#and this is my one of a kind droid I’m always with which makes me even more identifiable if literally giving you my name didn’t tip you off

[thehalfbloodfreak]

Cal will be like: “We both know what happens when I stay in one place too long” Gotta keep that low profile so the Empire doesn’t find us—

Also Cal to every stranger he sees: Hi I’m Cal Kestis. Oh and this is BD-1

[beskarinhyperspace]

A Ripple In Space

I just want to know you more. 

More Chapters | MASTERLIST

4. Viper 

*Mature, Explicit, NSFW*

Kylo Ren x fem.reader

WC  6k  *Canon Divergence, angst, slow burn, soft dom, hurt/comfort

As you softly open your eyes to the low humming of the ship. You move your hand to the rest of the empty mattress. Realizing that you are indeed alone. Fully opening them, you quickly start to remember where you were. 

Oh maker, I'm in his room.. 

Now fully awake at the realization, you slowly remember the previous night, having a hard time processing it. Your chest was suddenly moving quicker, knowing how much of a traitor this was making you. You were an ally to the jedis and to the resistance. Just like your parents were before you and you just slept with Kylo fucking Ren.. As you pass your hands in your hair trying to recollect yourself, you let out a deep sigh. You had just woken up and were already feeling drained. 

You finally calmed down and glanced at his empty pillow. Which gave you an instant pinch in your chest, and just like that, you can't stop your mind from going back to his soft and plumped lips. Twitching as he was moving closer. His eyes, deeply looking at you with desire. How could someone be so violent and yet this gentle? Thinking back on how the rage was consuming him as he previously choked the guard. The horror you felt seeing him igniting the red beam of his sword. The one that brought so much destruction and fear across the galaxy. 

It doesn't take long for you to hear your stomach growl. Finally getting up and out of the bed, you move slowly to the kitchen. Living life on a ship was truly a different experience than the one you had on land. You miss the warmth of the sun on your bare legs in the morning. Sunbathing on the balcony with your caf in hand. Here, the air is recycled and for some reason it is always cold. To be completely honest with yourself, the dark colors of the ship gave you more goosebumps than the cold air.  

As you’re making some eggs on the stove behind the counter, you hear the swooshing sound of the front door opening.  

Maker he's already back. You tell yourself, not being mentally prepared to face him again. You can feel your heart beating faster as the heavy steps are coming closer to the kitchen. You see a man turning the corner with a small cart. Giving you a wave of instant relief. He was tall, with dark hair and defined features. He was not only wearing the ship’s uniform. He also had the official cap and badges completing the ensemble. You stood there like a deer caught in headlights, hair all over the place with a spatula in hand. Trying to cover your thighs as much as you can with the oversize tee you're wearing. Even behind the counter, you still felt naked. 

“Oh, I am sorry miss. I didn’t.. It's usually empty. I’m simply the cleani.. I can come back later.”  

You couldn't help but smile timidly at his anxious avoidance. ´He looks really cute’, telling yourself as you're trying to focus. “It’s okay. I’m actually new here, kind of.. You can carry on, I was going out anyway.” 

The man takes a moment, staring at you as you return to your cooking. After a moment you peek at him through the fallen hair hiding parts of your face. “Yes?” 

He clears his throat, “Isn’t it a bit late to be going to work? The day shift has already started.” 

You give him a smile before replying, “I don’t have a job, yet. Like I said, I am quite new here..” 

“Right, sorry for my intrusion.” 

“Don't mind it. I enjoy your company. It has been weeks since I've talked to an actual human being and not guards or droids.” rolling your eyes sideways. 

He walks closer to the kitchen island. “Well, I’m Henry. Nice to meet you.” Smiling as he shows you his hand to shake. 

“You can call me Viper..” moving slightly forward to shake it with yours. 

“Cool, well.. I better start if I want to live for the next 24 hours.” He breathes out as he's going through his cleaning supplies.  

“Do you know where I can find work?” 

He looks at you before answering, “Well I heard they need help in electric. Wiring, to be precise. I can give a word for you if it’s somethi-” 

“Yes! Please, I would really appreciate it.” cutting him off as you smile brightly. 

-- 

In the meantime, Kylo Ren was sitting in his office with his chair turned and facing the window. The light coming from it was softly hitting half of his face and body as he was watching the calm darkness of space. He had woken up early, not being capable of keeping himself asleep while being so close to you. He didn't want to leave the ship for duties just yet. Even though he knew absolutely nothing about you, no amount of time was enough with you. He was tested by his curiosity and now, you were all he could think about.  

I can’t keep losing control like this, trying to remind himself. He lets out a deep sigh as he rises from his chair, putting his helmet on. I’m going to be gone for a couple of weeks. That should be enough to forget about her, right? ..And her, me. 

As he’s moving through the hallways, he hears a familiar voice nearby. He halts, moving his body to the corner of the wall while listening closely. 

“Thank you for helping me clean the place that was nice of you.” A man says. 

“I told you; I enjoyed it..” The familiar voice responds gently. 

Laughing, “You must be the only one I know who does. See you around,  Viper..” As he moves away, you smile shyly to the back of him, pressing your lips together. 

A pinch in his chest makes Kylo step behind you quickly, “making friends I see.” Your blood runs cold as you hear the static of his modulated voice.  He was hovering you with his height. Looking as intimidating as the day you first saw him. His mask analyzes you as you try to keep control of yourself. You haven’t done anything wrong but somehow it felt like you did. Seeing you avoidant and playing with your shirt, makes him mad. He starts pushing you back into the wall behind you. Giving you no other choice than to fall into it. By default, you try to take as little space as you can manage between his broad arms placed on each side of your head. He had his way of making you feel small and today was no exception. “Unless he’s more than a friend..” Suggesting as he tilts his head to the side. 

“No, I was simply helping him with his tasks I swear.” answering while staring at your feet. “I don't even know him. I just met him.” 

He takes a harsh breath before removing his helmet with one hand, “look at me.” But you were too scared to look. Only give him a quick glance before returning your gaze down. “I said look at me, Viper..” Saying your name in a low, firm tone. You swallow, looking up to meet his eyes properly. They were small and dark from stress and lack of sleep. His plump lips twitching as he was staring at yours. “Viper, I have to say, it suits you well.” saying softly. “Now how does one acquire a name like that?”  

“My father gave it to me before he passed.” You say, trying your best to keep your voice steady. You didn't want to lie, but you don't want to tell the whole truth either. 

“What about the boy, mh?.. I thought we were going to be honest with one another.” 

“I met him this morning, I swear nothing happened.” you protest. 

He scowls, “well you knew nothing of me..” stating as he takes his hand to cover the side of your head before closing his eyes. As he focuses you feel the same aura and feeling you sensed while he was thrusting inside you the previous night. The white and warm light radiating around him. He was searching your mind as you randomly see memories coming to you quickly. Starting to breathe faster, you feel a drop of sweat tickling the edge of your hairline. You try to fight the invasion as much as you can, but it stops on a memory you formed this very morning. The one blushing as you saw Henry in your oversize tee. Trying to stretch the fabric down to cover your legs. Suddenly, Kylo pushes himself back, as he watches you fall on your knees.  

“You were almost naked.” he urges, his voice becoming dangerous. “What happened!?”  

“You saw what happened, why are you asking me?” saying while calming yourself down. 

“I want to hear it from you.” 

You peek at him through your fallen hair in disbelief. “He came in to clean your quarters. At first, I thought it was you. I was cooking, I thought I was alone. He presented himself and that's it. We talked about a jo-” 

“The desire..” he says angrily. 

Okay now you were extremely confused. “Desire? What desire?” 

Trying to make sense of what just happened, He takes a moment before speaking. He was used to entering people’s minds and even controlling them, but this felt weird, even for him. He was able to feel your emotions like they were his. Something he had never experienced before, and he wasn’t sure he wanted to after this. “The one you have for him.” eyes daring you to say otherwise. 

Your lips parted as you were slowly panicking. “I-I just find him cute. That’s all, I swear.” 

His hand twitched as he was looking deeply into your eyes, searching for the truth. He could see how frightened you were but also how sincere. He knew he couldn't fight it as he came back to you slowly. Bending slightly, he takes your hands and uses them to pull you back on your feet. He gently pushes the hair out of your face with the back of his fingers before passing his thumb over your lips. Staring at them, he slides his hand to grab the side of your jaw. “I have to leave for a short while, but I trust you will follow our agreement.” Seeing him clench his teeth before looking into your eyes. Fighting the urge to taste you on his lips. “You must sleep in my quarters. That is the only place I know you will be-” 

“Safe, I know. Don’t worry about me. I’m a big girl.” stating as you smile. 

“It’s not you I'm afraid of.” he grimaced, “promise me.”  

“I promise” you confirm before letting out a deep sigh. 

Without a word, he puts his helmet back on and turns away. 

What did I get myself into? 

-- 

Weeks have gone by without any news of Kylo Ren. While the crew was more relaxed and carefree, you were learning your new job stress free. Thanks to Henry’s recommendation, you were now fully working in electrical. In fact, you were already being left alone to fix some bad wiring that was previously done by a guy who allegedly died in battle. If you were completely honest with yourself, he didn’t seem to have a clue about what he was doing. It was all a mess; everything was badly connected while other pieces were simply missing. You let out a bored moan as you lay back into the corner of the tight space. Sliding down along the wall before sitting on the floor.  

You felt quite lonely on the ship. No one was really chatting with you since you were sleeping in the supreme leader’s quarters. They weren't particularly mean to you, but gossip was spreading quickly among the crew. The only friend you had was Henry and sadly, your schedules were not working in your favor. Kylo was gone for a while now and you still didn't know what you felt about him since your last encounter. 

He's a horrible man. He brought way too much destruction to the galaxy for me to fraternize with him, I just can't. 

As you examine the back of your hands placed on your knees, you remembered your last night with him. The one you have been trying for weeks to forget. His touch, his smell intoxicating you. You knew you wanted all of those again and that alone was terrifying you.  

While being lost in your thoughts, you're toying with the bracelet your sister had made you back home. Smiling to yourself, you can’t help but wonder what she would think of you if she knew you slept with literally the worst person in the galaxy and still wanted more. While rolling the threads in between your fingers, you think back to Kylo and the way he said your name, Viper.. Since your parent’s death no one has ever called you by your real name, not even your sister. They were the ones who gave it to you after a successful mission destroying one of the first order’s bases. Along with your successful mission, your codename had become your identity.  

Oh maker, it’s today..  

-- 

The day was a long one for Kylo. His only desire for weeks was to come back to the finalizer knowing you'd be there. He couldn’t wait to finally get back on his ship. He very much regretted not kissing you goodbye. You've been haunting his dreams with the smell of your hair and soft skin ever since he left. He was still trying to figure out how your connection worked. How he was able to finally see a little more in your head but also feel you the way he did. As much as he wanted not to, he quickly realized that keeping himself away from you was not the right approach. His emotions were controlling him further each day and it scared the shit out of him.  

For now, he was simply excited to see you as he moves inside his quarters. Although, the smile behind his mask quickly vanished as he glanced around the empty space. His assistant had previously confirmed that you would be here and yet you were not. Even if he wasn’t on the finalizer, he kept an eye on you. He had heard about your new job and schedule, and knew you're supposed to be done by now. He calls to double check in the electrical but apparently no one has seen you for hours. His mind draws him back quickly to the boy he saw you talking to. What if she had moved on? Did she use me? Maybe I scared her too much before leaving? What if she had escaped?  

His fears were getting the best of him as he pushed the side of his comm-link angrily, “Find her” ordering, swirling back into the hallway. 

After almost an hour of searching, a soldier comes to him. “We have found no trace of the women, Sir.” 

He sighs, “what about the tie fighters?” 

“We have stopped the departures. We also have the right numbers in inventory. No anomalies have been reported with the ones who did leave earlier today, Sir.” the men stated. 

“This means she's still on board.” Getting angrier thinking of the memory he read out of you before leaving. The way you felt seeing that boy, the desire. “You don’t stop until you find her.” Commanding him as his fingernails were digging into the leather of his gloved palms. 

The trooper nods before turning away quickly to inform the others. Meanwhile, Kylo was trying to calm himself down, but it was useless. He could visualize you kissing the boy like you kissed him. Giving yourself the way, you did with him. He did not know much about you; he didn't know how much he could trust you.  

As he's spiraling, he feels a soft breeze on his skin. Which is odd since he is covered from head to toe with fabric. The goosebumps were going right up the nape of his neck. Without hesitation he starts following the energy that is pulling him. The sensation felt cold and blue the closer he got to it. After a moment, he finally stops in front of a closet door with a hand going to his hip. Unaware of what's on the other side, he unclips his lightsaber before bracing himself in a combat position. He takes a deep breath in, moving his hand to the control panel on the side. The moment it opens, his gaze is automatically drawn to you, sitting on the floor. He slowly drops his arms as he watches you bring your red, puffy eyes to him. The rage that was boiling inside him, was now completely gone. You looked at him in shock, thinking you were going to die for a moment there. Still silent, he pulls his helmet off.  

“You're back..” you say sniffling. 

“What happened?” asking softly. 

Instead of answering, you move your gaze down. Wrapping your arms around your legs and bringing them closer to your body. 

“Did someone do something to you? Are you hurt?” tensing as he questioned. 

You lightly shake your head, “no, it's just me. I remembered a bad day, a sad day.”  

He presses his lips, unsure of what to do before entering the small, confined closet. His body quickly fills the tight space as he walks to you, squatting down to your level before he pushes the hair out of your face. “I can't help you if you don't tell me, hyal.” 

You could see how genuine he was, but you didn't want to talk about it. You had tried your best over the years not to let it affect you, but it was almost impossible on days like this one. 

“My parents..” you couldn't stop the tears from falling down your cheeks, your voice still full of emotions. “They died on this day. I just miss them so much and I feel so alone.” 

He takes a moment looking at you, “I'm sorry for your parents.” Pushing the hair out of your face, “but you're not, you're not alone.”  

You dry your eyes with the back of your sleeve, trying to smile. 

He lets you take a moment to come back to yourself before pressing the side of his comm-link on his wrist. “I found her, you can stop the search. I’ll take it from here.”  

He lets out a sigh looking straight at you. “Are you ready to go?”  

You nod as he helps you get back on your feet. “What did you mean by stop the search?” 

“You're a difficult one to find” he says, giving you a soft smirk. 

-- 

As you enter his quarters, you realize that he didn’t put his helmet back on. Noticing his eyes with better lighting. They looked more tired than usual. He quickly glanced at you before moving towards the bathroom. “I need to take a shower, I'll be back.”  

Being finally alone again, you remain unmoved. Closing your eyes in an attempt to re-center yourself. Your reunion happened as weirdly as his departure. You didn’t want to talk to him about how they died or how he is part of the issue. By fear, you also did not want to mention how much you're missing your sister. The First Order was the reason of your parent's death and you promised yourself that it would never be hers. Although, some of you felt happy that Kylo was back. You just wished that he had found you in better circumstances.  

What was he like before becoming Supreme Leader? Was he always in the First Order? Probably not, otherwise he wouldn’t be as gentle as he is with you, right? 

While you were changing out of your work clothes, you couldn't help but smile softly thinking about him. You liked having him near you. Even though he made you feel a little anxious at times.  

He came out of his shower already fully clothed. Catching him pass in front of the bedroom door, he was moving to the kitchen to pour himself a glass of water from the sink.  

You can't help but notice how imposing and stoic he looks even out of his combat clothes. The muscles of his chest and arms being noticeable through the fabric of his shirt. His hair, still damped from the shower, falls on his face as he turns the faucet off. Maker, am I blushing? 

You sigh, climbing into bed before moving under the covers. As you make yourself comfortable, you see him pass through the door and coming to the edge of the bed to sit with you. 

“How did it go while I was gone?” He asks before taking a sip from his cup. 

“Did you not see me cry my eyes out?” replying sarcastically. 

“I did, but surely you didn’t cry for weeks. Did you?” 

“No, of course not. I worked, how about you?” 

“Good, it was a long one.” looking briefly at you. 

“Can I ask you something?” He doesn’t say a word as he waits for your question. “Are your parents still alive?” 

He tenses up, turning his gaze down to the glass of water in his hand. “My mother.. but I don't know where she is.”  

“I’m sorry to hear it. Is she not?” You didn’t know how to ask. 

“In the First Order? No, no she's not.. ” 

You press your lips, “Kylo? What does, hyal means?” you questioned closing your eyes, not being able to keep them open any longer. 

He raises his eyes to you in surprise. “Why so many questions?” putting his glass of water on the nightstand before joining you under the covers. 

“I just want to know you more..” mumbling, letting your mouth part slightly as you fall asleep. 

He smiles softly, pushing the hair out your face. You were already breathing deeper while he looked at your pillowy lips. The ones he has been craving for weeks. He leans in, pressing them gently with his. Being careful not to disturb you in your sleep. He takes a deep breath in, “I also miss them, every day.” Before closing his eyes as well. 

-- 

The next morning, you wake up to the sound of hot crinkling oil in a pan. As you sit up and rub your eyes, you hear Kylo let out a high muffled scream. You quickly pull away the covers before running to the kitchen, seeing him clenching his hand tightly. 

“Are you okay?” voice panicked. 

“It's okay, I just burned myself. You can go back to sleep.” trying not to sound in pain. 

You walk to him, now fully awake. “Don't be stupid. How could I possibly go back to sleep knowing you're suffering. Can I have a look?” looking straight at him. 

He hesitates, pressing his lips before opening his hand slowly to you. As you look closer to the injury, you examine the serious burn. A vivid red line was drawn across his palm. “Here put it under cold water. It will stop the heat from burning through the other layers of skin.” moving towards the kitchen faucet. “You need to always keep the handle away from the heat when cooking.” He puts his hand under the low pressured water. Slightly moaning as he feels an instant relief.  

He raised an eyebrow as he watched you with a first aid kit. Putting it on the counter before starting the burner again. He stares at you confused, “Are you not going to help me?” 

“You need to stop the burn before putting the bacta on. Otherwise, you'll only heal the top layers.” rolling your eyes at him. 

He doesn't comment on your attitude as he smirks softly. Being kind of surprised at your knowledge of the matter. “And, how do you know all of this?” 

Not responding, you give him a smile as he's watching you do his cooking. Admiring you from a distance. He noticed how nervous you were with him but, the truth is, he was too. You never really talked about what happened the night before he left, and he too wanted to know you more. 

He clears his throat anxiously, “You know. The day I left you were talking to a man.” 

“Henry?” 

“I guess, yes. Have you, seen him again?”  

Looking up to meet his eyes, “He’s only a friend, I told you.” closing the burner, you turn around. Grabbing the first aid kit as he turns off the faucet. Meanwhile, you took the bacta out of the metal box before spraying it on his wound. He grimaced while the bacta was already taking effect. As you his hand with some bandages, he can’t help himself from staring at you. Your hair was still all over the place from the chaotic morning. Strands falling down your face, some sticking up, but he couldn't care less. Suddenly a weird sensation comes to his chest as he pushes one of your hair strands to see your face better. 

You meet his gaze smiling brightly, “Here, all done..”  

He doesn’t waste a second, taking the side of your neck. Holding you still as he leans in closer, kissing you full lips.  

You don’t stop him as he moans sweetly into your mouth. “You have no idea how long I've been wanting to do this..” 

“Tell me more.” 

He sighs softly, “I wanted to see you, smell you, touch you.” moving his hands gently to your middle back. “You're all I could think about.” 

“I also thought about you every-” You didn’t have time to finish your sentence, that he starts kissing you again, caressing your tongue inside with his. 

You laugh, stopping him. “I can’t, I have to work.” Protesting as you try to move away. 

“Work? But I just came back. I can make you miss work if that’s the issue.” You don’t really listen to him as you’re now inside the bedroom, changing into your work clothes. “You seem to forget that I'm the supreme leader. This is my ship, and I can do whatever I want.” 

You roll your eyes, “Yeah, I know..” You watch him come closer as you sit on the edge of the bed to put your boots on. He takes the other one from your hand before throwing it aside. “Hey, stop, I need to go. I'm going to be late.” 

He's not listening as he kneels in front of you spreading your legs. “Stay with me hyal.” 

“You still haven’t told me what it meant..” closing your eyes to his hands roaming your hips and ass. 

You could feel his hardness on the edge of your pussy, “to crave.” answering you, slowly unzipping the front of your uniform. 

Your heart beats faster but you try to stay on track. “What language is that? I never heard it.” 

“Sith”  

You stop him before he unzips it fully, managing to wiggle yourself free. “I really need to go. I can't be late.” 

He watches you grab your boots from the floor, “Have I done something wrong again?” eyes worried. 

As you look at Kylo, you feel heaviness in your chest “What? No..” moving quickly to the living room. “I just like seeing people and having somewhat of a normal life.” glancing at him awkwardly, “and I like the job, okay? I will see you later.”  

Before you could leave, he grabs your arm. “I’m sorry that I cannot let you go, yet.. I also need to follow orders.” saying eyes in pain. 

You simply nod, walking away to the entrance.  Feeling an energy moving through your hair, you turn your head back. Only seeing the side of his face as he goes back to the bedroom.  

-- 

You can hear your stomach calling for food entering the cafeteria. You felt bad lying to Kylo about being late, but you were not ready to sleep with him again. Hearing him speak Sith made uneasy. A reminder that you're just a prisoner on his ship. How many girls did he had this way? He probably lied to you about you being the only one. Surely that can't be true. He is one of the most powerful men in the galaxy, how could you possibly be his first taste of flesh? 

It doesn't matter, because it won't happen again.. 

Taking a tray, you get in line. Today was your favorite; spinach quiche with ham bits. Plus, they always had these little roasted potatoes on the side that you love so much. You had to admit, the finalizer did have some good food. Way better than the sludge you used to eat in battle camps back home. 

As you're waiting your turn, you sense a finger tapping your shoulder. Automatically you feel your body tense, scared to even look back. Turning around, you're being greeted by Henry. “It's been a while.” he says with a broad smile. 

You don't know why, but you feel a little disappointed seeing him. You don’t know if it's because you haven't seen him for a while but he's making you blush a little. Maybe it was the way he looked so effortlessly put together. Whatever the reason, it felt good to see him again. 

“It's you who has been hiding, I'm always near.” you state playfully. 

“Yeah, I've been learning how to pilot on top of my usual job. It does take a lot of my time these days.”  

Well, I'm happy that you're okay, I was starting to get worried.” 

There's a moment of silence before he clears his throat. “Would you like to join us?” Pointing to a round table with two man and a woman also wearing the crew's uniform. 

You nod while taking back your tray from the lunch guy’s hands. For weeks, you have been eating alone and so the invitation was a nice welcome, especially from him. As soon as you sat down, all eyes were on you, along with the tension floating in the air.  

“Everyone, this is Viper. A friend of mine, she's in electrical.” Presenting you to the small group. 

Immediately, the woman steps in. “The supreme leader’s favorite..” 

“Did you say Viper?” One of the two men asks, cutting her off. Looking at Henry through his glasses, eyes wide open. 

“Yes?” He replies raising his eyebrow in curiosity. 

The bearded man leans forward to shake your hand. “It's truly an honor to meet you miss. I'm Jon. I was there, fighting by your side on N12.” 

“I'm not sure I'm following” says the woman, tying her dark hair in a ponytail. 

The man turns to her. “She’s on our side.” He looks around, “she destroyed 2 enemy bases.” 

“Not here Jon” the other man says anxiously, “it's not safe..” 

Henry turns to you quickly, “you never mentioned it before.” 

“Well, we haven't been hanging out much either..” you mocked. 

“Henry, you're making her uncomfortable.” Pulling her hair tighter. 

He looks at her unfazed, “I'm the one making her uncomfortable?” 

“Yes, I was just stating the facts. She is his favorite; otherwise, why would he keep her in his quarters mh?” 

You can sense all eyes coming back on you. There's a part of you that wished she was right, but you knew that he had different motives. “He simply wants to keep his eye on me, and he also doesn't trust the guards.” 

“With reasons.” she says smirking, “I'm Eira by the way. this is Lars.” pointing to the middle-aged man with a full beard and hair tied in a bun sitting next to Jon. “He doesn't talk much but he's really sweet.” 

You simply smile as you're finishing your plate.  

“I'm curious Viper, how is it sharing your space with a Solo?” eyes staring up at you while she brought the fork to her mouth. 

“A what?” you respond confused. 

“Ben, the son of Han and Leia?” Jon replies. 

“What do you mean?” Brow's frowning. 

They all look at each other before she replies, “Kylo Ren is Ben Solo, the son of Han Solo and Leia Organa.” 

Your eyes widen in shock, “How? What? How did he end up here?” Questioning quickly. 

Jon shakes his head slightly, “last time I saw Ben with his parents, was the night before he left with his uncle, Luke.” He takes a sip from his cup, “I served Princess Leia for most of my life before being captured and imprisoned here. I have been away from home 3years now.” 

Your eyes saddened to his words, “that's horrible..” being cut off by a bell. 

The worker's alarm went off before Eira could take her last bite. “We should get going if we don't want to be late” 

-- 

As you put your tray in the bin, Henry stays close by. Waiting for you to be done to walk you to your job. “You don't have to do that; you know that right?" 

He gives you one of his genuine smiles. “I'm sorry I couldn't keep up with you. I am, truly.” He stops in the middle of the now empty hallway with everyone already taking their stations.  

“It's okay, don't worry about it. C’mon, we'll be late.” 

But he grabs your wrist. Looking deeper into your eyes, caressing your hand with the back of his fingers. He doesn't waste his time, leaning forward almost kissing, “Would you come meet me tonight at the control bri..” 

“Are you okay?” 

Henry’s eyes were beginning to look scared. His hands moving towards his throat, trying to remove something that wasn't there, fully choking and fighting for air. As you turn your head, you see a masked Kylo moving around the corner with a hand extended towards Henry. 

“STOP! YOU’RE GOING TO KILL HIM!” Yelling as he walks in your direction.  

“That's the point” saying dry and cold.  

“Please Kylo!” but your pleas were useless as his body stays put. “Please stop, I beg you!” 

He turns his helmet quickly to you, “go on..” 

“What?” 

“What do you propose?”  

You were taken aback. You didn't think about that. “I- I'll do whatever you want.” your heart skipping a beat as you say the words. 

He looks back at Henry, who is slowly turning colors. “This is your lucky day.” Finally releasing him and letting him fall to his knees. “Go!” Kylo stressed before you see Henry get back on his feet clumsily and run away as fast as he can. 

You let out a sigh, “that was unnecessary..” 

He turns to you, his tall and broad frame hovering over you. “I heard your thoughts..” 

“Yes, it's normal to have them” looking up to him. 

“Yeah well, your desir-”  

*”Sir Ren, meeting at 10 with the counc..”* Getting cut off by a transmission. 

“Not now General, move it for tomorrow.” 

*“Sir, I'm afraid-”* 

“I have an important matter on hand.” Starting to get impatient and annoyed. 

*”I would hardly qualify a poor slave girl as impor-”// “General Hux!” 

“As you wish, Sir Ren..” his voice sounding bitter. 

As soon as the transmission ended, Kylo quickly turned all his attention back on you.  

“You, come with me..”  

--

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[deejadabbles]

The Handmaiden's Fox (Commander Fox x Reader) Chapter Two

Summary: You have been by Amidala’s side since she was the queen of Naboo and no one will shake you from your duty. Not even a handsome, red-clad commander who seems quite taken with the friendship you’ve forged. Commander Fox x fem handmaiden reader. Slow burn, friends to lovers. Rating: Mature A.N: This chapter is mostly focused on building the "foundations" of everything, setting things into motion for you and the dear commander, but I hope it's still an entertaining chapter. Jacen and Tiio are OCs that I made for this series and I have...plans for them in later chapters, so I'd keep an eye on them if I were you 💗 Word Count: 6,814 Chapter Warnings: None

Prologue /// Part One /// Part Two /// [part three coming soon]

“I’m losing my touch,” your tone was quite petulant as you threw yourself on the settee, which caused Dormé to flash you a smile.

“And what makes you say that, my dear?” she asked, not taking her attention off the sewing in her hands.

You closed your eyes, remembering just how vibrant your reaction had been during the… incident yesterday. Fox had seemed like such a good ally one moment- then the next was treating you like some common criminal, like the ones you had just felled! You weren’t sure if anyone blamed you, or even took note of your pure anger in that moment, but you had.

So, sitting here in the comfort of the sewing room in Padmé’s apartment with your friend, you could hardly bare the memory.

“I used to be so good at hiding myself, and my emotions whenever I was on the job, no matter what was thrown at me. I could stare down the angriest politician or bulking battle droid without so much as a crease in my brow. Now look at me? Shouting at that Commander like some banshee.” Another dramatic sigh, comforted by the fact that this home was one of the only places you could truly be yourself, “What’s wrong with me, Dormé?” You opened your eyes and turned your head to look at her, hands folding over your chest.

You did not miss the way she was smirking, eyes darting up to you for just a moment even as she continued sewing. “If you want my opinion as your colleague, I’d say you’re simply getting fed up with the stoicism of your position. You have been at this for over a decade, that’s a long time to keep up such an unyielding, specific standard.”

That made a little sense. Things were not nearly as restrictive as a senator’s handmaiden as they had been when you were a queen’s handmaiden, but, that hadn’t stopped you from performing the same level of care and stoicism whenever you were beside Padmé or working on her behalf. No one, not even Padmé herself would blame you for taking it easy on that front. 

Still, a part of you felt like there was something more to your recent slip ups. Something, a more recent development that was pushing the limits of your professional mask.

“And, if I were to ask your opinion as my friend instead?” You asked.

“Oh, that’s easy. Commander Fox has gotten under your skin and you don’t like it.”

You scoffed, “What? Gotten under my skin how?”

Again she did not look away from her stitches, “Think about it: you’ve met someone who’s as hard to read as you, who takes even less none-sense than you, expects just as much excellence as you, and every bit as unyielding as you. You’ve finally met a man who can keep up with you, and it’s thrown you off balance. And that has gotten under your skin, my friend. That is a large part of why you’ve found it harder to keep that emotionless facade in check.”

Your mouth opened, intending to debate the analysis, but no words came to mind. Dormé was rarely wrong, something you had always admired about her, so perhaps… In truth, you almost never met someone outside of Padmé’s staff that impressed you. Truly, impressed you, that is. You admired others, certainly, saw their strength or kindness, their wisdom or passion, admired individuals for how they made up the unique galaxy. You valued others for who they were. But, impressed you? That was usually reserved for the high standards of those you worked with.

It was a fault of yours, to be sure, your own Naboo-based pride being something of a work in progress ever since you came to Coruscant all those years ago. So, a clone commander who had no ties to your people meeting your standards unexpectedly? You saw her point.

“I think my colleague and my friend are both right,” you conceded eventually.

Dormé hummed in approval. “So, since he meets our impossible standards, we’ll have to find a way to gain him as an ally, like you mentioned before. He would be a powerful contact to add to your collection.”

She was right again. Weeks ago, after your first encounter with Fox, you had mentioned wanting to gain his trust, seeing the value in having someone of his position and loyalty on your list of allies. 

However, now, the thought of treating him as just another contact made you a little uneasy. 

You had heard the way so many others in the senate talked about the clones, as if they were…sub-human, no more feeling than their birth numbers. The last thing you wanted was to treat him like a tool to be used, no matter how useful his position could be to your inner spy.

“I’m not against having him as a potential contact, but… I think that I would like to become his friend first.”

Dormé actually looked up at you then, eyebrows raised. “My, he truly must have impressed you if that’s the case. We both know ‘friends’ are a luxury here on Coruscant, especially now.”

Another long sigh, you wanted to reply, but were too lost in pondering the weight of your own words as she finished her sewing. 

“Alright, enough talk about the Commander,” Dormé said in a mock of a business tone, “Up up, let’s see how this looks.” She rose from her chair shaking out the cape she had been mending.

You did as asked, jumping up and walking towards one of the full length mirrors in the room as she came up behind you. She draped the elegant cloth around your shoulders, smoothing it out as you fastened the elegant silver clasp at the throat.

“As always, my friend, you have done exquisite work,” you praised, turning this way and that in the mirror, “not even I can tell where the vibro blade tore through.”

“Hm, just do me a favor? Next time you want to practice combat in full handmaiden attire, wear one of the tecklon weave capes? At least those are blade resistant.”

“But that was the point, I wore this one to incentivize me not to get stabbed.”

In the mirror, Dormé raised her eyebrow at you, “I would think not getting stabbed should be its own incentive.”

“It should be, but it’s not nearly as fun.”

She laughed at that when you waggled your eyebrows back at her in the glass, but if she was going to say anything further, it was cut off when both your comlinks went off at the same time.

At this time of day, that probably meant one thing, and that was an ‘over dinner meeting’ being called. Those had become fewer and fewer over the years, as Padmé tried her best to give everyone their evenings to themselves, but it was hardly a rare occurrence. A part of you welcomed it tonight, though, the ‘meetings’ were always very casual, full of good food and playful banter between everyone who had worked together for so long. It was a camaraderie that you were missing more and more.

Since you and Dormé were already in the apartment, you took it upon yourselves to order the food and arrange the main room for everyone. Cushions and throw blankets were plentiful and opening a few choice windows allowed for a pleasant breeze to creep in. The buzz of city life filtered through just enough for some distant white noise, but not enough to be overwhelming.

As expected, Padmé and the others arrived soon enough, and all your lady had to do was give that weary look the moment she stepped in the door. You and Dormé were ushering her into her dressing room in an instant, deftly working together to get her out of the regal gown and into something light and flowing. 

While you worked at getting the elaborate array of pins out of her hair, and Dormé removed her makeup, Padmé finally spoke.

“Do you think there’s enough food to invite Jacen and Tiio to join us?” she asked, referring to the two Corrie Guards who were on “Amidala duty” this time of day.

You and Dormé shared a brief look before you said, “There should be, but the real question is whether they’ll allow themselves to eat with us. Commander Fox has them adhere to protocol rather strictly from what I can tell.”

Neither of you had to ask why she brought it up, if it was in her interest to tell you, she would. Thankfully, she was interested.

“I think we should ask them anyway. There are several things I want us to talk about, but, at the top of the list is dealing with that 187-24 debacle. I had hoped they would give us some insight on how to make amends with Commander Fox.”

“Not to mention they deserve some good food after chasing you around at senator Kreen’s event all afternoon,” Dormé grinned. Kreen was a decent man, but, was always moving, and liked to sweep Padmé along with him wherever he went during his events. The clone guards had definitely gotten their work out today.

By then, Padmé was far more comfortable and ready to settle down in the main room. The timing couldn’t have been better, just as the three of you were coming out of the dressing room, some of the household staff were bringing in the feast.

While the other two took grateful seats on the sofas, you continued through the room, to the large doors where the troopers were standing guard just on the other side.

As always the men in red were standing at attention, their posture so straight, and arms so firm as they held their rifles, they could have been statues. They didn’t dare acknowledge you entering for fear of breaking their perfect stature, not until you addressed them.

“Senator Amidala would be very pleased if you joined us for our meal,” you said in a pleasant tone, having loosened your own posture quite a bit.

The helmeted heads turned very slightly towards one another.

“That would be against protocol, ma’am,” the one on the right, Tiio, answered. 

You let yourself smile, “As I understand it, you’ve already secured the perimeter, swept the interior for breaches, and scanned the staff upon your return. With all of that taken care of, you two are free to guard any room you believe best protects the senator. I see no reason why the best place isn’t in the same room as her, especially at her request.”

There was a single beat of silence, then Jacen actually shrugged. “She’s got a point.”

You saw the way Tiio hesitated for just a moment, the way his back straightened up again the second it started to slack. “We wouldn’t be able to for long…”

“Just a quick bite, then you two can come right back to your posts if you wish.”

Tiio gave one glance at his brother, then finally nodded. “I think a quick break should be okay.”

You only gave a satisfied smile as you swept back into the main room, leaving the two men to follow in your wake. Everyone gave a companionable greeting to them, Typho even jumping up from his seat and waving for them to sit near him and Dormé. They declined, of course, but at least took off their helmets when Padmé herself handed them plates to fill.

You had seen a couple of troopers without their helmets by now, though it was very rare. The few you had seen hadn’t had any difference in their hair styles or any other feature, Tiio was no different. Standard, perfectly kempt haircut and nothing else that might stand out. Jacen on the other hand, while his hair seemed in order, there, peeking up from the collar of his undershirt, was the symbol of the Coruscant Guard. News from the front said that the clones were gaining their individuality fast now that they weren’t under the constant supervision of the Kaminoans, and you supposed tattoos were a good means of expressing that.

By the time you took your own seat, Jacen had already taken some samples of the dishes spread out on the table, leaving Tiio to look hesitant again. In way of an encouraging nudge, you told him that the nerf-fry dish was an especially good dish.

“So, are you going to tell us the real reason we’re in here,” Jacen said rather suddenly, causing his brother to gape at him.

As the rest of you gave each other glances, Typho actually laughed. “Always observant, aren’t you?”

Jacen shrugged, “It’s pretty obvious you have something you want to talk about, or else you would have just had her bring us food, like she did on our first night here. So go on, what is it?”

“Jacen,” Tiio hissed, obviously appalled by his brother’s rudeness.

Then, Padme smiled, “It’s alright, Tiio, I always encourage those around me to speak their mind. And, he’s not wrong. We want your opinions on something.”

Tiio straightened up, even as Jacen piled some food on his plate, “What can we help with, ma’am.”

“Well, I’m sure you heard about our run in with your Commander.”

“You mean when he found out your aides carry un-permitted blasters?” Jacen said around a mouth full of food.

Padmé did not miss a beat, “Yes. You see, we’ve already taken official steps to rectify the mistake, all of my handmaidens have submitted forms to be registered as personal guards. But, there’s more to it than that. We’ve caused problems for Commander Fox, and want to make a greater show of our cooperation.”

Jacen cut in yet again, “Basically, you want to get back on his good side.”

“That’s a…simple way to put it, but, yes, among other things.”

“For what it’s worth,” Tiio finally spoke up, “I don’t think Commander Fox is that angry. It just means more paperwork for him. And he has to show some sort of follow up to the incident, which has to go through official channels for warrants and all that, so, even more paperwork.”

“We may be able to help with that,” you said, an idea coming to mind. “You say he has to get warrants for his follow up, what kind of warrants?”

“Search and seizure, probably. You know, he’ll come search your residence, make sure there’s nothing else unsanctioned going on. It’s all just a show to make sure he’s doing his due diligence, I doubt he thinks he’ll actually find anything.”

You met eyes with Padmé and Dormé, a silent understanding passing between you. “And what if we offered to let him do that search without the warrant?”

Tiio smiled a little, “That would definitely cut down on the paperwork.”

“Which would help his grump levels,” Jacen added.

Padmé smirked at that, “Well, hopefully we can ease those 'grump levels'. Thank you, both of you, you’ve been a great help. And please, stay, eat with us for as long as you like.”

‘As long as they liked’ turned out to be about three more minutes, before Tiio anxiously said that they needed to get back to their post. You assured both of them that their secret snack session was safe with everyone, Fox would never know. 

When they were back beyond the door, Dormé finally gave her thoughts. “We should check with everyone, make sure all the staff are comfortable with the search, and if they are, we’ll go to the Commander with our offer.”

“If they are, I’ll meet with Fox,” you offered, “I've dealt with him one on one a few times now, he may be more amiable with me.”

Dormé gave you a knowing look, but said nothing, especially since Padmé said a final, “It’s settled then, we’ll get everyone’s consent tonight, then you can go to him tomorrow if it's all set.”

There were a lot of other things to discuss that night, and so the topic moved on. However, even as you gave your advice and solutions on the other issues, your mind would sometimes drift back to the commander. Hopefully, this show of good faith would result in Fox trusting you, or at least, getting back in his good graces. You hoped.

Fox’s cup of caf was paused half way to his lips. He had intended on enjoying his morning caf in peace, but instead, he was interrupted by something making horrendous, guttural snorts.

“What, the kriff, is that thing.”

Hound was on the ground with it, helmet off, scratching at the thing’s chin, and cooing at it like it was a baby. 

“This,” Hound hefted the creature up into his arms then shoved it towards Fox, “is Grizzer! The newest member of the Coruscant Guard,” he announced with pride. “Isn’t she adorable?”

The thing in question was still making those disgusting snorting sounds as it lashed it’s gigantic tongue out at Fox. He narrowed his eyes at the massiff and took in the creature’s scaly skin, jagged teeth, and stubby feet. If he looked really (really) hard...Fox could suppose that the thing could be in the ‘so ugly it’s cute’ category-

Then it promptly snorted and blew snot on his chest plate.

Nope, it was definitely just regular ugly.

“Why is it here?” Fox lifted his mug high into the air as it- Grizzer, tried to stick her snout in it. The guard’s break room was one of the few places he could find peace, the last thing Fox needed was a massiff tearing the place apart and shedding it’s scales everywhere.

Hound gave Fox the smallest of glares as he held the beast a little tighter, “She’s here because I want her to meet the gang! After all, she’s part of the family now, isn’t that right my good girl?”

Fox gave the pair a look of utter disgust as Hound placed a kiss on the massiff’s forehead like a doting mother. Thankfully, Hound set the creature down then, and straightened up to grin back at Fox.

“Don’t worry, she’ll melt your heart soon too, sir.”

“I highly doubt that,” he deadpanned, and was about to tell Hound to find somewhere else to bond with the beast- when the creature in question stiffened suddenly.

Grizzer’s head turned toward the little hall that led to the break room door, narrowed her eyes, then shot off towards the door with a bark.

Hound and Fox gave each other a short look before taking off after the massiff. Just before he rounded the corner, Fox’s ears prickled at the sound of a small laugh and the words, “Well, hello there,” in a voice he was starting to get familiar with.

The moment they entered the hall, Fox laid eyes on Grizzer, wagging the whole bottom half of her body with delight while you, bent to one knee, gave her little scratches under the chin.

“My my, aren’t you a handsome creature?” you cooed, face more soft than Fox had yet to see. “Are you here to protect our loyal troops from bad guys? I bet you are.”

Hound nudged Fox’s arm with a stupid grin, “See? Grizzer can melt anyone’s heart.”

You finally tore your eyes away from the massiff (who looked like she was falling in love with you right there) and nodded at the two of them, “Grizzer, is it? What a perfect name. And yours, trooper?”

“Hound, ma’am,” the Sergeant replied with delight, and Fox narrowed his eyes at his brother’s suddenly low, intimate tone. “Pleasure to meet you.”

“The pleasure is mine,” you said, and finally rose back to a standing position, much to Grizzer’s dismay, though she obediently came to Hound’s side with a whistle. You nodded at Fox, “Commander, I apologize for intruding, but, when I expressed my need to see you, Commander Thorn escorted me back here.” 

You waved a hand over your shoulder, and it was only then that he realized Thorn was leaning against the door frame. The other man might have had his helmet on, but something told Fox there was a shit eating grin behind it. Thorn had listened to many of Fox’s rants regarding the Amidala situation, and a majority of the rants included you. Thorn must be loving that he delivered a headache right into his break room.

He had not had enough caf to deal with all this.

It was then that Fox noticed the way your eyes were taking in his face. This would be the first time you’d seen him with his helmet, though he wasn’t sure why he cared, considering his face was the same as all clones. Under your gaze though, he felt oddly…exposed. As if you were taking apart every inch of him for inspection, as if you could read everything about him like a page from a book. He had a sudden urge to run back to his office if only to get his bucket back on his head.

“What brings you here, ma’am?” He asked suddenly, ignoring the strange awkwardness he felt.

“A peace offering,” you answered, polite as always. “Considering the…trouble we caused you with the 187-24 violation, Senator Amidala wants to show her cooperation. We invite you to search her apartments and staff quarters for anything else that might be against these new regulations. We have no intention of causing you anymore trouble, Commander, and hope that this will be a gesture of good faith.”

‘No intentions of causing trouble’ sure, Fox would believe that when he saw it. Still, he supposed it was a good offer on your end. He didn’t honestly believe that you or the others meant anything ill-intentioned, you were all just stuck in the old ways and were adjusting to the new rules. And here you were, offering to make his job easier. He supposed he could appreciate the, what had you called it? Peace offering?

“That’s very considerate of you- er, Senator Amidala, I mean. When would you be available for the search?”

“Tomorrow, 1700 hours?”

He thought for a moment, his week’s schedule flipping through his mind like a card wheel. He usually just spent that time catching up on paperwork in his office and…he had a sneaking suspicion that you knew that, and was exactly why you suggested it.

“That should work,” was all he offered in reply.

“Excellent,” you bowed your head again, “I won’t take up anymore of your time, Fox, please have a pleasant evening, we will see you tomorrow.”

A nod towards Hound, a short wave of fingers at a smiling Grizzer, and a bow to Thorn, without another word, you were gone in a sweep of your elegant cape.

“Kriff, she’s pretty,” Hound whistled.

“What?” Fox snapped, finally taking another sip of caf from his mug.

“He Said,” Thorn started in a much too loud voice, “She’s Pretty! You never mentioned that all the times you bitched about her.”

“Will you shut up?” Fox hissed, “She can probably still hear you.” With the way you always seemed to know everything, Fox thought you must have had ears like a bothan bat. “Besides, Hound thinks anything with a pulse is pretty,” he took another drink, “hence why he likes that thing,” he waved the mug at Grizzer, who tilted her head and let out a little whine.

“Don’t feel bad, Grizzy,” Thorn comforted in a simpering tone, “Foxy is just mad because that pretty little natborn is giving him more than he can chew.”

Fox let out a long, suffering sigh and turned on his heel, “I’m going back to my office, don’t bother me unless you want a face full of hot caf.”

The next day went by at a crawl, and Fox couldn’t tell if it was because of trepidation or anticipation.

Trepidation because he still wasn’t entirely sure what to expect when he got to the Amidala residence that evening. This wasn’t exactly the typical raid he performed on common criminals, after all. Then there was anticipation because at least the event would break the energy-draining tedium of the day’s duties. He was starting to dislike the middle of the week, it was always the most boring.

So, after his patrol was done, tomorrow’s schedule was posted, and he threw in a surprise bunk inspection just for fun, Fox found it hard to concentrate on paperwork while the chrono ticked by.

He would shuffle through a list of senatorial requests, then realize he was replaying yesterday’s conversation with you over in his head for the twentieth time that day. Then he’d manage to file several incident reports, only to find his mind wandering to thoughts of what he might find during the odd search. 

Finally, when he couldn’t even finish one sentence of Stone’s prisoner transfer report without thinking of how unruly Amidala’s staff might get with him, he stood from his desk abruptly.

It was still twenty minutes before he even had to think about leaving for the apartment, but, maybe showing up a little early would work in his favor.

Fox shoved his helmet back on his head as he strode out of his office and turned down the hallway to the break room. Just as expected, because Fox demanded nothing less from his men, Jacen and Tiio were already there in anticipation for their watch shift. He had told them yesterday that they would help him conduct the search in addition to their normal guard detail.

The brothers were at ease, sitting at one of the few tables in the room and sipping the sludge that Thorn thought passed for caf in order to wake up after resting from their last shift. Of course, the moment Fox stepped in they were snapping to attention, caf mugs forgotten on the table as they stood straight before their CO.

“We’re leaving for Senator Amidala’s apartment now.”

“Yes, sir!” was all they said before grabbing their buckets and falling in step behind him.

The commander briefly thought about comming ahead, to warn the staff that he was already on his way, but in the end, he told himself the surprise was a good strategy on his part. Just like the last few times he had visited, Captain Typho met him on the landing platform.

“Commander Fox, you’re earlier than we expected.”

“Is that a problem, Captain?” he asked as he and his men hopped down from the transport.

To his surprise, Typho smiled. “Not at all,” he waved a gracious arm to invite them inside, “the entire staff are already waiting in the main room, ready for the inspection.”

That made him grumble a little under his breath, here he had been hoping to see them scramble a little. He should have expected this from the tight-worked, well-oiled machine that was Amidala’s staff. 

He also should have known better than to worry about them being difficult for him. Her staff had always shown him the utmost respect and courtesy, even the stern opinionated ones like you and Dormé. Everyone, including the senator herself, was waiting calmly, standing as straight as any of his troopers would as he marched through the room.

“Commander, thank you for coming,” Amidala greeted, “we appreciate you taking time out of your schedule and allowing us to set your mind at ease.”

“Of course, Senator, I would like to get started immediately, if that’s alright,” so this whole thing can finally be off my mind, he added privately.

“Everything is all set for you and your men, please, proceed however you see fit.”

Fox wasn’t stupid, he knew it was all for show. This entire gesture was for show, really, but he was a man of protocol, and conducted the search (mostly) as he would any other. He made notes as his men went about, checking drawers and cabinets in every room, thoroughly detailing the process so his report would be as clean and cut as possible. 

Amidala didn’t even flinch when they moved to her personal bed chamber, not even when they found a few pairs of men’s clothing in a spare closet. Maybe she assumed clones weren’t the type to care about politicians and their affairs, or maybe she didn’t care about rumors in the first place. Her having some clandestine boy toy would hardly be the most scandalous thing in the senate, after all.

Lucky for her, Fox wasn’t the type to care, and if he didn’t, neither did his men, or at least, not enough to stir trouble.

Next were the staff quarters, and he had to admit, he admired their dedication to their senator, none of them even batted an eye as he asked the owner of each room to step forward while they searched. The few times he had a question to ask they were as polite and useful as always. Nothing was amiss.

When they wrapped everything up in the kitchen, Fox was satisfied. No outlandish happenings, but enough information to show that he did his due diligence following the touchy incident from the other day. 

“Please, let us know if there is anything else we can do for you, Commander,” Amidala said as they were being led back up to the main floor.

Fox would admit, he smiled a little as he said, “Oh, I’m not quite done yet, Senator.” 

They had all just reached the top floor landing by then, and he wanted to smile again as he watched her and her handmaidens turn to look at him. 

In turn, Fox singled you out with his gaze. “I still need to search your apartment, ma’am.” Alright, he would admit it, he took just a little satisfaction in watching the shock flash across your face, even if it was quickly wiped away. Finally, he had taken you by surprise for once.

He saw Amidala give you a brief look, perhaps to back you up if this unexpected turn upset you, but you seemed to never back down from any challenge.

“Of course, Commander,” you said, “would it be alright if I alone escorted you? The Senator and the rest of the staff have duties to get back to, and I would hate to keep them since it’s only my residence that remains.”

It was a brief victory, you seemed able to adjust to anything at a moment's notice, and as much as he wanted to hold it over you a bit longer, he had to admire that quality. “That will be fine. In fact, I’ll allow Jacen and Tiio to get to their regular guard duty, I’m sure I can handle the search by myself.”

You weren’t phased by that, either, you might have actually liked the idea of only one man traipsing through your apartment rather than a whole trio. Another thing he admired was that you didn’t waste his time. After a goodbye nod to Amidala and after he gave his orders to the troopers, you were both on your way immediately. 

Not far from the senatorial residents, were a few towers of nice, well kept apartments where many senate aides lived. It was close enough that travel to the official senate buildings only took a few minutes, but it had minimal security, the main reason Fox still insisted that one of his men escorted you home every night.

You didn’t say a word to him on the way there, which was fine by him, and he remained silent even as you let him inside. Compared to the senate residence, the home was quite small, though if Fox was honest, he could still hardly believe that some people had whole rooms to themselves at all. Anything that wasn’t six or more men crammed into one room seemed a little lavish to him.

The door opened into a small living space, with a sofa and holo screen. To the right was an open kitchen space, to the left, a door that led to the refresher. He gave all those areas a cursory inspection, since there weren’t many places you could hide anything noteworthy. You were his silent shadow the whole time, never impeding or interrupting, just there if he needed you. 

If he remembered his research right, you hadn’t lived here long and it showed. While Amidala’s home was covered in fine decor, you had yet to make the space your own save for a couple of paintings. That was another thing Fox found odd about natborns, the ability to make one’s space their own, to collect objects of personal taste and use them to fill space that was theirs alone. Fox didn’t have an apartment or even quarters to decorate, though he supposed he could make his office his own. He had seen many offices that belonged to senators, and they all seemed to make the spaces unique, personal. He didn’t know if that was a skill he could hone, but, maybe in the future, he would try.

“Are you an admirer of art, Commander?”

Your gentle call was what finally brought Fox out of his musings- wait, he had been musing? Fox never mused while on the job. What you had actually said finally registered with him and it was then that he realized he had stared at one of the few pictures in the home a moment too long. It wasn’t anything noteworthy that he could tell, simple paint and canvas depicting a charming looking house near a river.

“It’s a painting of my family home, back on Naboo,” you continued, before he had a chance to respond. Usually, your voice was even-toned, smooth and collected, it was still that way but Fox noted a current of warmth in it now. “I had it commissioned not long after we came here. It’s nice to have with me, for when I get homesick.”

“Homesick?” he wasn’t sure why he asked. Talking about paintings and personal feelings wasn’t why he was there, but Fox couldn’t seem to ignore his curiosity.

You pulled your gaze away from the picture to look back at him, “Yes, you know: missing home, where you came from.”

He found himself looking away, not liking that he couldn’t read what was in your eyes. What ever it was, it was an emotion totally alien to him. “I…don’t think I’ve been away from Kamino long enough to feel that way. Not that Kamino’s much of home.”

“I’ve heard…things about Kamino,” there was a hint of distaste in those words, but it faded when you said, “but home isn’t always just where you were born. It can also be your family, your loved ones. You still have many brothers on Kamino, right? I say that could make it home for you.”

You were the first natborn he had ever heard talk like that about clones. About him. Fox almost said the words that were burning on his tongue, almost agreed and started to talk about his brothers- but this was stupid. He shouldn’t be talking about home and art and family, he had a job to do, that was why he was here.

So, instead, he squared his shoulders and said, “Is your bed chamber the only other room in the apartment?”

If you were phased at all by his sudden change in topic, you didn’t bother him with it. “Yes- well, that and the closet in the bedroom.” You waved to the door between the kitchen and ‘fresher, an invitation to wrap up the investigation.

Much like the rest of the residence, the bedroom was still sparse, save for the impressive vanity and lavish looking bed. Your closet, however…Fox wasn’t sure he should be surprised, Amidala and her handmaidens were always bedecked in impressive apparel, and the closets in the main house had been stuffed full of clothing as well. He wasn’t about to go digging through the vast collection of dresses and tunics and pants, but the quick pat-down did bring a burning question back to the forefront of his mind. A question that had bugged him periodically since he saw you pull that blaster seemingly out of thin air.

“Does this conclude your search, Commander?” You asked when he stepped out of the vast wardrobe.

For a moment, he didn’t speak, instead he let his eyes look over your current outfit, looking for holsters or suspicious bulges, desperately trying to puzzle out the question himself. He hadn’t been able to before, and even with you right in front of him, he still couldn’t.

“Alright, how did you hide it?” he said, eventually.

Your brows furrowed at that. “Hide…what?”

Fox, in a very unprofessional way, jabbed a finger at your sleeve. “How did you hide that blaster? You pulled it out of your sleeve, but I never saw any sign of a holster, it would have bulged, or pulled at your sleeve, or something. I want to know how you hid it from me.”

Slowly, and very annoyingly he may add, a smile lifted your lips. It was a little smug, a little amused, and made him fold his arms over his chest as you took a step forward.

“Naboo prides itself on its craftsmanship, Commander, and our clothing is no different.” You walked past him, back into the wardrobe, “Queens and her royal handmaidens have high standards, so we only accept clothing that serves multiple purposes.” You pulled out a purple dress, holding the fabric out to him. “This, for example, is woven with treated fibers, fibers that, when crafted correctly, can help disperse the impact of blunt force.” You hung the dress back up, and switched it for a shawl the color of a sunset, “This can hold up to the slashes of any vibroblade in current production.” Then you pulled out the red number you had worn that day. “And this can reduce the damage of blaster fire. However, even with all that, the last line of defense is always a good weapon. But blasters draw a lot of attention, too much attention to a handmaiden, so we find ways to fix that too.” You rolled the sleeve back revealing a network of straps and stretching bands with a very small holster at its center. “The wide sleeve lets me hang it there, and all of this distributes the weight of the blaster, and keeps it suspended so there isn’t any pulling on the fabric.” You smoothed it back out again, the straps and holster disappearing from sight. “Completely undetectable with the human eye- which, I’ll remind you, is now within my rights as a registered guard.”

Fox almost, almost huffed a laugh at that. “Don’t worry, I won't arrest you again. I also take that to mean you have other outfits with hidden holsters?”

This time, your smirk was a little mischievous, “Oh, Commander, I have hidden holsters in all my clothing. Just like all my shoes can hide a vibroblade.”

That actually did make Fox chuckle. “Knives too? Well, you’re just a walking armory, aren’t you?”

“You’re one to talk,” your eyes darted down to the pistols at his hips, and the pouches that had various munitions tucked in them.

“At least being an arsenal is part of my job.”

“It’s part of my job too, officially now, I may remind you.”

A soft huff of a laugh that time. “Yeah yeah, don’t worry. You’re clear to carry weapons again,” he took some steps back then, and you caught his intentions, quickly moving to escort him to the door, “and with this official search to report, there shouldn’t be any other issues for you or the senator.”

“Excellent,” you let out a small breath, probably out of relief, as you walked him through your living room. “Thank you again for your time, Commander, and please, if there is anything else we can do to help you, let us know.” 

He let himself meet your gaze as you both stopped by your front door. If your eyes were any indicator, you meant every word you said.

“I don’t know if there will be anything, but, if there is, I will.”

“Good," you hesitated for a moment, but when you spoke again, your tone was a little softer, more, personal, and this time he knew you were speaking for yourself, not Amidala. "I want to be a good ally to you and your troops, Commander, please don’t forget that.” 

He didn’t know what to say to that, especially not with the tone you used. He shifted on his feet a little and you must have noticed his awkwardness, because you were quick to move the moment along.

“I hope you have a pleasant evening, Fox.”

He managed a nod as he opened the door, and before it could shut behind him he said a genuine, “Good night, ma’am.”

Tag List: @blueink-bluesoul @anxiouspineapple99 @starrylothcat @goblininawig @fanfic-addict-98 @actuallybarb

[kanerallels]

So I told my sister and a couple other people I would post this, and here it is! Just some ponderings about Kanan in the Hera is a Jedi au that turned themselves into a ficlet. Set mid-season one of SWR, and rated G!

Taglist: @firefoxtessa @day-to-day-thots @auroramagpie @laughingphoenixleader @accidental-spice @heckin-music-dork @opalknight @cassie-fanfics and I'm also gonna tag @xxxcertifiednerdxxx, solely because you're accidentally the reason I wrote this. Feel free to ignore the tag, though! (also if anyone wants to be added or removed from the taglist, DM me!)

“What’s Kanan’s job around here, anyways?”

Hera barely glanced up at Ezra’s question as she removed yet another part from her lightsaber, which lay in pieces in front of her on the worktable in her room. “What do you mean?”

Frowning, Ezra said, “Everyone’s got a role, you know? Zeb is the muscle and Chopper’s the homicidal hacker droid, and Sabine’s the explosives expert, and you’re the Jedi and the pilot and the boss all at once. You’re all really talented, you know?”

A smile hovered at the edge of Hera’s mouth as she picked up a miniscule tool and used it to unscrew another part. “Flattering as always, Padawan. Your point being?”

“Kanan doesn’t really have a role,” Ezra said, watching her work. “Hey— couldn’t you use the Force for that?”

“I could,” Hera agreed, removing the part. “But I like to do it this way.” Setting aside her tool, she finally met Ezra’s eyes. “Why does it matter what Kanan’s role is? He’s here to help us fight, and that’s what’s important.”

“Yeah, but—”

“Someone say my name?”

Ezra and Hera glanced up as Kanan stuck his head through the open door, lifting a curious brow. “Ezra wants to know your role in this crew,” Hera said dryly. “Any thoughts?”

“Oh, obviously,” Kanan said. “Professional chef, and eye candy.” He shot a wink at Hera, who rolled her eyes, before turning to Ezra. “But in all seriousness— I’m whatever we need at the moment. That’s where I do my best work. Speaking of best work, how do enchiladas sound for dinner? I found some of those peppers you and Zeb love so much at the market, Captain Hera.”

“That sounds amazing, love,” Hera said, shooting him a smile as he slipped back out and down the hall. After a moment, she directed her gaze back to Ezra. “Does that answer your question?”

“...kind of?”

Chuckling, Hera said, “Well, if you’re still wondering, why not ask the rest of the crew? They might have some good insight. And you could always try meditating on it.”

“I think I’ll talk to the others,” Ezra said hastily, getting to his feet. Hera looked amused, but gave him a nod before returning to her lightsaber maintenance with laser-like focus.

The first crew member he encountered was Chopper, and Ezra knew better than to bother with him. Not that he’d care, anyways, the droid was crazy. Instead, he headed for the lounge, where he found Zeb cleaning his bo-rifle.

The Lasat directed a frown at him— but it wasn’t his real, “why are you near me do you want to suffer” scowl, just his all purpose “I’m pretending to be grumpy cause it makes me look cool” frown. “Thought you were training with Hera.”

“I was,” Ezra said, dropping onto a crate nearby. “But then I asked her a question—”

“You? Ask a question? Color me real surprised.”

“Ha, ha,” Ezra said, scowling at him. “Listen. I asked her what Kanan’s role was on the ship.”

“Really?” Zeb paused in his cleaning and glanced up, interest flashing through his eyes. “What did she say?”

“Why? Wait— do you not know either?”

“‘Course I know. Just curious about what she said.”

“Sure. Well, she said that it wasn’t important, then told me to ask everyone else. Kanan says he’s whatever he needs to be. Well, first he flirted with Hera, then he said that.”

Snorting, Zeb said, “Sounds about right.”

“So what do you think? What’s Kanan’s role?”

The Lasat shrugged, setting aside a cleaning rag. “Dunno. He’s just Kanan.” He glanced up in time to see Ezra’s scowl, and sighed. “Look, kid. You’re taking this too seriously. It’s not really about roles, anyways. It’s about why we’re here.”

“What do you mean?”

Finally, Zeb set down his bo-rifle. “You know, why we’re fighting the Empire.” He paused, his expression turning uncharacteristically somber. “You know why I’m doing it. And Hera’s pretty obvious, more than just the Jedi stuff.”

“She’s passionate about making stuff right,” Ezra guessed. “Well, what about Sabine?”

“What about me?”

Ezra and Zeb both looked up to see Sabine, carrying a handful of paint-covered rags and looked satisfied with herself. “Kid wants to know what Kanan’s role is, why he’s here,” Zeb said, nodding at Ezra. “Then he asked about you.”

“Seriously?” Sabine rolled her eyes. “Tell me you two aren’t this clueless. He’s here for Hera, obviously.”

“Well, I know that,” Ezra said, feeling himself flush slightly as Sabine ducked into the kitchen and returned without the rags. “But, like, does he have another reason? And what’s his job, you know? He’s kinda just some guy, not a Jedi or pilot like Hera, and not a master warrior like Zeb, or an explosive expert like you.”

“True,” Sabine acknowledged. “But not everyone in the Rebellion has to be as amazingly talented as we are. Most of us have a personal problem with the Empire. Could be Kanan does, too. But why does it matter?”

“I… guess it doesn’t,” Ezra said slowly. “It just didn’t make any sense to me that he’s the odd one out, I guess.”

Sabine shook her head impatiently. “You’re putting too much stock in the “everyone needs to be crazy skills” thing, kid. Look, Kanan’s a great shot, and a decent co pilot.”

“Amazing cook, too,” Zeb offered, and Sabine nodded.

“True. But what’s most important is that he has our backs. He looks out for us, in big ways and little ones. He knows what we need and he makes sure we can do our jobs well. We couldn’t do this without him. Got it?”

“I… I do, actually,” Ezra said. “Thanks.”

Kanan announced dinner was ready around an hour later, and the crew gathered in the lounge to eat. Hera took her usual seat, and Ezra dropped onto a crate nearby. “Did you figure out the answer to your question, Padawan?” she asked him, a hint of amusement in her eyes.

Setting down his fork, Ezra said, “I did, actually.” He paused, feeling the crew’s eyes on him, but Hera nodded for him to go on. “Your role isn’t an obvious one like Zeb or Hera,” he told Kanan, who was sitting opposite them, his plate balanced on one knee. “You’re here to watch our backs and make sure we’re okay, and take care of us. You’re… kind of the glue that holds us all together. Without you, we wouldn’t have made it this far.” He looked at Hera. “Am I right?”

His master was smiling, first at Ezra, and then at Kanan, who seemed surprised. “You’re absolutely right,” she told him. “Well done, Ezra.”

“Not bad, kid,” Zeb said.

Shrugging, Ezra said, “Hey, Kanan said it first— he’s whatever we need him to be. I think that counts, right?”

Kanan let out a chuckle, shaking his head. “Can’t argue there, I guess.” Shooting a wink at Hera, he added, “I still think I count as eye candy, though.”

“Of course you do, dear,” Hera said, rolling her eyes.

[psychologymajor226]

Enigma: Final Chapter (in three parts)

Here you go! Three-part chapter, because it got so long. But it's done. It's DONE. *laughs and cries and then throws self out window but not really but FUCK*

Chapter 31: Part I

Chapter 31: Part II

Chapter 31: Part III + Epliogue-y thing

And, finally, my acknowledgements, because on AO3 I promised a version with live links. <3

There are a few really integral people I want to thank, for either the help, inspiration or both. First off, my partner, Tyler, who has listened to me read every single chapter of this thing aloud to check for all kinds of stuff, including typos, awkward phrasing, etc. (Although I still missed tons of that shit, and for that I’m sorry. There are pros and cons to going beta-less on a fic this long, missing typos and repeating phrases and some general wonkiness inevitably showing up in posted chapters is one of them. But I don’t like asking anyone to read and edit a 20k word chapter, so yeah. You’ll find if you go back and re-read, a lot of it has been cleaned up substantially, me catching shit after posting. If I ever write a sequel, I’ll need to re-read this thing again, too, and I’ll clean it up another time.) Tyler also was my point person for so, so many discussions about characterization and plot points, etc. He is also endlessly patient and kind. And I love him to pieces. 

The second person I wanted to thank was Bright_Thorn (@bright-thorn) for encouraging me for many, many months in the form of reading and feedback and help with a lot of the Spanish translation and also with just being a phenomenal author. The first story I read by them was actually 404, which inspired so much of the chatter and relationships between the droids, and also really got me to think about what autonomy would look like in a droid. Of course Unorthodox Modifications was also a huge inspiration, in terms of not only how a relationship between Cassian and K-2 could develop, but also it provided inspiration in understanding how Cassian could be in a relationship at all. Lol. I have also always loved their inclusion of Chopper in their stories, and that inspired me from the get-go (even as early on as Integration) to make sure he was in this. (Sexy, sexy scene between K-2 and Chopper in armed. Sex between droids was inspired by that and something of Robotboy’s I’ll talk about.) Iterations was also incredibly helpful in exploring how various versions of Kay might deal with waking up after the loss of Cassian. And although this went a different way, it was exceptionally helpful in the beginning thinking of how Kay might even think about grieving Cassian. 

Other stories they’ve written that inspired either characters or the possibility I could even write a character like that included For the Long Haul, which included a sentient ship, which inspired Atlas’s character. Reed and Eirtae’s relationship, or the idea of just exploring other human/droid relationships was partly inspired by Non-standard Issue, which is a fucking lovely, beautifully felt fic. Go read it if you haven’t.

Robotboy’s (@r0b0tb0y) stories have also been incredibly inspiring and just downright beautiful to read. You, Me, and the Monsters Inside Us was paramount in exploring a more digitally-based Cassian, including ways the two of them might be intimate virtually. Defect was also just fucking wonderful, and really helped my exploration of Cassian undercover. Also Tax Deductible Fuck, because… of course. Basically all of them. lol.

Whalebone’s stories too. Oh, where do I begin? Their entire series Radio Heart inspired so many moments of how I could conceive of this pairing together. How they write these two is beautiful, and when I wanted to just call it quits, the emotion of this series kept me going. Thermal Coupling was also one of the first Cassian/K-2SO stories I read and made me fall in love with this pairing all the more. My favorite by them has to be while(true) though, and documents five very beautiful and different kisses. That’s one of my favorite Kayssian stories of all time. 

Maker, there are so many others. Movement Recalibration by theLoyalRoyalGuard helped imagine both Cassian and K-2SO surviving Scarif, both permanently changed. In fact theLoyalRoyalGuard’s whole series Dual Process Theory is amazing and go read it. 

There have been dozens of others, some which I can’t remember the names of. Truly though, I’ve never been a part of a ship with so many fantastic authors and so many intriguing, beautiful ideas. And I’ve never felt so supported and welcomed, so thanks to everyone.

And finally thank you to anyone who read or commented. I was almost exclusively writing the ScarletVision ship for years, and I really put my heart into that one. I got a lot of traction and feedback and love, in the form of hundreds of comments and kudos, but when I leaned more into the AI/robotics dimension of the ship, a lot of people stopped reading. It was heartbreaking, and I learned my lesson, about how to cherish a *single* comment I received, and how amazing it was if even one single human being sat down and read a chapter I wrote through to the end. Also, that it doesn’t feel good to write for any other reason than you enjoy it. I had forgotten that, at some point, somewhere along the way.

I write because I can’t *not*. I write because I have an extremely busy mind. I write because real life, at times, has been so incredibly hard, and slipping into a world where I can pretend is healing. Also because the characters always help me work through my own problems, help me think about themes and lessons maybe I, the person, am not ready to deal with just yet. I write to keep my sanity. I never write for reviews or comments or likes, because, lol, I don’t pick ships that generate a lot of that. But it’s lovely when I know someone read, because it feels like we shared the same world for a little bit. Because it’s the reason I read too. So if I offered someone a little escape from how hard life can be, even for just a little while, then I think that’s pretty amazing. 

So, anyway, thanks for staying (uh, a lot longer than I thought, in terms of actual time spent on this and length), but thank you anyway. Stay safe, friends. I appreciate you. 

Love,

Aero

[maiaspen]

Hey “Oblivion Gin” readers!

I swear to the Force that I am working hard on the finale for you! 💚 My writing confidence took a bit of a hit last month. I am human. I go through feels, sometimes inconvenient ones.

Thank you to all of my readers for continuing to support and encourage me. I’m hoping to have the story finished this month. 💪

Here’s another little teaser for you. The scene picking up where my last teaser left off. Here

I also have glorious supporting art by @kana7o to treat your eyes 😏

Please remember that this is a very rough draft, what ultimately makes it onto ao3 will be heavily scrutinized 🧐 these are just the raw words as they pour out of me. 

Thank you all for your support! I can’t wait to share the full finale with you 💚💚💚

xo Maia

💚🍆💚🍆💚🍆💚🍆💚🍆💚🍆💚🍆💚🍆💚

Chapter 9 excerpt…

Anakin doubles his already quite doubled efforts to hustle, weaving pedestrians and commuters on citibikes and landspeeders. He’s aware that his surroundings are Coruscant-rush-hour-level-of-loud, and that it’s daylight; but only because Orea Dea’s singular sun has teamed-up with the Force to highlight his Jedi targets.

Entering the crowded spaceport, Anakin decelerates to a sneaky jog. The Force insists that he assess the situation before drawing his lightsaber and trimming Fisto’s tentacles (and testicles).

The pair of Masters are standing – huddled shoulder-to-shoulder– next to a cargo freighter that looks like it’s being prepped for take-off.

To Anakin’s tremendous relief, Obi-Wan’s posture is strong. He’s handsome as ever, fair head and facial-hair have been groomed to perfection. He’s dressed in his boots and tunic, which the medical staff was kind enough to launder. All of the sweaty-oily-mulchy- bloody souvenirs from their crab droid and ass face battle royales have been cleared away. Obi-Wan looks the epitome of a proper Jedi Master. But Fisto . . .

The droid wasn’t exaggerating.

Anakin gasps as bewilderment sweeps like a blizzard through his mind, whiting-out thoughts of all else but what Fisto is wearing. Or rather– not wearing.

(Thank you @kana7o for this Fisto sketch💚)

The Nautolan is clad in a darkened leather toga – a toga that looks like it’s been sized for Master Yoda. The skirt portion brushes his thick thighs, barely concealing his dignity. If there is a gust of wind – or if Fisto even raises his arms to stretch – everyone in this spaceport will see his cock and balls! Unless he’s wearing underwear, which Anakin strongly doubts. And the green bastard is wearing the toga like he’s doing it a favor. His muscles are bursting out of the garment. Those chiseled biceps and pecs belong on a Holomovie screen (probably a porno), not a public spaceport. There are younglings milling about!

Has the Nautolan been working-out obsessively the whole time they’ve been hospitalized? Gaining muscle and losing modesty?! Even from eight meters away Anakin can count his eight abdominals.

The ‘outfit’ includes knee-high strappy sandals, which accentuate his strong calves, and even– is that a collar? And, yes, Fisto is wearing a collar. A leather one with a metalloid loop. It’s like he’s begging to be latched by some kinky leash.

Master Kit Fisto is hotter than fire. He’s center-of-a-sun, liquid magma hot. How his toga hasn’t burst into flames, Anakin does not know. And, right now, Obi-Wan is reaching upward . . . laying a hand on that bulging bicep and squeezing—

“MASTER!” Anakin screams as though Obi-Wan is touching liquid magma! With a mighty Force-leap he closes the distance, landing before the Masters and snatching Obi-Wan’s hand. Anakin holds his Master’s hand to his chest like he’s saved it from a brutal roasting.

Obi-Wan makes a face like Anakin has pissed in his morning tea.

So, Anakin counters: pushing his bottom lip out, going for the most adorable pout he can muster. The kind of expression that always softened his mother’s irritation when he was late for their evening meal. To Anakin’s surprise, Obi-Wan actually blushes. Really blushes. Anakin is certain his rouge can be seen from outer space. Did touching Fisto actually burn him?

Suddenly, Anakin can feel his Master’s Force signature again – vibrating and sizzling like it’s super-heating. But Master Kenobi quickly regains control of his dermal blood vessels and his shielding, retaining the aurora of one who is cool and centered.

“I’ll take this back, thank you,” Obi-Wan says as he pulls his hand from Anakin’s grasp. He then offers a small but earnest smile, adding: “It’s good to see you up and about again, Anakin.”

“Thank you, Master. I can say the same to you–” Anakin starts, intending to ask what-in-all-the-hells is going on, when Fisto clears his throat.

The Nautolan grins broadly, teeth glinting like pearls under the sunlight. Anakin orders himself to keep looking at Fisto’s teeth. Not lower, not lower. “It is indeed good to see you both up and about,” Fisto declares. “I spoke with Master Windu this morning. The Council is sending a team to sluth-out what happened to the senator’s shuttle. They will arrive tomorrow, at which time you two are to take their transport back to Coruscant. I’m afraid our little shuttle is officially out-of-commission.”

Anakin processes Fisto’s words out loud. “So. Master Fisto, you won’t be . . .” he pauses. Pushing the obnoxious optimism from his voice is like trying to shove against a stubborn bantha. “ . . . you won’t be joining us on our voyage to Coruscant?”

Fisto smirks as though he is a stubborn bantha. “No.”

Anakin’s signature surges like a double nova! He barely resists cartwheeling all over the spaceport! He and Obi-Wan will be traveling back to Coruscant together and alone.

And are they spending the night here alone, too? Or is Fisto in his ‘little slut get-up’ going to be the third wheel?

“What’s with the, um,” Anakin waves his hands vaguely about Fisto’s ensemble. “The whole . . . whore look? And where did you get that outfit anyway? Are you going somewhere dressed like that?”

Obi-Wan cringes at Anakin’s words, but Fisto’s already broad smile only widens. “I’m being deployed. Immediately,” Fisto points to the nearby cargo freighter. “It’s an undercover mission. I’m being smuggled to Nal Hutta as a pleasure slave. I’m to be sold upon landing to my . . . target. I cannot divulge any further details, you understand. And, Skywalker, the Council has wardrobe sources on nearly every Republic planet,” Fisto says as though Anakin should know that. Which he does, he just didn’t know that the Republic’s sources kept skimpy togas on hand.

The weight of Fisto’s words take a moment to sink into Anakin’s brain, but when they do . . .

Anakin shakes his head, wanting the weight to be gone. “Hold on, the Council is sending you alone?”

Fisto nods. “They are.”

“Kit is quite capable of handling himself,” Obi-Wan interjects carefully, sensing Anakin’s . . . what? His concern? No. No way. He’s not concerned for Fisto safety. He’s fucking thrilled that Fisto is going away. Far, far away.

Anakin scoffs, though the sound comes out as more nervous than he’d intended. “Yeah, of course. I mean, obviously. But . . . is the mission dangerous? Are you going to have to perform sex duties and–?”

“Anakin. Kit cannot share any further details with us,” Obi-Wan scold-reminds, though Anakin can now sense that his Master is concerned. Obi-Wan turns his attention back upon Fisto, and smiles with warm reassurance. “I am glad for this opportunity to see you off, Kit.”

“Me too,” Anakin says, then turns an accusatory glare upon his Master. “Though, how come neither of you were planning to include me? I couldn’t sense you, Master. And if I hadn’t returned to your sickbed when I did, and interrogated that awful droid, then I may not have even found you on time.”

Obi-Wan lowers his voice as though trying to sooth a hostile assailant: “I needed to have a private word with Kit–”

Anakin intercepts his Master’s defense. “A private word, huh? Is that the only private thing you needed to have?”

Obi-Wan’s eyes narrow fractionally, but his smile doesn’t falter. “Besides, Anakin, the medical droid reported that you were occupied.”

Uninterested in Obi-Wan’s paltry excuses, Anakin turns his accusatory glare upon the scantily-clad Nautolan. “And you! Couldn’t you have changed into that on the freighter instead of schutta-strutting around this port?!”

Amusement flickers over Fisto’s signature and within his eyes. “The droid crew has been programmed to thoroughly shackle me upon boarding. While I am an apt-multitasker, I’m afraid that I cannot undress and redress with my arms, legs and neck bound.” Fisto looks to the cargo freighter, which is flashing its ‘five-minutes-to-launch’ warning. He reaches behind himself, and Anakin only now notices that Fisto is wearing a leather satchel. He rummages within the satchel until he finds something that makes his signature ping with delight.

“Ah, here,” Fisto pulls out the half-empty bottle of Oblivion Gin. “The Council has granted you both the evening free. You have orders to relax, and I am ordering you to . . . indulge,” his grin thins into a cheeky smirk. “Enjoy.” Fisto hands Obi-Wan the bottle. Obi-Wan accepts the gin as though Fisto is giving him a writhing whip-snake.

“Oh, oh . . . really, I cannot accept. This is far too . . . generous,” Obi-Wan almost sounds flustered.

“I insist,” Fisto pushes the bottle at Obi-Wan with oomph, and he begrudgingly accepts. “A shot or two will do you good, my friend. And you,” Fisto’s dark eyes find Anakin’s, flaring with equal parts challenge and warning. “You may need three or four shots.”

“ALL ABOARD!” A mechanical voice blears loudly from the cargo freighter. “WE WILL DEPART IN TWO MINUTES.”

Anakin opens his mouth to say something . . . say thank you? Say goodbye? Say good luck? But it’s suddenly like all of this planet’s air has been sucked away into space, and no words come out.

Anakin feels Fisto’s large, cool hand on his right shoulder, offering a brief squeeze of reassurance. Then he watches as Fisto grants Obi-Wan the same gesture, which Obi-Wan returns.

“My comrades,” Fisto says those two words in a way that makes Anakin’s heart-clench, though he doesn’t know why. “Our physical bodies do not have forever,” Fisto’s gaze sweeps from Obi-Wan’s to Anakin’s and back again. Under the brilliant sunlight Fisto’s blacker-than-black eyes are not black at all. They are a warm honeyed-gold, flecked with blue from the sky. “Time is short, and most of ours is filled with brutality and turmoil . . .” he flashes those too-perfect teeth. Again. “So, go on then, fill as much time as you can with happiness.”

“ALL ABOARD! WE WILL DEPART IN ONE MINUTE.”

“May the Force be with you,” Fisto bids them, then turns on his sandaled heels, tentacles bouncing, and sprints for the freighter.

As Fisto rushes away his toga skirt flares upward and –

By the Force.

Fisto is definitely not wearing any underwear. And his bare ass . . . well, it looks just as holoporn-worthy as the rest of him. The Nautolan probably possesses the two most flawlessly firm green globes in the galaxy. And, really, Anakin expected nothing less.

Several nearby senients squeal in horny delight – like they’ve been flashed by some celebrity heartthrob. An older female Rodian swoons and sways on her feet like she’s about to faint. Fortunately her traveling companion steadies her, though his jaw has nearly dropped to the walkway.

Anakin is surprised to hear himself laughing, and, damn, it actually sounds and feels . . . good. “May the Force be with you, too, Master!” Anakin calls after Fisto, straining his voice over the whirring engine and roaring thrusters.

“May the Force be with you,” Obi-Wan barely whispers. Anakin doubts Fisto even heard him, though he’s certain that the Nautolan feels the sentiment.

Anakin and Obi-Wan watch as Fisto’s tentacles disappear up the closing loading ramp. Within three heartbeats the freighter launches into the bright sky, fading away toward the outer rim.

Anakin’s mirth fades along with the freighter. A new concern has wriggled into his brain. “Does Fisto even have his lightsaber? He can’t possibly be keeping it inside that satchel. The first thing the slavers will do is search his belongings.”

Obi-Wan frowns thoughtfully. “He would not be storing it in the satchel, no.”

“Then where . . .”

🍆💚🍆💚🍆💚🍆💚🍆💚🍆💚🍆💚🍆💚🍆💚

My next update with be the final chapter! 🥲

[burnwater13]

Sand person jumping from one speeder bike to another as Boba Fett teaches them how to pilot the vehicles that are new to them. From the Book of Boba Fett, Season 1, Episode 2, The Tribes of Tatooine. Concept art by Christian Alzmann.

“Fennec, the humor of your statement eludes me. Perhaps I’ll have Majordomo spend some time with you explaining humor and its application. I imagine that will only take him a day or two.”

Grogu did his best to hide his giggling. Fennec had looked annoyed at first and then horrified. Grogu expected that this type of corrective instruction had been supplied at some other point in time and Fennec did not relish a repeat of it. The reason for that eluded Grogu. He liked the Majordomo and found many of the things he said to be kind of poetic and really funny. 

“Fine Boss. Fine. Will you be going down to check on the rancor?”

“No. I have not finished my story. You may go down to the training area and explain your sense of humor to the rancor. Perhaps that will help.”

Grogu swore to his dad, much later that day, that he had heard Fennec say ‘ouch’ but then she was gone in that way she had of completely disappearing. 

“Don’t worry young one. We will visit the rancor later. I’m afraid that trainer Machete has grown fond of Miss Motto and wishes that he had more time to woo her. The Majordomo is not entirely in favor of that, so I’ve found that the rancor is being caught up in the drama. Now… where did we leave off?”

Good question. Fennec seemed to think that something embarrassing had happened, but to Grogu it had simply seemed like the Sand people were having the normal problems of a beginner using a new piece of equipment. 

“Ah. Yes. Perhaps I didn’t make it clear. Instead of moving the speeder in a forward direction the first person who tried to operate the bike, twisted the handles and went hurtling backward. They stopped quickly, but not before they crashed into a privy tent and then landed in the bantha fodder. They had a lucky escape. No one wants to land in the privy that way.”

Ah… now that made perfect sense. Yes, it was embarrassing but really, it wasn’t as bad as eating your dad’s Mythosaur charm and then having to sit still while he used a tool to fish it out of your stomach. Grogu had definitely used the Force that day to deal with how embarrassing that whole mess had been. Din Djarin didn’t even remember that it had happened, which was all for the best. 

Grogu nodded at the Daimyo and Boba Fett took up the story again. 

“Well, after a certain amount of trial and error with each member of the tribe, after changing where our practice ground was located, I managed to teach them all the fundamentals of operating the speeder bikes. We practiced many things, including jumping from one bike to another while we were at full throttle. The Sand people are tough. They are like Mandalorians that way. Many times my friends fell off, but they always got back up and tried again. Soon they were handling the jump with a great deal of skill and not nearly as much luck as I thought might be needed.”

The Daimyo paused and Grogu noticed the very thoughtful look that settled on his face. Memories that were both funny and sad no doubt. 

“I hoped that we would have enough time to figure out when that train of the Pykes would be coming back, so we would have time to formulated a plan.”

The Daimyo paused for a moment and located a bottle of spirits and poured himself a drink. 

“I will have a droid bring you some broth. I hate to say it, but Fennec is right. Mandalorians drink a good deal of bone broth, but the tiny pieces are not crackers, they are delicate sweets. I do not offer them to her because she had made too many jokes at my expense when I eat them. Better that she thinks they are crackers.”

Grogu grinned at that. He felt the same way about frogs. Especially the freeze dried type he was able to bring on trips. They were crunchy, tasty, light, and smelled so much that no one else ever wanted any. That was fine by him. 

“Sand people are patient, but the attack by the Pykes had created a great deal of hard feelings. Before we had time to do the truly detailed planning any good bounty hunter likes to prepare before setting off, the train returned. I admit I was a bit tired as I had been practicing with the gaffi stick and trying to improve my technique, but the train was spotted and it became important to strike quickly.”

Daimyo Fett took long drink from his glass of spirits and then sighed. 

“It is never easy, young one, as you know, to lose friends. It is even more bitter to lose them to the Pykes who did not even consider them people. But in the end, we managed to reach the train, take over control and stop it. Many of the Pykes did not survive that encounter. But the Sand people are gracious victors. They are not as horrifyingly cruel as they have been depicted in the stories of those who colonized Tatooine. I negotiated on their behalf and the Pykes who survived the crash were allowed to return to Anchorhead… on foot.”

Grogu smiled at that and clapped his hands. That was a good way to end such a story. A negotiated peace could be the beginning of a change that would benefit all of Tatooine. 

“I understand, young one. But that decision is one I consider daily. Had we not let them go, the rest of the syndicate might have been persuaded to believe that an irate Krayt dragon had caused their doom. But these Pykes have no honor. They returned and killed my friends and I shall never give them so much as a tear if they set foot on Tatooine again. Their lives shall be forfeit and the rancor will grow fat on their bones.”

Then the Daimyo wiped at his eyes and then clapped and a small droid zipped over to them. 

“The young one needs refreshment. Then locate Administrator Shand. I am reminded of some work that I have not scheduled yet.”

Grogu coo’d and patted the Daimyo’s scarred hand. He remembered that his dad had told him what the Pykes had done and certainly when Grogu had returned to Tatooine, after spending so much time at Luke’s Jedi Sleep Away Camp, he’d seen the Pykes’ handy work up close and personal. He hoped for their sake that they had learned a lesson, because he knew, without a doubt, that the rancor looked forward to eating something other than eopie and dung worms. 

This is the Way.

[chalterdh22]

Chapter 3: Am I Going Crazy….?

So, apparently, I’m crazy or something, because Grogu doesn’t speak yet.  And then I really think I’m losing it because when I’m close to him, I swear I see just little flashes of his thoughts.  I’m not saying anything to anyone about that though!  I don’t need any more third-degree stares.  It’s happened in the past before, though, just not this intense.

We walked into the kitchen, which is too small for 2 of us to sit in, let alone 3 plus a baby.  Nonetheless, we squish around the table.  I brought out 4 small bowls of soup and some bread.  I hand everyone theirs and sit.  We all started eating and then I realized Mando wasn’t.  So, I stopped, looked at him and asked if he was hungry.  “No, he can’t remove his helmet in front of people.” My mom states.  She continues to eat, not looking up.  I look over at him.

“That sucks.  So, do you just wait until we’re all done, or leave and eat by yourself?” I asked him.  I stopped eating at this point, feeling a little sorry for the guy.  Man, that really does suck, I thought.

“It depends.” He answers.  I sat there waiting for further explanation, realizing, nope, that’s it.  So, I pressed on.  This is fascinating and I always had a knack for getting information out of people.

“It depends on what?  Who you’re with, when, where?”  I asked.

“Yes.” He answers.

“I mean, you do actually eat, right?  You’re not a droid or something?  You eat, drink, go to the bathroom?”  Mom starts laughing as Mando looks back at me.

“Yes.” He states.  Ugh, seriously.  Take a joke.  He clearly has a decent sense of humor if he’s been able to tolerate mom. 

“Ok, ok.  Sorry.  I don’t mean to tease you.”  Yes, I do.  “It’s just very interesting is all.  So, you do remove your helmet to eat, wash and stuff, just no one can be around.  AND before you say yes,” I cut him off, “has Grogu ever seen your face?”

“Yes, and he has.  Just before he went away for….” Long pause here, “training, I showed him my face.  I wasn’t sure if I’d ever see him again.”  Sadness rang through his monotone voice.  “Now that we are a family, since I adopted him, I can remove my helmet around him.”

“Man, there’s a lot of rules being a Mandalorian!” I said.

He replied, “This is the way.”

After the three of us were done eating, I cleaned up, wiped Grogu down and showed Mando where his room was going to be.  It was tight.  A standard bed, a small cot and a little table were all that fits in it really, but it’s a place to sleep.  I didn’t think he’d mind either way.  “I’ll go get some blankets for the bed.”

“Thank you.  You’re very kind.”

“Not really.” I shot back as I walked away.  I grabbed some stuff and went back and started making the bed up.  “Let me know if you need anything else.  When you’re done eating, we’ll be in the sitting room.”

He nodded and said, “Thank you.”

I walked out and closed the door.  Mom was sitting on the ground with Grogu, and they were rolling a little ball back and forth.  They were both giggling.  It warmed my heart to hear this.  I sat down on the ground next to her.  Kids are funny.  They would stress you out one minute and become the most relaxing thing in the world the next.  “Can I have the ball?”  I asked.

Grogu looked up, and grabbed his little, metal ball.  He reached his hand out to give it to me and then pulled it back instantly.  He was laughing at me, making strange sounds like blowing raspberries.

“Oh, that’s funny, huh?”  I asked him.  He reached out again and took it away just as fast.  I got on my knees and crawled over to him with my head low to the floor.  I had a huge grin on my face.  “Can I please have the ball?”  I asked him, about 5 inches from his face.  He blew a raspberry right in my face!  Oh, it’s on!  I grabbed him and blew onto his neck and belly, making him squirm and squeal loudly.  I heard a loud sound as the door flew open from Mando’s room.

“Is everything ok?  I heard a scream!”  he asked.  He looked down at Grogu as I was holding him.

“I’m just torturing the little guy is all.”  I looked back at Grogu.  “He started it!”  Grogu blew another raspberry in my face, so I did it back to him all over.  He was losing it.  I finally put him back down.  He waddled away from me as fast as he could, right into mom’s arms.

“Was Suri tickling you?  It’s ok.  I’ll protect you,” she said rocking him as he cooed at her.  I looked back up at Mando who finally looked calm. 

“Sorry, I didn’t mean to cut your meal short.  You can go back and finish.  We were just playing.”

“I finished eating.”  He said standing there like he didn’t know what to do next.

“Have a seat.  We do have a chair over there, but I like the floor better.” Patting the floor as I said that.

“The floor is fine,” he said as he sat down across from me.  He seemed so uncomfortable, like he was unsure of how to be in a social setting.  I leaned my back against the wall and stretched my legs out, raising my arms, up, stretching and yawning at the same time.  I think he relaxed once he saw me do this, because he leaned back and straightened his legs out too.  Mom put Grogu down and he wobbled over to Mando.  “Hey kid.”  He said looking down at him, as Grogu climbed on his lap.  “You ready for bed?”  And just as quick as he asked that, Grogu’s eyes lowered heavily, and he was sleeping in his lap.

I was such a cute scene.  Things aren’t usually cute in my mind, but for some reason, this was.  Here was brutal, forceful, deadly man holding this tiny little critter.  I just couldn’t get over it.  “Good night, sleep well,” I whispered.

[ghostofskywalker]

If I'm not too late could I make a celebration request for padme amidala x reader, hmm making titles is surprisingly hard but 'I should have known', I don't quiet know about a genre I tend to gravitate more towards angst but you can go wherever you want with this

Congratulations on 2k!! And thank you for all the fics you've written! Seriously though your writing is so engaging and fun 💖 and I love the characters that you write for 🌸💞

hi!! i absolutely loved writing this one, thank you for giving me the chance to write for padmé!! you are always so lovely and it was a joy to write this for you, i ended it definitely on the angsty/sad side :)

words: 1,519

padmé amidala masterlist 

I Should Have Known

As you stepped off the ship with Master Kenobi, Padmé was waiting there with C-3PO. “Welcome to Naboo, Senator,” she said brightly, pulling you into a hug. “I am so happy you could make it.” 

“Oh, please you don’t have to call me by my title,” you said once she had pulled away from your embrace. You would never admit it, but you secretly wished she had held on to you for a little longer. “We’re not in the Senate chambers right now.” 

She smiled, and you couldn’t help your heart fluttering a little. You had first met Padmé in the halls of the Senate building, and the two of you had become fast friends. Being Coruscant’s Senator meant that you had a lot of people trying to become your friend when you first started working there, but she was one of the only people you felt was actually sincere when she said she wanted to get to know you better. Since then, your feelings for the Naboo Senator had only grown, no matter how much you tried to push them down, and when she invited you to stay at her place and attend a gala on her home planet, you instantly accepted. 

Right as she opened her mouth to respond, a man came up to her. “Senator Amidala, there’s an important call for you,” he said. 

She looked at you with an apologetic look on your face. “I’m so sorry, I should probably see what they want.” 

“Don’t worry about it, go do your job!” you said, waving your hand nonchalantly. You knew how little personal time was taken into account when it came to people wanting to speak with senators, so you completely understood. 

“I’ll have Threepio take you to your room,” she said warmly. “And once you’ve gotten settled in we can get something to eat, alright?” 

You nodded, trying to hide your smile as you registered her words. While you always tried to remain logical and impartial about your feelings most of the time, there were moments in which you allowed yourself to consider the possibility that she was interested in you the same way you were interested in her, and this was one of them.  

She headed off in a different direction as you allowed the gold protocol droid to lead you and Master Kenobi through the winding hallways of her large home. Because of the added danger the war placed on you, and the planet that you served, there was usually at least one Jedi accompanying you on your travels for protection, and Master Kenobi was your favorite. He was kind, wise, and friendly, and you had known him for some time now. He had also figured out your feelings for Padmé, which you weren’t really happy about, but was always kind and encouraging to you and rarely brought it up in conversation. 

“Master Kenobi, your room is next door,” C-3PO said as he stopped in front of a doorway. “And this is your room, Senator.” 

“Thank you,” you said kindly, smiling at the droid. You always treated Republic droids with the utmost respect, something you knew not a lot of people did. It was something you had in common with Padmé actually, and it always warmed your heart when you watched her thank the waitress droids in restaurants or the administration droids in the Senate building, because you always did the same. 

The room was larger than some of the apartments you’ve lived in, and the bed looked like the most comfortable thing in the entire world. You flopped down face first immediately after setting your bags down, marveling at the comfort of the pillows. The journey here had been fairly pleasant, but you were still quite tired from the travel, and you ended up dozing off just moments after getting comfortable. 

***

You didn’t see too much of Padmé until the gala itself, mainly because you were just as busy with your own senatorial duties. But Naboo was a truly beautiful planet, and you spent as much time as you could outside, just admiring the tranquil landscape, a stark contrast from the tall and loud cities of Coruscant.

The dress you were wearing had been commissioned specifically for you by Padmé’s stylists, and they had done an excellent job. Normally you despised formal attire, thinking the best part of any given gala was the time that you could leave and get ready for bed, but this gown was so beautiful you almost never wanted to take it off. 

Padmé looked like a dream herself this evening, in a powder blue dress that took your breath away for a moment and looked like it was made of the softest material in the world. You saw her laughing with a few people you recognized, including Master Skywalker, who you had worked with a few times and was a friend of Master Kenobi’s. She truly made it seem like she was the only person in the room, because her smile made everyone else irrelevant. 

Dinner was quiet, and you incredibly glad to be seated next to Padmé at your table, with Skywalker and Kenobi sitting across from the two of you. But just as most private moments with your friends, it was over too soon as people from all over wanted to speak to you and her about Senate bills and potential alliances once dinner was finished, all things you didn’t really want to think about right now. 

After you managed to pull away from a particularly boring conversation with the Correllian Senator, you craned your neck to try and see where Padmé was, eventually growing worried when you couldn’t find her among the crowd. You didn’t see Master Skywalker either, and you were worried that something had happened and they might need your help. Maybe you should have gone up to Master Kenobi and asked if he knew anything, or seen if he could contact his fellow Jedi and find out if they needed help, but you didn’t think to do that in the moment. Instead, you began to wander the halls of the building.

You heard the sound of Padmé’s laugh coming from a room at the end of the hallway, and you quietly walked by to see what she was doing. But you almost wished you had never started looking for her, because when you finally found her, you felt your heart drop to the ground. 

She was kissing Anakin Skywalker, practically making out with him in that empty room, and you quickly ducked out of their view to avoid the confrontation that would arise if either one of them had seen or heard you. It felt like your heart had truly fallen out of your chest as you took in the sight, because of course Padmé wouldn’t be interested in you when someone like Skywalker was an option. You thought that Jedi weren’t allowed to have attachments anyway, and if that was true, it meant that they were both breaking quite a few rules right now. 

Taking a deep breath and trying not to let tears slip from your eyes, you walked back into the ballroom and plastered a fake smile on your face. All you really wanted was to go to sleep at this point, because tonight was now shaping up to be a night you never wanted to remember, but you couldn’t just leave without saying goodbye (as much as you wanted to). 

You had already downed two drinks by the time anyone spoke to you again, but you were relieved when you realized it was just Master Kenobi that had approached you. “Have you seen Anakin?” he asked. “He isn’t picking up his comm.” 

You could tell him the truth, that you did in fact see Anakin, in a rather private lip lock with the woman of your dreams, but you couldn’t bring yourself to admit it. If he made Padmé truly happy, who were you to get in the way of that? And who’s to say Padmé would even speak to you again if she found out you were the one who ruined her relationship with the Jedi? 

“No I haven’t seen him,” you said in response, shaking your head and hoping you looked convincing enough. “Have you seen Padmé?” 

You already knew the answer to your question, but you wanted to see what he would say. “I haven’t,” was his response. “Is everything alright?”

“I was going to go back to my room and I wanted to say goodbye to her,” you said, hoping he didn’t ask why you wanted to leave. 

Thankfully, no further questions were asked (and Master Kenobi promised to tell Padmé that you had left), and you soon slipped away from the gala, incredibly thankful when you were once again alone in your room. You barely bothered to change your clothes before you had collapsed onto the bed, silent tears streaming down your face as you grieved the love you could have had with Padmé, trying to come to terms with the fact that you would have to find happiness without her.

- the end -

[blood-injections]

Imagine Kobra and Party in the place of Blue and Red in the comics. It starts off the same, Blue(Kobra) goes out to try and get a new battery for a dying Red(Poison), cause his is faulty, he’s a slightly older model than Blue. Porno droids can be either sex, so Red is a male model in this case but Blue is a female model. Blues sure to change that when she becomes Kobra, though. So, the beginning is the same, Blue tries to get a replacement battery for Red but the paperwork keeps getting turned down and eventually in the deep, abandoned levels of the social services building, the droid at the kiosk tells her that Red can’t get a replacement battery because he’s an outdated model and that he’s obsolete and that he’ll be collected for scrap. This is where their story deviates from the comic, becuase instead of breaking into a vending machine for plus that Reds not going to be able to process anyway, Blue breaks into a storage facility and just steals a battery. She makes it out but not without having to shoot her way out a little. Luckily she remains unscathed, and makes it back to Red. She replaces his battery, and he’s good as new, but now they’re both wanted. Reds going to be collected and repurposed because he’s an outdated model and Blue just killed Better Living Employees. So their choices now are to go underground and hide until their joints corrode and their batteries die- or to risk freedom by making a run for the desert. The electricity cuts off at the edge of the city, they won’t be connected to the grid, they’ll have to rely entirely on plus to survive and the sand won’t be kind to their hardware, but it’ll be worth it to them. As long as they stay stockpiled on it, they’ll be fine.

So they run for it and they make make it, the dracs stop shooting when they cross the point at which the concrete turns to sand, and they’re unscathed and home free. The first thing they notice is that they can see the stars. The desert is beautiful.

And they begin walking, they escape on foot, so they’re walking, searching for someplace to call home, or at least to rest for a night or two while they get things sorted out. They spend the time walking, talking. Planning and thinking and deciding that they want to do something. They’re not in the lobby anymore, doomed to sit and wait for destroya to come and save them. They decide to fight, to be people, not machines with some sole purpose. They decide to be their own people, they decide to be killjoys.

“You said we could go by actual names, be someone, who will you become?” Blue asks at one point.

“I’m not completely sure yet.” Red replies, “I used to think about it all the time, but now that I’m actaully here I’ve changed my mind on it all. I always thought Gerard could be a cool name for me, a real, normal name. But I don’t care for it as much now, I want something cool, y’know? I want to be someone cool, unique. Like we hear about killjoys that gave all these badass names that tell a story, that mean someone to them. I’ve been trying to come up with one that fits.” He explains. “What about you.”

“I have no clue.” She says after looking down at herself, “I can’t think of a name but I could go for something cool, too. Maybe you could choose one for me, once you figure out your own. I just know I want to be different, I want to defy everything I was created to be. I want whoever’s out here to look at me na d know I’m one of them. I don’t want to be seen as an object anymore, I want to be seen as a person. I’ll- do you think bleach works on out hair? Whatever, if it doesn’t I’ll shave it all off. I wasn’t as sure earlier, but I am now. I want to be loud, I want to speak my mind, I want to stand for something beyond what the city made us for. Maybe we can’t help other droids out here, but we can help humans leaving the city, we can help the killjoys that are already out here by standing with them, they’re BLI’s Poison. Better Living doesn’t give a shit about us, they leave us to rust in the streets and replace old models and recycle us like we’re not people too. They can get rid of us and they do- but they can’t ever get rid of the killjoys. They’re always out here fighting, even after years.”

And Red understands her. “I admire them too.” He says, in love with the thought of becoming one of them, a freedom fighter. “It sounds like such a great way to live. And me too- I want to be loud, too. I want to make art and do something that just screams fuck you to BLI. I want to- I want to fucking party.”

And that’s when the thought comes, and he throws back his head and laughs like never before because he’s free, and he knows who he is. “Hell yeah, I want to party. And what you just said about the killjoys being their Poison- that have me an idea. I like it. What do you think? Party Poison?”

“For your name?” Blue asks, giddy and proud.

“Yeah.”

“I love it. It suits you. Got one for me?”

“Maybe, but try coming up with one yourself first. The thrill of it is.. it’s finding yourself. It’s immeasurable.”

“Alright. Give me a nickname, then. I don’t want to be blue anymore.”

They try a few things. Party suggests sis, because they’re very much siblings in each others mind, but it doesn’t fit, makes something twist like a knife in her gut. They try a random letter, but none work out. Ultimately they settle on just not really referring to her at all, and that works.

Then they stumble upon the diner. They have enough plus for their first month, and the diner has everything from power out to a med kid in a back room for any passing joys. There’s a radio tucked under the counter, and they settle in. For the first few days they figure stuff out, always listening to the radio, learn to shoot with the gun Blue got to fight her way out with when she got the battery for Red. They take note of anything important spoken by the dj, who they learn is Doctor death defying. He purrs over the airwaves about Tommy’s shop, and concerts at the fuck you house, and the traffic. It’s how they start learning their way around. They know Tommy’s shop is west, and they have a few carbons, so they head out, walking once again. They buy hair dye and more plus and another gun and spray paint Poison finds a mask that’s perfect for him and they find jackets that suit them both, that they’re definitely going to customize a little with the paint they got. They’re set, and at the checkout Tommy welcomes them to the zones, recognizes that they’re new, thinks that they’re human, because they pass as it, and that’s just what they wanted. They decided not to tell anyone they’re droids, because surely they’d be looked at differently. Even by killjoys.

But tommy welcomes them and asks them what they’re called and what they go by. Blue asks what he means with the latter and Tommy has to raise his eyebrows, explains the concept of ‘he, her, they, them, nothing at all, all of the above? Some people come up with brand new ones and some people go by their names exclusively. Folks out here just don’t care. Personally, I’m Tommy Chow Mein, owner iff this shop, and I don’t really care either. It’s just another way of defying Better Livings rules and stereotypes and shit, you can be whatever you want to be’

This, of course, awakens something in Blue. Poison goes, “oh, that’s awesome. I haven’t really thought about it but you know what? I really like they. Actually, I don’t care, you can call me whatever you want. But I think I do prefer they.” and they’re overjoyed at their realization.

Blue isn’t really sure, and she voices that. “I’m not sure what I like it go by.” She has made one decision, though. “My name, uh, my names Kobra, though.”

They had decided it between arriving at diner and leaving it for the shop, hadn’t thought of something to follow it with, just the one word, but they knew it was them. They hasn’t told poison yet, and in this moment their brother looked so, so proud. Tommy says “you’ll figure out the rest, kid.”

They get back to the diner and Kobra cuts their hair short and bleaches it sand-blonde, all traces of Blue gone. Seeing this in the mirror, Kobra finally Knew. “You look good.” Poison says when Kobra remeerges. “And you look happy, happier than I’ve ever seen you.

“I think.. I think I just finally realized who I am.” Kobra says. “And it’s amazing, finally knowing, but uncomfortable too, I-“

And Kobra breaks off, and then starts to explain exactly how they feel, who they want to be.

The conversation ends with Poison calling Kobra their brother. And all is finally right.

[rebelsofshield]

Star Wars: The Bad Batch “Entombed” - Review

The Batch go tomb raiding in a decidedly average episode.

When Omega stumbles upon a strange compass in a scrap heap, the Batch get roped into joining treasure hunter Phee Genoa on a quest to find a valuable artifact. However, this ancient tomb may be hiding more than riches.

One of the joys of Star Wars is that its setting provides ample opportunity for storytellers to play around with genre. Its a vast universe that has room for adventure pulp, war epics, spy thrillers, kaiju science fiction, star crossed romance, sports drama, and even slapstick comedy. The Clone Wars spent a large amount of its second season playing around with the possibilities offered up by the Star Wars playground. It makes sense that The Bad Batch would try the same and the series’ episodic format lends itself well to trying on different storytelling forms.

That seems to have been the inspiration behind “Entombed,” a treasure hunting story that takes the Batch inside a mysterious tomb. While the immediate comparison might be something like Indiana Jones or The Mummy (which The Clone Wars already riffed off in the rather fun “Legacy of Terror”), the result ends up feeling like you’re watching someone play the puzzle portions of a Tomb Raider or Uncharted game. If that sounds only mildly interesting, that’s because it is. Sure, there’s a fun monster crawling around in the tombs ducts, but it never feels like much of a threat and only appears in passing glances. While I appreciated the break from the usual blaster action last week, there just isn’t much going on in “Entombed” to hold one’s interest. “Faster” gave us some fast paced racing sequences and some enjoyable character beats for Tech and Cid, but the puzzles that the Batch and Phee solve here aren’t particularly interesting to figure out as an audience member and there isn’t much if anything going on in terms of development for our regular cast or guest stars.

It’s a shame given that Wanda Sykes is always brings a spark of energy to pretty much any project she’s a part of. Even if Phee is a fairly one note treasure hunter, Sykes voices her with enough snark and swagger to make her personality big enough to steal most scenes she’s a part of. I just wish Christopher Yost’s script gave her more to do.

“Entombed” does pick up a bit towards its final third with the reveal that the tomb is in fact the inner workings of a giant, ancient droid. The machine is fascinating to look at because of how thoroughly its sleek, almost stone like design feels so unlike any other droid we’ve seen in the franchise. I’m a sucker for any kind of eldritch contraption and watching this towering, dinosaur like mech wake up and start blasting away at the desolate landscape brought me right back into an episode that had otherwise lost my interest. And sure, I would’ve liked to see a bit more of this strange droid and get a hint at just what its ancient purpose might be, but just having this giant automaton wander about for a bit was a highlight.

In all honesty, outside of a cool robot, I don’t think I’m going to remember much of “Entombed.” Its passable but never quite interesting television for a series that still seems to be struggling to find a purpose for its less eventful episodes. Let’s hope we get back on track soon.

Score: B-

[phoenixyfriend]

Auntie Soka and Little Leia (and Rex) : Chapter 3

Read on AO3

In which we run into some old friends, who may or may not know they are in fact friends.

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

Showing up in a seedy bar on a no-name planet is much less stressful in the company of a known, dangerous quantity like Jango Fett. Sure, there’s still a risk someone will try to take her charges—though they’d both object strenuously to being called that—but Jango’s implicit involvement in their safety does enough that she can relax.

The drinks for the younger two are just water. Adults in mind they may be, but their livers certainly aren’t. Fett gets a club soda, and Sokari is more amused than she should be that he refuses to drink on the job. The three of them certainly haven’t been a calming presence in his life.

“Torrent? Getting anything?” Fett prompts.

“She old enough to drink?” the bartender asks.

“Yes,” Fett says, an edge to his words that Soka isn’t entirely sure she likes. “Hey, what do you want?”

What does she— “Caff. Nerf milk, two sugars.”

What she really wants is tea, but she’s long since learned that trying tea in a back alley shithole will only make her wistful and miserable as she thinks about how much better Obi-Wan’s had been.

At least she’s used to caff being shitty, and covering up the taste with something else. The only times she’s ever had good caff were as a guest in a rich person’s home, which has mostly just meant grabbing a drink when she broke into Bail’s office once a year.

(He always got so tired when she told him about the holes in his security, but it had been a game. His annoyance was a farce. His fatigue was real, but the parts relating to her weren’t.)

(She’ll have to talk to Leia about her grief.)

(At some point.)

Fett grabs them a booth. It’s weird and she’s not a fan, but it’s… not terrible. If she tries, she can almost pretend the man across from her is just another middle-aged clone trooper. Rex’s complicated mix of emotions over the situation sure isn’t helpful, but he’s long since learned how to shut away distracting or distressing emotions behind mental shields so she can work.

Or just. Sit there. With caff. Trying not to have a breakdown.

Then you will d--

Nope. Not thinking about that.

“Your contact is late,” Leia mutters.

Fett makes a small noise. “It happens in this line of work.”

Leia scoffs. Sokari knocks an ankle to hers, but Leia just looks away. Rex isn’t going to be helpful, either.

Sokari really wishes they could have just stayed behind on the ship while Fett did his thing, but he doesn’t trust them that far. He doesn’t really trust them at all, and certainly not enough to leave them behind with his ship.

“The hell did you have a kid, Jango?”

The tension flees, mostly. There is a third—fifth, technically—party to take the weight of the conversation now.

“Hello, Silas,” Fett says. “Take a seat.”

The Mandalorian looks between Rex and Fett a few times, and then pulls his own helmet off and gestures. “What the frip?”

“Does he look young enough to be mine?”

The Mando’s face twitches. “I mean… wild oats do happen. Sometimes. You did get drunk a lot after Jaster died…”

Fett rolls his eyes. “Sit down, man.”

Silas sits down. He eyes Rex first, for obvious reasons, and then Leia—too small to register as a threat to a grown, fully-trained commando, so mostly just strange—and landing on Sokari.

“Slicer?” he guesses. “Or sniper.”

She raises a brow. “You think he hired me?”

“You’re old enough for the kinds of jobs he runs,” the Mando says. He glances at Fett. “Unless you finally picked up a droid that could do the kind of slicing you need…”

“Shut up,” Fett says. It’s oddly mild. “Torrent’s with the kids. I’m giving them a ride.”

The Mando’s brow furrows. “But that one…”

“Jango Fett,” Rex spits, “is not my father.”

Fett’s face does something complicated and ugly, and Ahsok—Sokari, it’s Sokari now—can’t help but pity him a little. Sure, he’s already done a whole lot of horrible things, but none of the ones that Rex is angry at him for. Soka’s done plenty of shitty things herself, in the pursuit of a higher goal.

“He’s blood,” Fett says, after a few moments of awkward silence where nobody quite knows what to do. “Beyond that… it’s complicated. His first loyalty is to her—” he gestures at Sokari, “—and she needs to get the little one to Coruscant. I’m… helping.”

“Without payment?” the Mandalorian prompts.

Fett glares. “He’s blood. I’m not—you know what happened to Arla, Silas. I’m not turning my back on that.”

Rex mutters something too low for human ears to pick up. Sokari, of course, hears it perfectly.

“Didn’t stop you from dropping the lot of us like bantha poodoo.”

Silas—she should probably call him by name, if only in her own head—looks like he’s trying very hard to ignore the web of complicated familial bullshit going on and only mostly succeeding. “Okay. So… business?”

Fett sighs. “Originally, I wanted to see if you’d gotten any information on a bounty I was looking into, but priorities have changed.”

Silas raises a brow. “Yeah? We taking back Mandalore?”

Fett slams a fist down on the table. “Would you quit it with that?”

Well, that escalated quickly.

“We need a Mand’alor—”

“Kryze is doing fine!” Fett snaps. “I may not like her, but she’s older than I was, and actually trained for the bureaucratic bullshit. She’s got popular support and knows the whole… agricultural, economic, education stuff. Kriff it, she wants the seat? Fine. She probably won’t kick off a fight that gets all her people killed because she panicked and started shooting.”

“You’d just come out of being tortured—”

“And,” Fett hisses, “I do not have the resources to do ‘take back’ Mandalore. I do not have an army. I do not have money. I barely have my ship and the armor on my back.”

“The clans would support you.”

“I don’t want their support,” Fett says. “Drop it.”

“But Mand’a—”

“I said drop it, Silas,” Fett grinds out. “I don’t have a plan. She does. If things start going downhill, then maybe I’ll give it another shot, but she’s barely been there a month, and she’s already fixing up the infrastructure Kyr’tsad took out. The Duke trained her for this.”

Silas doesn’t back down. “Every Duke and Duchess in our history has done better with a Mand’alor at their side. You know that.”

“Kryze doesn’t want one,” Fett says. “For fuck’s sake, Silas, I’m still recovering. Just let it go.”

Sokari tilts her head. Recovering? From what?

“Fine. For now,” Silas says. “Does it at least have to do with Mandalore?”

Fett doesn’t meet his eyes.

“That’s a yes, then,” Silas decides. “Please tell me you don’t want me to work for the Evaar’ade. I don’t have it in me to put up with the priss and pomp.” [1]

“Too bad,” Fett mocks. He rubs a hand over his face. “Kyr’tsad is still around.” “She’s having all the warriors deported to Concordia,” Silas grouses. “They have someone to keep an eye on the situation. Even those with leanings are going to be under watch unless they leave the systems like we did, and you know they won’t be coming home if they were that dedicated to the lifestyle.”

------

[1] Evaar’ade – lit. ‘new (noun) children’, short for Evaar’la Mando’ade, which would be ‘new (adj) Mandalorians’

(Continue on AO3)

[magnhild]

ranking all of the star wars media i've seen so far because i think aside from andor (which i'm not watching til it's finished) i've watched all the (canon) pre-original trilogy content

(copied and pasted from my twitter)

10. solo

i won't say i disliked it but it didn't capture my attention either. it was kind of just there and i zoned out for most of it. i liked the droid but then she died :( i think it absolutely should've been allowed to be a comedy

9. rogue one

kind of the same story as solo; i don't really see why it needed to exist and nothing about it much interested me. i didn't actually like it any more than solo but i think if i flipped the ranking people would get mad at me.

8. the phantom menace

the beginning of my sw journey and yet sadly it did not leave much of an impact on me. the editing was. something. and it felt oddly-paced. sometimes the cgi and practical effects were really cool though (and sometimes they weren't).

7. attack of the clones

honestly this movie kind of felt all over the place? like so much happened but not really in a good way. the editing felt better than the first one though and it had less jar-jar which is always a good thing.

6. revenge of the sith

watching this after the clone wars added a lot more weight behind the events but also made anakin's turn so incredibly jarring. i feel like they really nerfed padme too :/ it's mostly the added context of the clone wars that puts this one above the other two in my eyes, even if it also manages to be a detriment. idk.

5. obi-wan kenobi

i think a lot of people didn't care for this one and i can see why but i thought it was fine. probably did not need to exist but young leia is the cutest little shit and her interactions with obi-wan really made the series for me. glad it was short though.

4. tales of the jedi

yeah i know it JUST came out but i'm putting it here anyway. on the ahsoka side of things i don't personally feel like her episodes added much except for maybe the first one bc i love backstory, but ahsoka is ofc my favourite character so i will never complain about more screentime for her. dooku's stuff was pretty interesting though and i like the context that it adds to his whole deal. i kind of feel we should've gotten it sooner tbh.

3. the clone wars

i think the main thing holding it bad a little for me is its length. i feel like it could've been cut down a fair bit, but for as many boring episodes as it had, there were plenty of great ones as well. i'd say that this is the piece of sw media that does the most for the franchise as a whole. it added SO MUCH context and opened up so many paths for more content. characters actually got to be characters, including the clones, and it makes the third movie hit that much harder. perhaps most importantly of all (this is a joke don't @ me), it gave us ahsoka, who i love very much, and who i find very interesting. i will never get sick of her.

2. the bad batch

though it had plenty of action and drama, the main draw of this show for me is the more lighthearted stuff. omega's addition to the sw cast was a very good decision and i loved every moment we got of her. to see a sw series that put more focus on family was really refreshing for me and i can't wait to see more of it next year. this show was also my first introduction to kanen and hera and goodness i had no idea what i was in for. 

1. rebels

if you've been paying any attention to my twitter at all this past week this should come as no surprise. like the bad batch, if there's one thing i loved most about rebels, it's the found family aspect. i loved seeing the main cast interact and all of their dynamics had a wonderful quality to them that i appreciated. and it gave me back ahsoka! and i love it for that. the entire show had this strong feeling of hope running through it, which of course made the second half of s4 hit all the harder for me. as much as kanan's death and everything surrounding it hurt me, however, i can only commend the series on the impeccable writing that led to that moment. everything was incredibly well-crafted, creating a moment that impacted me more than any other piece of media ever has before. it made me cry at fiction for the first time ever and i love it for that. but i also hate it for that. but i love it for that. i desperately hope that we'll get to see the main character again in the franchise's future, not just because i miss them dearly, but because i feel like none of their stories ar quite finished. i think there's a lot more we could see from them, with my biggest (and probably most unrealistic) hope being for a series focused on hera as she raises her son and works to move on from kanan's death, bc i feel like the series did Not give her enough time to grieve (not that i can blame it, war is busy). 

and there we have it! i don't know if my rankings are very controversial but, as i was saying last night on my twitter, i often enjoy tv shows more than movies, which is why they all ranked above them here. thank u for reading my long post.

[marinersubmariner]

Obi-Wan finale + series thoughts

After what has been a mixed bag overall, I liked the finale a lot and it made me super emotional. I think this is the first time I’ve shed tears over any of the live-action shows, but then this was also the most relevant to the high emotion of the saga. I thought the way the Obi-Wan-Anakin-Reva-Leia-Luke threads all tied together and echoed each other was really nicely done. I loved the cathartic end notes for Obi-Wan getting to a better emotional place, moving out of the cave literally and metaphorically, FINALLY SEEING QUI-GON!!!!!!!!!!!! So so so so many ROTS feelings came flooding back.

I was, however, hoping to see him go house hunting on Tatooine. :(

At the beginning of the season I was incredibly wary of the Leia reveal and those first couple episodes took a lot of adjustment because things started off very hokey (the initial precociousness was... a lot), but actually she ended up being great?!?! She was so cute and funny and the emotional stuff with Obi-Wan was genuinely touching, I’m really surprised by how well she ended up working for me. Even Lola grew on me, because early on I thought she was way too much of an overdesigned cute toy (how many ways can we design a cute droid companion!! smaller! cuter! smalllerrrrr cuuuuutttteeeerrrrr) but by the end I found her to be a reasonably endearing presence, especially when Leia snuck her into Obi-Wan’s possession. ;__;

The whole “Ben and Leia” angle was very unexpected and I liked it a lot, but given what my particular fixations are even this long after TROS, it uh. hurts bad. I mean, I’m at least glad to have Ben Solo’s existence acknowledged even in an oblique way, so I guess that’s something. But every tender moment between Leia and Obi-Wan that underlines why she named her son Ben is also another painful reminder that Leia was never reunited with him and they both died within hours of each other. It’s a weird message when you think this all through to its conclusion, that any beacon of hope or love will only be wrenched away, and Leia will die having lost everyone she ever loved.

Star Wars is fun

The actual experience of hearing the name Ben so much after I’ve spent all this time fixated on the other Ben really was jarring, especially when every instance of that name being spoken in the sequels was such a big dramatic moment. There’s so much other significance tied up in it now, and its prominence here at this point in time just makes it even more baffling that Ben Solo was so unceremoniously discarded. Having Leia in this series only adds to the narrative/generational importance of Ben as a character... after they already ended it in a way that made him not matter at all, that literally erased him from the story and from his family. IT’S SO WEIRD.

They end this on the whole “children are our future uwu” note because that’s what Leia and Luke are to the post-prequel era... but in the context of the whole saga, Vader’s existence still poisons Leia’s relationship with her son and destroys them both. 🙃 There is no sense of hope or open-ended future attached to Leia’s child the way there was to Anakin’s children, so now the more they dwell on the generational story the bleaker and more punishing it gets.

UGH. ANYWAY

This one is a relatively minor complaint but I was disappointed with the Breha recast. I’m so used to picturing her as we saw her in ROTS, which is part of it, but also even with as little as we saw of her here they made her kind of a stereotypical eye-rolling mom type which is... not how I’ve always thought of Breha. So that was annoying. It wasn’t the worst but it wasn’t great.

Alderaan though!!!!! And Alderaan FASHION, yeah boyeeee

Speaking of fashion, I loved all the exile Jedi looks Obi-Wan was modeling. The first blue shirt + brown cloak was *chef kiss* something I want to steal for Ben Solo, and I especially loved his last outfit (goggles!!)

REVA!!!!!!! Omg sympathetic villain repents and lives omg, popping the biggest bottles!!! (and pouring one out for Trilla and Ben, always. there are so many parallels between all three of them that it does sting that it took this long for someone in their mold to actually survive. THEY ALL EVEN GOT STABBED IN THE SAME WAY. Reva just straight-up fine after being impaled... wild.) I really liked how her final scene with Obi-Wan looked and felt so much like the final Obi-Wan and Maul confrontation in Rebels.

I feel like Vader getting his mask chopped open was a pretty common/obvious prediction (and also happened in Rebels! so much that happened in this show has already happened in other media, lol) but it still fucked me up. I LOVED the weird vocal mix shifting and distorting between Anakin’s voice and Vader’s voice, the light changing throughout the scene until he was only lit by the red from his saber (like Kylo on Starkiller Base..........), the actual dialogue itself. I am such a fan of the way darksiders are positioned as having killed their former self, the way they dissociate and have to destroy their own identity to become something else, “You didn’t kill Anakin Skywalker. I did,” “He was weak and foolish like his father, so I destroyed him,” the dehumanization and masking and self-annihilation, the fact that Reva ultimately couldn’t do it.

And technically it all stems from retconning “He betrayed and murdered your father.” 😂

I liked how weak and pathetic Obi-Wan’s lightsaber and Force skills were earlier on, so I’m a little bummed they had him level up quite so much in the finale. Like, we’ve already seen Obi-Wan at his peak, that’s not what this is or should be. But I guess they had to have Obi-Wan and Vader fight again in order to get them to talk again. :/ Oh well, the lightsabering WAS cool and the ROTS tragic dialogue 2.0 WAS effective.

OBI-WAN CALLING HIM DARTH 😭😭😭😭

The indignity of Vader getting defeated and Obi-Wan just leaving FOR A SECOND TIME... and it’s still gonna happen AGAIN! Honestly it’s tragic but it’s also extremely funny that Obi-Wan has punked him so many times. I love how Anakin keeps trying to deny Obi-Wan having any power over him even though it clearly eats away at him and he can’t stop wanting the last word and the upper hand and Obi-Wan still keeps beating him. You didn’t kill Anakin, I killed Anakin! You can’t fire me, I quit! Desperately grabbing for control that keeps slipping away the tighter he clings to it. WHAT A MESS

Owen and Beru!!!!!!! Funnily enough one of the things that annoyed me so much about Boba Fett was that it unnecessarily burned us out on Tatooine right before the show that HAS to be set on Tatooine. And then Obi-Wan mostly wasn’t set on Tatooine! Which would have been fine, except that... well... a) I want sad desert hermit, and b) one of the things I was holding onto as a consolation was that I was looking forward to seeing more of Owen and Beru... and then it didn’t happen....... But I really did enjoy the glimpses of them we got here, I wish there had been more. Joel Edgerton in particular has a really good “harsh but fair” quality to his Owen that I like a lot.

Part of me liked the T-16 toy because of Obi-Wan being a nice cool uncle but a bigger part of me hates the easter egging and overexplaining the origin of everything we’ve ever seen. You didn’t need to tell us where the toy came from. Luke can just be a fucking nerd who builds models.

Grand Inquisitor sucked. Some of the cartoon characters are kind of exciting to see in live-action, but some of them do noooooot work, and this idiot is top of the list. The melding of the cartoon universe with the live-action universe always feels off to me, because as much as I enjoy TCW and Rebels they remain very separate from the movies in my mind.

I still feel like these shows do not look as good as they should. Which is strange because I thought season 1 of The Mandalorian looked GREAT, like I genuinely thought a lot of it was prettier than TROS. But it seems like the production values have steadily declined since then, and I don’t know if that’s the pandemic or overreliance on the Volume or budget or what, but so much of the lighting is flat and dark, the sets are bland, things look cheap and fake... this show wasn’t quite as bad as Boba Fett, but it’s weird. I know we’re too accustomed to what Star Wars looks like on a feature film budget and tv doesn’t have that, but also... doesn’t Disney have infinite money? I know they’re putting effort into this! I know people can make nice-looking tv shows on smaller budgets! I don’t understand why it’s so underwhelming.

I do, however, like that they did a LOT of lightsabers in the dark. >:) 17-year-old me is going bananas. We’ve reached a point where we get so much lightsaber lighting that it’s losing its novelty! Absolutely bonkers

I very much enjoyed Fortress Inquisitorius because UNDERWATER STUFF!!! Visually I thought that episode was the nicest to look at and I liked the ~vibes~, but of course I’m an easy mark when it comes to oceans and overcast skies. And I don’t mind them repeating things from Fallen Order because I love Fallen Order. :)

I think the part of the series that sticks out most in my mind is the conversations between Leia and Obi-Wan in episode 3. “How does it feel when you turn on the light?” “I feel safe.” “Yes, it feels like that.” was so understated and so beautiful in its simplicity, it was maybe the best part of this entire thing. And then on the truck, Obi-Wan telling her about his recollections of his family and the part where he says “Then I joined the Jedi and I got a new family just like you.” was so lovely. The gentle sadness about the families they never knew but reaffirming the importance of their adoptive families, it really got me good.

On the whole it was so nice to be reminded of how much I love Ewan as Obi-Wan. He’s still so good!!!!!! He’s good at being badass, at being funny and charming, at being heartbreaking… he’s just the best. Although there’s also a bit of detached nostalgia to it, because for years he was without a doubt my most intense and enduring actor crush (I kept a paper checklist of his movies to watch! I hunted down airings on cable and recorded them! I listened to the Moulin Rouge soundtrack over and over and his beautiful voice made me cry! I bought A Life Less Ordinary on VHS!) but, as with all actor crushes, it did eventually fade. But... also... he IS still hot.........

Another reason it’s refreshing to see Ewan again is because I find animated Clone Wars Obi-Wan to be mildly irritating. 😬 James Arnold Taylor does a passable vocal impersonation but there’s a level of smugness to his tone that I don’t enjoy, and I’ve never liked the CG Clone Wars character designs or outfits. I don’t know, it’s hard to pinpoint what it is exactly, just the general impression kind of rubs me the wrong way. I’ve always felt a distance from animated Obi-Wan that I’ve never felt with his live-action version, so it’s just really nice to see the real thing and feel that connection to the character again.

The particularities of the way I engage with Star Wars make this kind of an odd experience in that I have always been first and foremost a gen fan spending my time with other gen fans, and even up to as recently as the years after TLJ I never really engaged with or enjoyed the shipping/fanfic side of fandom (canon was always enough for me... before the dark times.........). So there’s this strange disconnect in the type of Obi-Wan fandom that I see now versus the way that I experienced my own Obi-Wan fandom during the prequel years. The main thing is that I don’t ship him with anyone and I never have and I never will. The entire appeal is him being FOREVER ALONE, so romance-centric fandom has nothing to offer me. ¯\_(ツ)_/¯ Plus the older I get the less tolerance I have for certain overwrought meta commentary and histrionics and parroted buzzwords, so while it’s fun to see current fandom activity it gets so annoying so quickly. Well anyway, it’s bedtime at the nursing home, gotta go

In summary: no, the show didn’t feel particularly necessary or enlightening, it didn’t live up to my years of imagining Ben Kenobi’s sad desert exile... but it still did some things I liked and hit some nice emotional beats. Which is pretty good for all the disappointment and annoyance that the post-sequels Disney+ SW era has entailed so far. FAINT PRAISE, I know. I love Star Wars. Love to complain about it. :)

[whore-mones]

Until I Found You Din Djarin x f!reader

Rating: M - sexual content, oral sex, angst

Word Count: 3K

This is my first time ever posting my work on Tumblr, as well as my first time writing smut! My AO3 is linked here. Currently, it just has this fic posted, but I plan to get some more posted soon! I'm open to requests as well if I missed any warnings or things like that! Thanks for reading!! 

He’s never had a way with words. 

You can still remember the first time you saw him. You were selling fruits in the market on your home planet when you saw a looming figure approach you. Tall, covered head to toe in beskar with a cradle trailing behind him, it was hard to tell if he was even a living being or merely a droid. You swallow the lump in your throat and open your mouth to speak. 

“Can I help you?” Your voice comes out strong, somehow manages to hide the growing nervousness you feel in your chest. Sweat drips down your brow and you raise your arm to wipe it while gazing up and the tall figure You.  

“I am looking for some information,” his voice is deep and distorted from his helmet. “Do you know where I can find-“ he’s cut off before he can finish. 

The blaster shots seem to come from every direction. You hardly even have time to react as the creature in metal moves swiftly to provide you with cover. 

“We want the beskar, Mandalorian!” You hear once the dust settles. Your arms are wrapped tightly over your head as you huddle under what’s left of your small stand. 

It’s destroyed. You realizes grimly. It’s your only source of income. 

“Try to stay down,” the creature, the Mandalorian, shouts to you. 

“Believe me, I’m trying,” you gasp out. 

You’re not sure how many assailants there are. All you can hear is consistent ringing of blaster shots and bang! Suddenly, your leg feels like actual fire. You look down to see your brown jumpsuit rapidly turning red as blood slowly pools out of your thigh. You suck in your breath quickly, trying to steady yourself as your head begins to lighten. The world is going dark and all too quickly, you feel yourself slipping away. The silver helmet was the last thing you remember. 

Next thing you knew, you awoke on the floor of the Razor Crest. The Mandalorian offered you shelter and the job of being his in-house nanny to his little green child while he hunts his bounties as an apology for destroying your livelihood and nearly getting you killed. What choice did you have but to accept? 

This was five months ago now. You’ve learned that he is, in fact, a man under all the metal. He’s definitely a man of few words and you would venture to say that everything you’ve learned about him, which hasn’t been much, has probably been against his wishes. Despite this, he’s a kind employer and does his best to make sure you’re comfortable. Your bed is not sufficient? He’ll make sure to buy a new one on the next supply run. You think the baby needs a new cloak? Got it, he’s making a list. His attentiveness to you and the Child did not go unnoticed. Which is the very reason why he’s making a stop today. Your rations are low and you requested some new boots to fend of the cold of hyper-space travel. 

You join the Mandalorian in the cock pit as the ship begins its descent to the surface of Tatooine. You watch the reflection of the window in the sharp angles of his helmet. 

“This is my favorite part,” you say to him. 

“What’s that?” His voice is warm, even through the modulator.

“When we begin to land. Watching the stars shift into the sky.” Your eyes are full of wonder as you gaze out the cockpit, watching as the dark navy lightens to a clear blue sky. 

His silence is comfortable and something you’ve grown accustomed to. You know he doesn’t always know what to say next and you’ve come to enjoy his thoughtful silence. He listens and considers and that’s more than enough for you. 

You wake the baby as the Mandalorian lowers the ramp to disembark the ship. 

“Let’s get some fresh air, little one,” You smile at the child. He coos back to you and waves a three-fingered hand at you, which you press a kiss too lightly and lower him into his cradle. Your gaze meets Mando’s helmet and you can feel his eyes burning into you. The helmet turns away sharply and you hear him huff. 

“Let’s get moving,” he descends the ramp quickly. 

You and the Child share a smile. “He sure is bossy, isn’t he?”

The baby babbles nonsensically back, like he has quite a bone to pick with Mando. You giggle back and walk to follow Mando into town. 

———

He was just there. You had stopped walking just briefly to get a better look at the boots. When you looked back to ask Mando what he thought, he was gone. It’s fine, you told yourself. I’ll just go back to ship. I’ll get my comm and call him. No big deal. But darkness soon encompassed the town and suddenly, nothing looked familiar. 

Shit shit shit. You weave through the marketplace in search of something, anything really, that could help you find your way back to the ship. 

“You look lost,” the voice came from behind you. The man was wearing a cloak covering his face. He was bigger than you in every way. 

“No, I’m not lost. Just looking for my husband,” the lie came out easily and you hoped he bought it. You keep walking. 

“I can help you find him,” the man’s voice sounds like he was intoxicated by something. “He went this way,” he motions down a dark alleyway. “I’ll show you.”

You almost felt like rolling your eyes. Come on, man. How stupid did he think you looked? “I’m fine, thanks. I already know where to find him.” You pick up your pace to a quick walk, but of course, he doesn’t know when to quit and you feel a hand grip your arm roughly. 

“Look at me, girl. You want my help,” he growls into your ear. 

“Let go of me now!” you hiss back. Your hand pounds on his chest as you yank your arm back from him. Your skin stings from were his nails had dug in. 

“I was looking for you. Are you okay?” The Mandolorian’s voice is an instant comfort to you. You turn to see him directly behind you.

“Yes, love, I was looking for you too! I turned and you were gone!” You grab his hand and he stiffens. You turn back to the man, “Oh, this is my husband. Thanks SO much for all your help,” your hair swishes as turn quickly and drag Mando behind you before he has a chance to react. 

“My gods, where you did go?” You hiss to him once the man is far enough behind you. 

“Did he hurt you?” Mando’s voice is low, his hand is no longer stiff, but now it grips onto yours like he’s scared if he lets go you’ll disappear again. You give it a reassuring squeeze. 

“No, I’m fine. Just please stay closer to me next time,” 

His helmet gazes at you and you stare at your reflection in it. His gloved hand cups yours. It’s strong and warm and engulfs yours. The Mandalorian sighs loudly and shakes his head. 

“What is it?” You murmur to him.

He drops your hand as he turns back to the cradle holding the sleeping baby behind him. “Let’s get back to the ship. Kid’s tired.” He pauses, then looks back you. “Stay close. I can’t-,” he falters briefly and his helmet looks to the ground, “I can’t be separated from you again.”

You know what he means. He won’t be able to say it aloud, and you won’t either. So you swallow the lump of words gathered in your throat and nod. The three of you make your way back to the ship. 

———

Your new favorite spot is the cockpit, right beside him. You board the ship, tuck the baby in for the night and then you're right back in the chair. Mando checks the baby, taking his fingers in his own and giving a gentle squeeze before climbing in the cockpit with you and taking his seat in the pilot’s chair. You ascend into the night sky and you watch the reflections on his helmet. You think it’s beautiful, a sight to see really. The way the stars seemed to jump onto the shiny beskar and dance. The man under was beautiful too. You felt that deep inside of you. 

“Mando?” Your voice comes out almost a whisper.

“Hmmm?” 

“Thank you for coming to find me.”

The helmet turns to you as he shift in his seat and nods, “Of course.”

You hold out your hand to him and to your surprise, he takes it. The leathered glove was well-worn and soft against your hand, but it’s not what you wanted to feel at all. 

“Can I take off your glove?” The words pour out before you can reconsider. 

The helmet stills as if your question took him by surprise, then nods. 

You’re hyper-aware of how quickly your chest rises and falls as you slip the glove over his fingers and get your first glimpse of his tan warm skin. His hands are big, calloused, and fit with yours exquisitely.  Your fingers interlace with his as you look up at with him with a smile, “So you aren’t a robot then?”

A hint of a laugh slips out and he shakes his head, “ I am not, in fact.” You could hear the smile hiding from you beneath the beskar.

Your head falls back to the headrest and your eyes begin to close. The feeling of home and safety wasn’t something your used too, but the feeling was growing rapidly inside of this junky little ship. Your eyes close for the deepest sleep you’ve had in years. 

—-

He’s never going to make the first move. You’ve accepted this. Your pacing around the hull of the ship. You’ve already put the baby to sleep and put on your nicest sleep clothes. The Mandalorian is waiting for you in the cockpit like he does every night. He’s more talkative than he’s ever been, which is still not much, but he’s improving nonetheless. He calls your name from the cockpit. 

“Is everything okay?” 

He’s completely oblivious to the turmoil you’re experiencing at the moment. You want him. You’ve decided. Every night the gloves come off and his hands takes yours and eventually your mind begins to wander. The hands move up from yours to stroke your forearm. Then your neck. Then they finally reach your cheek and rough fingers trace the outline of your lips. By then, you’re a mess and beyond ready for him. It never progresses from there. Until tonight. 

You climb the ladder to the cockpit. It’s cramped, but you’ll make it work. 

“Hey,” you smile.

“Hi,” his gloves are off already and the sight of his hands sends a shiver up your spine.

“Are you tired tonight?” He asks. “If you would like to just go to sleep that’s fine.”

“No,” you answer quickly. “I’m fine, really.” You inhale sharply. Here it goes. 

To your surprise, he holds out his hand to you and you take it happily. It takes its usual course traveling up from your hand to your forearm, then your neck. This time, you intercept when it starts to trail to your cheek. Instead, you slide it slowly down your neck to your chest. You stare at his helmet. “Is this okay?” Your voice is a whisper. 

“Yes,” his voice equally as quiet as yours. 

His hand cups your breast, your eyes don’t leave his helmet. 

“If I asked you to touch me, would you do it?” 

He grabs both of your wrists and pulls you into his lap. The beskar is cold against your bare legs. “Anything you want, it’s yours,” his voice is airy. “Tell me what you need.”

You take his hands and slip them under you tunic. The contrast of his warm hands with the cold beskar made the warmth grow between your legs.  

“I need..” Your voice trails as his hands travel up, inching closer to the curve under your breasts. You wrap your arms loosely around his neck and stare half-lidded into his visor. The words seem to choke you as his hands reach their destination and rough finger pads graze over your nipples. Your hips grind down against him at the sensation and you feel his own arousal growing between you. Your head lowers to rest against the side of his helmet and you can smell his skin briefly, tucked away under his fly suit. It’s a mix of his soap and pine and sweat and its absolutely intoxicating. 

“Talk to me, pretty girl,” he murmurs into your ear. “Please.” He’s breathless and you know he’s unsure what to do next. How far would you take this? Would he overstep boundaries? He wants whatever you’ll give him, but he needs you to let him know. This ache inside of him is frightening and unfamiliar and its tormented him since the moment he first saw you in that market place. The way you took the Crest and made it from a cold empty ship to a cozy little home for him and his child. The way you spoke every thought that came to your head. The way you never placed judgment on his lifestyle or diminished the importance of his Creed. 

“I want you to touch me everywhere,” your voice doesn’t sound like your own. This feels otherworldly. “I want to feel you. Please.” 

He sighs, his head falling into the headrest and exposing a small sliver of skin on his neck. He hesitates for a moment, then mumbles, “Close your eyes.” 

You clamp them shut.

“You can’t open them. No matter what.”

You shake your head quickly, the weight of what he was asking you to do setting in. Your mouth is dry, “I’ll keep them closed. I promise.”

You hear a hiss and then a hunk of metal crashing to the floor. “I know you will,” his voice, raw and unfiltered, reverberated throughout your body. 

Your lips turn up into a smile. “Your voice is perfect.”

His palm presses to the back of your neck, gently pulling you towards him and you feel his forehead press gently against yours. His nose brushes yours and you can feel the stubble of a five o’clock shadow scratching softly against your cheek. And then plush lips graze yours, hesitant at first, like he’s testing the waters before diving in. You part your lips, granting him permission to make you his. 

His hand reaches down to where your legs meet and he traces quick light circles over your shorts, as you inhale sharply. 

“Is this okay?” He says into your mouth. You’ve soaked through your shorts already and he’s only kissed you.

Words won’t form so you nod.

“So wet already,” his words are slurring together. “Is it for me?”

“Only you,” you exhale. His small circles quicken and your head rolls back. You feel the burning sensation growing in your belly, you’re so close already. He pauses briefly to yank away your shirt, cursing under his breath as your tits bounce freely. His hand resumes its busy work, while his mouth takes to your nipple and sucks greedily. His other arm wraps around your waist holding you in place as you squirm in his lap, pleasure over taking your body. 

“I’m gonna-“ your voice falters, “Please-“ 

“Cum for me, pretty girl,” he says, releasing your nipple with a small pop. “I want to watch you cum on my hand.”

It wrecks through your body, all the way down to your toes. But he’s not done yet, not even close. You don’t even get a chance to catch your breath when suddenly your lifted off his lap and laid gently on the floor of the cockpit. Your chest is heaving, spent from the weight of your orgasm, as you listen to the clanking of metal against each other. He’s removing his armor.  You feel light fingertips fluttering at the elastic of your shorts and you raise your hips to comply with their request. 

“Fuck,” he sighs, once the last thing keep your bodies apart is removed. “Look how ready you are for me.”

Your cheeks burn as lay out on display for him. Your legs cross shyly until you feel his hands gently pushing them open. “Is this okay?” He says, lips pressed against your thigh. 

“Mmm,” is all that you could muster as a response. 

“Good girl,” his breath is hot on your skin. “I can’t wait to taste you.”

A gasp escapes your lips when you feel his hot tongue drag against you. It spreads you open effortlessly and begins to make small circles on your sensitive nub. Your body tenses and you instinctively latch on to his hair. It’s softy and wavy under your touch. The thought that this is your first time feeling him so closely flashes through your mind, but you’re far too preoccupied with the sensation building within you to consider it too closely.  

“It’s- I’m gonna-“ you stammer. 

And before you can peak, he suddenly pulls away. “The next time you cum,” he’s out of breath and his voice is rough, “It’ll be on my cock.”

And suddenly, you’re filled to the brim. You moan loudly as your body stretches to accommodate his girth and moan again as you feel his bare chest come to rest on yours, his lips decorating your neck with kisses. 

“You feel,” he sighs, “So good. Fuck.”

All you can do is grip his back as he completely unravels you with the first thrust. You’re whimpering beneath him as he quickens his pacing, loving the sound of your bodies colliding over and over again.  He hits every spot you need. It’s too overwhelming for you; the feeling of his smooth skin against you, the delicious fullness inside of you, and his hot breath and quiet moans in your ear. You come undone, back arching into him, lips crushed against his neck. The Mandalorian couldn’t hold back any longer either. 

“Fuck, I’m gonna-“ he chokes out, “Where should I-?

“Inside,” you gasp out. “Safe.” 

He moans lowly, spilling into you as his pace slows down and eventually halts. You feel a hand caress your cheek and a kiss placed gently on your forehead. So much he wanted to say, and yet the courage to do so evaded him. 

He’ll find the words someday. And he knows you’ll be there to help him with the search. 

[rexxdjarin]

💕👀❓

Ask game !

💕 How is your OC like with physical affection? What are their boundries? Do they enjoy being touched or is that a no-go? Is there any reason behind this?

So my OC/reader in Captain’s Log loves physical affection and she’s actually the one who teaches Rex the beauty of what that feels like. She loves little touches, to touch and be touched…circles on her back, caressing over Rex’s face, especially his jaw and cheek bones.

However, she highly dislikes being touched if she’s angry at her partner after a fight or something and needs time to cool off. In situations like that, no touching is allowed until they have a conversation and smooth things out.

And she absolutely HATES unwanted touching from strangers since it’s something she finds intimate and doesn’t want just anyone feeling entitled to her physical being. Her body is for herself and for Rex.

Combining these two !!

👀 Describe your OC through the eyes of another person! (bonus + specify who) +❓A random fact or short drabble! Or make up your own question to ask the OC!

This is through Echo’s eyes, who’d always had a crush on Reader before Rex essentially got there first:

“The 501st was dispatched to a senators conference/party of some kind once years ago because Padmé wanted Anakin there and it was just convenient that they be the ones assigned the protection detail. Echo and Fives, always partners of course, found themselves assigned to patrol the hallways of the palace that night.

Echo first sees her storming away from what he was pretty sure was Rex’s position and her dress is absolutely drenched. She was beautiful to him, dark hair, even darker eyes and heavy brows pinched together in anger that made her look so fucking passionate and pretty. Kind of like how you just can’t stop staring at a fire as it swells and climbs higher or how sometimes you just can’t look away from an explosion.

It looked like someone spilled a lot of something down the front of her and ruined a look that must’ve taken her hours to do. No wonder she was mad. Fives stood mouth agape next to him, very clearly noticing how the wet fabric now clung to every part of her body. Of course that’s what Fives notices first. They both turn to look at each other realizing she’s in distress and that it could technically be considered part of their assignment to help her out.

“Miss, are you alright?” Echo called out, somehow finding bravery he didn’t know he had to reach a hand out to her for help. “Here, take my hand, I’m sure my brother and I can find something to clean you up.” He offered, watching the outrage flaming in her big doe eyes soften at such a kind suggestion.

“Thanks…sorry you have to see me raging like this. I just- I can’t believe this happened. How can he pay so little attention to where he’s going?” She asked out loud, handing Echo her small bag filled with way too personal shit.

Fives looked around before kicking open the door of a bathroom in the hallway and ushering us all inside. “Who did this? What happened?” He asked, his jaw tightening as if he was mentally preparing himself to slug the face of whatever imbecile did this to her.

“One of yours.” She sighed, the huff of air blowing loose strands that had fallen from her carefully constructed updo off her cheeks. Echo didn’t think he’d ever seen someone look so put together and so stunning when they were so obviously flustered. He took several deep breaths to calm himself before firing up a cleaning droid in the corner of the room.

“Which one? Description? Colors? Name if you’ve got it.” Fives questioned, cracking his knuckles and chuckling. “Because he’s about to be in deep shit.” If there’s one thing Fives couldn’t stand, it was an idiot bothering women, especially one this pretty.

“Ordering other ones around. Too busy planning something to watch where his broad fucking shoulders are going.” She chuckled, clearly annoyed but not enough to pretend she hadn’t noticed something moderately pleasing to the eye. Echo watched her eyes twinkle with mischief, lips drawing into smirk. “Cute though. Blue, 501st, I think. Blonde?”

Echo turned to glare at Fives when he realized who she was talking about. The Captain. Whose ass they definitely could not and would not beat. “Shit that’s our Captain. How’d you fluster him enough that this happened? He’s never that reckless.”

“I dunno. You think I might’ve had an affect on him?” She asked, her gaze bouncing between Echo’s face and Fives’. Echo was almost positive that’s what happened. Rex would never fuck up anything, especially not on the job, unless he was really affected by something. Or in this case someone. And he definitely didn’t blame him. If he watched this angel walk by in a dress like this, he probably would’ve fallen on his face too.

No sooner had he opened his mouth to answer her, there was a knock on the door, before it flew open. “Uhm miss? I’m- I didn’t mean to- I’m so sorry. I- don’t know what I was doing. I apologize.” Rex stood there, empty tray in hand, fumbling for words. And immediately Echo knew. His Captain was struck by her too. Literally ran into her. Echo knew better than to stand in the way of fate and he stood up, motioning to Fives their need to get lost. Their superior, their best friend, their most headstrong brother, had already captured the attention of the prettiest woman Echo had ever seen.

Always observant and caring, always thinking of his brother’s feelings, Echo let himself forget how starry-eyed he felt the first time he saw her. She’d chosen his brother or maybe he was chosen for her. And that was that. Echo would wait.