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crowfootwrites · 7 months

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Devotion & Diplomacy - Part II

Y'all, I'm SO PUMPED to share this chapter with you! Daro has finally arrived! Much of this chapter follows the events of TNG S4E12 "The Wounded", but with the spin of our OC being present - but it felt like the perfect introduction for Daro in the show, and it feels that way for this story, too, I think.

Anyway, Emrys and Daro meet and it's all heart eyes and shit. 🥰

Part I of Devotion & Diplomacy | Read on AO3

Warnings: Miles being a traumatized bb boi; spoilers for TNG S4E12 | Words: ~3,100

When Emrys awoke the next morning, she was sorely tempted to remain snuggled under her blankets - spending weeks at a time dealing with the tense atmosphere of peacekeeping and treaty-writing was beginning to wear on her. She had stacks of PADDs to work through and she almost certainly had new, pressing messages from her superiors, the tone of which she could already guess.

She sighed and pressed the heels of her hands against her eyes, rubbing away the sleep and steeling herself for the day ahead - at least aboard the Enterprise she could be a bit more leisurely. With no Cardassian timetables to keep to, and no meetings to report back on to her superiors, Emrys could sit and review things methodically and interruption-free.

As she flung the covers away from her, a tremendous jolt rocked the ship and sent Emrys rolling off the bed. She stumbled to her feet just as the thunderous roar that had followed died down. Immediately, the red alert klaxons began to wail and Emrys reached for the comm in her quarters.

“Do you need any assistance, Counselor?” she called to Deanna. If her memory served her correctly, her friend would be on the bridge this morning.

“We’ve got things under control for now, but standby.” Emrys could hear Lieutenant Worf barking orders in the background and let her communication line close. They’d call her if they needed. Trying to keep any anxiety at bay, she took to pacing.

— — —

A brief chime sounded, interrupting Emrys’ review of what little progress her group had made on Cardassia Prime, before Captain Picard’s voice came floating through her temporary quarters: “Commander Beck, I hope I’m not interrupting, but I have a favor to ask.”

“Go ahead, Captain,” she responded, gathering up the stack of PADDs on the table before her. The red alert klaxons had stopped sounding not too long ago and she had a sinking feeling this favor had something to do with that.

“The red alert this morning was called after we were fired upon by a Cardassian vessel,” he began, and Emrys frowned. “The crew of that ship was apparently retaliating, due to reports of a Federation starship destroying an unarmed science station in the Cuellar system.”

Emrys couldn’t contain the groan that pulled at her throat. This incident certainly wouldn’t help when she had to return to Cardassia next.

“The USS Phoenix is responsible for the attack,” the captain continued, “but they have since gone silent and are not responding to Starfleet communiqués. Admiral Haden has asked us to find the USS Phoenix, and the crew of the Trager, the Cardassian vessel, have offered safe passage, provided that we allow a delegation aboard while we do so.”

Emrys blew out the breath she didn’t know she’d been holding as quietly as she could. The tension that was sure to accompany these Cardassians aboard would be difficult to navigate. Peaceful relations were so new that there were certainly still members of the Federation who would be unable to stay quiet, even if it went against orders.

“Given your experience on Cardassia and in helping to navigate the formation of the treaty in general, I was hoping that you might be available to assist in the… handling,” Picard added delicately, “of their delegation while they’re aboard.”

Although the situation was sure to be tense, Emrys reasoned, drumming her fingers on the tabletop, it had the potential to be a net positive. The vast majority of Emrys and her team’s interactions on Cardassia had been limited to members of the Central Command. That made sense, of course, but Central Command wasn’t exactly known for its tolerance of dissenting opinions. If she could manage to broker or at least maintain positive relationships with the delegates who came aboard, perhaps she could gather some additional perspective to take with her into negotiations.

Emrys cleared her throat and tossed her stack of PADDs into her travel bag. “Of course, Captain,” she replied. “I’m happy to help in any way I can.”

“Excellent,” the captain responded. “The gul and two of his aides will be beaming aboard in one hour. Please meet us in Transporter Room Three.”

“Aye, sir.”

Gulping down the rest of her red leaf tea, Emrys rushed to get ready as her first day of “vacation” was suddenly dashed. A strand of hair came loose from her braid as she tugged on her boots and she blew it out of her face exasperatedly. Smoothing the wrinkles in her uniform shirt determinedly, she stepped out into the hallway to make for the Transporter Room with only a few minutes to spare.

In the Transporter Room, Emrys took her place beside Deanna, who gave her a friendly bump with her shoulder, and Will, just as three imposing Cardassians appeared on the transport pad. Their helmets still donned, and clad in brown armor, Emrys was reminded acutely of her trips to Cardassia over the past several months, far from friendly faces and never too far from underlying currents of tension and anger.

Immediately, Emrys noted that she didn’t recognize any of these men in particular, although she understood their insignia easily – the aide to the left of the gul had a much friendlier look about him than the other two. Although the firm set of his mouth remained, his wide eyes curiously took in his surroundings, and Emrys smiled to herself.

“Welcome to the Enterprise,” Will offered. “I’m First Officer William Riker.”

He motioned to the two women beside him. “Counselor Deanna Troi and Lieutenant Commander Emrys Beck,” he introduced, as Deanna and Emrys nodded in turn. Emrys smiled as the friendlier-looking aide caught her eye and dipped his head in acknowledgement.

“I am Gul Macet,” the Cardassian in the center declared, stepping down off the transporter pad. “My aides, Glinn Daro, Glinn Telle,” he added as his men followed, standing at ease behind him.

“This is our Transporter Chief, Mr. O’Brien.” Will motioned to Miles as he spoke and Miles nodded curtly at the group. A tinge of dread began pooling in Emrys’ stomach as she watched the interaction, remembering that Miles’ reaction to the Cardassians on board would hardly be an isolated incident. A glance at the mostly well-concealed concern on Deanna’s face told Emrys that she wasn’t alone in her worries.

“Shall we?” Will asked, leading the group into the busy halls of the Enterprise.

The group was quiet as Will guided them to the Observation Lounge, and Emrys found herself wanting to bridge the gap, to be as welcoming as possible, if only to shake off the lingering effects of Miles’ terseness.

“Gul Macet,” she remarked, matching her pace to his as he looked at her in mild surprise, “on my most recent visit to Cardassia, I had the opportunity to speak with the Prefect of Bajor stationed on Terok Nor, Gul Dukat. I can’t help but notice that you bear a striking resemblance to him - are you of any relation?” Emrys turned to await his response, noticing the glance that the two glinns walking behind them shared.

A dark look passed over Macet’s face. It was quick, but Emrys caught it and filed it away to be analyzed later.

“Yes,” Macet responded blithely. “Dukat is my cousin. Although, I am significantly more interested in hearing what brought you to Cardassia, my dear.” He appraised Emrys with a critical eye. Even with the armistice in place, few non-Cardassians came to his home world for any reason.

“Well… I assisted in forming the armistice between Cardassia and the Federation,” she admitted. “And now I lead the team of Federation members who are working with Central Command to formalize a treaty.”

“Ah, so you’re a diplomat.” He seemed almost disdainful, but Emrys thought she’d seen the barest hint of a smile on his face.

“Not entirely, Gul,” she countered. “In fact, I’ve served as a communications officer on several Starfleet ships. Weeks at a time on Cardassia is the most time I’ve spent on land in years,” she added with a light laugh.

Emrys was robbed of Macet’s response as the door to the observation lounge opened and their group joined the captain, who was already seated at the head of the table. Emrys found herself seated beside Glinn Daro as Miles and Commander La Forge trailed into the room.

As Will and the captain discussed the steps they were planning to take to locate the Phoenix, Emrys allowed herself the opportunity to subtly study the Cardassian beside her. He seemed more at ease than his counterparts, his broad shoulders relaxed as he listened intently to Captain Picard. Emrys had spent more time than she could reasonably quantify around Cardassians in the last year, and none of them had been half as agreeable as this one. She wondered briefly if it was an act, some elaborate display designed to catch adversaries off guard. She dismissed the idea just as quickly, however; Cardassians could certainly be devious and underhanded, but in the more recent past, they’d preferred to rely on brute strength, a trait that Emrys had noticed was perpetuated by most members of the military and Central Command. She then wondered how this Glinn Daro’s seemingly pleasant nature served him there.

The sound of Miles snapping at something the gul had said brought Emrys back to attention. As the captain intervened, she made a mental note to have Deanna check in with Miles later. If the information Emrys had from Vice Admiral Nechayev was good, the Federation wouldn’t be able to handle falling back into conflict with Cardassia; they were still reeling from their losses to the Borg. Emrys often felt that her job was akin to walking a tightrope, and she wanted to ensure that at the very least, no one on this ship would be pushing anything off balance.

The captain’s combadge chirped as Worf summoned him to the bridge. The gul and captain exited the lounge and Emrys turned to the glinns, rising from her seat.

“Would you like to join me in Ten Forward for a drink? It seems likely that it will be a while before we catch up to the Phoenix.”

Daro nodded his agreement and gave her a small smile. Emrys was struck again by Daro’s height as he rose from his seat; he was several inches taller than her, and carried himself with a cool confidence that only accentuated his stature. Telle fell in step with them as they approached the turbolift, looking for all the world like someone had just hit him.

Emrys’ heart rate picked up slightly as she stepped into the turbolift and realized that Miles had joined them.

Miles called for deck six and Daro, seemingly intrigued by the command protocol, called for deck ten. There was a moment of awkward silence while Miles glared at the wall, but just as Emrys opened her mouth to break it, Daro spoke up.

“Your captain is most impressive,” he proffered kindly. She couldn’t be sure whether he was speaking to her or Miles.

“Yes, he is,” Miles agreed, his voice clipped.

Daro’s eyes slid to Emrys’ for a moment and she gave him an encouraging smile.

She watched as he bolstered himself slightly, standing up just a bit taller. “Chief O’Brien, our transporting system is still operating with active feed pattern buffers. I would like to talk with you about your technology.”

Emrys felt a momentary fluttering in her chest. He was trying to be friendly! Even though Miles had already been standoffish, Daro was still trying to build bridges, something Emrys could certainly appreciate. His attempts to break the tension in the turbolift were endearing.

“I’ll have to get Commander La Forge’s approval on that.”

“I understand.” Daro paused, as though hesitant. “In the meantime, we’re going to your Ten Forward. Will you join us?”

Emrys felt the dread deadening her limbs again as the turbolift halted and she glanced at Miles’ face. He looked murderous.

“If my Commander tells me to discuss the transporter with you, I will,” he began acidly. “If Captain Picard orders me to tell you everything I know about Ben Maxwell, I will-”

“Miles,” Emrys warned quietly.

“But who I choose to spend my free time with,” he ground out, ignoring Emrys and stepping into Daro’s space, “that’s my business.” His proximity to Daro suddenly sent anger crackling through Emrys like lightning.

“O’Brien,” she barked, placing a hand between the two men. Miles glared at her before stepping aside and exiting the turbolift. The doors closed and they were off again. Emrys exhaled sharply before finding a smile for the glinns.

“My apologies. In my experience, the chief is not usually quite so… prickly.”

Telle, who Emrys had yet to hear speak at all, addressed her sternly. “Perhaps that is your experience because you are human.”

“That is very likely,” Emrys replied softly. “I apologize for it nonetheless.” The turbolift halted and she guided Daro and Telle to Ten Forward, eager to move on to more pleasant conversation.

At the bar, over kanar and Alvanian brandy, the trio kept the discussion light, discussing how the glinns came to be posted on the Trager and how Emrys was enjoying her visits to Cardassia. Emrys did most of the work, which she had anticipated, but once she started getting responses from the thoroughly stiff Telle, she gave herself a mental pat on the back.

After a while, Telle excused himself and Daro seemed to relax even further. Until Miles appeared. He spotted Emrys and Daro and approached hesitantly. Emrys appreciated that he at least had the decency to look a little ashamed of himself.

“Mind if I join you?” he asked. Emrys glanced at Daro questioningly. He gestured to the open barstool and Miles sat down as Emrys hid a small smile behind her glass of brandy, affected once again by Daro’s civility.

“I wanted to say,” Miles began sheepishly. “I owe you an apology. I shouldn’t have popped off like that in the turbolift.” He peeked at Emrys before looking down at the bar top.

“I think…” Daro replied quietly, “This has been hard on all of us. I know I’ll be happy when I’m back on my own ship.” A delicate tendril of something like sadness curled around Emrys.

Miles nodded thoughtfully. “I guess that’s true. I hadn’t thought about that.”

“I was on Setlik III with Captain Maxwell,” he continued, “the morning after the massacre.” Daro’s eyes widened just slightly. Emrys knew this story - knew how Chief O’Brien became the “Hero of Setlik III”. She understood why Miles felt the way that he did. Part of her job in the formation of the treaty had been thoroughly reviewing Cardassian war efforts, in addition to all the things she’d experienced firsthand. There were atrocities she’d seen and heard about that she’d never be able to forget. But she was also capable of considering the big picture, the long term: that continuing to behave like enemies would only lead to a ceaseless war that no one could afford, certainly not the Federation.

The chief carried on, as if determined to get this out. “We were too late, of course. Almost everyone was dead.”

To Emrys’ surprise, Daro spoke. “That was a terrible mistake,” he murmured, gazing down at his kanar glass. “We were told the outpost was a launching place for a massive attack against us.”

Miles shook his head sadly. “The only people left alive,” he contended, “were in an outlying district of the settlement. I was sent there with a squad to reinforce them.” His eyes studied the wall behind the bar despondently. “The Cardassians were advancing on us… moving through the streets, destroying, killing. I was with a group of women and children when two Cardassian soldiers burst in. I stunned one of them. The other one jumped me.”

Daro regarded him wide-eyed.

“One of the women threw me a phaser and I fired.” Miles grimaced. “The phaser was set at maximum. The man just… just incinerated there before my eyes.” He looked at Daro meaningfully. “I’d never killed anything before. When I was a kid, I’d worry about swatting a mosquito.” Grief swelled in Emrys’ chest for Miles, knowing that nothing would ever take away or undo the burden he carried from his time in the war. It was yet another reminder for Emrys why she was working so hard for this treaty.

Miles got up from his barstool abruptly, and both Daro and Emrys regarded him with concern.

“It’s not you I hate, Cardassian,” the chief added with a note of finality. “I hate what I became because of you.” Before Emrys could even consider responding, he was gone.

Daro studied the glass in his hands intently. Emrys opened her mouth, but he cut in.

“Please don’t apologize for him,” he said, finally meeting her eyes. “I understand him.” He nodded, seemingly to himself. “We all carry things with us that we’d sooner forget.” He drained the last of his kanar and set the glass down lightly.

“I think,” he added quietly, “that I should return to my quarters.” That tendril of sadness around Emrys squeezed a little tighter, wishing that this visit could have been easier, more positive. A small part of her whispered that it also would have been nice to have more time to talk to Daro alone. But she couldn't imagine how exhausted he must be, how uncomfortable.

“Of course,” she replied. “May I walk with you?”

Daro gave her a small smile. “I would enjoy that very much.”

Emrys noticed how Daro slowed his pace as they made their way through the halls of the Enterprise and hummed thoughtfully.

“You know, Glinn Daro,” Emrys admitted, tucking her hands behind her back and glancing up at him thoughtfully, “you are unlike any Cardassian I’ve ever met.”

His eye ridges rose slightly as he looked back at her. “Is that a good thing?”

Emrys nodded emphatically. “Definitely. You are infinitely more approachable.”

“Well,” he replied as they reached his door, “if that is what has allowed me the pleasure of your company, then it is a trait I am happy to have.”

Emrys flushed, dipping her head to hide her flustered expression. Forcing herself to look at him, she found her voice again.

“The pleasure has been all mine, truly.”

The warmth in his eyes seemed to spill over as he gazed at her. “I bid you goodnight, Commander.”

Emrys inclined her head, allowing a smile to pull at her lips. “Goodnight, Glinn.”

#star trek #star trek tng #star trek the next generation #glinn daro x oc #glinn daro #glinn daro x fem!oc #daro star trek #st tng the wounded #cardassians #i officially have cardassian brainrot #i love him your honor #deanna troi #will riker #captain picard #miles o'brien

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deepspacedukat · 2 years

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ST:TNG Fic Masterlist

18+ ONLY BEYOND THIS POINT

Fic Masterlist Key: 💛 = SFW, ❤️ = NSFW (18+ ONLY), 👀 = WIP/Coming Soon

✨Bochra✨

~ Overexcited ❤️:

Summary: Centurion Bochra finally takes a vacation. - SoC 2023 Day 23

~ Treatment ❤️:

Summary: After the incident at Galorndon Core, one of Enterprise’s nurses attempts to treat Centurion Bochra, only to discover a difference in Romulan physiology. (Vampire AU) - Kinktober 2022 Day 5

✨Glinn Daro✨

~ Just One 💛:

Summary: Daro steals a kiss from the reader before departing the Enterprise.

~ Take Care ❤️:

Summary: *Ficlet* Glinn Daro and his lover have their first time together.

✨Data✨

~ Deduction ❤️:

Summary: Can the reader really tell a difference between Data and his brother? - Kinktober 2022 Day 21

~ Measure Of A Friend 💛:

Summary: Reader is an Ensign who has feelings for a certain android. When Commander Maddox comes into the picture, she faces a choice: should she tell Data how she feels before it’s too late? Or should she forever hold her peace?

Donatra (Nemesis)

~ Indulgence ❤️:

Summary: When Picard and Donatra have that drink, the Commander of the Valdore finds something she didn’t expect. - SoC 2023 Day 21

✨Praetor Hiren (Nemesis)✨

~ Conspicuous ❤️:

Summary: During a state banquet, Hiren gets revenge on his wife for teasing him earlier in the evening. - SoC 2023 Day 6

~ Praetor’s Pride ❤️:

Part 1 ✨ Part 2 ✨ Part 3 ✨ Part 4 ✨ Part 5 ✨ Part 6 👀

Summary: Letant tries to set his friend up with none other than the Praetor of the Romulan Empire.

✨Alidar Jarok✨

~ The Defector (And His Doctor) ❤️:

Part 1 ✨ Part 2 ✨ Epilogue ✨ - COMPLETE

Summary: When Alidar Jarok tries to warn the Federation about an impending Romulan incursion, he gets more than he bargained for.

✨Akellan Macet✨

~ All Worked Up ❤️:

Summary: Macet has been away from his lover for too long. - SoC 2023 Day 9

~ Mesmerized ❤️:

Summary: *Ficlet* A glance into one of the mornings of shore leave from “Risa Is For Lovers.”

~ Peace Talks And Other Diversions 💛:

Summary: Gul Macet meets a Lieutenant on the Enterprise.

~ Risa Is For Lovers ❤️:

Summary: (Sequel to “Peace Talks And Other Diversions) The reader and Gul Macet meet up on Risa for shore leave, and a request from Commander Riker causes quite a stir.

~ The Cove ❤️:

Summary: Another little glimpse into one of the unseen days on Risa in “Risa Is For Lovers.” - Kinktober 2022 Day 26

✨Lore✨

~ Break You ❤️:

Summary: *Ficlet* The reader insists to her android lover that she won’t break. Will she?

~ Deduction 💛:

Summary: Can the reader really tell a difference between Data and his brother? - Kinktober 2022 Day 21

~ Refill Required ❤️:

Summary: Lore has a little fun with his Human partner after disabling the Enterprise. - SoC 2023 Day 12

✨Jean-Luc Picard✨

~ Good Morning ❤️:

Summary: The reader wakes up to some intimate attention from her Captain.

~ His Two O’Clock ❤️:

Summary: Captain Picard and his partner kill some time on the holodeck.

~ Mission Jitters 💛:

Summary: The reader is nervous about an upcoming mission and seeks the Captain’s advice.

~ Recovery 💛:

Summary: Reader is injured on a mission and requires surgery.

~ A Risian Sunset 💛:

Summary: When the reader takes her shore leave on Risa, she meets up with somebody she didn’t expect: The gallant Captain.

✨Sakkath✨

~ Veiled Interludes 💛:

Summary: A look at the relationship between the personal assistants of Ambassadors Sarek and Lojal.

✨Satelk✨

~ Tutoring ❤️:

Summary: Having a favorite Cadet was illogical for a seasoned Vulcan Captain like Satelk, but he couldn’t resist. What is the logical course of action, though, when his prized student doesn’t perform as well as she should have on an exam? - Kinktober 2022 Day 16

✨Taurik✨

~ Artifice Becomes Substance 💛:

Summary: A Vulcan attempts to help his best friend by pretending to date her.

~ A Token 💛:

Summary: Taurik has been researching human courtship and tries to get his partner an appropriate gift.

~ The Twins ❤️:

Summary: When brothers Taurik and Vorik attempt to flirt with an oblivious human friend, they are forced to make their advances more overt. - Kinktober 2022 Day 23

✨Tebok✨

~ You Will ❤️:

Summary: Tebok and the reader have a difference of opinion. - Kinktober 2022 Day 19

✨Tokath✨

~ Misfit Toys ❤️:

Part 1 ✨ Part 2 ✨ Part 3 ✨ - COMPLETE

Summary: When a Human was pulled from a wrecked ship near the compound on Carraya IV, Commander Tokath made a promise. Can he keep it?

#masterlist #admin speaks #deepspacedukat fic #Bochra #Glinn Daro #Lt. Commander Data #Gul Akellan Macet #Lore #Jean-Luc Picard #Captain Satelk #Ensign Taurik #Commander Tebok

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ujalayi · 2 years

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“This hero veteran fought bravely for YOUR Republic in the clone wars and asked for nothing in return. Find a way to get him the right pomade, aruetii…”

Dank ferrik! He’s a Dapper Dan man!

You’ve heard of Elite commando/Captain of Foxtrot group Gregor, get ready for Mando!Gregor.

Compiling the sketches and AU ideas courtesy of the psychic damage I took after watching TBB War Mantle again - pass the bacta!

Anyways- AU where Gregor reconnects with his instructor/ drill sergeant after being rescued on Daro - gets a shiny new suit of armor, all the resources he needs for his PTSD and TBI, and a little family who loves and looks out for him between missions with his brothers to help other clones. Most importantly though - he doesn’t die on Lothal because the beskar holds up under fire.

I want to clean this up a little more later and I am still brainstorming, but sound off if you are a fellow Gregor appreciator!! I would love to hear other people’s thoughts like what do you think Foxtrot Group was like etc. With your help + contribution we can post even more Gregor!

#captain gregor #gregor #The bad batch #tcw fanart #gregor tbb #ujalayi art #star wars fan art #mando meta #star wars

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the-little-moment · 3 months

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Part Four

Words: 1,381

Warnings: None

Summary: This chapter takes place during the events of "Return to Kamino" and "Kamino Lost". We'll eventually get to a place where we're not following the show so closely.

Lost

“Absolutely not. Look at him. He’s weaker than a wet tooka kitten. What am I supposed to do with that?” The Batch’s Trandoshan employer pointed a disgusted claw in the direction of Gregor.

“Come on, Cid. It’ll only be for a few days. He won’t be any trouble. We just,” Senna sighed, trying not to look desperate, “we need some help right now.”

Cid’s yellow eyes moved between the doctor’s pleading face and the seated commando, who was doing his best to look meek. She groaned. “Fine. But as soon as you get Dark-and-Broody back, you’re gonna make it up to me.”

“I don’t wanna know what that means,” Wrecker grumbled from his spot by the parlor door.

When Senna and Wrecker returned to the hangar, the ship had been repaired and the others were ready to leave.

“Hunter’s commlink has been activated,” Tech informed them with a frown. “He is no longer on Daro. It appears he has been transferred back to Kamino. Senna,” the pilot turned to her, “it would be wiser for you to stay here with Cid and the captain. We don’t know what, or who, is waiting for us there.”

“But what if you need me?” the doctor protested. “If someone gets hurt—”

“We need Senna.” Omega looked up at her, determined, then to Tech. “She’s part of the squad too.”

“I am not insinuating that she isn’t—” Tech started, before Wrecker knocked his shoulder.

“Hunter’s waiting for us. Are we going, or what?”

Senna gripped the back of the pilot’s seat, one of Wrecker’s steadying hands on her back, as Tech coaxed the shuttle down, meter by meter, towards the boiling surface of the sea.

“Lower,” Omega insisted and, finally, the promised landing platform rose up beneath them.

Fucking Se, Senna thought, releasing a breath she hadn’t realized she’d been holding. Of course the scientist had had a secret way offworld. Senna had never been deluded enough to think she’d discovered even half of what the Kaminoans had tried to keep from her. The cloners were professional secret-keepers, guardedness as much their way of life as the vast waters that surrounded them.

Speaking of waters… The doctor lifted an arm to shield her face as the ramp lowered and driving rain blasted into the cockpit, quickly drenching her. She followed Echo off the ship to stand on the circular duracrete platform, startling as thunder cracked overhead.

Tech turned to look at them, pointing to the domed roofs of Tipoca City in the distance. “Landing was only one problem. How are we going to get into the city?”

“We’ll take the tube system,” Omega explained, and the squad watched in surprise as an aperture in the center of the platform untwisted, a bubble-shaped transport of some sort rising up before them. “Come on!” she said, as it opened to accept her.

Wrecker laughed in approval as he followed the girl onto the transport. “Nice!”

Tech and Echo paused before following their siblings, turning to look back at Senna.

“I strongly advise that you stay with the ship,” the pilot said, his barely-visible eyebrows drawing together in concern. The rest of his face was concealed beneath his helmet.

“But—”

“He’s right, Sen.” Echo placed his hand on her shoulder. “You don’t have the training for this. Keep the ship ready. We’ll be back soon. With Hunter.”

Senna reached for his wrist, pushing her dripping hair out of her face as the wind gusted again. She wished she could see his eyes through his visor. “You’d better be.” She felt Echo squeeze her shoulder, lingering for a moment before he turned and joined the others.

Tech’s eyes were serious behind his rain-streaked goggles. “It is likely that we will be unable to communicate while we are inside the city. Lock the ship, and if we have not returned within twelve hours, you must leave without us.”

“Absolutely not!” Senna took a step towards him in shock. “I’m not—”

Tech wrapped his hand around the doctor’s elbow. “I have already inputted the coordinates to take you back to Ord Mantell. Engage the auto-pilot. Return to Gregor and contact Rex. He will know what to do.”

“Tech, please.”

Senna watched his eyes crinkle in a gentle smile. “Doctor, I am afraid that, in this situation, I outrank you.” Then he stepped onto the waiting transport and was gone.

The wait for their return was interminable. Senna paced the length of the ship, a strangling grip on the deece in her right hand, as she alternated between frustration and terror. Another roll of thunder drew her eyes to the viewport. She’d powered down the ship to keep it hidden from scanners, but the darkness inside lasted only seconds between each lightning strike over the waves. She hadn’t been prepared for the feelings that accompanied her return to this planet, to the stormy skies that had dominated the past thirteen years of her life.

Senna hadn’t even said goodbye to Kamino. Her uniforms still hung in the closet of her stark, white quarters, her toothbrush in its slot by the sink. She had been at the base on Coruscant when she had finally escaped the Empire – when she had left Crosshair behind.

Why had they brought her all this way only to leave her on the ship? How could Tech possibly expect her to abandon them? If she was going to be this useless, perhaps she should have stayed with Gregor.

Omega had understood. The fact that the others had taken the girl with them, but left Senna behind, stung. Echo was right, she didn’t have combat training, but she could shoot, and she was a more-than-qualified medic. She had trained the medics.

The doctor squeezed her eyes shut, forcing back tears. It was everything she could do not to comm them, the emptiness of the channel, deafening. Please. Please. You have to come back.

"Senna, we are approaching. We have retrieved Hunter. And Crosshair.”

The ramp of the Marauder was lowering as Crosshair pulled himself onto the duracrete landing platform. His stomach sank into his boots when Senna came running down it, throwing her arms around Hunter. He turned to Tech with a growl, “What the hell is she doing here?”

His brother raised an eyebrow. “It may surprise you to know that we were unaware the city was the target of an aerial bombardment. The doctor should have been reasonably safe aboard the ship, according to the information we previously possessed. Besides,” he shrugged, pausing to remove his helmet, “she insisted on coming.”

Crosshair gritted his teeth as Senna lifted her head from where she was kneeling to embrace the kid. He broke her tear-stained gaze and walked away from the others, looking out at the ocean. Of course the sun was shining. Why the kriff wouldn’t it be?

“Cross?”

The doctor’s voice behind him made him close his eyes. This was what he’d wanted, wasn’t it? To have her come home? But there was nothing left. A sudden image filled his mind – a laser flashing, like lightning from the sky, to strike the Marauder as it had waited on the platform. He hadn’t known about the strike either . He never would have—

“Cross.” He forced himself to turn at the gentle touch on his arm. She looked so strange, out of her uniform, her hair dangling down in a long braid. Then his eyes were drawn down to the arm he had snapped and he felt nausea rising in him again, dragging his focus back up to a point above her face.

“I’m so glad you’re alright,” Senna said, looking in concern at the angry scar on the side of his head. She lifted her hand towards it, but Crosshair pushed it back down.

“I’m fine.”

Senna’s face crumpled at his rejection, but then she straightened, voice firm. “You will be. You’re coming back with us now.”

Crosshair swallowed hard. Did she still trust him, after all of this? The others didn’t, hadn’t, even after he’d saved the kid. That was why Wrecker had his rifle right now. That was why Hunter wasn’t looking at him, staring instead at the smoke rising on the horizon.

He looked at the doctor for a long moment, finally breaking away. None of that mattered anymore. “I’m not.”

Taglist: @lightwise @freesia-writes @kybercrystals94 @clonethirstingisreal @bad-batch-lurker @just-here-with-my-thoughts @moonwrecked

#star wars the bad batch #clone force 99 #the bad batch fanfiction #star wars oc #dr divehdi #not just the carcass but the spark #the little moment writes #tbb echo #tbb crosshair #tbb hunter #tbb tech #tbb omega #tbb wrecker

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rainydaydream-gal18 · 2 years

Note

Hello! Your fics are the sweetest things I’ve ever read! 🥰 I’d love to see your take on our darling Captain Gregor one day!

(Bad Batch era) Captain Gregor x Reader Headcanons: First Meeting

- You first met him during the rescue mission on Daro alongside the Bad Batch. You'd worked with many troops during the Clone Wars era, but right from the start, he caught your attention. You locked eyes with him and felt your heart flutter at the way he held your gaze.

- It started as playful banter despite the serious situation. He'd make a comment, and you'd fire back some witty reply that made him chuckle.

- You'd grown accustomed to the Bad Batch's fighting style over time, but intriguingly, you and Gregor immediately clicked. Your styles coordinated well, with you covering him at the right times and him returning the favor throughout the escape.

- All the while, both of you keep stealing looks. It would be for only moments at a time, but it spoke volumes. He'd meet your gaze after you covered him and utter a brief but grateful, "thanks." You'd look to him after he jumped in front to block you from TK trooper fire, and he'd simply lift his brow as if to say, "I've got you."

- Your heart was already beating faster from the heat of battle, but those looks sent it into overdrive.

- You didn't think you'd enjoy the look on his face so much as he endured Tech's piloting skills for the first time, but you did.

-Meanwhile, you sat there buckled in all calmly while the ship shot straight down because it was just another Tech Tuesday for you.

- Gregor ended up being impressed and admiring you for your skills on the field and the general guts that it takes to travel with the Batch.

- He hadn't known you long, but he was crushed to see that exterior of yours crumble when Hunter was captured. He knows what it's like to lose his team, and he hates to see it happen to anyone else to any degree.

- You didn't make a scene to upset anyone further, but turned away to shed tears when you think no one sees.

- He sees.

- Gregor would approach you, those eyes of his meeting yours again, and would offer up sincere sympathy. Might even wrap an arm around you if you let him.

- Probably make a comment after to try and cheer you up.

- Despite not knowing him for very long, there'd be a quick connection. Gregor was an odd one, for sure, but during the time span after Hunter's capture, you get more time to talk. A bond was beginning to form.

#bad batch #bad batch gregor #gregor x reader #captain gregor x reader #clone wars gregor x reader #captain gregor reader insert #bad batch era gregor reader insert #captain gregor #bad batch gregor headcanons #gregor headcanons

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mcrdvcks · 3 days

Text

Down Bad - Chapter 4

Chapter Summary: Rex contacts the group about helping a clone on Daro. But the mission takes a turn after Hunter and Amina are taken by the Empire.

Word Count: 10k

Notes: alright, so this chapter covers season 1, episodes 14-16. next chapter will be a few short stories of things that happen in between season 1 and 2!

also, i know that this gif is overused, but it's the last time the group is together ;(

Series Masterlist - Chapter 3 → Chapter 5

AO3 Link For Chapter

Amina sat on the floor of the Marauder, levitating a ball with the force in her hand, as Omega was fiddling with Gonky, and Hunter sat in the hull, twirling a knife in his hand.

It was the simple metal ball she still held onto from Padme, moving it from hand to hand and up and down. Maybe Padme was right, it does calm her a bit.

She glanced over at Omega, who was fixing up Gonky’s wires and then at Hunter, who was twirling his knife in his hand, his gaze focused on his movements. His movements were fluid, almost mesmerizing, and Amina found herself watching him with a mixture of curiosity and admiration.

Omega also glanced over, trying to do the same thing with her screwdriver when Echo called out from the cockpit. “We’re being hailed. It’s… Rex.”

Hunter put his knife back into its spot on his wrist and Omega closed the patch on Gonky that she was working on as they walked into the cockpit.

Echo turned on the transmission, “hello, boys. Sorry to cut right to it, but I could use your help.”

“What do you need, Captain?” Hunter asked.

“I received a distress signal from a clone trooper, but I’m a bit tied up at the moment to retrieve him.”

“You want us to recover a reg?”

“He’s an old friend, and he’s in trouble. I need you to get him out.”

Omega looked up at Hunter, “out of what exactly?”

A beeping sounded out from Rex’s side, “can’t talk right now. Sending you his signal. I’ll be in touch.” Rex tapped the comm on his wrist as the transmission disappeared.

“What was that about?” Wrecker asked.

“The distress signal sent by CC-5576 is originating from Daro, a terrestrial planet in the Outer Rim with no known settlements or installations.” Tech said, turning to face Hunter.

“What’s he doing all the way out there?”

“Well does it matter?” Echo cut in.

“We’ve gone on missions before without much intel. But this would be stretching it.”

“Rex wouldn’t ask us for help if it wasn’t urgent.”

“Echo’s got a point.” Wrecker added on.

“May I remind you that we are in the middle of a job for Cid. If we deviate, we will not be compensated. No money means no food.”

“Oh, yeah. Tech’s got a point.” Wrecker spoke again.

“But Rex’s friend is in trouble. That’s more important than getting paid.” Omega said, looking up at Hunter.

“Well, the kid’s got a point.” Wrecker spoke.

Hunter sighed, glancing over at Echo. “Fine. We’ll check things out. But… I don’t like it.”

---

They flew out of hyperspace as Tech announced that they were approaching Daro’s atmosphere. “I’ll bring us in low to avoid any possible tracking scanners.”

“We’re banking a lot on a clone we don’t even know.” Hunter said.

“Rex trusts him. And I trust Rex.” Echo responded.

They landed the ship in part of the forest, surrounded by trees as they all got off the Marauder.

Tech looked down at his data pad, “the signal is coming from that direction.” They walked slightly ahead as Tech tapped his pad, “the beacon should be right ahead.”

Omega looked around before going to a fallen tree trunk and taking off the beacon. “Found it.” She handed it to Tech as the rest looked around the area.

“So, where’s this reg?” Wrecker asked, looking over at Hunter who took off his helmet.

Hunter kneeled down and grabbed a small twig, sniffing it for clues. “We’re already too late. The clone was being hunted. He was dragged. That way.” Hunter put his helmet back on and led the group through the forest.

They ran into a clearing, at the edge of the hill with a view of large mountains. Hunter stopped, “hang on.” He brushed his hand through the dirt, before looking up at the mountains, “there’s something here, inside that mountain.”

Tech stepped forward, tapping on his data pad, “I believe you are right. My scans are being jammed.”

“You said there was nothing on this planet.” Wrecker exclaimed.

“That data appears to be inaccurate.”

“Wrecker, you, Omega and Amina wait on the ship.” Hunter ordered.

“Wait, why can’t- ”

Hunter cut off Omega, “coming here was up for debate. This isn’t.” Hunter, Echo, and Tech started to climb the mountain, as Amina followed glancing back at Omega.

Hunter quickly turned around, “I told you to wait on the ship.”

Amina crossed her arms, “I’m a Jedi, you don’t know what you’re getting yourself into.” Echo and Tech stopped walking, glancing back at Hunter and Amina before sharing a look with each other.

“I gave you an order.” Hunter replied.

“I’m a General, I outrank you.”

“This is my squad.” Amina glared at Hunter through his visor as he continued, “stay with Wrecker and Omega. You can fly the ship if we need a pickup.”

Amina clenched her jaw before relenting, “fine. But I’m not happy about it.”

Hunter nodded curtly, acknowledging her compliance before turning back to face the mountain ahead. He knew Amina wasn't pleased with being left behind, but he couldn't risk her safety on what could potentially be a dangerous mission.

---

Amina sat in the pilot’s chair, force levitating her ball as Wrecker and Omega played a game on Gonky’s head.

“It’s still your turn.” Omega said.

“I know. I’m thinking.” Wrecker tapped the side of his head.

Then a comm beeped, “Wrecker, do you copy?”

“Yeah, we hear ya. Did you find the reg?” Wrecker replied to Hunter before moving his piece.

“Not yet. But we did find an Imperial base built inside this mountain. We’re going in.”

“Wait for us! We’ll help.” Omega responded.

“Negative. Stay on the ship. You’re our backup. Comms will be jammed once we’re inside, so keep alert.”

---

Wrecker was now in the co-pilot’s chair with his feet on the dash as Omega walked around the cockpit holding her doll, Lula.

“How can you be so relaxed?” Omega asked Wrecker.

“Oh, I’m preparing. I’m chargin’ up before I charge in.”

“We should’ve heard from them by now. What if something went wrong?”

“I’m sure they got everything under control.”

---

The comm beeped, “Wrecker, Amina, Omega, come in.”

Omega ran into the cockpit as Amina pressed the button, “we read you.”

“We have the target, but we ran into some trouble. We need a pickup.”

“On our way!” Omega said, getting into the co-pilot seat as Wrecker entered the cockpit.

“On our way! Wrecker repeated, as Amina prepared the ship for takeoff.

Amina flew the ship towards the signal as Omega spoke through comms, “we are on approach!”

“We see you.” Tech said through comms.

Amina flew the ship parallel to the side of the mountain as Wrecker opened the doors and shot the troopers in the hall behind Hunter, Echo, Tech, and the other clone. “Little closer!” Wrecker yelled, as Amina flew the ship closer to the mountain.

“Incoming!” Amina called out, as Tech and the other clone got on the ship.

“I’ll take it from here.” Tech said, as Amina got out of the chair and into the co-pilot seat. “Wrecker, get on the tail gun.” Tech flew away as enemy ships shot at them, “shields are down. We’re losing power!”

“Gonky, we need you!” Omega exclaimed, getting out of her seat and plugging him into the ship.

“It’s working! Systems are back online.” Amina said.

Tech flew further away before flying straight down, and at the last minute, back up as he flew back to the mountain. “We’re coming back around. Be ready!”

Omega stood by the door, “jump!”

Amina got onto the stairs in front of Omega and helped Echo onto the ship. More TIE fighters came their way as Tech turned the ship sideways and Hunter jumped as Amina caught his hand.

She went to pull him up when one of the TIE fighters shot her in the shoulder, causing both her and Hunter to fall off the Marauder and through the trees.

Hunter took out his knife to try and stop the fall on the mountain, but it didn’t work, causing him to keep falling along with Amina, as she rolled down the mountain side he tried clinging to. As they fell, he grabbed Amina’s waist as they hit more branches, before finally hitting the ground.

Hunter tried to get up, as did Amina as she used the force to grab her lightsaber which came off her belt in the fall.

“Multiple system failures! We cannot take many more hits!” Tech sounded out through comms.

An Imperial shuttle landed next to them as they glanced over. Hunter slowly got up, shaking his head, “get the ship out of here. We’ll find another way back.”

“Negative. The odds of escape are not in your favor.”

“Go, Tech! That’s an order!”

Amina slowly got up, wincing at the pressure she was putting on her shoulder.

“Hunter, tell them to come back! Order them to come back!” Omega yelled through the comms.

“Sorry, kid. I can’t do that.” Hunter put his knife in its holster as Amina attached her lightsaber back on her belt as dozens of troopers surrounded them.

The troopers cuffed them and put them on the shuttle, flying away from Daro.

---

They were now on a different ship, with Hunter and Amina on the floor cuffed and without their weapons. She wishes she got lucky enough that they didn’t use force suppressing cuffs or take away her lightsaber.

Buzzing sounded out as Crosshair entered the room.

“Where are we going?” Hunter asked.

Crosshair kneeled down and grabbed Hunter’s comm, “you’ll find out soon enough. And so will your squad.”

“Using my comm won’t work. They’ll know it’s a trap.”

Crosshair stopped halfway to the door, turning around to face Hunter, “they’ll still come for you.” he said, before exiting the room, leaving two troopers guarding them.

Amina leaned back against the wall, holding back a hiss at her shoulder touching the wall.

She glanced over at Hunter, who was sitting next to her, his expression grim as he assessed their situation. Despite the cuffs restraining them and the uncertainty of their fate, there was a steely determination in his eyes that gave Amina hope.

"We need to find a way out of here," Hunter said quietly, his voice barely above a whisper to avoid alerting the guards. "Any ideas?"

“Not really. I can’t use the force.” she said, lifting her hands up without thinking as she grimaced at the pain in her shoulder.

Hunter glanced at her, his brow furrowing with concern. "Your shoulder," he said, his voice filled with empathy as he observed her discomfort. "We need to find a way to treat it."

Amina nodded, her jaw clenched in an effort to mask the pain. "I'll manage," she replied, her tone determined despite the agony pulsing through her injured shoulder.

Hunter leaned closer, his expression serious as he studied her. "We can't afford to overlook your injury," he said firmly. "If we're going to get out of here, we need to be at our best."

“I’ve survived worse.” She replied.

Hunter sighed at hearing the same argument come from her again. He knew Amina had a tendency to downplay her injuries, but he also knew that her resilience could sometimes border on stubbornness, making it difficult for her to accept help, even when she needed it most.

"Stubborn as ever," Hunter muttered under his breath, a small smile tugging at the corners of his lips despite their dire situation.

Amina shot him a sideways glance, her expression a mixture of amusement and exasperation. "You say that like it's a bad thing," she retorted, her tone teasing yet affectionate.

Hunter shook his head with a fond chuckle, his gaze softening as he looked at her. "It's just frustrating sometimes, that's all," he replied, his voice gentle yet firm. "You don't always have to be the tough one, Amina. It's okay to let others take care of you."

Amina's expression softened at his words, her defenses momentarily dropping as she met his gaze, before looking straight ahead.

Soon, the shuttle landed on a planet as Crosshair walked in front with three troopers behind Hunter and Amina, pushing them along.

A man, who she thinks is Admiral Rampart, met them at the landing bay, followed by 5 troopers, 3 in white gear and two in grey gear, like Crosshair and the 3 troopers behind them.

“Where are the rest of them?” Rampart asked.

“They’ll be here.” Crosshair replied. “We’ll intercept upon arrival.”

Rampart looked at Crosshair before moving in front of Hunter, “so you’re the one they call ‘Hunter’. The destruction your squad caused on Ryloth got my attention.” Hunter stayed silent as Rampart turned his gaze to Amina, who stood next to Hunter. “And the infamous Amina Skywalker, or ‘The Sword’.”

Amina winced at the trooper who nudged her shoulder with their blaster, “I prefer ‘The Dazzler’ but I suppose that’s an inner circle thing.”

Admiral Rampart raised an eyebrow at Amina's remark, his expression unreadable. "The Dazzler, huh?" he mused, a hint of amusement dancing in his eyes. "Well, I must say, you've certainly made a name for yourself in certain circles. Governor Tarkin would love to speak to you.”

Amina’s eyes widened, that’s the last thing she needs. If Tarkin knows she’s alive, then Palpatine and Anakin will too.

“I leave this to you, Commander. Stay on schedule.” Rampart told Crosshair, before looking at a few troopers behind him, “bring Skywalker with me.”

The two grey-suited troopers nudged Amina in the back, prompting her to move forward with hesitant steps. She glanced over her shoulder at Hunter, her expression a mixture of concern and determination.

As Amina was led away by the troopers, she couldn't shake the feeling of unease that gnawed at her gut. She knew Admiral Rampart's reputation; knew the kind of danger they were walking into. But she also knew that she couldn't afford to show any signs of weakness, not now, not ever.

Hunter watched Amina being escorted away, his jaw clenched with frustration. He hated feeling helpless, hated being unable to protect his squad, especially Amina. He glanced over at Crosshair, “where are they taking her?”

Crosshair remained stoic, his expression unreadable as he replied, "To meet with Governor Tarkin, as ordered by Admiral Rampart."

Hunter's fists clenched at his sides as he fought to suppress his rising anger. He knew that facing Tarkin would only bring trouble, especially for someone like Amina who had already attracted unwanted attention.

“Are you showing care for a Jedi?” Crosshair hissed, “I didn’t realize you would go so low.”

Hunter’s jaw tightened at Crosshair, his gaze narrowing as he met his cold stare. “I’m not showing care for a Jedi,” he retorted evenly. “I’m showing concern for a member of my squad.”

Crosshair scoffed, his lip curling in disdain under his helmet, “a Jedi is a liability, Hunter,” he countered, “you should know that better than anyone.”

---

Amina was escorted into a small office within the Kamino facility, her heart pounding with apprehension as she glanced around the dimly lit room. Admiral Rampart stood beside her, his imposing presence casting a shadow over the proceedings. With a flick of his wrist, he activated the hologram projector, and Governor Tarkin's image materialized before them.

Governor Tarkin's stern visage filled the room, his steely gaze scrutinizing Amina with an intensity that sent a shiver down her spine. She stood tall despite the unease bubbling within her, steeling herself for whatever interrogation lay ahead.

"Ah, Amina Skywalker," Tarkin began, his voice cool and calculating.

"Tarkin, nice to see you again. Although, I must say, grey isn’t your color," Amina quipped, her tone laced with a hint of sarcasm as she regarded the holographic image of the stern governor.

Tarkin's expression remained impassive, his steely gaze fixed on Amina as he spoke. "Your wit is as sharp as ever, Miss Skywalker," he replied, his voice dripping with condescension. "But I'm afraid we have more pressing matters to attend to."

Amina raised an eyebrow at Tarkin's cryptic remark, her curiosity piqued despite herself. "And what pressing matters might those be?" she asked, her tone guarded yet intrigued.

Tarkin leaned forward slightly, his holographic image casting a menacing shadow over the room. "The Emperor has been wondering about your whereabouts, and now we’ve found you. Admiral Rampart will bring you to Coruscant for… a conversation with the Emperor.”

Amina's heart sank at Tarkin's words. The thought of facing Palpatine filled her with dread, knowing the danger that awaited her on Coruscant. She glanced at Admiral Rampart, her mind racing as she tried to formulate a plan to escape their grasp.

Admiral Rampart stepped forward, his gaze fixed on Amina with a mix of curiosity and suspicion. "You're quite the elusive one, Miss Skywalker," he remarked, his tone tinged with admiration. "But rest assured, you won't be able to evade the Emperor's reach for much longer."

Amina bristled at Rampart's condescending tone, her jaw clenched with frustration. She knew she had to tread carefully, to buy herself time until she could find a way to escape. "And what makes you think I'll go willingly to Coruscant?" she asked defiantly, her voice laced with determination.

Rampart's lips curled into a smirk, his eyes narrowing as he regarded Amina with a calculating gaze. "Oh, I have no doubt that you'll come willingly," he replied, his tone dripping with malice. "Or perhaps you need a little... persuasion."

A cold chill ran down Amina's spine at Rampart's ominous threat, knowing all too well the kind of torture and interrogation tactics the Empire employed. She glanced around the room, searching for any means of escape, but finding none.

"Resistance is futile, Miss Skywalker," Tarkin interjected, his voice cold and authoritative. "The Emperor's reach is vast, and his power absolute. You would do well to remember that."

Amina gritted her teeth in frustration, her hands clenching into fists at her sides. She knew she was outnumbered and outmatched, but she refused to give in without a fight. She had to find a way to resist, to defy the Empire at every turn.

“Admiral, have your troopers escort Skywalker to your starship.”

The troopers nodded and brought Amina out of the room and down the barren halls of Kamino. She had to get away, before they brought her onto the starship. If the Emperor got hands on her, she shuddered, who knows what would happen.

Amina glanced at one of the troopers in front of her, spotting her lightsaber handing from their waist. If she could unlock her handcuffs with a piece of metal she kept on her waistband, she could get rid of the troopers and find Hunter.

As they reached a dimly lit corridor, Amina subtly reached for the small metal piece hidden in her waistband, her heart pounding with anticipation. She had to time this perfectly, to catch the troopers off guard and make her move before they could react.

With a swift and practiced motion, Amina slipped the metal piece into the lock of her handcuffs, her fingers deftly manipulating the mechanism as she worked to free herself. Her hands trembled with adrenaline, her senses heightened as she focused all her concentration on the task at hand.

Finally, with a soft click, the handcuffs sprang open, and Amina wasted no time in seizing her opportunity. With lightning speed, she reached for her lightsaber, igniting the blade in a flash of blue light as she whirled around to face the startled troopers.

Before they could react, Amina lunged forward, her lightsaber slashing through the air with deadly precision as she disarmed the troopers with expert skill. The corridor erupted into chaos as blaster fire erupted from all sides, but Amina remained focused, her movements fluid and graceful as she fought off her attackers.

With each swing of her lightsaber, Amina moved closer to her objective, her determination unwavering as she carved a path through the troopers standing between her and freedom.

As she rounded a corner, Amina came face to face with another group of troopers, their weapons trained on her with deadly intent. But she didn't hesitate, didn't falter in her resolve.

The troopers fought back fiercely, their blaster bolts raining down upon her with relentless force. But Amina was undeterred, her movements swift and precise as she deflected their attacks with ease, her Jedi training shining through in every move she made.

With a final flourish of her lightsaber, Amina dispatched the last of her adversaries, the corridor falling silent once more as the smoke cleared and the dust settled. She took a moment to catch her breath, her heart still pounding with adrenaline as she surveyed the aftermath of the skirmish.

But there was no time to waste. With a sense of urgency driving her forward, Amina sprinted down the corridor, her lightsaber held at the ready as she made her way down the halls. She had no idea where she was, or how to get out of here, but she didn’t have a choice other than to figure it out.

---

Hunter turned Crosshair’s head to the side, seeing a large mark on the left side of his head.

“Hunter, three Venators are descending on the city. We need to leave, now.” Tech said.

Hunter took off Crosshairs backpack and his sniper, “Wrecker, grab Crosshair. He’s coming with us.”

Omega looked up at Hunter, “what about Amina? Where is she?”

"I don't know where she is. They separated us when we got here," Hunter reiterated, his voice tight with concern as he glanced around at his team. Omega's worried expression mirrored his own, her brown eyes wide with apprehension.

Tech's fingers flew over his datapad as he processed the incoming information. "We need to regroup and get out of here before those Venators arrive," he urged, his tone urgent.

Wrecker hefted Crosshair's limp form over his broad shoulder, the sniper's unconscious body a stark reminder of their precarious situation. "Let's move, boys," he grunted, his voice gruff with determination.

Omega trailed after them, her small frame moving swiftly as she kept pace with the rest of the team. "But what about Amina?" she pressed, her voice tinged with worry.

Hunter clenched his jaw, his mind racing as he weighed their options. He couldn't shake the feeling of unease gnawing at him, the knowledge that Amina was out there alone, facing who knew what kind of danger. But they had a mission to complete, and they couldn't afford to risk everything for one person, no matter how much she meant to them.

"We'll find her, Omega. But right now, we need to focus on getting out of here," Hunter replied, his voice firm as he tried to reassure the young girl.

Omega nodded reluctantly, her shoulders slumping with disappointment. She trusted Hunter implicitly, knew that he would do everything in his power to keep them safe. But she couldn't shake the worry gnawing at her gut, the fear that something terrible would happen to Amina if they didn't find her soon.

---

As Amina ran through the empty corridors, blaster shots and explosions covered Tipoca City, causing destruction all around her.

What was happening? Tipoca City wouldn’t just collapse in a fiery, explosive manner.

As she rounded a corner, Amina stumbled upon a scene of utter devastation. The once pristine halls of Tipoca City were now littered with debris and smoke, the remnants of fierce battles between the clone troopers and their mysterious assailants. Blaster fire erupted from every direction, casting eerie shadows on the walls as explosions rocked the facility to its core.

The building tipped to its side as Amina slid down the floor as she pulled out her lightsaber and ignited it, puncturing the floor trying to stop her sliding. But it didn’t work.

She slid down until she fell through one part of the building to another, and narrowly avoided getting trapped underneath metal. Amina patted down her pockets suddenly realizing she didn’t have her comm. Well of course she didn’t, they took it from her.

Her feet started to feel cold as she looked down to see the room she was in slowly starting to fill with water. Kriff. She doesn’t know how to swim, and she’ll be damned if she dies by drowning.

Amina's heart raced as she looked around the rapidly flooding room, panic threatening to consume her. She clutched her lightsaber tightly, the familiar weight providing a small measure of comfort amidst the chaos. But she knew she couldn't rely on her weapon alone to save her from drowning.

Frantically, Amina scanned the room for any means of escape. Her eyes landed on a ventilation shaft near the ceiling, its metal grating barely visible through the murky water. With a surge of determination, she propelled herself upward, kicking against the rising tide as she reached for the shaft above.

Her fingers grazed the metal grate, slipping once before finally finding purchase. With a grunt of effort, she pulled herself up, her muscles straining against the weight of her soaked clothing. Inch by inch, she dragged herself closer to the opening, the water swirling around her legs as she fought to keep her head above the surface.

Finally, with one last burst of strength, Amina hoisted herself up and into the ventilation shaft, collapsing onto the cold metal floor with a gasp of relief. She lay there for a moment, catching her breath as she listened to the muffled sounds of chaos echoing from the corridors below.

But there was no time to rest. With a grim determination, Amina pushed herself to her feet, her sodden clothes clinging to her skin as she peered into the darkness of the shaft. She had to find a way out of here, had to reunite with the group before it was too late. If they were even still alive, that is.

---

They stood in the maintenance deck as AZI made a circle as he welded a hole to get into the tunnel.

Tech looked over at Wrecker, “my scans indicate the tunnel is directly below this maintenance deck. AZI says, with a precise weld to maintain an airtight seal- ”

A loud banging was heard as everyone looked up. “What was that?” Omega asked slowly.

Tech looked down at his datapad, “I am unable to tell. There shouldn’t be anyone else in the facility.”

Hunter walked to a ventilation shaft standing below it. He tilted his head to the side as the grate flew off as a figure jumped out and landed on Hunter, sending them both to the ground.

Hunter grunted as the figure landed on him, the impact knocking the wind out of him as they both tumbled to the ground. He struggled against their weight, instinctively reaching for his blaster as he tried to regain control of the situation.

Amina's heart raced as she collided with Hunter, her reflexes kicking in as she scrambled to disentangle herself from him. She pushed herself up onto her hands and knees, her eyes widening in surprise as she realized who she had landed on.

"Hunter?" she gasped, her voice tinged with disbelief as she looked down at him, her breath coming in short, ragged gasps.

Hunter's eyes widened in recognition as he gazed up at Amina, his mind struggling to process the sight before him. He hadn't expected to see her here, hadn't even known if she was still alive after they had been separated in the chaos of Tipoca City.

"Amina?" he echoed, his voice rough with emotion as he reached out to touch her face, his fingers trembling slightly as they brushed against her cheek.

Amina's heart skipped a beat at the feel of Hunter's touch, a rush of warmth flooding through her as she met his gaze. Despite the danger they were in, despite the uncertainty of their situation, there was something undeniably comforting about being in his presence again.

She stood up hooking her lightsaber to her water-soaked belt, “thank the Force, I’m not gonna die by water. I want to at least die in a cool way.”

Omega bounded forward, her brown eyes bright with excitement as she threw her arms around Amina in a tight hug. "I'm so glad you're okay!" she exclaimed.

Amina bent down and picked her up, “me too.”

"Are you hurt?" Hunter asked, concern evident in his voice as he pushed himself up from the floor, his gaze scanning Amina for any signs of injury.

Amina shook her head, a small smile tugging at the corners of her lips. "I'm fine. Just the blaster shot to the shoulder from before," she reassured him, her voice steady despite the adrenaline still coursing through her veins.

AZI finished making a hole down into the tunnel, “the tunnel is clear!”

They all slowly made their way into the tunnel, slowly walking in the depths of the ocean.

“We need to go back. There must be another way.” Crosshair said.

“That would be unwise. I am afraid this is our best option.” AZI responded.

“You done complaining? You know, if it wasn’t for you, we wouldn’t be in this mess.”

“Something on your tiny mind, Wrecker?” Crosshair stepped closer to Wrecker.

“All that time, you didn’t even try to come back. We still would have taken ya.”

“Let it go, Wrecker.” Tech placed a hand on Wrecker’s shoulder, turning him to face himself. “Crosshair has always been severe and unyielding. It is his nature. You cannot change that. He cannot change that.”

Wrecker walked away to the rest of the group who stood a few steps ahead as Crosshair turned to Tech, “why are you defending me?”

“I am not. Understanding you does not mean that I agree with you.”

Amina followed Omega as she shined the flashlight at the cracked glass in the tunnel. Amina gulped, why did there have to be so much water?

“AZI, this doesn’t look very safe.” Omega said.

“Barring any further complications, this enclosure remains a viable means of transport.”

“Let’s keep moving.” Hunter said. They moved forward slightly before they heard roaring in the distance. “Uh, I think we got a problem.”

“AZI, these tunnels are protected, right?” Omega whispered.

“Only when the power is operational, which it is not.” AZI replied, and a few seconds later, the creature roared again.

“Run!” Hunter yelled.

“Restoring power should deter the creature. Try to stay alive!” AZI exclaimed as he flew down the tunnel.

They continued to run as the creature followed them outside the tunnel, biting down on the curve ahead of them, causing water to start to leak through.

The power slowly came on as the creature roared again, before swimming away. AZI closed the hatch, as they fell down on the floor, catching their breath.

“It appears I have caused this structure’s remaining power to short out. But you have survived the transit. This outcome is satisfactory.”

The group continued their journey, before climbing out of the tunnel and into a lab. Hunter took off his helmet, “what is this place?”

“Nala Se’s private lab.” Tech responded. “Omega says this is where our mutations were manipulated and enhanced.”

“How would she know?” Crosshair asked.

“Because she was there. Omega was created before us. Technically she is older than we are.”

They walked further into the lab before looking at the clear glass. “Uh oh. That’s gonna be a problem.” Wrecker said, looking at the broken tunnel outside of the lab.

“That tunnel was the only way to the Marauder.” Omega said slowly.

“It would seem that, once again, we are trapped.” AZI responded as Amina shook her head.

She was not going to die down here by water. Amina grabbed her japor snippet, holding her wrist. She didn’t want to die now, what about Luke and Leia? They may still be babies, and she may not have any contact with them, but selfishly she wanted to see them grow up, even if it was from a distance.

Hunter watched Amina from across the room, his brow furrowed with concern as he observed the turmoil etched upon her features. He knew that she was grappling with her own fears and doubts, just as he was.

"You okay?" he asked quietly, his voice a soothing presence amidst the chaos surrounding them.

Amina glanced up at him, her eyes reflecting a mixture of emotions. "I'll be fine," she replied with a forced smile, though Hunter could see the strain beneath the surface. "Just… I’ve never been around this much water. I don’t even know how to swim.”

"You've never been around this much water before?" Hunter asked gently, his voice soft with understanding as he moved closer to her, his presence a comforting anchor in the midst of their uncertainty.

Amina nodded, her shoulders slumping slightly as she met Hunter's gaze. "Yeah," she admitted, her voice barely above a whisper. "I grew up on Tatooine, you know? Sand, not water. Never really had the chance to learn how to swim. It wasn’t part of my training.”

Hunter's heart went out to her as he saw the apprehension written plainly on her face. He knew what it was like to be thrust into unfamiliar territory, to face situations that stretched the limits of one's comfort zone. But he also knew that Amina was strong, resilient, capable of overcoming whatever challenges came her way.

"Well, lucky for you, I happen to be a pretty good swimmer," Hunter said with a small smile, hoping to lighten the mood with a touch of humor. "I'll make sure you stay afloat."

Amina couldn't help but smile at his attempt to ease her worries, grateful for his unwavering support in the face of adversity. "Thanks, Hunter," she said sincerely, her voice tinged with warmth as she met his gaze. "I appreciate it."

Hunter returned her smile, his own worries momentarily forgotten as he focused on reassuring Amina. He knew they were facing an uphill battle, with danger lurking around every corner, but he also knew that they were stronger together, united in their determination to overcome whatever obstacles lay in their path.

Omega glanced at Amina, “can you use your Jedi tricks to get us out of here?”

Amina kneeled down, “not really. The force can only do so much.”

“What a waste,” Crosshair hissed.

Amina raised an eyebrow at Crosshair's remark, her expression a mixture of irritation and amusement. "I'm sorry, did you have a better suggestion?" she retorted, her voice laced with sarcasm as she glanced pointedly at the broken tunnel outside the lab. "Or are you just here to criticize?"

Crosshair bristled at her response, his jaw clenching with barely contained frustration. "I'm just stating the obvious," he shot back, his tone sharp with annoyance. "Seems like a waste of Jedi powers if you can't even get us out of here."

Amina resisted the urge to roll her eyes, choosing instead to maintain her composure in the face of Crosshair's provocation. She knew he had a tendency to be prickly, especially when tensions were running high, but she wasn't about to let his attitude get under her skin.

She almost wanted to say something about cutting off his head, but she reined it in. She couldn’t be like Anakin, couldn’t fall to the dark side no matter how easy it was to do so.

"Believe me, if I could use the Force to magically conjure up an escape route, I would," she replied evenly, her tone calm despite the underlying frustration simmering beneath the surface. "But unfortunately, I'm not exactly a miracle worker."

Amina stood up as Omega stood by her and Crosshair continued on, “I should’ve shot you when I first saw you.”

She walked towards him, “then do it. Kill me. I’m sure you’d love to snap my neck.” The rest of the group had slowly put their hands up, waiting to intervene if necessary. “Yeah, that’s what I thought. If you were to kill me, the Emperor you blindly follow wouldn’t be that happy with you.”

Crosshair's lips curled into a sneer as he stepped closer to Amina, his eyes narrowing with disdain. "Why would the Emperor care about you?" he challenged, his voice dripping with sarcasm.

Amina met his gaze head-on, her expression steady despite the anger simmering beneath the surface. "Take a guess," she retorted, her voice cool and composed.

Crosshair's brow furrowed in frustration, his fingers twitching instinctively towards his blaster. But before he could make a move, Hunter stepped forward, his presence a calming influence amidst the rising tension.

"Enough," Hunter said firmly, his voice cutting through the silence like a knife. "We don't have time for this."

Amina nodded before moving off to another part of the lab, her hand rubbing her japor snippet. What if she was destined to fall the same way Anakin did? The Jedi order was as wary of her as they were of Anakin. They constantly told her she was to reckless, headstrong, and emotional.

What would happen if the Emperor got his hands on her? Would he try to turn her the same way he did to Anakin? Or would he use her to push him further down the path of the dark side?

The Jedi were right, she was emotional. She gets angry and upset quickly, something her Master tried to rectify but never could. In writing, she would make a perfect Sith, but in practice she would fail miserably.

She heard metal creaking as Wrecker lifted a medical capsule upright. Everyone gathered around as Echo spoke, “these medical capsules are our only way out of here.”

“If our mass is evenly distributed, the buoyancy of these watertight chambers will bring us to the surface.” Tech said.

AZI flew in front of Tech, “medical capsules have not been tested for such capabilities.”

“We won’t have directional control. How do we avoid the debris field out there?” Hunter asked.

“The droid.” Crosshair spoke up, walking towards the group, “he can do it.”

Hunter shined his flashlight towards AZI, “AZI, can you guide us to the surface?”

“Barring any extraneous complications, I should be able to complete the task.”

“Won’t that be dangerous?” Omega asked.

“Your safety and well-being is my primary mission objective.”

"Alright, let's get these capsules ready," Hunter said, his voice steady as he directed the group towards the medical chambers scattered around the lab. "We need to move quickly if we're going to make it out of here in one piece."

Omega started to place detonators on the windows of the lab as the rest of them grabbed the medical capsules, 4 in total.

Wrecker stood in his and groaned, “I barely fit in this thing!”

“Quit complaining. At least you’re not doubled up.” Echo replied.

Amina got in the tube she was sharing with Omega as she ran over to the tubes, “the explosives are set.” She got into the tube with Amina, holding the detonator.

“All right. Seal ‘em up.” Hunter said, as everyone closed the tubes with the keypad on the inside.

AZI flew around before giving a thumbs up to Hunter as he looked over to Omega at the other end and nodded.

Omega held the detonator and pressed the button as Amina closed her eyes as the window broke and water filled the lab, causing them to all float out in the water as AZI guided them through the debris.

“I can’t see anything.” Wrecker exclaimed.

Glass cracked on Tech and Echo’s tube, “that is a good thing.”

AZI came to Omega and Amina’s tube as Omega looked up at the droid who was now above them, “you’re doing great, AZI.”

A piece of metal hit the tube as Omega gasped and the glass cracked. The metal weighed them down, causing the tube to float downwards.

AZI came back and attempted to lift the piece of metal off the tube, before moving around it to try and cut the metal.

“Omega? Amina?” Hunter asked through comms. “Omega? What’s happening?”

Omega grabbed her comm, “we got caught on some debris. It’s okay. AZI’s got us.” Omega turned to face the droid who shook his head, his eyes flickering. “Don’t give up. We’re nearly there.”

AZI started to power down, “your path is clear.” His voice started to distort, “I have completed my objective.”

“No!” Omega yelled, her eyes wide as AZI started to fall down through the water. “I’m going after AZI!”

“Omega, don’t!”

Amina grabbed Omega’s hand before she could press the keypad as Amina reached out her hand in the small tube, closing her eyes and looking for AZI through the force.

She felt him, dragging him up with the force as he floated through the water and their tube surfaced. Amina used one last pull as she grabbed AZI’s powered down body, handing him to Omega.

"AZI!" Omega exclaimed, her voice filled with relief as she cradled the droid in her arms, her fingers trembling slightly as she checked him over for any signs of damage. "Are you okay?"

Amina squeezed Omega’s shoulder, “he’s just powered down. We can charge him when we get to the Marauder.”

“I have a visual on the Marauder.” Tech said. “I suggest we start paddling.”

---

When they made it to the platform the Marauder was at, the group stared at the distance where flames and smoke were the only things left of Tipoca City.

“It’s… all gone.” Omega said.

“We should leave before the Empire’s scouts show up.” Tech suggested.

Wrecker looked over at Crosshair, “you coming with us?”

“None of this changes anything.”

“You offered us a chance, Crosshair. This is yours.” Hunter said.

“I made my decision.”

“We want different things, Crosshair. That doesn’t mean that we have to be enemies.”

Crosshair took one last glance at Hunter before turning his gaze back to the water. Hunter walked forward, placing a hand on Omega’s shoulder before following the group onto the Marauder. Hunter stood in the doorway of the ship, waiting for Omega to come on board as she shared a few words with Crosshair.

Amina sat down in the small corner of the ship, sighing and making sure her shoulder didn’t touch the wall to induce any more pain.

The ship took off, leaving behind Kamino as Amina rubbed her japor snippet. She sighed, bringing her knees up to her chest looking at the crevices of the snippet.

Lost in her thoughts, Amina almost didn't notice Hunter's approach until he was standing before her, his presence a familiar warmth at her side. She glanced up at him, offering him a small smile as he settled down beside her, their shoulders brushing lightly as they sat in companionable silence.

"Hey," Hunter said softly, his voice a gentle murmur amidst the hum of the ship. "You okay?"

Amina nodded, her smile widening slightly at the concern evident in Hunter's eyes. "Yeah, I'm fine," she replied, her voice soft with gratitude. "Just… thinking."

Hunter nodded in understanding, his gaze lingering on her for a moment longer before he spoke again. "It's been a rough day," he said quietly, his tone gentle as he reached out to touch her hand. "But we made it through."

Amina's heart skipped a beat at the warmth of Hunter's touch, a rush of emotion flooding through her at his words. Despite the hardships they had faced, despite the dangers that still lurked in the shadows, there was a sense of peace that settled over her in Hunter's presence, a feeling of safety and belonging that she cherished more than words could express.

"Yeah we did," she said sincerely, her voice barely above a whisper as she met his gaze.

"Now, how about I check out your shoulder?" Hunter suggested, his tone gentle as he looked at Amina with concern.

Amina nodded, grateful for his offer. "Yeah, that would be great," she replied, shifting slightly to give him better access to her injured shoulder. “Although, I think I just need a bandage.”

Hunter nodded, his expression serious as he examined Amina's shoulder. "Let's take a look," he said, gently easing aside the fabric of her clothing to assess the wound beneath. Amina winced slightly at the touch, but she remained still, trusting Hunter's expertise to see her through.

“It looks like more than a graze. It was a clean shot through your shoulder.”

Amina winced slightly at the touch, her jaw clenching against the pain as she forced herself to remain still. "Yeah, I kind of figured," she replied with a wry smile, though there was no mistaking the strain in her voice.

Hunter's expression softened at her attempt at humor, his eyes reflecting a mixture of sympathy and determination. "We'll need to clean and bandage it properly," he said, his tone matter-of-fact as he reached for the medical supplies nearby.

Amina nodded, grateful for his care. She held still as he gently cleaned the wound, his touch firm but gentle as he worked. Despite the pain, she found herself oddly comforted by his presence, his steady hands a reassuring anchor amidst the chaos of their surroundings.

Once the wound was cleaned, Hunter carefully applied a fresh bandage, his movements precise and methodical as he secured it in place. Amina winced slightly at the pressure, but she remained quiet, trusting Hunter to take care of her.

"There, all done," Hunter said, his voice soft as he finished dressing Amina's wound. He looked up at her, his eyes searching hers for any signs of discomfort. "How does that feel?"

Amina tested her shoulder gingerly, feeling the tightness of the bandage as she moved. "Better," she replied with a small smile, grateful for Hunter's skillful ministrations. "Thanks, Hunter."

Hunter returned her smile, his expression warm as he met her gaze. "Anytime," he said softly, his tone earnest as he reached out to touch her hand. "I'm just glad you're okay."

Amina felt a warmth spread through her at Hunter's words, a rush of gratitude welling up inside her as she squeezed his hand gently. "Me too," she admitted, her voice barely above a whisper as she leaned in closer to him.

“I’ll go check in with the others. You should get some rest.”

As Hunter disappeared into the main cabin of the ship, Amina closed her eyes, allowing herself to sink into the relative comfort of her surroundings. The gentle hum of the engines, the steady rhythm of the ship's movements—it was oddly soothing, like a lullaby coaxing her towards sleep.

---

She was kneeling in front of Palpatine’s throne, force restraining handcuffs binding her hands together behind her back.

“Ah, Lord Vader. I have a gift for you.” Palpatine said, a dark joy engrained in his voice.

Amina heard the mechanical footsteps and masked breathing as she looked up to find Anakin- Vader, in front of her, staring her down.

“Anakin.” She whispered, as Palpatine struck her with force lightning, causing her to cry out and fall down.

“Your brother is dead.” Palpatine hissed, as he stopped his attack. Two royal guards lifted her back up to a kneeling position.

She looked up through the black mask, “please, Ani.” She whispered, feeling tears fall down her face.

“Kill her.” Palpatine sneered at Vader, as Amina’s eyes widened.

"Ani," she whispered hoarsely, her voice barely above a whisper as she stared up at the masked visage of her brother. Despite the darkness that surrounded him, she could still see glimpses of the man he once was, the boy she had grown up with on the sands of Tatooine.

But those glimpses were fleeting, overshadowed by the darkness that consumed him now. As Vader raised his lightsaber, the crimson blade igniting with a hiss of power, Amina's heart clenched with despair. She had failed him, failed to save him from the clutches of the dark side, and now she would pay the ultimate price.

The hum of the lightsaber filled the air, drowning out the sound of Amina's racing heartbeat as Vader raised the blade high above his head. In that moment, time seemed to stand still, the world holding its breath as the Sith Lord prepared to strike the final blow.

She could feel the heat of his red blade close to her neck as he lifted the saber and-

Amina gasped as she woke up, her heart racing as she looked around the empty Marauder. They weren't flying anymore, so she assumed they were back on Ord Mantell. Rubbing the sleep from her eyes, she sat up slowly, her mind still reeling from the vivid nightmare that had plagued her sleep.

She felt a tear fall down her cheek as she quickly wiped it away. Kriff, she was angry. She was being tormented by her own brother who she hadn’t seen since he was burning on Mustafar.

What would happen if they saw each other again? Would he not hesitate to kill her like in her nightmares?

With a deep breath, Amina rose to her feet, her muscles protesting with fatigue as she moved towards the main cabin of the ship. She needed to check in with the others, to make sure they had all made it back safely from their harrowing journey.

The door to the ship was open, so she descended the ramp and saw the group fixing up the ship, with Omega sitting on top of Gonky eating Mantell mix.

Omega hopped down from Gonky, her eyes bright with excitement as she approached Amina. "Hey, Amina! Want some Mantell mix?" she offered, holding out a handful of the crunchy snack.

Amina smiled gratefully, taking a handful of the mix and popping it into her mouth. "Thanks, Omega," she said, her voice warm with affection.

Omega grinned back at her, her brown eyes sparkling with excitement. "No problem! Want to help me finish fixing up Gonky?" she asked, gesturing towards the droid as she reached for another handful of Mantell mix.

Amina nodded, swallowing the crunchy snack before following Omega over to where Gonky was parked. "Sure thing," she replied, her spirits lifting at the prospect of spending some time with Omega. Despite the lingering effects of her nightmare, being around the energetic young girl never failed to brighten her mood.

As they worked together to make some adjustments to Gonky's systems, Amina found herself relaxing in Omega's company. The rhythmic clanking of tools, the occasional burst of laughter— it all served as a welcome distraction from the weight of her worries.

“Amina.” A voice infiltrated her mind as she dropped the screwdriver and looked around.

Amina's heart skipped a beat as she heard the voice in her mind, her senses going on high alert as she glanced around, searching for the source of the mysterious communication. There was no one nearby, no one who could have spoken to her in such a way. She frowned, her brow furrowing with confusion as she tried to make sense of what had just happened.

"Did you hear that?" she asked Omega quietly, her voice barely above a whisper as she cast a wary glance around the hangar. Omega shook her head, her expression puzzled as she looked up at Amina.

"Hear what?" she asked, her brow furrowing with concern. Amina hesitated, unsure of how to explain the strange sensation that had washed over her just moments before. It felt like someone had spoken directly into her mind, a voice that was both familiar and unfamiliar at the same time.

"Nothing," Amina replied, forcing a smile as she tried to shake off the unease that had settled over her. "Must have been my imagination."

She bent down and grabbed the screwdriver when the voice spoke again in a eerily familiar sound, “Amina.”

Amina turned around, “Anakin?” She whispered.

She heard the breathing that haunted her nightmares as she turned around once more and found herself in a pod, staring at the back of a black helmet. She felt a chill run down her spine as she took a step back, her hand instinctively reaching for the lightsaber at her belt.

"Anakin?" she whispered, her voice barely above a hoarse whisper as she stared at the figure in front of her. She knew it was him, knew it with a certainty that sent shivers down her spine.

The figure turned slowly, the sound of servos whirring as the helmet faced her, the dark visor hiding any trace of the man she once knew. Amina's breath caught in her throat as she stared into the abyss of that mask, searching for any sign of the brother she had lost.

“You left me for dead.” Vader said, as Amina took a small step back.

“I didn’t leave you!”

Vader took a step forward as she took a step back, “you let me burn on Mustafar.”

“I had no choice.” She replied, her voice breaking and eyes welling up with tears, “I didn’t want t- to leave you, Ani.”

Vader's mechanical breathing seemed to echo through the pod, a haunting reminder of the man he once was. Amina's heart clenched with anguish as she looked into the abyss of his mask, searching desperately for any hint of the brother she had lost.

Vader's mask remained impassive, his presence imposing as he loomed over her. "You abandoned me," he accused, his voice a low rumble that sent shivers down Amina's spine.

"No, Ani, I swear," Amina pleaded, her eyes brimming with tears. "I thought you were dead. I would never have left you willingly."

Vader's grip tightened on his lightsaber, the crimson blade casting a sinister glow in the dim confines of the pod. "It matters not," he declared, his voice cold and unforgiving. "You will pay for your betrayal."

“No, Anakin! I didn’t betray you! I swear I didn’t.” She cried, “you’re my brother, Anakin! I know you’re still in there.”

Vader raised his hand, pushing her with the force as she found herself flying through the hanger on Ord Mantell. She flew into the wall and onto the ground as the Bad Batch watched.

As Amina collided with the hard surface of the hangar wall, pain shot through her body like lightning. The impact knocked the breath from her lungs, leaving her gasping for air as she struggled to push herself upright. She could hear the concerned voices of the Bad Batch echoing in her ears, their footsteps approaching her prone form.

"General! Are you alright?" Hunter's voice cut through the haze of pain, his tone laced with worry as he knelt beside her.

Amina blinked away tears of pain, forcing herself to focus on his concerned face. "I'm... I'm fine," she managed to choke out, her voice strained as she pushed herself into a sitting position.

Hunter's brow furrowed with concern as he reached out to gently touch her shoulder. "That looked like quite a fall," he remarked, his voice filled with genuine concern.

She heard mechanical breathing as she whipped her head behind her, only to find the cement wall.

Wrecker came forward and helped her up, “woah, how did that even happen?”

Amina winced slightly as she brushed herself off, trying to shake off the lingering effects of her encounter with Vader. "I'm not sure," she replied, her voice strained with pain. "I must have lost my footing."

Hunter raised an eyebrow, “and flew across the hanger?”

“I- ” She cut herself off. If Anakin- Vader, knew she was alive, that means the Emperor does too. And if they both know she’s alive, she can only assume that they’re going to be searching for her to use in their dark, twisted schemes. She started to slowly walk back onto the ship, brushing off the group’s concerns, and grabbed the few things she had as Hunter followed.

She was a threat, a risk, how can she stay with them any longer if she was putting them and Omega in danger? Maker, was she really that stupid and naïve to think she can stay in one place for a long period of time?

Hunter followed closely behind her, his brow furrowed with concern as he watched her movements. "Amina, what's going on?" he asked, his voice gentle yet tinged with worry. He could sense her distress, her turmoil, and it pained him to see her in such a state.

Amina paused in her packing, her heart heavy with guilt as she turned to face him. "Hunter, I... I can't stay," she admitted, her voice barely above a whisper. "It's too dangerous for all of you to have me around."

She put the things in her backpack and pulled out her blaster from her bag, checking it over before putting it in her holster.

“Stop.” Hunter said, grabbing her upper arm, stopping her from moving. Amina stopped, her back to him as she gripped her backpack.

"The Emperor knows I'm alive now, and he’ll stop at nothing to capture me. Ana- ” She cut herself off, she couldn’t let anyone know that Anakin was alive.

She scoffed, Master Yoda was right, she’s too emotional. What if Anakin and Palpatine did get their hands on her? Would she turn that easily to be reunited with her brother? Or should she listen to Obi-Wan’s advice? Maybe attachments weren’t such a bad thing, after all, she has a group of people surrounding her who all takes care of each other.

Amina turned around in his grip, as she now faced him, a few tears streaming down her face. “I… I’m so confused right now. It’s like everything I knew is crumbling around me and I don’t know how to stay afloat.” She looked down, “everyone I knew is gone, dead or… buried within themselves.”

"I know it's hard, Amina," Hunter said softly, his voice filled with empathy. "But you're not alone. We're all here for you, no matter what. Whatever you're going through, we'll face it together."

Amina swallowed hard, her throat tight with emotion as she met Hunter's gaze. She could see the sincerity in his eyes, the genuine care and concern he held for her, and it touched something deep within her soul. Despite her doubts and fears, there was a part of her that longed to trust him, to believe in the bond they shared.

"I want to believe that, Hunter," she whispered, her voice barely above a hoarse whisper as she looked down again. "But I can't shake this feeling that I'm putting all of you in danger just by being here."

Hunter reached out and gently brushed a stray tear from her cheek, his touch warm and comforting against her skin. "We knew the risks when we decided to take you in," he said, his voice steady and reassuring. "But that doesn't mean we're going to abandon you now. We're a team, Amina, and we stick together, no matter what."

Amina nodded, her heart heavy with gratitude as she leaned into Hunter's touch, seeking solace in his presence. In a quick, almost impulsive moment, she wrapped her arms around his neck. Hunter stiffened slightly at the unexpected embrace, his breath catching in his throat as he hesitated for a moment before tentatively returning the gesture. His arms encircled her waist, pulling her close as he rested his chin on the top of her head.

“I’m sorry,” she mumbled, “Master Yoda and Master Windu always said I was emotional and impulsive. I guess I have a think later attitude.”

"You don't have to apologize, Amina," Hunter murmured, his voice soft as he gently stroked her hair. "We all have our moments of doubt, of uncertainty. It's what makes us human."

Amina pulled back slightly, meeting Hunter's gaze with a mixture of gratitude and vulnerability in her eyes. "Thank you, Hunter," she whispered, her voice thick with emotion. "For everything."

Hunter smiled warmly at her, his heart swelling with a sense of affection for the young Jedi. "Anytime, Amina," he replied, his voice tender. "We're in this together, remember?"

Amina nodded, a small smile tugging at the corners of her lips. "Yeah," she said softly. "Together."

tags: @callsign-denmark

#tbb hunter #tbb hunter x oc #tbb hunter x reader #tbb hunter x you #tbb hunter x fem!jedi #the bad batch #the bad batch fanfiction #sergeant hunter x oc #sergeant hunter x reader

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kaminocasey · 1 year

Text

Bonsoir Chapter 8: Cry

Summary: Gregor tries to get back to Cassia. Cassia tries to get Aunt Joc's body back.

Pairing: Tbb Gregor x OC!Cassia Nu

Warnings: 18+ Grief, Emotional Scenes, Danger

WC: 3.7K

A/N: I promise you we're FINALLY getting somewhere here. Thank you bearing with me through all the angst and tears.

Bonsoir Masterlist

Daro

Gregor had finally found a way out. He wasn’t sure if it was going to work or not. But he needed to find out. For Cassia. He knows she probably thinks he’s dead… but now that he remembers her, all he does is miss her. Fuck this new “Empire”. Fuck these new “TK Troopers”. He needed to get the hell off this planet and back to Coruscant. Even if it was the last thing he did.

Gregor can hear the massiffs howling as they sniff him out, running after him as he tries to navigate and keep from falling in the thick of the plant life and trees. He’d gone over the map several times, finding a cave that he could hide out in until help from a former trooper he used to know would arrive. This was his desperate chance. He had to succeed.

If he didn’t… he was dead.

“THIS WAY!” He hears behind him, a little too close for comfort.

He keeps running until he’s forced to stop by a ledge, almost nearly going over from adrenaline pumping through his veins.

Kriff. He looks down and lets out a breath, just trying to catch it. He wasn’t sure how long he’d been running. Hearing the growls of the massiffs starts him going again.

Unfortunately, it doesn’t take long to realize he’s going to get caught once he sees the lights of the troopers trying to hunt him down.

He pauses for only a second, catching his breath again as he looks to see which way is going to be the best way to go.

The massiffs up on top of a rock start growling as they spot him down below about ten feet. He starts running again, pulling out the location device and sticking it underneath a rock that Captain Rex hopefully finds.

The massiffs take that time to hone in on him, getting closer until Gregor decides he needs to keep going. Jumping over a fallen tree, he starts sprinting even though he’s beyond exhausted.

Hearing the snarling and snapping of the massiffs, he keeps trying to get further away. Except all of a sudden, he hears a blaster go off and he realizes that he’s been stunned. His legs start to fail him as he begins to limp away, trying and trying to get further away from the killer massiffs.

His mind goes to Cassia again. Her soft red hair and kind brown eyes. Her perfect smile. How soft her skin is… He misses her so much it hurts.

Gregor is forced to stop by a trooper in front of him that seemingly comes out of nowhere, immediately getting stunned and dropping to the ground.

Everything goes dark again.

Coruscant, A couple days later…

“So, tell me the plan again so I know there will be no mistakes.” Dyer tells Cassia and Mara.

Mara hadn’t been happy about it, but she wasn’t about to let her best friend go traipsing into the Jedi temple alone. Not that she was actually alone, Dyer fully had Cassia’s back.

Half of the plan was Cassia's. She was surprisingly good at this stuff, ready to risk her life to save the body of her Aunt. All for a funeral that Joc deserved.

“Tomorrow night, there will be two Corries here at the gate. We’re going to pose as holovision technicians.” Cassia points to the entry gate to the temple. “Then, your Corrie Guard friend will pose as some guy from logistics to confirm that he’s the one who ordered our fake services. We drive in, park over here. We’ll sneak along this wall, making sure to get into this entrance to the temple where they’re holding all the… bodies of the Jedi. Then, your Corrie friend is going to help us get Joc’s body and bring her out back to the van. “Good.” Dyer smiles, squeezing Cassia’s shoulder, noticing how she paused. “And I’ll be right there if I suspect anything goes wrong.”

“We both will.” Mara nods, squeezing her hand.

Dyer looks at Mara and smiles softly. She returns the smile. Cassia smiles at the both of them, just glad that they seem to be working things out. It was completely obvious that Dyer was in love with Mara, and vice versa. They just didn’t like to show it in front of Cassia, trying to be conscientious of her feelings. She just wanted them to be happy.

“I’m going to try to go to bed. I’ll see you guys in the morning.” Cassia yawns and walks back to her room, closing her door so she could attempt to give them some privacy.

Wedge lifts his head to acknowledge Cassia.

“They’re totally going to kiss right now.” Cassia whispers at Wedge as she changes into her pajamas and climbs into bed.

Lo and behold, Cassia was correct. The moment that her door closed, Mara practically jumped into Dyer’s arms, kissing him passionately. He smiles into the kiss, pulling her as much against him as he can, never wanting to let her go. He knows he’ll never let her go again.

The next morning, after finding Mara and Dyer asleep on the couch in each other’s arms, Cassia feeds Wedge his breakfast as quietly as possible before sneaking off to the fresher and getting ready for the day. She puts on a pair of pants and a dark sweater and then sneaks past a still sleeping Mara and Dyer to go down to the shop to read for a bit, letting Wedge come with her.

Sitting in the window seat, watching the rain, she can’t help but think of Gregor. She knows she needs to get past him. It’s been too long. They weren’t even together that long… but she’d never been in love before. Falling in love had hit her like a train. Out of nowhere and at full force.

Gregor was Cassia’s first love and lost him in a traumatic way. There’s probably no coming back from that.

“Do you want some company?” Dyer asks in the doorway to the stairs up to the apartment. “Mara is up in the shower.”

“Sure.” Cassia smiles, moving her feet so he can sit in front of her in the window seat.

“Would you like to hear a story about him?” Dyer asks, softly. “If not, it’s okay. Mara tells me not to bring him up to you…”

She knows Dyer means Gregor. Sometimes, it’s easy to forget that not only did she lose a love, he lost a brother. One he was closer than close with. He needed to talk about him.

“I’d love to hear all of your stories about him.” She admits, putting her book down and pulling her sleeves over her hands.

“I know how much he meant to you, Cash… He loved you so much. Right from the first night.” Dyer murmurs, looking out the window as he puts his hair up in a bun. “He didn’t give too many details but we could kinda guess what had happened. He came back, grinning like a fool with this little bracelet of weeds around his wrist. Never took the damn thing off.”

“They were flowers.” Cassia tells him, chuckling, already tearing up.

“Sure they were.” Dyer teases. “Anyway, that book you gave him and that bracelet were with him until the very end.”

Cassia hadn’t heard this before, she’d been putting off hearing about him. But now, while tears were starting to fall, and yes it still hurt, she wanted to hear all about him. She was finally ready.

“Really?” She asks, sniffling into her sleeve, knowing she’s gonna have to change her sweater in a bit.

“Yeah. He was always opening the book and looking at your name on the inside.” He smiles.

She remembers writing her name and a heart in the book for him, being a little self conscious that he’d think it was dumb, while he was asleep. Later that day, he’d found it and kissed her breathless.

“Lore made the mistake of taking the book to be nosy and teasing Gregor. So, Gregor wrestled him to the ground, making Lore swear to never touch his stuff again.” Dyer chuckles.

Not only did Dyer lose Gregor… He lost all of his brothers.

“I didn’t know that side of Gregor.” Cassia murmurs, having a hard time picturing Gregor being aggressive.

“Oh yeah, he was a badass. That’s why he was our captain. He was fearless, strong, and courageous.” Dyer tells her, his own eyes glistening. “And he was my best friend.”

“Dyer, I’m so sorry…” Cassia tells him, wiping her nose with her sleeve again.

“Don’t be.” He shrugs. “We were lucky to know him.”

They really were. Cassia has known that since the moment she met Gregor.

“Anytime you want to tell me about any of your brothers, I’m always here to listen.” She promises him, reaching out and squeezing his hand.

“I appreciate that.” He nods. “Anytime you want to talk about your family, you can.”

“Thank you, Dyer.” She nods back.

Cassia pulls her hands back into her sweater and leans against the cool window, thinking of Gregor, having a newfound, yet hopeless, love for the man.

“Do you guys want to go get something to eat?” Mara comes down, smiles at them, then sees them both crying. “What the hell happened?”

“We were talking about Gregor.” Cassia smiles through her tears.

Mara glares at Dyer.

“I wanted him to talk about him, Mar. It’s okay. I needed to hear about him.” Cassia nods at Dyer and he nods back. “He needed to talk about him.”

Mara lets out a sigh. “Alright… So, food?”

Cassia and Dyer both let out a laugh and agree that they need food.

Ord Mantell, same day.

“Look, I appreciate what you’ve done for me, and I’m genuinely sorry about Hunter, but I’ve got to get back to Coruscant. There’s someone there who needs me.” Gregor tells Wrecker. “I’m sorry I can’t be of much help this time.”

After all that Gregor had gone through, and finally had escaped thanks to this Clone Force 99, he’s so much closer to Cassia.

“Ah, don’t worry about us, we always figure it out.” Wrecker shakes Gregor’s hand, maybe a little too enthusiastically. Gregor is pretty sure he heard his wrist pop. But the guy is nice and that’s all that matters. He’s still pretty sore in the chest from the two blaster shots but thankfully, Echo patched him up on the way here.

“I told you this wasn’t a clone club house!” The short, loud, Trandoshan woman, Cid, tells Wrecker.

“Don’t mind her. She’s just grumpy that we couldn’t finish her job.” Wrecker shoots Cid a look. “You were able to get ahold of Rex?”

Gregor nods. “He should be here soon.”

“Good. If ya need anything, you know how to get a hold of us.” Wrecker tells Gregor.

“Appreciate it.” Gregor nods one last time before sitting at the bar as Wrecker heads out.

Gregor sits for a long while, thinking about what he’s going to say to Cassia when he sees her for the first time again. Will she be angry with him? Will she remember him? Will she still love him? What if she’s already with someone else? What if she knows about Order 66 and is disgusted with him? He knows that she’s probably going through something awful since her aunt was a Jedi… maybe her aunt got out safely. Would Cassia ever be able to see past the Order? All he knows is, he can’t turn off his brain and he wants nothing more than to see her.

“On the house.” The bartender sits the drink down in front of Gregor.

“Thanks. I really need it.” Gregor chuckles, downing the drink and then moving over to the booth to pull out the book with the bracelet and Cassia’s name in it, running his fingers over it like he’s done a thousand times before. “I’m on my way, Cash.”

Coruscant, that night…

“Do you think we can really do this?” Cassia asks as they near the Jedi temple.

“I promise you we can.” Dyer tells her, hiding in the back.

“We’ve got this.” Mara reassures her.

This was the most dangerous thing that Cassia has ever done, besides sneaking into the temple the first time. She’s still not hardly slept since finding Aunt Joc like that in the temple library.

“We’ve got this…” Cassia repeats. “Yeah, we got this.”

She believes it. She’s determined. She’s going to get her aunt back.

Mara pulls up to the temple gate, and starts talking to the Corrie at the gate.

“What do you want?” The Corrie asks her, checking his holopad then looking over at Cassia. “We don’t have any deliveries scheduled for tonight.”

“Well, tell that guy down in logistics. He’s the one who ordered all these parts for their holovisions.” Mara starts arguing with the guard.

“One minute…” The guard sighs, clearly already over the night, walking away to his post to comm down to the logistics department.

When the guard buzzes the gate open, Mara nods to him, driving through, along the building to where the Corrie told them to meet him. He’s out there waiting for them, holding his helmet.

Dyer hops out of the back, greeting his friend. “Commander Stone.”

“Sargeant Dyer, my man. Glad to see you alive.” Stone hugs him.

“Why didn’t your chip work?” Mara asks him, point blank.

“Your guess is as good as mine, ma’am.” Stone shrugs.

Cassia looks at Mara who’s staring at Stone with a level of cautiousness she’s never seen before. These were dangerous times they’re in, she realizes. She thinks Mara realizes it, too.

“Sorry about my riduur. She’s just nervous.” Dyer tells him.

Both Cassia and Mara look up at him. Cassia hadn’t heard that word in so long… Mara was clearly not expecting that word either.

“What?” Dyer notices them staring.

“Conversation for later. We have more pressing matters than you calling me your partner for the first time.” Mara moves past Stone into the building.

“I like her.” Stone chuckles.

Cassia smiles softly as Dyer watches Mara with complete adoration. Looking at Stone is a little harder than looking at Dyer. He looks so much like Gregor that now that’s all that Cassia can think of even though she’s clearly on an important mission.

They walk down the hallway until they get to a room when Stone looks both ways before typing in a code into the keypad, making the door slide open.

“We have to be quick.” Stone grabs a hoverbed and walks over to the cooler box where the bodies are being held, then looks at Cassia. “You may wanna turn around.”

Mara turns Cassia around as Gregor and Stone pull Joc’s body out of the box and transfer her to the hoverbed, wrapping her body so that no one can peek inside.

“Alright. Let’s go.” Dyer tells Cassia and Mara.

Mara and Cassia head out first with Stone and Dyer behind.

“Stone?” They hear a voice behind them.

Immediately, Cassia, Mara, and Dyer form a wall in front of Joc’s body so she won’t be seen.

“Kriff…” Stone whispers before turning around. “Fox, hey.”

Of course something would go wrong. Why wouldn’t it? They were so close to being in the clear.

“Who are they?” Fox looks around at the people that are clearly not supposed to be here.

“My friends. They wanted to check out the lower levels of the temple.” Stone lies.

“And you?” Fox looks at Dyer.

“Captain Nolcox. 104th, sir.” Dyer reaches his hand out for Fox to shake it.

“Right. Good to meet you. Stone, I’d suggest you stop being a tour guide and go continue your patrol.” Fox sighs, turning around to leave.

Dyer, Mara, and Cassia let out a quiet sigh of relief, waiting until Fox is gone around the corner before turning around and booking it back to the van. When they finally reach it, Dyer and Stone load Joc’s body in the back and Dyer thanks Stone before climbing in the back as well, shutting the door.

Stone walks Cassia over to the passenger side. “If you ever need anything, Dyer’s got my comm channel.”

“Thank you, Stone.” Cassia smiles. “Truly… I don’t think I could ever thank you enough.”

Stone nods and closes the door for her. Mara takes off carefully back toward the gate, driving through until they get to the crematorium that Mara’s trustworthy friend, Luce works at, where they quietly unload Joc, taking her in through the back doors.

“I’ll be back.” Mara squeezes Cassia’s hand and walks through the door, following Luce.

“We did it.” Dyer bumps Cassia’s shoulder with his.

Dyer’s right. They did it. They actually pulled it off. They got Joc back. But they would never get Gregor back… they’d never be able to do this for him. That realization hurts more than she thought it would.

Cassia doesn’t realize that her breathing has grown ragged, her body shaking. She immediately starts sobbing. She’s lost everyone but Mara and Dyer.

Dyer puts an arm around her, trying to keep her upright. Cassia’s sobs become guttural and they instantly break Dyer’s heart. All he can do is cry with her, understanding.

It takes a long time for Cassia to stop crying and when she does, she passes out.

When she wakes back up, she has no idea how she ended up on her couch, laying on her side, but her eyes, throat, and head hurt so bad. She slowly realizes her head is in Mara’s lap and her eyes are really puffy.

“Mara…?” Cassia croaks, weakly.

“Shh… I’m here. It’s okay.” Mara murmurs, running her fingers through Cassia’s hair in a soothing manner.

“Tell Dyer… I’m sorry… for breaking down.” Cassia tries to apologize, barely able to open her eyes.

Mara sits her up enough to make her drink a bit of water before helping her back down.

“You have no reason to be sorry.” Dyer says from the floor.

“Go back to sleep.” Mara whispers, putting a warm compress over her eyes. Cassia nods and goes back to sleep, her body still fully exhausted. Grief is a funny thing.

When Cassia wakes up again, her head is still pounding and her eyes still feel like they’re popping out of her head. Remembering Gregor, getting Joc back… it all came crashing down over her. It was all too much at once.

Cassia looks at the caf table and finds a note.

Cash, there’s pain meds next to this note. Drink the glass of water and then another one. We are down in the shop. Take a hot shower and then come down only if you want. -Mara

She doesn’t think she’ll get over how lucky she truly is to have Mara in her life. Carefully and slowly, Cassia sits up to take the pain meds and drink the glass of water. She gets up to go to the kitchen, finding Wedge eating his lunch and turns on the sink to get another drink of water. She already feels a bit better, but goes to grab a shower. The hot water feels incredible on her stiff muscles from when she had tensed up while sobbing. Unfortunately, the hot water can’t fully distract her from what they did last night.

Would anyone notice Joc missing and come looking for them? Were they in danger? She knows these are questions to worry about later, after she gets some food in her. This has been a really stressful time so it’s important that she takes some time to just stop thinking about everything so much.

After her shower, she puts on a sweatshirt and pants and then dries her hair, putting it up into a messy bun. She automatically feels a lot better. Especially since the pain meds kicked in.

She looks in the mirror and sees that her eyes are still a bit puffy, but puts on some concealer in case any customers come in, she doesn’t scare them off.

After she feels ready enough, she walks down to the shop, finding Mara and Dyer huddled over the holopad, laughing at something.

“Hey.” Cassia’s throat is still a bit hoarse.

They turn around, looking at her, immediately smiling in a sympathetic way.

“How are you feeling, babe?” Mara asks, coming over to her and taking her hands.

“Better.” Cassia nods.

“I put Joc’s ashes on your dining room table. They’re in a really beautiful opal urn that Luce gave us for free. We’ll have to write them a thank you note.” Mara tells her, softly.

Cassia nods again. “I’m so grateful to you both… I don’t know how I got so lucky to have you in my life.”

Mara wraps her arms around Cassia, hugging her tightly before Cassia sighs and pulls away, looking at Dyer.

“I owe you so much.” She smiles.

“I wanted to tell you the other day but it didn’t seem ideal while we were both already crying…” Dyer looks from Cassia to Mara, looking for approval for something.

Mara nods.

“When Gregor and I were on Sarrish… before the battle… he made me, well actually all of us, promise if anything were to happen to him, that we’d take care of you two… you and Mara.” Dyer tells her. “I plan on keeping that promise. Not because I have to, but because I want to. I care about you both.”

Cassia clutches her chest when hearing Gregor’s name said out loud. Of course Gregor would make his brother take care of you. You should’ve known.

“So, you don’t owe me anything. Not a single thing. As long as you’ll both have me, because I know you’re a packaged deal, I’ll be around.” Dyer says.

With tears in her eyes, Cassia looks at Mara and she smiles and nods. Cassia crosses over to Dyer and hugs him.

“Thank you.” She whispers.

Dyer nods against her shoulder and lets her pull away first. When she walks over to the storeroom, she grabs a box of books to stock the shelves with, excited to finally get back into the swing of things.

The moment she walks out of the storeroom, they hear the front door bells jingle.

“Hi, welcome to The Sp-” Cassia’s breath leaves her body when she sees who walks in.

“Hi, Cash…” Gregor murmurs, holding flowers in his hand.

With a gasp, Cassia drops the box of books.

TAGS: @grievouus @brynhildrmimi @madameminor @dumfanting @rain-on-kamino @misogirl828 @rexandechosandwich @corona-one @tecker @ladykatakuri @the-sith-in-the-sky-with-diamond @twistedstitcher27 @zoeykallus @maulslittlemeowmeow @littlemousedroid @arctrooper69 @rexxdjarin @agenteliix @padawancat97 @hated-by-me @sleepingsun501 @crosshairmylove587 @idlenesses @loverofclones @captain-splock-you

#bonsoir fic #tbb gregor x oc!cassia nu #oc!cassia nu #oc cassia nu #tbb gregor

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ichayalovesyou · 2 years

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Personnel File: Zjardona Daro

Position: Captain of the U.S.S. Tubman Rank: Captain Species: Trill, Joined Gender: Female Year of Birth: 2322 Age: 58 Place of Birth: Trill Prime Height: 1.85 meters Weight: 81 kilograms Eye Color: Brown Hair Color: Black Family: Kanisi (Wife, Divorced 2369), Reeza Kellan (Sister, Captain of the U.S.S. Perseverance), Balel Daro (Son, Previous Host, Deceased 2367) Education: Starfleet Academy (Class of 2347), Trill Symbiosis Commission Institute (Complete 2370)

Service Record: Ensign U.S.S. Herald (2348), Lieutenant U.S.S. Alcibiades (2351), Lieutenant Cmdr. U.S.S. Joan of Arc (2358), Commander of U.S.S. Yousafzai (2372), Captain of U.S.S Tubman (2378)

Background Story: Versatile ship and training record, primarily trained in couriering, defense, and emergency medical services, making her uniquely suited for command of an Amnesty Class Starship. Zjardona's career was primarily security oriented, but she decided to change course after the battle of Wolf 359, her son was among the casualties. In violation of Reassociation laws from which the circumstances provided pardon. The symbiont was placed in Balel's mother in order to save Daro's life. Zjardona Daro took an emergency leave of absence from Starfleet in order to train at the Symbiont Commission to assimilate the Daro symbiont, as well as to mourn the loss of her son. She was reinstated aboard the Yousafzai a decorated veteran, her first experience with an Amnesty class starship. She "fell in love with them" and currently has command of her own, one of the oldest and most venerated Amnesty Class starships, the Tubman.

Personality Profile: Highly compassionate and a consummate professional. While a more diplomatic and matronly officer now, her early Starfleet career was defined by bold decisions that harbored a militaristic edge that kept Starfleet on it's toes while she served on the Joan. That fiery disposition has not been lost but instead refined with the arrival of the Daro symbiont. She carries the tragedy of her son's death (and the similar deaths of many of Daro's previous hosts) on her shoulders with strength and grace.

Physical Profile: Average height and build for Trill female, violet tinted brown eyes, graying curly black hair, Trill markings are purple (a recessive trait amongst the species).

Special Notes: The Symbiosis Commission is a bit superstitious and overprotective regarding the Daro symbiont. Daro allegedly has a habit of inhabiting hosts who have die violently in times of war, whether they're soldiers or not. According to Starfleet records, five of Daro's seven previous hosts to Zjardona have died as civilian or military casualties, Daro barely surviving each time. This subject must be handled with diplomatic caution regarding the commission.

#star trek #star trek ocs #ocs #oc #captain Daro #captain Zjardona Daro #Zjardona daro #trill #trill symbiont #wolf 359 #amnesty class #uss tubman #lar trek #oc universe #ichayalovesocs

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dragonknightofsummerset · 1 year

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#the elder scrolls online #teso #verandis ravenwatch #gwendis #fennorian #adusa daro #kathad #melina cassel #heloise menoit #captain janeve

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effervescent-au · 6 months

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@baggygoose drew the scene from chapter four in which Lach accidentally catcalls his captain instead of Dew.

Look at his face lol

#effervescent #lach dower #captain daro basin #splatoon #splatoon au #that is the face of instant regret

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soullessbullshit · 1 month

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Adusa-daro: Adusa is two seconds from pulling a Gwendis and collecting her own duffel bag of heads.

Gwendis: I don’t have it anymore.

Adusa-daro: What do you mean?

Gwendis: I lost it.

Janeve: How do you lose a bag of heads??

Melina: You forget to cherish it.

#incorrect quotes #elder scrolls #elder scrolls online #eso #adusa daro #gwendis #janeve tamrith #captain janeve #melina cassel #house ravenwatch #source: incorrectbatfam

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crowfootwrites · 6 months

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Devotion & Diplomacy - Part V

BUCKLE UP, Y'ALL. I have basically been having a nervous breakdown and bothering my partner nonstop about proofing this chapter for me, because I'm so excited to share it with y'all, and the holidays really slowed my roll.

Without further ado, Emrys returns to Cardassia to go toe-to-toe with the Gul-Tar and gets an unexpected surprise!

Tagging, of course, @deepspacedukat, @horta-in-charge, @sleepycat82, @starrynightgardens, and @vreenak 💕

Part I | Part II | Part III | Part IV | Read on AO3

Warnings: some briefly mentioned xenophobia; ya'll this chapter is so fucking fluffy | Words: ~2,855

Several Cardassians that Emrys had come to recognize as various heads of state were already gathered around the long, angular conference table when she arrived. They stood gathered in small clusters of dully colored armor, whispering fervently as Emrys strode in, trying to appear calm and confident. She felt the presence of Romar and Varsek behind her, which helped a bit – strength in numbers and all that – but dread settled in her stomach nonetheless, knowing that today’s session would most likely not go well.

Her commanding officers had been downright rigid in their demands of the Cardassians and had given Emrys little room to bargain. She knew that Ziven might find some of this to be actually offensive.

Emrys stood behind her usual seat, waiting for more of her team to arrive. As she glanced past Romar toward the door, a familiar face appeared, and he spotted her just as quickly. The surprise on his face did not dissipate as he strode toward Emrys.

“Lieutenant Commander Beck,” he ventured, extending his hand toward Emrys, “it’s a pleasure to see you again.”

“Gul Macet,” Emrys replied calmly, trying to mask her rapidly increasing heart rate – perhaps, wherever Gul Macet is, Glinn Daro should also be… “The pleasure is mine,” she finished with a genuine smile.

“Will you be joining us for this session?” she asked, allowing her curiosity to get the better of her. Macet had never attended any of the previous sessions, and she wasn’t sure of his standing within the Cardassian Union. She bit her tongue to ensure she didn’t ask the questions she really wanted to ask.

“Ah, not for its entirety, thankfully,” he said with a chuckle. “I have been asked to report on our confrontation with the USS Phoenix before this gathering, as the Gul-Tar feels that it may serve as strong evidence that not all of the Federation is interested in building peace with Cardassia.”

Emrys’ smile dropped, but she quickly recovered, schooling her features into a mask of impassivity, despite the anxiety and irritation raging in her chest, wreaking havoc on her empty stomach as bile burned in her gut. The calming warmth of a hand rested on her shoulder and Emrys felt Romar behind her, an ever-present shadow accustomed to steadying her during these sorts of surprises. She took a slow breath, resigning herself to whatever might come, but it seemed that Macet had seen right through her. He took a step closer and, despite Romar tightening his grasp just slightly on Emry’s shoulder, she didn’t back away.

He met her gaze with a slight smirk tugging at his lips, “Don’t worry, my dear. Your Captain Picard and I had a nice chat about Maxwell and how this… incident might impact our attempts at peace. Despite my own personal feelings about Starfleet botching the issue, I am capable of seeing the bigger picture. I will provide the facts as delicately as possible.” Emrys inclined her head slightly in acknowledgement, still working to wrap her mind around what he just said and what he could possibly be getting out of it himself.

As Macet turned away to take his seat near Ziven, he glanced pointedly at Romar’s hand on Emrys’ shoulder before meeting her gaze once again. “Oh, by the way. A certain Glinn of mine has asked after you. I’ll be sure to tell him you’re well.” He sauntered off toward Ziven and an expanding group of Cardassian military leaders as all the breath expelled from Emrys’ lungs.

Her mind whirled with all the new information she needed to process, but the thought of Daro asking about her slowed her thoughts like molasses. Romar, perhaps sensing her distraction, removed his hand and guided her by her sleeve to sit beside him.

“Are you all right, Commander?” The deep greens and browns of Romar’s traditional Vulcan robes swam before Emrys’ unfocused eyes before she managed to snap herself out of her reverie.

“I- yes, I’m fine. I apologize, my mind was elsewhere for a moment,” she muttered.

Romar inclined his head, his eyes not leaving Emrys as she turned to face the remainder of the table.

Only a few moments later, Gul-Tar Ziven rose from his seat. The legs of his chair screeched against the marble flooring, an awful noise that echoed in the chamber, forcing a silence over the room.

“It is my sincere hope that this recess has been restful for all of us, and that we may continue building peace between the Federation and the Cardassian Union with clear and refreshed minds,” he declared. Emrys rolled her shoulders back, shifting back into the necessary headspace for this job.

“Before we return to the points of negotiation introduced during our last session, I feel it important to mention that during our break, the Cardassian Union witnessed the loss of 750 citizens at the hands of the Federation-”

Varsek, seated beside her, rose angrily from his chair, protestations forming on his tongue.

Emrys’ hand shot out to grip his white forearm without leaving her seat. “Sit down,” she ordered, as Varsek turned to stare at her.

After a moment, he yanked his arm from her grasp and sat, grumbling to himself.

Ziven seemed almost amused by this display, continuing on as though nothing had happened. “A Starfleet ship was responsible for unprovoked attacks on two Cardassian vessels, in addition to the destruction of an unarmed science station in the Cuellar system.”

He paused, and Emrys replied from her seat, her palms resting flat on the table before her. A smug grin stretched across his face as he waited for her to say or do something. Perhaps to react like Varsek.

“Excuse me for interrupting, Gul-Tar,” she uttered, keeping her tone even and polite. “I believe that you have invited Gul Macet here today to attest to the events that occurred in the Cuellar and Kelrabi systems. As I was also present with Gul Macet on the Enterprise-” Ziven looked surprised by this information, but held steady “-I would appreciate the opportunity to add my own reporting as well.”

Ziven studied her intently across the table for a moment before clasping his hands behind his back and giving a sharp nod.

“Very well.”

Gul Macet stood and began speaking, detailing the events of the Phoenix incident. To his credit, and Emrys’ unconcealed amazement, he was concise and factual. He stressed the level of involvement that he and his crew had been allowed aboard the Enterprise. He did not seem to be laying blame at the feet of the entire Federation; he emphasized Maxwell’s involvement and even mentioned Picard’s own condemnation of Maxwell’s actions.

When he had finished speaking, he nodded politely at Emrys, but there was something more earnest in his dark eyes, as though he was attempting to show her that he meant what he’d said. He lowered himself back into his chair and Emrys rose in turn.

“Thank you for sharing your experience, Gul Macet. I would only like to add that I am very appreciative of your perspective; it seems that you too understand that ascribing the actions of one, unwell Federation citizen to the entirety of the Federation is both misguided and detrimental to our ongoing treaty efforts.” She gazed meaningfully at the people around her, deliberately making eye contact with Federation citizens and members of the Cardassian Union alike.

“As is evidenced by this particular group of people who have dedicated and sacrificed nearly a year of their lives to forge peace with this Union, I can say with certainty that Maxwell’s conduct is not an accurate reflection of the Federation as a whole.” Emrys took a deep breath, knowing that the next part might not be pleasant. “Additionally, these thinly veiled attempts to breed divisiveness and derail negotiations undermine the work we’ve completed so far - while there is obviously significant discord about particular negotiation points on both sides, the fact remains that our ultimate objective is peace. Let us not forget that we are here to work as a team, to ensure that the violence and destruction of the last 20 years does not continue.”

As she’d spoken, Emrys had noted the uncomfortable shifting of some of the Cardassian leaders; it read almost like guilt, although so far, she’d found that to be a distinctly un-Cardassian emotion. As she resumed her seat, folding her hands slowly in her lap, her gaze met Ziven’s, only to find him glaring at her. Even from the far end of the table, she could see the pulsing of his jaw as he ground his teeth. Perhaps he’d disliked her implication that he was intentionally sowing discord. Emrys attempted to put it from her mind - she’d spoken the truth, and Ziven was in for a great deal of that today.

— — —

Emrys stepped through the main doors of the Central Command building and into the sweltering heat of Imperial Plaza. Although Cardassia wasn’t her favorite of the planets she’d visited, she appreciated the scrubby landscape, and the way both sun and moon light glinted off the tips of the sharp, talon-like spires adorning most of the major architecture. It was especially serene at night, and the gentle drone of whatever insects thrived here reminded her of her own home back on Earth.

Sweat prickled almost immediately beneath the collar of Emrys’ uniform and she rummaged in her bag to find a hair clip. As she glanced up, she spotted a familiar face exiting the War Room building across the plaza and laughed to herself, barely noticing the way her heartbeat sped up.

“Glinn Daro!” she called across the mostly empty square shielding her eyes from the sun with her hand.

She grinned as he looked up, tracking her voice, a smile of his own stretching across his lips as he spotted her. He changed directions immediately, making his way toward her. As he arrived before her, Emrys hugged him fiercely, glad to see a friendly face after the day she’d had.

“You’re here,” he breathed in amazement, his eyes studying her intently.

Emrys pulled back and smiled up at him, nodding. “It’s good to see you, Daro.”

He nodded his agreement, his hands settling hesitantly on her shoulder blades.

“Are you here for leave?” she asked. "Gul Macet was at the negotiations this morning."

He nodded again. “The Trager is undergoing some extensive repairs, and Gul Macet’s presence had been requested by both the Gul-Tar and at a meeting of the Detapa Council,” he paused, glancing around him cautiously. “With the exarch,” he murmured.

Emrys quirked an eyebrow. “With Pa’Dar?” she whispered, slightly taken aback, her mind already trying to formulate an explanation for the meeting.

Daro nodded again, but his expression conveyed that he had no other information.

She shrugged, quickly becoming unconcerned with Macet’s affairs while Daro stood before her. “Whatever the reason, I’m so very glad to see you.”

"And I, you. Perhaps," Daro began gently, his eyes searching Emrys' for any hint of hesitance, "you would like to join me for dinner this evening in my home? It has been a long while since I've been back on Cardassia and I would enjoy spending time with you."

Emrys didn't attempt to hide the delight that stretched across her face. Her heart fluttered behind her ribcage as she nodded, suddenly feeling uncharacteristically shy.

"I'd love nothing more," she murmured, smoothing her hand down Daro's forearm to link their hands together.

Daro squeezed her hand and began to lead her out of the plaza and further into the capital city. Given the tensions that still remained between Cardassians and members of the Federation, Emrys hadn't ventured far from Imperial Plaza in any of her stays on the planet. She was glad for Daro's presence - even with him by her side, she caught the harsh glares and mutters of disapproval being sent her way as they made their way down a wide boulevard that headed towards the outskirts of the city. Daro seemed to notice them too, and warmth swelled in Emrys' chest as he pulled her closer against his side and shot withering looks at Cardassians who dared to make their disapproval known. It had been a very long time since Emrys felt the touch of someone else's protectiveness.

Emrys found herself pleasantly surprised as Daro led her towards a well-kept, low-slung apartment building that stretched the length of the block. Like much of the outer city’s landscape, the building’s unassuming sand-colored exterior was dotted with large glass windows, the late afternoon sunlight winking on their surface as Emrys and Daro passed. It was a pleasant distinction from the more overwhelming and intimidating architecture near the capitol buildings, Emrys thought, as Daro guided her up a set of stairs. At the top, he punched a code into the keypad beside a heavy metal door, which hissed open quickly.

Emrys followed him in and gazed wide-eyed at his home – a small living area with an even smaller kitchen attached, and two doors, one open, one closed, leading off the main room. For a moment, Emrys forgot she was even in the capitol, the room around her hearkened so much to the Ithian Forest outside the city walls. Lush plants of every shade, some that Emrys didn’t even recognize, sat on most available surfaces, pops of color vibrant against the tawny walls. There were family pictures and paintings hung on the walls, and a large, overstuffed couch in the center of it all. A desk with a large, attached viewscreen and a precarious stack of PADDs huddled in the corner, Daro’s helmet hanging off the back of its chair.

As Emrys’ gaze returned to Daro’s, she found him looking at her curiously, and smiled. “Your home is lovely,” she assured him. She released his hand to take a step closer to a peculiar-looking plant with turquoise pods all over it.

“I thank you,” Daro replied softly. “Although I cannot take much of the credit. My younger brother also resides here,” Emrys glanced back at him with a raised eyebrow, “but he is currently off-planet,” he finished hastily, his hand rubbing the back of his neck.

“Most of the belongings you see here are his. He resides here permanently, while I am only able to return when my orders allow.” Daro fiddled nervously with the fleshy leaves of a deep purple succulent as he watched Emrys explore his home. “I don’t think I mentioned it before. He teaches ethnobotany at Central University,” he added, explaining the preponderance of plants adorning his apartment.

“That’s fascinating! Is he very much like you?” Emrys asked, making her way back to stand in front of Daro again.

“I find him to be,” he replied with a small shrug. “He can be a bit more methodical, shall we say, but I suppose that’s the scientist in him.”

Emrys rubbed her chin thoughtfully, gazing past her companion. “As a younger sibling myself, I find myself wanting to ask – were you a kind older brother?” she teased.

Daro laughed, and Emrys delighted in the way his face changed as he did so, his eyes gleaming and a light dusting of blue appearing on his chufa. “I like to believe that I was. But I would imagine that my brother might disagree. We were very… rambunctious as children.”

Emrys grinned. “I can believe that.” She glanced around her again. “Either way, it feels very comfortable here.”

“I’m glad you like it. Are you hungry?”

“Quite,” Emrys admitted. “I skipped out on lunch to finalize some points of debate about the Demilitarized Zone.”

Daro’s eyebrow ridges lowered as he studied her critically. “You need to take care of yourself, Emrys. I know that the formation of this treaty is important - but so is your health.”

Emrys studied her shoes, suddenly unable to meet his eyes. She was unused to anyone caring what she did or didn’t do, especially in respect to herself. “I’m just a pawn in all of this. If something happened to me, there would be a list of people they could go down to replace me in these negotiations. I’m not really that important in the grand scheme of things,” she said sheepishly.

The feel of Daro’s palm cupping her cheek brought her gaze back to his. He shook his head softly. “It isn’t just about the negotiations. You are valuable in your work, certainly, but you are so much more than that. Your very existence is important to others, I assure you.”

Losing herself in Daro’s dark eyes, her lips were forming words before she’d even thought about what she was saying. “And… does that include you?”

“Yes,” Daro offered tentatively, his expression focused and unwavering. “That includes me.”

Emrys’ struggled to pull in her next few breaths, the fervor building between them making her feel practically combustible. She knew she couldn’t find the words – she could hardly remember how to breathe under Daro’s heated stare – and she hoped that the Human idiom “actions speak louder than words” would hold true as she stepped up on to her toes and pressed her lips to his.

#star trek #star trek tng #star trek the next generation #glinn daro #glinn daro x oc #glinn daro x fem!oc #daro star trek #cardassians #i love him your honor #i officially have cardassian brainrot

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