-archive @by-the-primes s @swiftiexstarwarssimp @therealnekomari i @autumnleaves1991-blog @tech-depression-inventory @brynhildrmimi @greaser-wolf @lucyysthings @tinyreadersmur @agenteliix @myinnerwonderlandmind @rintheemolion @kaminocasey @hotpinkplastoid

#bad batch echo #echo x you #echo x reader #tbb echo x reader #tbb echo x you #clone wars #nahoney22 writes #tbb #bad batch echo x you

410 notes · View notes

jedipoodoo · 1 year

Text

who needs a reason? (Echo x Reader)

I've had these in my drafts for a year and I'm just now getting to them with three hours until midnight. Happy New Year and happy season two, everyone!

Notes: Mostly fluff, mentions of Echo's PTSD in regards to explosions, Echo's insecure about his appearance.

Wrecker's love of explosions was particularly evident as Cid enlisted his and Tech's help with the fireworks display. Echo, however, was a bit more tense concerning the whole thing. It seemed that every once in a while, everyone forgot that he had quite literally been blown up.

"What would you like to do for the new year?" you asked him.

Echo rested his chin on your shoulder, "I'd really just like to get some peace and quiet, cyar'ika."

You glanced around the Parlor. Cid had a couple distinguished clients visiting tonight, the kind that preferred to keep a low profile. She was throwing this New Year's party in order to help them blend in, which meant more work for the rest of you.

"You think they'd miss us for a couple hours?" You asked as you finished cleaning the last of Cid's drinking glasses. Omega and Hunter were unloading the last of the drinks behind the bar, and Ketch and Bolo were stringing up the lights.

"You'd better not be breakin' any of my glasses, sweetheart!" Cid snapped in your direction. You rolled her eyes at her usual irritability and set down the last of the glasses.

A couple hours later, the party was in full swing. Cid's Parlor was full of people you'd met once or twice during your time on Ord Mantell.

Wrecker had found someone he could rant to about the fireworks display he'd planned, and Omega listened with rapt attention. Ketch and Bolo's brawls over the slot machines were becoming a popular form of entertainment, and you and Echo were stuck serving drinks behind the bar.

Tech and Hunter approached you two, and Echo got them their usuals.

"Cid's friends?" He asked.

"In her office. She said to come out and see if you needed any help," Hunter took a long gulp.

"We've been doing alright-"

"We could use a break," You spoke over Echo, squeezing his arm. He looked at you in surprise, but Tech just nodded. Hunter winked at you, and you pulled Echo to the exit, up the stairs, and to the streets above.

It didn't snow on Ord Mantell. Too much pollution made the planet too warm for that, so you were met with a downpour of rain. Still, it was a welcome sensation to the heavy air of the Parlor, shut up below the ground.

"You are something," Echo shook his head with a chuckle, staring up into the rain.

"Hey, you're the one who said you liked me," You shrugged.

"Huh, I guess I did, didn't I?" With a devilish grin Echo wrapped his arms around your waist, yanking you off your feet and spinning you around and out to the center of the street, where you were both caught in the pouring rain.

You shrieked with delight, begging him to spin you faster and faster. He stumbled once, and set you down before you could trip and fall into one of the puddles nearby.

"Well, we're here now, what do we do?" Echo asked, taking both of your hands in his.

You looked up and down the empty the street. The rain prevented people from bringing their celebrations outside, and Wrecker might have to cancel his beloved fireworks display.

"We should head inside," You chuckled sheepishly. Strands of your hair were starting to stick to your face.

Hand in hand, the two of you ran through the rain to the Marauder, where you both changed into a fresh set of clothes and sat together on Echo's bunk.

"Think the others will come looking for us?" He asked. He was holding your hand again, his thumb brushing back and forth across your knuckles.

"Who cares? Cid's people showed up, she won't mind."

Echo nodded, satisfied with your reasoning. You scooted closer, draping your legs across his lap and resting your forehead against his.

"You're so pretty," You whispered.

"Shut up," He chuckled immediately. You gently smacked his shoulder.

"I mean it!" You said.

Echo still chuckled, "Can you at least tell me what parts of me you think are pretty?"

You cocked one eyebrow at the challenge.

"Your loyalty."

Echo snorted. "My sense of loyalty...is pretty?"

"Hush," You hissed, "It's very attractive, and it totally makes me weak in the knees."

"Okay," Echo chuckled again, and his scomp arm wrapped around your waist to pull you closer.

"You don't take kark from anyone. You know your own value, and it's immensely beautiful."

"I thought you said I was pretty," He teased.

"You can be pretty and beautiful!" You insisted. You took his cheeks in your hands so that he could sense the weight of your sincerity.

"And your eyes," You said at last, tracing his cheekbone with your finger. Echo had no snarky comment for that one.

"They're so bright, so full of life. They're so warm, and they make me feel safe."

Echo's breath stuttered in his throat as he stared up at you. It was like he was seeing you for the first time.

Your nose brushed against his. "Do I need a reason to think that you're pretty?" you whispered timidly.

Echo's hand came up behind your neck, "Maybe not. But...it does feel good to hear it from you."

You ducked your head to hide a smile as your lips brushed against his cheeks, "I'll tell you anytime you want me to."

Echo hummed happily, "Thanks, cyar'ika."

A tinny chime echoed through the hold, and the two of you jumped up, worried that someone else had returned to the ship. But it was just the ship's chronometer, letting you know that it was officially midnight.

"Well, Happy New Year?" Echo laughed off his nerves.

"Happy New Year," You laughed, hiding for face in his chest for a moment. Echo gently tilted your chin upwards to look at him.

"Can I give you a kiss?"

"Hmm...do you need a reason for that one too?"

Echo shook his head, a smile breaking out across his face, "Never."

His lips claimed yours, and the only rumbling to reach your ears was the rain thrumming against the hull of the ship.

Only two more days until Bad Batch Season Two!

#lizart writes #the bad batch x reader #the bad batch #tbb x reader #echo #arc trooper echo #arc trooper echo x reader #tbb echo #the bad batch echo x reader #tbb echo x reader #new year's kiss

159 notes · View notes

half-truths-and-hyperbole-louk · 2 months

Text

Louk's Bad Batch rewatch part 17 😁

we're getting extremely close now yalls 😳 so I'm going to either shorten my posts or post them a lot closer together ... like I've reserved tomorrow to do nothing but watch tbb 🤫

either way I hope you enjoy 💕

The Bad Batch 1x13

"it's not the first time she has left out key details" ~ Tech @ Cid yeah bud and it won't be the last 👀

pykes 🤢

Omega recognising Ruby the lil lizard thing

Hunter's plan to leave Ord Mantell and do their own thing WE WERE ON THE VERGE OF GREATNESS 😫 WE WERE THIS 🤏 CLOSE

and Cid's just waiting for them on their ship 😡

"I believe she's threatening us" YES SHE IS JUST SHOOT HER ALREADY

poor confused Omega my bby she's using you 🥲

Wrecker wearing his helmet as a hat again 🥺

Cid: "you guys are good at stealth right?" lmao who's gonna tell her

Cid just pulled a Joel Miller with the "we're silent, not quiet, silent" hehe

Wrecker: "we're not afraid of a few bugs" oop-

okay so did Omega name the lizard thing Ruby or is that actually her name?? bc Omega calls it Ruby and after that Roland calls it that too, so is he just copying her or did Omega like force-sense it's name? like how Ahsoka can talk to Grogu?? 🤔

Echo: "ugh and I thought Wrecker was a slob" pls- 💀 stinky boys

bad guys who baby talk to their pets and blow kisses and cuddle them

HOLD UP 👀 Hunter just slammed on the brakes, hijacked the other cart and jumped back off in time for it to move away 👌👌👌

how many times did I watch Hunter jump in the cart? yes

"at least we got rid of the spice right?" ~ Trace Omega + a bonus Tech looking into the camera like he's on the office 👀

I'd trust Bolo and Ketch more than Cid lolol

lmao Cid really thought she did something 💀

they literally all move at lightning speed to get their blasters out when the pyke says he'll keep Omega 👌 then they: 😡😡😡😡

if I was tbb I'd leave Cid at the bottom of the cavern, take the spice to the pykes and leave the planet

they're in the upside down fr

CAN PEOPLE STOP PUTTING OUR BABY IN HANDCUFFS !!!

but she makes friends with everyone 🥺

Roland: *being a spoiled rich kid* Omega: 'do you do crime'

CID YOU NUTBRAINED GECKO IF YOU WEREN'T SO BUSY TELLING WRECKER WHAT TO DO MAYBE YOU WOULDN'T HAVE SINGLE-HANDEDLY WOKEN THE ENTIRE HIVE-

Tech just yeets the light grenade and yells "incoming" I love him sm 🥰

it reminds me of Boba's seismic charge 💕

Hunter's hand on Omega's back when she stands with him and him reaching for her when she steps to Roland 🥺

Omega covering her face when she thinks they're gonna kill Roland 😭

the way I thought Roland was Vizago from rebels when I first saw them cut his horn 💀

Cid says "first rounds on me" and Tech and Echo smile at eachother 🥰

as always thanks for joining my friendsss ilysm 💕

14 notes · View notes

multi-fan-dom-madness · 1 year

Text

Chapter 1: Evaarl'a (Second Chances - Hunter x Reader)

Evaar'la. n., adj. New; young.

Summary: Despite your best efforts, you owe Cid a favor. So when she gives you a mission you can't complete on your own, she graciously provides you with backup, in the form of a squadron of four clones and a young girl. Whatever you were expecting, this wasn't it.

Warnings: gn!reader; reader has a backstory and nickname; angst; canon-typical cursing; use of y/n; if I missed any, let me know! Expanded warnings will be provided on the series masterlist.

WC: 3463

Read it here on AO3!

Next chapter >

The familiar rank smell of stale alcohol, sweat, and grime makes your nose wrinkle in distaste as you step over the threshold of Cid’s Parlor. You should have known better than to think that you would be able to get away from this place, but the Force seems to be conspiring against you as of late. Of course the Trandoshan woman couldn’t handle her own business. Of course she called on you for help—holding the favor you owed her over your head like a baton. And of course, you had no better prospects as a person on the run from the Empire. Besides, you really, really did not want to be in debt to Ciddarin Scaleback for longer than absolutely necessary.

So here you are, glancing around at the busy parlor. The neon behind the bar catches on jewelry as people mingle in the space, flirtatious hands splayed over shoulders, alcohol-filled words whispered in ears that will not remember them in the morning. At the Dejarik tables, the familiar figures of Bolo and Ketch help ground you in the moment. Everything here is loud, flashy, gaudy. You grit your teeth and take another step into the poorly lit ambience.

Beneath your hood, you flick your eyes around to survey the rest of the patrons assembled here tonight. The usual odd assortment of humanoids, aliens, and droids does something to quell the rising tide of anxiety in your stomach. None of the other people here stand out; none of them even seem to notice or care about your appearance in the one place you wanted nothing to do with. But still, you hesitate.

Not for the first time you ask yourself if there is a way out of this. Some amount of credits that Cid might accept in lieu of a favor, the right words you can conjure to sway the unshakeable and deep-seated greed of the Trandoshan, a nudge from the Force—as if you believed in that. No. You shake your head at yourself. You made the promise, and now you have to follow through.

You squeeze past several patrons to reach the bar. Its surface is sticky as you lean your forearms against it, and you grimace down at it. The blue-skinned Twi’lek woman behind the bar is unfamiliar to you, but then again, most people in this part of Ord Mantell City are transient. You catch the way that some of the men at the bar stare hungrily at her as she reaches for a top-shelf bottle of alcohol, her dark clothes riding up to reveal her back dimples. Swallowing against the disgust that rises in your throat, you take a steadying breath. You’ve thrown your fair share of “unsavory clientele,” as Cid likes to put it, to the curb in this Parlor, but that’s not what you’re here for tonight.

After the Twi serves the top-shelf drinks to a pair of Rodians, you raise one finger to flag her down.

She approaches with a thousand-watt smile. “What can I get for ya, darlin’?”

You jerk your head in the direction of Cid’s back office. Half-shouting to be heard, you say, “The boss in her office?”

Her smile dims just a smidge. Her eyes take in your hooded form and makes the quick assessment that you’re not worth the trouble playing dumb with. She nods. “Yeah. But not in the best of moods tonight.”

“When is she ever in a good mood?” you mutter to yourself. Digging in one of the pouches on your utility belt, you fish out a couple of spare credits and push them across the gummy surface of the counter. She pockets the chips and gives you a single nod of appreciation before arranging her face back into its customer service mask as she turns to the next patron.

You push away from the bar. At least you know what you’re heading into. Cid isn’t known for her generosity or her kindness, and you’re almost glad that she’s in a sour mood; it’ll make this easier. You won’t have to worry about setting her off now that you know she’s already been set off.

Out of habit your eyes sweep the tightly packed barroom. Nothing new of note. Except—

The front door slides open to admit more patrons. Tugging your hood farther up your head to make sure your face is fully hidden in shadow, you eyeball the newcomers with equal parts curiosity and anticipation. Four men file through the doorway, followed by a young girl. All of the men wear dark plastoid armor, helmets tucked beneath their arms; blasters rest, holstered, at their hips. Probably more of Cid’s mercs.

You frown and shake your head, deciding they’re not worth your time. Being here is...unpleasant, to put it mildly. Granted, the last time you were here wasn’t pleasant either, but for an entirely different reason. You want out of this grimy, barely above-board bar, off this Maker-forsaken planet, and away from a past that seems to refuse to let you escape.

The last time I was here, Arien was still alive.

You shove that thought out of your mind angrily. There’s no use in dwelling on...her right now. Gripping the shoulder straps of your backpack a little tighter, you set your jaw and trudge through the crowd towards Cid’s office. Most of the patrons back off at your pointed glare as you stalk past them.

When the claustrophobic sensation of being pressed by too many bodies in such a small space nearly becomes too much, you stumble out of the crowd and into the hallway that leads to Cid’s back rooms. A sigh of relief rushes out of you almost of its own volition, but a headache is beginning to bloom just behind your right eye, dull and throbbing. You curse to yourself. Of course.

The door to Cid’s office is partly ajar. Warm yellow light spills from the gap, and you swallow against the sudden dryness in your throat. With a knock that’s nothing more than courtesy, you push the rusted metal door on its groaning hinges.

Cid looks up as you enter. Some old piece of technology lies disassembled across her desk, an illuminated magnifying lamp spotlighting one of the pieces as Cid sets it down. If she’s surprised to see you, she doesn’t show it. Instead, her eyes narrow as she looks past you to the empty space behind you. She straightens up in her chair and jerks her chin for you to shut the door.

The thrumming base of the music from the bar drops a few decibels after you do, and you silently thank the Maker for such a reprieve. Everything about this place has settled beneath your skin, leaving you feeling as sticky and grimy as the bartop counter.

“Red,” Cid says as she moves around her desk. “I thought I told you to come back with the two idiots who got themselves captured.”

You bristle at the offhanded nickname. She’s been calling you that since the first time you met—so given because of the red color your hair had been at the time. You’ve long since changed your appearance, yet Cid doesn’t seem to want to give up the nickname.

You draw a steadying breath through your nose. “I need backup.”

“That wasn’t part of the deal,” she says, pointing an accusing finger at you.

“Deals change all the time,” you say flatly, crossing your arms over your chest. “This job isn’t as simple as you want to think it is. It isn’t just a simple grab-and-go rescue mission.”

“Sure it is.”

You grind your teeth, heat building in your chest. “I’m telling you, Cid, this is worse than when—” You cut yourself off, attempting to cauterize the painful memories before they can bleed through your aching brain. You try again: “This is worse than the last time. I need backup. I’ll still finish the job as my favor to you, but you’ve gotta meet me in the middle here.”

Cid considers your words for a moment, her eyes searching your face for some kind of farce. Finding none, because none is there, she huffs and turns back to her desk, retrieving a comlink discarded among the disorganized pile of tech. “Report to my office.”

You bite the inside of your cheek to stall the sigh of relief that wants to escape you. At the very least, she’s willing to hear you out, and that’s better than you hoped for to begin with.

A few moments later, the office door behind you squeals open and the wave of noise from the bar proper swells once again as whoever Cid has called in as your backup enters. You turn, half expecting Phee or some other merc you know—and frown when, instead, four men and a child squeeze into the small office with you.

“Cid,” one of the men speaks up once the door is shut again. His voice is low and laced with a tinge of annoyance. He’s got a skull tattoo that covers half of his face, his dark curly hair held back off his face with a red bandana. He meets your scowling gaze with one to match before his eyes slide back to your employer. “What’s this about?”

“Got another mission for you boys,” Cid says. She gestures with a sweeping arm to you. “Boys, meet Red. Red, meet Bandana, Goggles, Killjoy, Muscles, and Tiny.” She points to each of them in turn and you glance at them as she does: skull tattoo; a taller man with his nose buried in a datapad; a grumpy-looking cyborg; a hulking figure of a man; and the blonde girl, who waves at you with a big smile.

“My name’s not Red,” you huff. “It’s (y/n).”

“Whatever.” Cid waves away your complaint. “Easy extraction job. Two targets. Red has their profiles. Get them out, bring them back.”

The one Cid called Goggles glances over the edge of his datapad at Cid, and then at you. “I highly doubt it will be ‘easy,’ as you put it. Why does this ‘Red’ need our support?”

Cid gestures to you as she retreats around her desk, settling once again in her chair.

You sigh, turning fully to face this group. “Let’s just say my skills don’t lie in strategy or tactics. Both things that a mission like this requires.”

Bandana hums thoughtfully as he studies you. “Where exactly are the targets being held?”

You open your mouth to answer, but Cid cuts in first. “Details you can hash out on the flight there. You best be going; don’t want to keep those two buffoons waiting.”

You know when you’re being dismissed, and apparently so do these men. Killjoy twists the doorknob and yanks the door open, leading his party out of the room. You begin to follow, when Cid calls you back.

Schooling your face into something resembling neutrality, you turn to face her. “What.”

“Finish the job this time, and we’ll be even.”

“Fine.”

You turn on your heel and hurry through the crowd to catch up with your newly assigned backup crew.

Outside the bar, the night air is muggy and chilled, the sky above peeking through gaps in the buildings. As the door to Cid’s slides shut behind you, cutting off the chatter and music from inside, you finally allow yourself to exhale as you lean against the rough exterior wall.

The group turns to you a moment later. Each of them wears a closed-off expression, except the girl, who steps up to you and offers you her hand.

“I’m Omega,” she says. “Only Cid calls me Tiny.”

A small smile tugs at the corners of your mouth against your will. You clasp her hand and shake it once. “Nice to meet you, Omega. Like I said, I’m (y/n). No one calls me Red except Cid.”

Omega beams at you and looks over her shoulder at the four men who stand awkwardly in the small alleyway. Her curls fly as she moves, haloing around her. “Come on, guys, introduce yourselves.”

“Right.” The cyborg waves his right hand, which ends in a scomp link. “I’m Echo.”

“Tech,” offers the man with the datapad.

“Wrecker!” shouts the large man, a grin breaking out over his scarred face.

Bandana sighs and says, “And I’m Hunter. Let’s get moving. We can talk details once we get to the ship.”

“I can just give you the coordinates and follow you in my ship,” you say, falling in step behind the group. Omega chooses to walk next to you instead of with her group.

“Negative,” Hunter says over his shoulder to you in a tone that brooks no argument. “You’ll come with us.”

You shrug. “I’ll need to grab some things from my ship first, then.”

None of them respond, so you take that as an ‘okay,’ and follow them the rest of the way to the spaceport. This time of night, the port isn’t as busy as it had been earlier in the day when you first arrived. Your Redthorn-class scout ship sits docked exactly where you left it, chromium plates gleaming in the bright lights where the red-and-white paint job is chipped.

You push between Echo and Tech to pull ahead of the group.

“That’s your ship?” Echo calls after you.

You turn and give a nod. “Why you ask?”

“Because it is parked in our spot,” Tech answers. He draws to a halt at the edge of the landing bay, his companions fanning out to either side of him.

You snort and shake your head incredulously. “What? This is my spot. Always has been.”

“Then how come we’ve never seen it here?” Wrecker asks, crossing his arms.

“I’ve been...away,” you say. Technically the truth. Detaching yourself from the conversation, you hurry to the ship. Arien’s ship. My ship, you correct yourself, a bitter taste in your mouth. A lot of what you currently own comes from Arien, and most of it is a painful reminder of her life. You just don’t have the heart to get rid of any of it—despite being in desperate need of the extra credits.

You press your palm to the biometric scanner near the rear ramp. As it hisses open, you clamber onto the ramp before it has the chance to fully extend. Though you have most of your supplies already in your pack, you want to deposit a few things before going out on such a dangerous mission, with total strangers, no less. As you punch in the keycode on your personal locker, a list of supplies flicks through your mind. Blasters, check. Power packs and gas canisters, double check. Uniform, don’t need that. You shove the gray fabric into the locker without a second glance, slamming the metal door shut after. Rations, check. Datastick with the coordinates, check—and then check again, patting the pocket where it rests. Satisfied, you do one more visual sweep of the barren interior of the cargo hold, then head back down the ramp to seal it.

“Ready now?” Hunter asks, his eyes scanning you from head to toe.

Heat rushes unexpectedly to your face under his scrutiny, and you gulp. “Yep. Lead the way.”

Their ship is just a few docking bays over from yours, and it is much larger. You whistle appreciatively at her tall, angular wings, fore and aft guns, and sleek lines. The dark gray metal bears residue of carbon scoring from past blaster fire.

“It is a modified Omicron-class shuttle,” Tech informs you. “I have made all of its modifications myself.”

You give him a sideways glance as the ship’s side ramp lowers itself from the hull. “That’s...wow. I didn’t even know you could get Omicron shuttles since the war.”

“You can’t,” he says. Then he takes the stairs quickly and disappears into the ship, leaving you to furrow your brow in confusion.

What was that supposed to mean? Did they get it during the war? Did they steal it? Who are these people? And as Omega bounds past you up the steps, you shake your head. What the kriff are they doing in a military class ship with a child?

You take the stairs last, and you’re glad you do. The ship absolutely reeks. The assaulting scent of dirty gym clothes, stale sweat, and recycled air punches your nose and it’s all you can do to not gag as the ramp closes behind you. Stifling a cough, you squint at the men’s backs a little judgmentally.

Echo notices your reaction and turns, laying a comforting hand briefly on your shoulder. “You’ll get used to the smell.”

“I doubt that,” you mutter. He chuckles.

Despite the offensive smell, you glance curiously around the interior of the ship, noting the jump seats, data centers, and racks of bunks, before you follow Echo into the cockpit as the ship lifts away from the spaceport. The city descends out of view as you peer through the front viewports, Tech guiding the ship from the pilot seat.

“Right,” Hunter says once the sky transitions from blue to the speckled black of space. He crosses his arms over his broad chest, a deep frown on his face. “Details. Now.”

All five of them look at you with varying degrees of expectancy and curiosity. You fish the datastick out of your pocket and toss it to Tech, who catches it easily in one hand. He swivels back to plug the stick in.

“Two of Cid’s contacts got themselves captured two weeks ago. She wants them sprung so they can’t lead back to her. Trust me, this mission isn’t from the good of Cid’s heart.” Venom bleeds into your voice.

“These coordinates are for an Imperial base,” Tech announces.

“What!?” Hunter glares at you and takes a step forward.

You raise your hands in a placating gesture. “I was getting to that part. If I didn’t owe Cid, I would be staying as far away from the Empire as possible. But this is what it is. If all you want to do is just get me close and then draw back, fine. But this will go a lot smoother with your help. And judging by this ship, those blasters you carry, and your armor, you all know your way around these kinds of missions.”

You lock eyes with Hunter, realizing he’s the leader, and try to keep your face neutral. When you’d told them that strategy isn’t your strong suit, you’d been telling the truth—you excel in people. And you know that right now, offering a blank slate for Hunter to project his clearly tumultuous thoughts onto is going to be to your benefit.

After a few tense moments, he drops his hands to his sides. “Make the jump, Tech.”

“Hunter, the Empire—” Echo begins.

Hunter raises one hand, cutting Echo off with a hard stare. “I know.” He looks at you and jerks his head toward the cargo hold. “You, a word. Now.”

You hesitate only a moment before stalking out of the cockpit, Hunter hot on your heels. You make it to the data centers before Hunter grabs your wrist, pulling you around. You glare up at him and yank your arm free.

“Word of advice, sweetheart,” he growls, spitting the pet name at you, “maybe don’t lie to the people you’re supposed to be working with.”

You bare your teeth and take a step forward, jabbing a finger into his armored chest. “I didn’t lie. It’s not my fault Cid put you on this mission. And you could have just turned around and dropped me back off at my ship, sweetheart.”

He glowers down at you, using his height to his advantage. Something in his angry, heated gaze makes goosebumps erupt all over your skin with a shiver.

“Listen,” you say, voice low, “I’ve got no love for the Empire. I sure as hell don’t want their attention on me any more than I’m sure you want it on you. So let’s just get this done and over with, and then we can go our separate ways.”

You glare at each other for a moment more. Your chest heaves with every breath, more agitated than you have been in a long while. Eventually, he pushes your finger away from his chest and takes a step back.

“Separate ways,” he says. “Deal.”

You remain rooted to the spot as he returns to the cockpit. You catch a glimpse of the blue and white swirling light of hyperspace before the door slides shut once more. Breathing through your mouth, you sink into one of the swivel chairs and lower your head into your hands.

What have I gotten myself into?

#hunter x reader #tbb hunter x reader #the bad batch x reader #second chances #rhiwrites #hunter x gn!reader

73 notes · View notes