#day 1 survivor

[sketchupnfries]

Happy Star Wars Day!! :D

Have a quick sketch of Cal Kestis since I haven't drawn him in a year, and I have to draw my fave jedi. Also in this house, Cal wields a yellow kyber crystal saber haha

[animatedjen]

I think they'd be friends 🥰

[kirpichq]

2 - swim

[stealingpotatoes]

I feel like while kanan and cal are caching up Hera and merrin would be comparing how stupid there husbands are lol

watch this [combos your asks]

[weevil-wallflower]

A Jedi & A Droid

Cal Kestis x Jedi!Reader

Summary: Your life was never the same after You stumbled upon another Jedi and a droid.

Warnings/Tags: No warnings, SFW, hurt/comfort, minor angst, fluff, mutual pining, no use of Y/N, no pronouns used, pre/during Jedi: Survivor, minor spoilers for Jedi: Survivor.

A.N.: My third entry for Cal Kestis Week 2024! Prompts: Day 3 - Droid & Day 4 - "We shouldn't be doing this".

I am so late but responsibilities called! Also, this story, initially meant to be simple, got wayyy out of hand and turned into a combination of little snippets. So a bit of a wordy one but I am so happy to finally write this, as the idea had been sitting in my drafts for so long plus I really enjoyed writing it! I think this is one of my best stories yet :3 Gif by me!

Also on AO3!

Word Count: ~6,800

After the crew of the Mantis had split apart, Cal found himself adrift in the galaxy with only BD-1 by his side, spending years drifting between missions and without a crew—a family. While working for Saw Gerrera, he had formed strong friendships with fellow rebels; Gabs, the Klatooinian twins Koob and Lizz, and Bravo. However, it never felt quite the same. He longed for the camaraderie and companionship he had once known, yearning for a friend, a family and perhaps even a partner, to share in their journey’s hardships and victories.

Then, one fateful day, while Cal and BD-1 were navigating through a crowded spaceport, they came across You—running desperately from a squad of unrelenting stormtroopers. Cal's sharp senses detected the hurry in your movements and the terror in your expression as You ran through the packed streets, desperately trying to evade capture.

Without hesitation, Cal leapt into action, his instincts kicking into overdrive as he made his way through the chaotic crowds, dodging blaster fire and weaving through narrow alleyways in pursuit of You. Out of breath, he finally caught up to You, halting You in your tracks and reached out a hand to offer his help.

“Come with us!” The redhead urged, his voice firm yet reassuring as he glanced back at the approaching stormtroopers. “We have a ship. We can help you escape.”

Despite the opportunity presented before You, You hesitated, your eyes wide with fear and uncertainty as You weight your options.

“I’m not getting in a stranger’s ship!” You protested, your voice trembling with apprehension.

Cal’s gaze softened, understanding the gravity of your situation as he met your gaze with unwavering determination.

“You have a better idea?” He asked, his tone gentle yet firm as he kept his hand extended towards You.

You still appeared hesitant but the thunderous footsteps of the approaching stormtroopers and the urgent “Beep-bo-beep!” from the droid perched on the redhead’s back sealed the deal, making You choose the lesser of two evils. With a slight nod, You reached out to take the redhead’s hand, feeling a sense of trust and reassurance wash over You like a wave. Was it the Force trying to tell You something? You had no time to dwell on it, however, as Cal led You to his ship.

As the three of you boarded the Mantis, Cal’s eyes widened with excitement when they fell on the lightsaber strapped to your side, realisation dawning on him.

“You’re a Jedi!” He exclaimed, surprise apparent in his voice. “That’s why those Imps were after you.”

The knowledge brought him some hope, knowing that he had finally found another Jedi besides Cere, after all these years.

You simply nodded and hesitantly took the offered co-pilot seat as the ship soared through the vast outer space. You were unable to shake the feeling of apprehension that gripped You. The knowledge that Cal now knew You were a Jedi filled You with a sense of unease, knowing all too well the dangers that come with being hunted throughout the Galaxy. The thought of bounty hunters and Imperial forces closing in on You sent a shiver down your spine, and You couldn’t help but wonder if trusting Cal was a mistake.

However, as You stole a glance at him while he piloted the ship, You noticed something that caught You off guard—a lightsaber attached to his belt, just like yours. Your eyes widened in surprise as You turned to face him, your voice barely above a whisper.

“Are you… are you also a Jedi?” You asked, your voice full of uncertainty.

Cal’s face lit up with a smile, his green eyes sparkling with excitement and happiness.

“Yes, I am!” He exclaimed, voice full of joy. “I can’t believe I’ve finally found another Jedi!”

“Me too…” You whispered as the revelation sent a wave of relief washing over You. And sure enough, You felt his Force signature resonate around You, feeling his resilience, determination and a strong connection to the Light Side of the Force. However, while the signature carried traces of sorrow and grief, You were surprised by how warm and comforting it felt, enveloping You like a protective blanket. You were unable to remember the last time You felt someone’s Force signature—much less one as soothing. The feeling replaced your earlier apprehension with a sense of solidarity and companionship, relieved to know that You were not alone.

However, it still took time for You to feel comfortable around Cal, despite his warm demeanor and infectious enthusiasm. But slowly over time, You found yourself gradually opening up to the redhead, sharing stories of your past and your hopes for the future. Yet, a lingering sense of caution remained, a barrier that felt insurmountable at times.

But BD-1, Cal’s loyal droid friend, proved to be a source of comfort and solace during those moments of uncertainty. Seeing how happy Cal was once more, all because of your presence on board, BD-1 went out of his way to make You feel welcome with his cheerful chirps and friendly demeanour, offering You small gifts and gestures of kindness that never failed to bring a smile to your face.

And as You watched the little droid trot around the ship, trilling with excitement, You couldn’t help but feel a sense of gratitude towards him. His efforts to make You feel comfortable and at ease did not go unnoticed, and You found yourself growing fond of BD-1 in return.

Cal, too, noticed the bond that was forming between the both of you, and he couldn’t help but smile at the sight of his droid friend bringing joy and laughter into your life like he did for him. Seeing You happy lifted Cal’s spirits in ways he couldn’t fully explain, and he found himself opening up to You even more, sharing his hopes and fears with a newfound sense of trust and vulnerability.

Overall, BD-1’s efforts to make You feel comfortable and welcome were essential in helping You overcome your initial apprehension and form strong bonds of friendship with Cal and the droid. There were numerous instances which contributed to strengthening your bond with both of them.

One day, Cal and BD-1 ventured out on a mission while You agreed to stay behind on the Mantis to look after it and to provide backup support if needed. But when the duo failed to return when they should have, a sense of worry began to settle deep in your mind. Especially when You were unable to contact them via the comms. Time appeared to stretch on endlessly as You waited for their return, each minute that passed only made your concern grow. Feeling restless, You paced the length of the ship, your footsteps echoing in the empty corridors as You anxiously awaited their safe return.

Finally, after what felt like an eternity, just when You contemplated going out to search for them, You heard footsteps and beeping sounds. You quickly rushed down the ramp to be greeted by the sight of Cal, looking a little worse for wear but otherwise unharmed. Your worries melted away in an instant as You ran over to greet him.

“Cal, you’re back!” You exclaimed, relief evident in your voice.

The redhead grinned wearily, his expression softened by your sight. “Hey…” He greeted, his voice tinged with exhaustion. “Sorry for the delay. We ran into a bit of trouble out there.”

Before You could respond, BD-1 chirped excitedly, leaping down from Cal's back and presented You with a tiny gift he ejected from his stim dispenser. With a delighted giggle, You accepted the gift, a simple trinket made from scavenged materials—a token of BD-1's affection and friendship.

As You thanked the little droid for the thoughtful gesture, Cal couldn't help but chuckle at the scene unfolding before him.

"Well, it looks like BeeDee gets all the attention," he quipped, his tone light-hearted as he approached you. "No warm welcome for a valiant hero like me, huh?"

You grinned at his playful remark, thankful that despite the dangers they faced on their mission, Cal and BD-1 had returned safely, and that was all that mattered in the end.

As you all walked back inside the Mantis together, Cal's arm draped casually over your shoulder, You couldn't help but feel a sense of belonging wash over You. And when BD-1 chirped happily beside You, You knew that no matter what challenges lay ahead, you would face them together as a team.

Another day, You remember sitting alone in the quiet solitude of your quarters at the back of the Mantis. With the weight of loneliness and longing pressing heavy on your heart, You couldn't help but feel the ache of missing your long-gone family and friends. Memories of happier times filled your mind, each recollection a bittersweet reminder of the bonds You had lost to the war of the Galaxy.

Meanwhile, out in the common area of the ship, Cal paced back and forth with furrowed brows, his concern for You evident in the worried lines etched upon his face. He had sensed your melancholy from the moment You had withdrawn to your quarters, and despite his best efforts to coax You out of your seclusion, You had insisted that You were fine, not wanting to burden him with your troubles.

But BD-1, after sensing your distress, took it upon himself to cheer You up. With a soft chirp, the little droid scuttled into your quarters, carrying an assortment of gifts and trinkets.

You looked up when BD-1 dropped the presents at your feet, startled by the unexpected intrusion. But when You gazed into the droid’s photoreceptor lenses, You noticed something—empathy, compassion and a silent invitation to share in his company.

With a small smile, you reached out to accept the gifts that BD-1 had brought for You, each one a small token of friendship and comfort in the midst of your loneliness. A handcrafted charm bracelet, a bundle of aromatic herbs, and a holorecording of soothing music—all thoughtfully chosen to lift your spirits and ease the ache in your heart.

As You held the gifts close to your heart, a wave of gratitude washed over You, grateful for the droid’s unwavering support and companionship.

When Cal noticed BD-1 entering your quarters, he longed to join in as well, wanting to do everything he could to make You feel better and suddenly, an idea came to him. Quickly, he brewed a cup of your favorite caf, its rich aroma filling the air. With each measured step, he poured his heart into the simple act of preparing the beverage, hoping that it will bring You some solace in the midst of your turmoil.

As the redhead slowly walked into your quarters with the steaming cup in hand, he felt a sense of relief wash over him at the sight of the little droid’s offerings laid out before You on your bed. He was grateful for BD-1’s presence, knowing that the little droid was looking after You in his own unique way, offering You comfort when You needed it the most.

When You saw Cal enter your quarters with hesitant steps, You couldn’t help but feel a surge of warmth in your chest at the sight of him. The small, sympathetic smile he wore tugged at your heartstrings, and as You watched him walk closer, your lips curved into a small smile of your own.

Slowly, Cal extended the cup towards You, his gesture a silent offering of support and understanding. And as You accepted the cup of caf, You felt a sense of gratitude, knowing that with Cal and BD-1 present, You were never truly alone, even in your moments of solitude. Their presence and unwavering support filled the room with a comforting sense of companionship that eased the ache in your heart.

When Cal moved to leave You to your thoughts, as You had requested earlier, a sudden impulse seized You. “ Cal, wait!” You called out, surprising yourself with the words.

Turning back to face You, the redhead’s expression was one of curiosity, his eyes searching yours.

“Would you… would you mind staying here for a while?” You asked, your voice soft with uncertainty. “I could use the company…”

A flicker of emotion passed through Cal’s eyes; a mixture of surprise, gratitude and something deeper You couldn’t quite recognise. With a small nod, he settled into the seat opposite You, his presence along with BD-1’s providing reassurance amidst your troubled thoughts.

And as you all sat together in the comfort of your quarters, the warmth of the caf and the gentle hum of conversation filled the air, slowly dissipating the tension from earlier. With each passing moment, You found yourself drawn deeper into the warmth of Cal’s presence, the sound of his deep voice soothing your worries.

As You listened to him speak, your gaze wandered, taking in the details of his appearance with a newfound appreciation. His fiery red hair, the brightest You had ever seen, seemed to glow in the soft light of the room.

His green eyes, so vibrant and full of life, sparkled with intelligence and kindness, drawing You in with their magnetic charm. And as You met his gaze, You found yourself captivated by the depth and warmth that lay within them, a reflection of the soul that resided behind those beautiful emerald orbs.

His freckles, scattered like constellations across his sun-kissed skin, added to his charm, giving him an air of boyish innocence that belied the immense strength and resilience he possessed. And though his face carried the marks of battles fought and hardships endured, each scar only served to enhance his rugged allure, a testament to the trials and tribulations he had overcome over the years.

While You took in the sight of him, bathed in the soft glow of the room, You couldn't help but feel a sense of awe and admiration wash over You. In that moment, surrounded by the comforting embrace of his presence, You knew that You were in the presence of someone truly special—a friend, a confidant, and perhaps something more.

As time went on and the bond between You and the duo deepened, You developed a deep, almost parental affection for the little droid, despite not understanding what he said half the time. Often, in moments of excitement or tenderness, You found yourself affectionately calling BD-1 "Beebee" or "BB-1," much to Cal’s amusement.

During one particularly heartwarming moment by the campfire during a stop on Bogano, as Cal's hand brushed against yours and the stars twinkled overhead, You couldn't resist reaching out to BD-1 with a soft smile.

"Come here, Beebee," You cooed, beckoning the droid closer.

BD-1 chirped happily, nuzzling against your side with a warmth that made your heart swell.

Cal chuckled at the endearing nickname, his eyes crinkling with affection as he observed the exchange.

"You're my little bebe!" You exclaimed, unable to contain your adoration for the droid, causing Cal's laughter to fill the air, a melodic sound that echoed through the night.

"You're going to spoil him with all that love," he teased, his playful tone only adding to the warmth of the moment.

You grinned, feeling a sense of contentment wash over You. "Well, he deserves it," You replied, reaching out to pat BD-1's head affectionately.

Another one of your adventures led you all to an enchanting night market, where the dim glow of colourful lanterns illuminated the bustling streets. Cloaked in hooded robes that disguised your identities, You and Cal strolled through the bustling streets and crowds of people. The outer rim planet that you all had landed on was far from the watchful eyes of the Empire, but the threat of being hunted down as Jedi still lingered, necessitating caution in your movements.

As you both moved through the sea of sellers and stalls, You couldn't help but steal glances at Cal, admiring how handsome and mysterious he looked in his black cloak.

Cal too stole glances at You from beneath his hood, unable to contain his admiration. The way your eyes sparkled with curiosity as You took in the sights and sounds around You, the delicate curve of your smile as You marveled at the many stalls— it all filled him with a warmth that he couldn't quite explain.

His thoughts drifted to uncharted territory as he found himself yearning for more than just companionship with You. The urge to reach out and hold You close, to feel the warmth of your embrace and the softness of your touch, tugged at his heartstrings with an intensity he hadn't anticipated.

But the redhead knew better than to act on such impulses, especially in the midst of such a perilous situation. The threat of danger loomed overhead, reminding him of the risks involved in allowing his emotions to take control. And yet, despite the rational voice of caution in his mind, he couldn't shake the longing that stirred within him whenever he looked at You.

And as You turned to face him with a curious expression, he felt a rush of warmth fill his chest, the desire to protect and cherish You overwhelming any doubts or fears that lingered within him. In that moment, surrounded by the hustle and bustle of the night market, Cal knew one thing for certain; he would do anything to keep You safe.

The redhead’s thoughts were interrupted when You suddenly rushed inside a bookstore with shelves full of interesting titles. Among them, a book on how to learn Binary stuck out, with a cover full of symbols and characters that attracted your interest.

"Hey, Cal, check this out!" You exclaimed, excitedly holding up the book after he caught up to You. "I've always wanted to learn Binary, especially now so I can understand Beebee better. What do you think?"

Cal glanced at the book, a smile tugging at the corners of his lips. "I think that's a great idea," he replied, his voice warm with encouragement. "Learning Binary could definitely help you and Beedee communicate more effectively."

Turning to BD-1, who was perched on Cal's shoulder, You addressed the droid with a playful grin. "What do you think, Beebee? You think I can learn Binary? Then you and I can gossip like schoolgirls, won't that be fun?"

Cal chuckled at your remark, his eyes twinkling with amusement. "I definitely think Beedee will have some juicy gossip to tell you," he quipped, eliciting a series of excited beeps from the droid. "But yeah, learning Binary sounds like a fantastic idea. Just promise me one thing: as long as you both don't gossip about me, I'm all for it."

You giggled in response before purchasing the book and tucking it safely into your robes. For some reason, You hadn’t thought to ask Cal for lessons, thinking You could learn on your own and not wanting to trouble him as he already had too much on his plate. But now, with the book in hand, You were eager to begin learning.

After weeks turned to months aboard the Mantis, You received communication from a distant friend from within the rebellion You worked for, presenting You with a difficult choice. The holographic image flickered to life from within your now fixed comms unit, revealing the face of a trusted ally, their voice filled with urgency and determination as they extended an invitation for You to return to the rebellion.

For a moment, You felt torn, the call to duty and the desire to make a difference in the Galaxy making You feel conflicted. The rebellion was your way of fighting for freedom and justice alongside allies who shared your ideals and convictions.

But as You glanced around the familiar surroundings of the Mantis, the faces of Cal and BD-1 staring back at You with concern and uncertainty, You realised that this ship had become more than just a travelling vessel—it was your sanctuary, your home.

Cal, ever perceptive to the turmoil raging within You, approached with a gentle hand resting on your shoulder, his eyes filled with understanding and empathy. “Whatever you decide, know that we’re here for you,” he said, his voice soft and reassuring. “You’re a part of this crew, a part of this family, and we’ll support you no matter what.”

With a heavy heart, You weighed your options, torn between the duty to your cause and the love for your newfound family.

In the end, You made your decision, lead on by your stubborn sense of duty to the cause. The call to serve the rebellion beckoned with an undeniable urgency. In a way, You and Cal were very similar, feeling like you both needed to keep fighting, unable to shake the sense of duty that weight heavily on both of you.

Cal accepted your decision with great reluctance, having half a mind to join You but he had his own duty to fulfill for Saw Gerrera’s rebellion.

When the moment of your departure drew closer, Cal and BD-1 stood beside You as You gathered your meagre belongings, their expressions a mirror of your own conflicted emotions, as You prepared to leave. The duo knew that your absence would leave a void aboard the Mantis that would be difficult to fill.

Cal, ever stoic and composed, held his emotions in check, offering You a reassuring smile as he bid You farewell. His words of encouragement and support echoed in your ears, reminding You that You were not alone in your decision, no matter how difficult it may be.

BD-1 on the other hand, unable to contain his emotions, wailed and cried, clinging to your legs desperately as You attempted to walk down the ramp of the Mantis and onto the planet. The little droid’s cries of distress tore at your heartstrings, filling You with a sense of guilt and anguish as You struggled to pull away.

“Beebee, it’s okay,” You whispered, calling him with that endearing nickname, your voice thick with emotions as You tried to soothe the distraught droid. “I’ll come back, I promise. We’ll see eachother again soon.”

But BD-1’s cries only grew louder, his little legs clinging to You in a desperate embrace, refusing to let go. Tears welled in your eyes as You looked into the droid’s photoreceptors, seeing the depth of his sorrow reflected back at You.

As he watched BD-1 cling to You with such desperation, witnessing the droid’s anguish and your distress, Cal felt a pang of sorrow and longing grip his heart as well. He slowly approached you both, gently reaching out to the droid. “’We shouldn’t be doing this’,” he murmured softly, his voice laced with sorrow as he pried BD-1 away from You. “We must respect others’ decisions…”

The redhead wanted nothing more than to embrace You, to hold You close and offer You comfort in this difficult moment. But he knew that if he allowed himself to give in to that temptation, he would break down completely. With a heavy heart, Cal settled for a handshake instead, his touch gentle yet firm as he bid You farewell. He knew that letting You go was the right thing to do, even if it tore him apart inside.

With a heavy heart, your touch lingered on Cal’s hand before You gave BD-1 one last reassuring pat before finally stepping away and descending down the ramp. And as You walked away, the echoes of BD-1's cries followed You, a haunting reminder of the sacrifice You had made in the name of duty.

As your silhouette faded into the horizon, Cal couldn’t shake the weight of grief that settled in his chest. Watching you leave, he couldn't help but reflect on the bond that had formed between You, him and BD-1, realizing how much he and the little droid had come to cherish You.

In the short time You had been aboard the Mantis, You had become like family to them. And now, just as they had grown accustomed to your presence, You were leaving them, all too soon, like so many others before You.

The thought of saying goodbye was nearly unbearable, a painful reminder of the transience of life and the fleeting nature of companionship in a Galaxy ripped apart by conflict and suffering. But even as the pain of loss threatened to overwhelm him, Cal knew that he couldn't hold You back, knowing all too well that your duty to the rebellion was a call You could not ignore.

As Cal returned inside the Mantis, a heaviness settled upon him, weighing down his spirit with the burden of your departure. Unable to muster the resolve to fly the ship just yet, he found himself sinking into melancholy, the empty space around him echoing with the absence of your presence.

Sitting in the cockpit, Cal held BD-1 close to him, the little droid providing what comfort it could with its mechanical chirps and beeps. But even as he clung to BD-1, a sense of loneliness overcame him, a stark reminder of the void left behind by your absence.

"BeeDee," Cal murmured softly, his voice tinged with sadness. "We... We both really did come to love our new friend, didn't we?"

"Boo-woo..." BD-1 beeped in response, his photoreceptors dimming with sorrow as he nestled closer to the redhead. In that moment, as they sat together in the silent cockpit, Cal sought solace in the presence of his loyal droid.

BD-1 then emitted a flurry of hurried beeps, crying out to Cal with urgency, telling—demanding him to bring You back right this instant. Cal felt a pang of sadness grip his heart as the desperation in BD-1's cries mirrored his own inner turmoil, reminding him of the depth of the bond that had formed between him and You.

"We shouldn't be doing something like this..." Cal repeated solemnly, shaking his head as he recalled his earlier words when BD had clung to You. "We can't force someone like that..."

His voice was heavy with resignation, a reflection of the harsh reality they faced. Despite their wishes and desires, they couldn't force You to stay, no matter how much they wanted to. The decision was yours alone to make, and they had to respect that, no matter how difficult it may be.

BD-1 emitted a series of mournful beeps in response, his sorrow palpable as he nestled closer to Cal, seeking solace in his presence. Together, they sat in the quiet confines of the cockpit, grappling with the emptiness left behind by your departure, silently hoping that You will return to them one day.

Meanwhile, as the evening turned into night, You found yourself immersed in the routine of life within the rebellion's base once more, but the memory of leaving your newfound family behind weighed heavily on your mind. Amidst the chatter and activity of your fellow rebels, a sense of longing gnawed at your heart, aching for the companionship and camaraderie You had experienced aboard the Mantis.

In the quiet solitude of your old quarters, You unpacked your belongings, the Binary language book You had purchased a few weeks earlier catching your eye. The sight of it brought back precious memories, reminding You of the laughter, the warmth, and the sense of belonging You had felt with Cal and BD-1. In that moment, You realised with a pang of regret how big of a mistake You had made in leaving them behind.

With resolution burning within You, You made a spur-of-the-moment decision to return to the Mantis, hoping against hope that it wasn't too late. Racing through the dimly lit corridors of the rebellion's base, your heart pounded with anticipation as You hurried towards the landing pad where the ship was stationed.

As You approached, the silhouette of the Mantis came into view, bathed in the soft glow of moonlight. Relief washed over You as You realised despite the few hours that had passed since You had left, the ship was still there, almost as if waiting patiently for your return.

You ran up the ramp and inside the ship, your breath coming in ragged gasps as your gaze fell on the solemn figures of Cal and BD-1. For a brief moment, confusion flickered across their faces, but it quickly gave way to surprise and joy as they realised that You had returned.

BD-1 was the first to react, emitting a series of excited beeps as he rushed towards You. Tears welled up in your eyes as You knelt down to greet the little droid, wrapping your arms around his small frame in a tight embrace.

"I'm so sorry," You whispered tearfully. "I didn't mean to leave you. I didn't realise how much you both meant to me until I was gone."

BD-1 chirped softly in response, his photoreceptors gleaming with happiness as he nuzzled against You. Meanwhile, Cal approached slowly, his expression a mixture of relief and concern as he watched the emotional reunion unfold before him.

"Welcome back," he said softly, his voice tinged with emotion.

With BD-1 by your side as a reassuring presence, You rose from your embrace with the droid and turned to face Cal, the weight of your emotions spilling over as You threw your arms around him in a tight hug.

As You hugged Cal, your heart overflowing with emotion, he returned the embrace just as fervently, his strong arms enveloping You in a comforting hold.

"I'm so sorry, Cal," You whispered once more, your voice trembling. "I didn't mean to leave you both..."

Cal held You at arm's length, his gaze meeting yours with a mixture of relief and sincerity. "You mean a lot to us, you know," he said softly, his voice carrying the weight of his feelings. "We've come to rely on you, to count on you. And when you left..."

His voice trailed off, the unspoken words hanging heavy in the air. But before You could respond, BD-1 let out a series of joyful beeps, trotting over to nuzzle against You in his own display of affection.

The redhead grinned fondly at the droid before turning his attention back to You. "Beedee's right. You're not just a member of the crew," he continued, his words filled with warmth. "You're family. And we're just grateful to have you back where you belong."

Tears of gratitude flowed down your cheeks as You gazed at Cal, feeling the weight of his words sink in. In that moment, surrounded by the love and acceptance of your chosen family, You knew that You were exactly where You were meant to be.

Your adventures continued, roaming the Galaxy with Cal and BD-1. Despite using your book to teach yourself Binary and spending more time with BD-1, your grasp of the language remained shaky at best, leading to frequent misunderstandings with your droid friend that often led to comical yet occasionally embarrassing moments.

During one very tense mission on a remote planet, BD-1 emitted a series of urgent beeps, which You interpreted as a call for action. Without hesitation, You activated the nearest control panel, thinking You were helping to disable a security system. But your actions did the opposite instead, triggering a blaring alarm and alerting nearby guards.

Cal chuckled softly at your mistake, but his amusement turned to concern when You misinterpreted BD-1's attempts at giving directions using the help of his holomap. Confused by the droid's beeps, You accidentally led the way into a dead-end corridor, much to Cal's bemusement.

"Oh, wrong turn…" You mumbled sheepishly, earning a sympathetic pat on the back from Cal.

As the mission progressed, so did your series of misunderstandings. At one point, BD-1 signaled for a left turn, but You mistook it for a right, resulting on a wild goose chase through a maze of corridors. Cal laughed good-naturedly as You backtracked, feeling slightly embarrassed but grateful— and very surprised—for his immense patience.

Later, during a small respite from missions, BD-1 chirped happily and nudged You, prompting You to offer the droid a sandwich You had just made.

Cal chuckled again, gently correcting your mistake. "He's asking for a power recharge, not a snack," he explained, suppressing a grin.

Blushing, You quickly helped BD-1 into the charging station, feeling a bit silly but grateful for the opportunity to learn.

As you three continued your journey, your misunderstandings with BD-1 became both more frequent and more amusing. One memorable incident during a mission on a remote outpost, BD-1 quickly warned You about a slippery surface ahead. However, You misinterpreted the droid's chirps as encouragement for a fun slide.

With a playful grin, You ran and launched yourself onto the surface, expecting a thrilling ride. Instead, your feet flew out from under You, and You landed with a loud thud that sent a cloud of dust into the air.

Cal rushed over, concern etched on his face, but as he helped You up and noticed You were fine except a few scrapes, his expression softened into a grin.

"You really need to work on your Binary," he teased, his eyes twinkling with mirth.

Blushing furiously, You burst out into laughter along with him, grateful for his good humor and unwavering support.

One evening, as the three of you sat around a campfire beneath a blanket of stars, the flames casting flickering shadows across the campsite, You couldn't help but steal glances at Cal when he wasn't looking. His red hair, illuminated by the warm glow of the fire, appeared to shimmer like molten copper, framing his face in a halo of fiery strands.

His freckled cheeks, kissed by the suns of countless worlds, added a touch of youthful charm to his rugged features. And when he laughed, his eyes sparkled like twin galaxies, filled with a light that seemed to chase away the darkness.

But it wasn't just his appearance that captivated You—it was the effortless grace with which he moved, the strength and agility evident in every fluid motion. His muscular yet lithe physique reflected countless hours spent honing his skills, preparing for the challenges that lay ahead.

Lost in admiration, You found yourself drawn to him in ways You couldn't quite explain, feeling a sense of déjà vu during that moment as You admired him. And as You watched him tend to the fire, his movements sure and purposeful, You couldn't help but feel a flutter of excitement in your chest.

While the flames danced and crackled, Cal couldn't help but steal a glance at You as well when he thought You weren't looking. He felt a surge of gratitude and relief to have You there with him, especially after the rest of the Mantis crew had split, each going their separate ways.

In those quiet moments by the campfire, Cal's thoughts drifted to the challenges you had faced together so far—the battles fought and the bonds forged in the crucible of adversity. And through it all, You had stood by his side, a constant companion whose presence filled him with a sense of hope and purpose.

He also admired your determination to learn binary, your willingness to laugh at your own mistakes, and the genuine warmth and affection You showed towards BD-1. In your company, he found a sense of peace and belonging, something he hadn't felt since the fall of the Jedi Order.

Lost in his thoughts, the redhead couldn't help but feel a surge of affection for You, grateful for your unwavering support and companionship. And as he watched You, a smile tugged at the corners of his lips.

Cal's gaze remained on You longer than usual, a hint of something more lingering in his eyes. As the crackling of the fire filled the silence, he reached out to gently brush a stray strand of hair from your face, his touch sending a shiver down your spine.

"Are you alright?" he asked softly, his voice barely above a whisper.

Caught off guard by the intensity of his gaze, You nodded, unable to tear your eyes away from his.

"I... I think so," You stuttered, your heart racing in your chest.

In that moment, the world around You seemed to fade away, leaving only the two of you in the soft glow of the campfire. Without another word, Cal leaned in closer, his lips brushing against yours in a tender, hesitant kiss.

Time seemed to stand still as You melted into his embrace, the warmth of his touch sending sparks of electricity dancing across your skin. In that moment, nothing else mattered but the two of you, lost in the embrace of the night.

As You pulled away, breathless and flushed, Cal's eyes sparkled in their intensity, his calloused hand reaching out to intertwine with yours.

"I've been wanting to do that for a long time," he admitted, his voice filled with a mixture of longing and relief.

With a smile, You squeezed his hand, feeling a sense of peace settle over You. "Me too," You whispered, knowing that in that moment, You had found something worth fighting for amidst the chaos of the Galaxy.

As You and Cal continued to lovingly gaze into each other's eyes, soft little footsteps filled the air, accompanied by the joyous chirps of BD-1. However, in your post-kiss daze, You misinterpreted the droid's enthusiastic speech, thinking he was teasing You for being all googly-eyed over Cal.

"Beebee, not now," You whispered nervously, blushing furiously as You tried to compose yourself.

Cal laughed, his eyes sparkling with amusement as he gently nudged You. "I think BeeDee is just happy for us," he teased, his tone laced with affectionate amusement.

You shot him a sheepish grin, realising You mistook the little droid once again. "I guess I still have a lot to learn," You admitted.

Cal's teasing grin softened into a warm smile as he squeezed your hand. "Well, lucky for you, I'm an excellent teacher," he replied, his teasing tone hinting at something more than just language lessons.

You couldn't help but blush at the underlying implication of his words, a flutter of excitement dancing in your chest. You leaned in to kiss him once more and as the tender moment between You and Cal lingered, bathed in the soft glow of the campfire, BD-1’s lenses suddenly whirred to life, capturing the scene in a flash of light. Startled, You pulled away from the kiss, blinking in surprise as You turned to see the droid standing nearby, his photoreceptors zooming in and out as they focused on You and Cal with mechanical precision.

“BeeBee, what are you doing?” You asked, a mixture of amusement and curiosity apparent in your voice.

Cal chuckled softly, his arm still wrapped around You as he glanced at the small droid with a playful grin. “I think BeeDee wanted to capture the moment,” he explained, his eyes alight with amusement.

You couldn’t help but laugh at the unexpected gesture, feeling a rush of warmth fill your chest at the thought of having a memento of this special moment.

“Well, I guess we’ll have to thank BeeBee for the souvenir,” You replied, leaning into Cal’s embrace with a contented sigh, giggling when You heard the little droid let out an excited “Whoop!” in response.

You, Cal and BD-1 settled back into the quiet comfort of the night, the image captured by BD’s lenses served as a reminder of the bond You shared with the other Jedi—a bond formed from friendship and love.

As silence once again fell upon the campsite, You found yourself lost in a moment of quiet reflection. The memory of how Cal and BD-1 had found You, helping You escape from the stormtroopers, flooded your mind with a wave of gratitude. If it hadn't been for them, You might not be here, nestled in Cal's arms, sharing laughter and companionship under the starry sky.

With a sweet smile, You turned to Cal, the flickering flames casting shadows across his features. "You know," You began softly, "I often find myself thinking about that day when a Jedi and a droid came into my life. If it weren't for you, I don't know where I'd be now. Thank you, Cal, for everything."

Cal's gaze met yours, his expression tender and sincere. "You don't have to thank me," he replied gently. "I'm just grateful that we found each other. You've become a part of our family, and I wouldn't have it any other way."

His words warmed your heart, filling You with a sense of belonging that You had never known before. With a grateful nod, You leaned even further into his embrace, savoring the comfort and reassurance of his presence. In that moment, surrounded by the silence of the night, the warmth of Cal's love and the joyous chatter of BD-1, You knew that You were exactly where You were meant to be.

[corvidscreams]

He’s listening intently for your answer ❤️

(R2D2) (Cal) (Boba) (Bode) (Merrin) (Obi-Wan) (Cody)

[koumystic]

Smiling at each other so casually says enough that this is not their first time doing it.... i really need to know exactly what happened after they woke up

[electrikworm]

Trapped

Relationships: Cal Kestis & Prauf

Content Warnings: Blood and Injury, Child Abuse

Summary:

The job of scavenger falls to those small enough to crawl into small spaces and under machines. When Prauf meets a surprisingly young looking one, he can't help but worry about the human. A version of how Prauf and Cal might have met.

Written for Cal Kestis Week 2025 day 1: Bracca

Word count: 2,927

Read on Ao3

"Prauf!" a voice comes, just as the Abednedo wanted to sit down for a moment. With a groan, he rights himself, cracking his back in the process. Nearly ten hours he'd been working already, with only a short lunch break to allow him some rest. But that's just what life's become since the empire. Just a few months ago, Prauf's life had been completely different, nothing like this. "Here," he replies, walking towards the source of the voice. The pantoran seems vaguely familiar to Prauf, though he hasn't work with her often.

Prauf had been assigned to a different area of the ship breaking yard than his usual scrapping crew and he'd yet to memorize any names or faces, mostly working alone. He'll be glad once he's back with his team, finding himself missing the familiarity. "Foreman said to get you. Says you're the best engineer that's close by." She's a little out of breath as she comes to a halt, hands pressed in her side. "Speed smelter's stuck." Prauf swears, quickly following the pantoran. He'd been aware of the last scrap work being done on a Venator's wing, everything of value having been removed.

These smelters, large metal monstrosities that can be moved where they're needed, have been a newer addition to Bracca as well. The hulls of ships are fed into them, spat out as hastily melted and compressed cubes to be transported. Whilst Prauf appreciates their speed, they're volatile things with a tendency to cause trouble. Pieces of scrap often get stuck in their exposed gears, especially underneath them. There's a group of scrappers crowded around the smelter in various stages of annoyance and frustration, a foreman droid yelling orders as it spots Prauf approaching. "Fix this, or everyone's pay is being cut!" Prauf assures it that he'll get the job done, making the foreman clear off. That's another part of the new job Prauf greatly dislikes. These droids add little to the actual work, only coming in to dish out orders and threaten you. There are at least seven scrappers around the smelter, some having abandoned their posts in the cranes used to feed metal to the smoking machine in front if them.

The speed smelter groans and grinds, but its metal jaws are motionless. Prauf walks around it, trying to asses the issue. He comes to a halt when he finds one scrapper kneeling beside the machine, tilting her head as she peers under it. "You find the problem?" Prauf asks her. The twi'lek, looking worn and tired, looks back at him, before turning back to the machine. "Helps here," she says, leaving Prauf to wonder what she's talking to. Before he can ask, another pantoran interrupts him, male by the looks of it. He huffs. "Some useless scavenger got stuck under there, and now we're all gonna get our pay docked cause of his incompetence." He raises his voice as he speaks, enunciating his insults clearly. Like he wants someone to hear them, someone stuck under multiple tons of heavy machinery. "Shut up, Vin, you weren't helpin' either," the twi'lek hisses. Others murmur in agreement with her, but some voices join Vin's. Prauf ignores them all, focused only on his job. His heart drops at the knowledge that someone's life likely rests on his shoulders now. Moving to the other side of the smelter, Prauf kneels on the ground. The job of scavenger is reserved for those small enough to crawl in tight spaces or under machinery, a horribly dangerous occupation, often costing workers limb or life. But this scavenger doesn't just look small, he looks young as well. A human with red hair is trapped between the gears on the machine's underbelly and the wet ground, arm stuck somewhere above him. It's hard to make out just how badly he's stuck in the dim light. Prauf gets out his torch. "Hey there, what's your name?" Prauf asks, shining the light about the underside of the smelter as he tries to keep the scavenger distracted. The human's arm is stuck between a twisted piece of the hull and a couple gears, threatening to drag the limb into the machine and tearing it apart.

The damage doesn't seem too bad as of now, but Prauf is well aware that that could change any moment. When he's called, the scavenger tries to turn and look at Prauf, barely able to do so in the cramped space. Tear tracks across his cheeks glint in the light of Prauf's torch. "Cal," he mumbles, green eyes wide with fear and pain. "Nice to meet you, I'm Prauf." Taking time to study how the mechanics of the smelters lower engine works, Prauf keeps talking to the boy.

They're not allowed to turn the smelter off, that would mean interrupting work further to have to reheat it once more. Prauf doesn't know why he's surprised by that. Of course the Guild would value efficiency over the lives of their workers. Cal's got to be removed first. Worker safety isn't the guild's priority, but it matters to Prauf. Especially with how young this human looks. He can't possibly be an adult yet. After conversations with other scrappers and further inspection of the machine, Prauf devises a plan. The issue with this type of smelter is they overheat. That means Prauf can't unscrew the side of it and reach through there to dislodge the scrap pinning Cal's hand.

The other issue is that once the scrap is removed, Cal's arm might be sucked into the gears, even if just freeing that section up won't get the smelter running again. The best course of action is sill removing that scrap first, but the twi'lek will have to drag Cal out immediately after. She introduces herself as Milena to Prauf in the brief time they talk.

Vin complains about this plan of course, telling Prauf to forget about Cal and just fix the machine. The Abednedo isn't one to judge others harshly without knowing them, but he's confident he will never like this pantoran. "Ready Cal?" Prauf asks, getting a hesitant nod from the boy in response. "It'll be over in a moment." Just for Cal to have to do similarly dangerous things the next day, Prauf thinks darkly, keeping the thought to himself. Prauf counts down for them before yanking at the scrap metal firmly. Cal gasps in pain, but is being dragged out from under the machine by Milena already. Only, he doesn't go all the way. With another sharp intake of breath, Cal remains halfway under the smelter. His hair, Prauf notices, has gotten caught in some of the machinery too. Swearing, Prauf reaches under the speed smelter, knife in hand. With an apology, he cuts the boy's hair as far away from his head as possible. Sighing in relief at seeing the boy free, Prauf momentarily ignores his duties to check on him, only to notice that Cal is already gone. That should be the end of it for Prauf. If he worried about every one of his co-workers, he'd be doing so all day. But Cal refuses to leave the Abednedos mind. Not as he reluctantly returns to the smelter, managing to free the other obstructions that trapped its gears with Milena's help. Not as he finally gets his short break to sit down for a moment. Not even as he continues to work himself. The thought of Cal, clearly a child, working for the guild eats away at Prauf. Before the Empire, you wouldn't have seen anything like it. Are his parents on the yard as well? Did they know he could have died under a smelter today? It seems the universe wasn't going to let Prauf forget about Cal either, as just at the end of his shift, the boy crosses his path. Cal freezes when Prauf calls his name, drawing his hood over his head, covering his now unevenly cut hair. He doesn't run away though. "You alright? How's the hand?" It's the first time Prauf's seen Cal fully. Even if the boy were standing upright, as opposed to his current hunched posture, he'd only reach to about the middle of Prauf's chest. Cal shrugs. "It's good. That's for saving me, sir." His voice shakes slightly in a way that doesn't ease any of Prauf's fears. He crouches down in front of the human, who's eyes are still glued to the floor. "No need for all that," Prauf laughs, "I'm just glad you're okay." That makes Cal look up, eyes wide. "Really? You're not mad?" "Why would I be?" Now that Cal's looking at him, Prauf can see under his hood. There's a scar on his right cheek, barely healed. What's more pressing than that is the dark bruise forming on Cal's left cheek. That certainly hadn't been there earlier. Prauf's got a suspicion that Vin might be behind the bruise. "Almost made you lose credits," he mumbles, fidgeting with the hem of his too large poncho. There's blood caked on his hands. Did he get his injury looked at at all? "You were doing your job." Cal nods along to Praufs words, but the engineer gets the feeling the words don't get through. "Say, you had someone treat that hand yet?" Cal stiffens, fear crossing his expression. "It's fine, really!" "Can I see?" Prauf doesn't expect Cal to comply. He looks jumpy, like he might bolt any moment, and Prauf barely knows him. But after shifting on his feet for a few moment, Cal lifts his right hand up. Even in the low light, Prauf can't help but hiss in sympathy. An ugly gash is slashed across his palm, similar scrapes mirroring it on the back of his hand. It hasn't even been wrapped, dirt caught in the wound. The only mercy is that Cal hasn't lost any fingers, nor do the bones seem broken. "Hell Cal, that'll go septic. You need to have that treated." Bracca was never the cleanest of places, dust always blowing through the streets, but now, that's only gotten worse. An open injury like that is just asking for an infection. Cal starts shaking his head, pulling away from Prauf. "No, no." He shakes his head. "No medic."

"No medic, promise!" Prauf doesn't like the idea, but if he pushes now, Cal will likely refuse any help Prauf offers. "But if you'd let me take a look, I have a first aid kit on me." Prauf hopes Cal has parents or someone that cares for him, but he can't leave him like this. Getting involved is a bad idea, but even if Cal has family, he's in a bad situation. The least the Abednedo could do is not let him go home with a contaminated wound from being forced to crawl under heavy machinery. Cal hesitates for a moment, but then nods. It'd not sanitary, but Prauf decides to look at Cal's hand on the side of the road. He knows little of the human, so taking him anywhere unfamiliar would likely set alarm bells off in Cal's head. So the crate at the side of the road will have to do. Prauf places the first aid kit down next to Cal, letting him look into it. It's a sorry little thing, barely anything but the bare minimum of disinfectant and bandages. Anything fancier than that'll cost you an arm and a leg, or at the very least, more than half your pay check. At least Prauf knows the disinfectant is safe to use on humans. He wouldn't know about most other things. Soaking a gauze pad in the sharp smelling liquid, Prauf waits for Cal to offer him his hand. Prauf's glad for his years as an engineer training him to have steady hands as he wipes the cut on Cal'd palm. The boy flinches and whimpers, but holds still. It almost breaks Praufs heart. He really, really hopes Cal has someone looking after him, even if that's starting to seem more and more unlikely. Cal's sleeve slides up at some point, showing off another bruise, a worryingly hand-shaped one. It's so dark, it nearly blends with the guild tattoo. Prauf pretends not to see it for the moment, but Cal still hastily rights his sleeve. "That alright?" Prauf asks as he wraps Cal's hand, not wanting to restrict the blood flow to the limb. Cal nods, eyes focused on Prauf's face cautiously. Prauf can't help but draw a comparison between Cal and a frightened animal, the way he sits there, observing quietly whilst making himself look even smaller than he is.

Whilst the Abednedo is hardly an expert on humans, he can tell Cal is a child, yet his eyes seem to hold far more knowledge of hardship and pain than anyone his age should. "How old are you, Cal?" Prauf says as he ties off the end of the bandage around Cal's writs, cautious not to put too much pressure on the concealed bruise. "Just turned sixteen," Cal says, looking away from Prauf as he speaks. Prauf almost has to laugh. Either he's got a very wrong idea of how humans age, or Cal is lying through his teeth. Calling him out on the fact won't help either of them though, so Prauf just nods. "Right. Where are you staying?" Cal glares at him, pulling his hand away from Prauf. "Why do you want to know?" "Sorry, sorry, I can be too chatty for my own good." Prauf raises his hands, shuffling backwards a little to give the kid space. It's a lie, the Abednedo generally being on the quiet side, but he doesn't want to spook Cal.

The boy has good instincts at least, not sharing too much about himself with a stranger. Makes Prauf wonder what forced him to learn that instinct so young though. He hopes it's just cautious caretakers that taught him that lesson. The fight in Cal dies down, leaving him staring downwards once again. "I'm done here," Prauf says, Cal immediately standing up. "There's just one thing I'd like to ask you, then I'll leave you alone." Cal tenses again, expression almost panicked as he looks up at Prauf. The Abednedo almost curses at how he'd managed to set the boy on edge again. "What do you want?" Cal's voice holds no accusation in it this time, closer to resignation in tone. A uneasy feeling settles in Prauf's stomach when he realizes Cal's expecting him to demand something in return for the small amount of help Prauf offered. "Just wanted to ask who hit you," Prauf quickly continues, gesturing to Cal's face. He still hopes that Cal has family on Bracca, but the more time he spends with the kid, the more Prauf worries what kind of people they would be when Cal acts the way he does. Cal shrugs. "Doesn't matter." "Does to me. Scrappers have to stick together. The guild doesn't care about us, so the least we can do is have each others backs." If Cal was a regular co-worker of his, Prauf would offer reassurance through a hand on his shoulder. Prauf reckons Cal's had enough of people putting their hands on him without warning today though, so he leaves well enough alone. Shaking his head, Cal ends up dislodging his hood somewhat, showing off half of his red hair as well as his bruised face. Prauf estimates the swelling isn't done setting in yet by the looks of it. He wouldn't be surprised if Cal could barely see out of his left eye by tomorrow. "I made a mistake and Vin had to..." Cal trails off, pulling his hood over his head fully again. "He didn't have to do anything. I don't know him well, but I know people like him. Doesn't matter to him if you did something wrong or not, he just likes feeling stronger than others." Prauf watches Cal carefully, but it's hard to read his reaction without being able to see his face.

There are likely thousands of people better suited to try and help a kid in a bad situation, but Prauf ended up being the one trying to do so, so he will just have to try his best. "I'd say best to avoid people like him when ever you can. Maybe start carrying a knife too, just in case someone like him ever threatens your life." It's terrible advice, but it's the best Prauf's got to offer. Cal nods. Before Bracca changed, Prauf would have told Cal to tell someone he trusted about the abuse. Back then, things like that still mattered. Not any more though. No foreman or high ranking guild member would care if Cal came to them. "Thank you," Cal almost whispers. Prauf can't even think to respond before the boy's darted off, back onto the main path, disappearing in the crowd. Prauf doesn't sleep well that night, thoughts of the small human he met plaguing him. Should he have done more? Perhaps a better man would have. It feels like a small miracle when Prauf spots Cal again the next morning, waiting for an assignment near a foreman droid. Prauf makes sure to take jobs that require the help of a scavenger the next few days, even if they're some of the worse ones. And when Prauf is transferred back to his usual crew, he informs a foreman that they lack a scavenger, listing off why Cal specifically possesses the traits to be a good addition to their team as he does so.

[thetiptoeingtulip]

melissahat this birders that. the best scene in yellowjackets s3 is the entire opening sequence of episode 3 that concluded in mari and coach scott macing each other and rolling around on the floor screaming 'you fucking idiot' at each other

[deservedgrace]

cult jokes are a symptom of and contribute to the simultaneous sensationalizing of cults (cults are all dark cloaks and animal sacrifices and devil worship and group suicide and despicable/unhinged beliefs) and diminishing of cults ("uwu come join my CULT XD we're gonna make cookies and WORSHIP SATAN teehee"), but i'm realizing how they go so hand-in-hand with the mindset of "only ~stupid/evil/crazy/etc.~ people could possibly join a cult. if it were me i would simply not fall for cult propaganda."

the diminishing part means that people don't take you seriously if you say you're an ex cult member or talk about your experiences in a cult or believe you are a current victim of a cult, because cults are just silly little groups that have weird beliefs but are otherwise innocuous. the sensationalizing part means people will also not take you seriously because if it was Actually a cult cult, that does harm and has evil beliefs, you should've known better because any reasonable person would have seen through it. the other side of "only an [xyz] person joins a cult" is "i am not an [xyz] person so i will never join a cult or be victim to propaganda and other cult tactics." the other side of "if it were me i would simply not fall for propaganda" is "someone falling for propaganda is fully a choice and a personal failing on their part." and combined they make: if you were [xyz] enough to join a cult and fall for propaganda, that means you deserved it.

people who would never make jokes about any other kind of abuse but feel perfectly fine making cult jokes used to kind of baffle me, because why is joking about personal abuse a problem but large-scale/group abuse is fine? why is it suddenly funny when you're the one that wants to perpetuate the abuse? but if your belief around cults is: "your experience wasn't that bad [diminishing], and if it was that bad [sensationalizing] it was your own fault and personal failing [i would simply not fall for propaganda], which means you deserved what you went through [only stupid/evil/crazy/etc people join cults]" and you don't understand how cults or cult tactics work, cult survivors/victims probably feel like a fair target for jokes (they are not, to be clear).

[sketchupnfries]

On a trip to Batuu

Felt like finally drawing a variation of "Jedi Survivor Goes to Disneyland," but as "Cal, Merrin and BD-1 go on a trip to Batuu." I have been waiting to do another one of these "fandom goes to Disneyland" drawing things, and I finally got the chance to take some pics in Galaxy's Edge the other day during a recent Disneyland trip.

[animatedjen]

Cal Kestis | Jedi Fallen Order

[etoiline]

brothers

(read with tags and characters on AO3 instead)

(@paper-crane-castles drew art for this fic and I am melting right now, go see!)

“Safest way outta here,” Bode says, and Cal’s stomach churns as he looks at the Imperial sign on the escape pod bay door in front of him.

“Sure about that?” Cal says, looking over at the merc who’s just saved his life several times over.

“No,” Bode says with a shrug and a cheeky smile.

“Okay then,” Cal manages, but Zee calls him on the stress in his voice.

“You seem nervous,” the droid says. “I’m going with him.��� She maneuvers her chassis over to Bode’s pod.

“After you,” Bode says, gesturing to the open door. Cal catches his concerned look out of the corner of his eye, but he’s momentarily frozen in front of his pod. BD chitters a query in Binary, and his little weight shifts onto Cal’s right shoulder as he beeps another question in Bode’s direction.

It’s that little shift that makes Cal rock back on his heels and trot to the other pod. If BD wants to stay with Zee, Cal doesn’t have to choose this solitary pod, and then Cal doesn’t feel so bad about his sudden need to not be alone. And if Bode is there, well…

Cal boosts his speed with the Force so he can slip between the pod doors as they close. Bode’s eyes immediately meet his, widened in surprise, his hands on the straps of Zee’s restraints. Their gaze holds for a moment before Zee raises a hand and waves. “Bode is being such a gentleman, securing my seat. But there’s plenty of room for you too, Cal!” she says. She waves a hand at the chairs across from her.

BD chirps and jets himself over to the small platform between the other chairs. Cal frowns. He knows exactly how many steps it will take to get from the door to the chairs, and how many jumps his younger self would need to boost himself over his Master’s dead body. Cal doesn’t want to take those steps. He knows, he knows, there’s nothing here to harm him, not this time. Bode’s right, these pods are the safest way to get out of the Lucrehulk without fighting their way through the Raiders and droids trying to steal Zee away from them again, but Cal can’t make himself move.

All Imperial tech is laid out the same way. Cal could walk the halls of this ship blindfolded and find his way to every refresher, even without the Force. One little escape pod is nothing. Zee is sitting in the exact same seat where Cal had huddled, Master Tapal’s broken saber clutched in his hands, Master Tapal’s broken body at his feet, and Cal lifts his chin, refusing to look at the floor. But he still can’t take that first step.

It’s Bode’s hand on his shoulder that jerks him out of that paralysis, soft words he can’t quite comprehend murmured near his ear, a gentle push on the middle of his back that has him almost falling forward towards BD, who lets out a sad bwoo before Bode catches his elbow with a gloved hand.

“Doing okay there, scrapper?” Bode says, and Cal can only nod. He lets Bode turn him, obeys when Bode tells him to sit, hearing only static as his eyes drift to the pod floor. The floor, which is pristine and white and not covered by a fast-cooling Lasat body.

Bode’s hands are sure, efficient, as he pulls the restraints around Cal’s unresisting form, repeating the motions he’s just done for Zee, who’s stayed uncharacteristically silent throughout all of this. Cal closes his eyes and imagines he’s somewhere, anywhere, else. Sorc Tormo’s fighting pit, even—that hadn’t frozen him so badly as this. BD thrusts his head under Cal’s fist, and he looks over and unclenches his hand enough to pat his droid, then drops his head to the pod wall, gaze drifting to Bode’s broad chest in front of him, focusing on the collar of his shirt, how it stretches as Bode’s arms move, at the shifting line of skin that shows there. Better that than Zee’s unblinking optics or the empty floor.

“You can do this, scrapper,” Bode says, tightening the restraints and grabbing Cal by the shoulders. Cal’s eyes drift up to Bode’s, and suddenly there’s nothing else in his view.

The mercenary kneels, and Cal blinks owlishly down at him and their suddenly entwined hands. He can feel the warmth through the well-worn leather, echoes of its use fluttering their memories at his psychometry. Cal’s glad they’re not stronger, grateful a carefully exhaled breath blows them away. “I don’t know what happened to you, but I swear you’re gonna be safe here with me,” Bode says, squeezing their hands together.

BD trills agreement at his side, confident and reassuring. The ghost of a smile pulls at Cal’s mouth.

“And with me!” Zee says, holding up a finger. Cal has to laugh, though it’s a strained one.

“Ah, there you are, scrapper,” Bode says, and Cal wonders if he really can feel the relief pouring off of Bode, or if he’s just projecting his own. He’s stuck on the smile the mercenary gives him, the flash of teeth bared in a grin.

Bode gives him one more squeeze, then gets to his feet, moving toward the pilot’s chair. Cal holds onto Bode’s hand a moment longer than he should, trapping the don’t leave me behind his teeth. It’s childish, he’s a Knight, for void’s sake, he’s safe and of course someone has to start the ejection sequence. BD butts his head into Cal’s thigh with a Binary whistle, and Cal looks down at his droid with a tremulous smile. “I know I’m safe, buddy. Thanks.”

“This Empire has not been kind to you, Cal Kestis, has it?” Zee says, for once the enthusiasm in her voice gone. Cal presses his lips together; there’s no need to tell her his life story, not when it’s carved into his face.

The pod jolts and Cal’s hands go to his restraints. Bode takes the seat across from Cal, buckling his belt with quick movements. Not a moment too soon—the pod jerks them sideways, and they’re high enough that Cal’s stomach seems to press into his throat as they fall, as BD clamps onto his arm, as the lights flicker, as the wind rushes by the pod, driving the scent of blasterfire and blood into his nose, as the too large form at his feet is pushed to the rear of the pod with the speed—Master Tapal had always said Cal would be able to look him in the eye one day but this isn’t the way he wanted to do it—

“Look at me, Cal,” Bode’s voice says, and Cal has to obey. He finds Bode’s eyes in the strobing light and stares at reality.

“You’re safe, scrapper, safer than a tooka kit in its den. Just a little while longer, yeah?” Bode’s voice is soothing, low, just audible over the escape pod engines, and Cal blinks, letting the words wash over him.

Another jolt, this one stronger than any of the others, has Cal raising his hands to protect himself, and BD slides off his arm with a startled beep. That first pod had driven itself deep into the mud, shattering the windows, and Cal had to climb out the back, stepping on his Master’s body to reach the hatch—the sob he’d let out then matches the one he can’t stop now—

Bode’s hands are on his—when did he get out of his seat? How long have they been stopped?--and Cal realizes Bode is speaking to him in that same calming voice, you’re safe, it’s over, whatever happened to you was then and this is now and you’re safe with me, scrapper.

Gloved hands release Cal from his restraints, and he falls forward, into Bode’s arms. BD hops on his back, chattering in Binary as Bode chuckles and lifts Cal’s elbows, helping him stand.

Cal lets himself stand there for a moment, huddled in the circle of Bode’s embrace, and Bode allows it. He’s still murmuring soft words into Cal’s hair, his comforting voice bringing back memories of the Temple and his Master after a particularly bad echo had left him voiceless with remembered screams. Cal does what his Master had done then, letting a tendril of his Force curl around Bode. He won’t be able to feel it, but it’s all the thanks Cal can manage as his muscles slowly start to obey his wishes after being locked up for so long.

“Brothers indeed,” Zee announces, and Bode stiffens, pulls away, giving Cal a crooked smile and a wink before turning to the droid. Cal keeps that light Force touch on Bode’s shoulders while the mercenary helps Zee out of her restraints, offering a hand to help her stand.

BD whistles a happy line as Bode ushers Zee out of the pod; thankfully it landed rather level, so there’s no giant jump outside the hatch. Then the mercenary turns and looks back at Cal, holding out his hand, beckoning.

“You’re safe now, scrapper,” Bode says, and Cal smiles for the first time since Dagan tried to drop a piece of machinery on his head.

Cal thinks safe and takes Bode’s hand as he exits the pod. He looks back at the gaping hatch, once, as they begin the limping trek back to Rambler’s Reach, and misses Bode’s shiver as Cal withdraws his fiery touch.

[sapphygolucky]

ffxiv polyam week 2025 day 5: devotion

who else could i love but you?

alt shots and textless:

[weevil-wallflower]

Lost Stolen & Found

Cal Kestis x Reader

Summary: Cal finds something valuable that he thought he'd lost years ago.

Warnings/Tags: No warnings, SFW, fluff and humour, no use of Y/N, no pronouns used, during Jedi: Survivor, minor spoilers for Jedi: Survivor.

A.N.: My fourth entry for Cal Kestis Week 2024! It follows the Day 4 prompt 'Ponchos'. I know this is from one of the previous days and while I would love to tackle the current day's prompts, I don't have any ideas for them yet. I don't want to force myself to write just for the sake of writing uwu

Also, When I showed one of my friends a picture of Cal in the pink poncho, he said that the pink is a bit clashy with Cal's hair, and that is what lead to this story ;3 Gif by me!

Also on AO3!

Word Count: ~520

Pyloon’s Saloon was bustling with its usual crowd when You walked in, looking around for your beloved redhead. When You couldn’t find him, You walked over to the kitchen, spotting Greez behind the counter as he cooked something that smelled quite delicious.

The Latero glanced up as You approached, giving You a nod. “You seen Cal yet?” He asked while stirring a pot.

“I’m on my way to see him, actually. Why?” You asked, your voice filled with confusion.

Greez snorted, a mischievous glint in his eyes. “Well, you’re in for a surprise,” he chuckled, sounding quite cryptic as he returned to his cooking.

Shrugging, You continued your trek downstairs towards your quarters. As the doors slid open, You stopped in your tracks, unable to suppress a laugh. There stood Cal, checking himself out in the mirror, wearing something so bright and pink that it clashed horribly with his red hair. BD-1 stood besides him, shaking his little head in playful disapproval.

“Cal… what are you wearing?” You exclaimed, walking up to him.

The redhead turned to You, his face full of excitement. “My love, you won’t believe it! I defeated Oggdo Bogdo and found my old poncho in his lair!” He spread his arms wide, making the dirty pink poncho flare out dramatically.

You lifted an eyebrow, surprise and a bit of worry crossing your face as You scolded him. “You went after Oggdo Bogdo? Cal, you always go out looking for trouble!”

He stepped closer, attempting to wrap You in a hug, but You backed away, your nose scrunching up. “Eww! Don’t touch me with that! Who knows how long that frog had been sitting on this poncho!”

Cal chuckled, looking down at the poncho. “Alright, fair point. But isn’t it great? I missed this old thing!”

“It’s… something,” You said diplomatically. “But the bright pink is a little clashy with your red hair.”

BD-1 emitted a series of beeps and nodded his head, clearly agreeing with You.

Cal grinned, his emerald orbs sparkling with amusement. “You too, Beedee? But hey, at least I can say I’m making bold fashion statements now!”

Later that evening, You decided to wash the poncho, knowing how important it was to Cal and that now he had it back, he would most likely want to wear it often. After a thorough wash, You decided to try on the poncho yourself. It was surprisingly comfortable, and You ended up wearing it to bed. At night, as You were settling in, Cal entered the quarters and did a double take.

“Wait a minute, is that my poncho?” He asked, a grin spreading across his face.

Before You could respond, the Jedi slipped under the covers and managed to squeeze himself inside the poncho alongside You, trapping You against his muscular chest.

“Cal!” You protested, giggling as you squirmed in your warm prison. Despite the poncho fitting you both very tightly, there was something cozy about it.

“See? It’s perfect for cuddling,” he said, his voice warm and happy. You snuggled closer, feeling safe and loved as You agreed that it indeed was good for cuddling.

[corvidscreams]

It’s that time again!