#but I think we might end up calling her BeeBee day to day

[im-fairly-whitty]

Everyone look at my newly adopted kitty I’m love her.

[ashxllbey]

Starman - Poe Dameron x fem!reader - Chapter 23: Sweet Child O' Mine

GIF by benjaminbarnes

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Word count: 12k2 Warnings: swearing, fluff, brief description of physical injuries.

It positively wasn't Y/N's best day. It probably ranked top five of the worst days she had had in her life, and she had had a LOT of those. Waking up in the medical ward —again— with an agonizing headache wasn't fun. Remembering why she was waking up in the medical ward with an excruciating headache was worse. Someone had the presence of mind to dim the light prior to her awakening, and she opened her eyes without burning them off her skull.  It wasn't surprising to find Rey sitting on a chair next to the bed and AreToo waiting by her side. "How long have I been out?" the pilot grumbled, sitting on the bed's side. Rey hummed. "Fifteen minutes tops. Feron wasn't too worried for you. He took some of your blood to check. " There was a pause, and the room held its breath, too. "Y/N, I'm sorry-" "Rey, it's not your fault-" Both of them fell silent before laughing. The Jedi sighed. "No, please, let me go first. I'm sorry. Not for what happened, because you wanted to do it, but… For what happened. I saw it, too. Your memory. I… I don't know what to tell you. I can't imagine how you're feeling right now. " How was she feeling? Y/N didn't know. Lost. That was her first reaction. The implications of that discovery —or rediscovery, rather— we're just as obscure as the implications of the droid incident. But she was also angry. Really, really angry. At Ren— well, Ben, but also at herself. How come she hadn't recognized the man she knew when she had walked into the meeting room that day?! How come her brain was so fucked up she couldn't even remember someone she had considered her brother? How come she didn't remember training to be a Jedi? It was all too much, just way too much at once. Y/N had just told Rey she wouldn't entertain the idea of following in her footsteps, just to find out minutes later that she had already done so. Y/N had learned too much in one sitting. One- it was Han who had taught her how to fly. Han Solo. The legend. Two- if she remembered the Millenium Falcon, it was because she had piloted it when she was only a teenager. Three- she had left the Navy to train as a Jedi under Skywalker's tutelage. Four- she had known General Organa.  Five- Ben Solo, a.k.a Kylo Ren, was her childhood best friend. Six- he had tried to kill her, had left her for dead after killing all of the other Padawans and thinking he had killed Skywalker, too. Seven- her life was a fucking mess of epic proportions. Bits and pieces started making sense. Why Y/N knew how to speak Wookie —she had probably gotten acquainted with Chewbacca when she was a child— and why she was so good a pilot already upon her arrival in the First Order. Why she couldn't remember anything — the memory loss had probably been caused by the massive blow to the head she had suffered during her fight. How Ren knew she was Force-sensitive — because he had been fucking training with her for almost a year. It didn't explain why Chewie or R2D2 or C-3PO acted like they didn't know her. Or why Ren hadn't finished the job when they had met again. Or- "Y/N. Don't do that to yourself. " Rey's soft voice cut through her rampaging thoughts, shutting down her spiraling. "I'm just so… Tired," Y/N breathed out. "It's one bomb dropping after the other. I went from a perfectly everyday life… Well. Somewhat normal. To this mess in a matter of days. I'm just so exhausted. I need to process this. And focus on being a pilot. It's my only safe space right now. " Mainly because her own head felt like it was on fire. It was probably a mix of the pain from the mind-probing, the spice she was still high on, and the overwhelming amount of information, but Y/N had a spectacular migraine. "I'll be there when you want to talk about it, " Rey offered. "Believe me or not, I… I know what it's like to discover something huge like this about yourself. " She had that look in her eyes again; Y/N opened her mouth to press the matter further but was interrupted by a droid rolling into the room. “Greetings-patient-Thunderbird. You-have-a-visitor-requesting-entrance. Identity: General-Poe-Dameron-and-one-BB-unit-model-eight-“ "Poe is- yeah, of course, let him in, " Y/N mumbled. It was better to face him now than later, and he had been so adamant it was a bad idea that delaying the discussion would only make things worse. Besides, if she wanted to go on the mission the following day, she needed to convince him she was alright. The droid went back out, leaving the two women alone again. "Rey, I need you to not tell him anything for now. " "Of course. " "Thank you. Also… Why didn't he just come in? " Rey smirked not so subtly. "Because I told Feron to wait before calling anyone in. And because he isn't your primary emergency contact. " Correct. Y/N had put Klana's name. She frowned. "Okay, but then, can't I add him too? " "You technically could… if he were your boyfriend. You can only have one non-family emergency contact. For privacy reasons. " Y/N mulled over her words. It was challenging to think straight when the spice was still clouding her mind. "Well, that's fucking stupid. " "There's an easy fix, though, " Rey shrugged. She had a grin on her face, and her eyes twinkled in amusement. Y/N frowned. She thought about it harder. "Hold on a second. What are you trying to tell me-"

The door whooshed open, letting in a cheery droid and one annoyed pilot. Both of them stopped when they saw Y/N sitting, alive and well, and Poe ran a hand over his face, messing his hair in the process. "Thank the Force you're awake. That damn droid wouldn't tell me anything. " He paused, considering, and his eyes fell on Rey. The Jedi was staring at him, expressionless.  "Well. I take it back. It's definitely NOT thanks to the Force," he added in a cold voice, with frigid emphasis on the last word. Rey winced but didn't say anything. Then, he turned back to Y/N, his eyes softening slightly. "I told you it was a bad idea. " "You just love being right, don't you, Porg Head? " Y/N joked. Poe pursed his lips. "You're a very, very difficult woman, you know that? " "You're one to talk. " "Why do I put up with you? " Poe sighed ostentatiously. "Because I'm awesome and make your life ten times more interesting. " One side glance at Rey informed Y/N that the Jedi probably would get some popcorn if she could. The smirk on her face was enough to tell her they needed to cut it off. But… It was so pleasant. In mere seconds, Poe had managed to take her mind off the drama that had unfurled earlier on. He had such a calming presence. Or perhaps it was the spice talking.  After a moment of silence, a soft frown settled on his face, and he gently asked: "Are you okay? You look… Well, frankly, you look really out of it. " "That's because I'm high as a fucking kite, General," Y/N laughed. Poe gasped and turned to Rey in horror. "You drugged her?!" "I gave her something to help with the probing," Rey defended herself, crossing her arms on her chest. "You wouldn't have wanted me to hurt her, would you? " Poe grumbled something incoherent, staring at Y/N with a mix of worry and annoyance. "What did you give her?" Rey bit her lip. "Hum. Glitterstim. " Poe turned around so fast that he must have given himself whiplash. He was furious. "YOU KRIFFING GAVE HER GLITTERSTIM?! Are you out of your damn mind?! Rey! Don't you know the side effects of that thing? " "By Malachor, Poe. I'm not dead," Y/N interrupted with a sigh. "Now, please, stop yelling. My head hurts, and you're not helping," she mumbled. She massaged her temples and closed her eyes, trying to block the hallucinations. She saw double, and the edges of her vision were dancing. This at least got Poe to calm down. He apologized to Rey, rubbing the back of his neck sheepishly. "I'm sorry. It's just… I've seen firsthand what that stuff does to people. Sorry for yelling, Y/N. I didn't mean to make things worse. " Ah, yes, he used to be a spice runner. Y/N nodded in silence but didn't open her eyes. She knew it would pass in less than an hour or so, but in the meantime, she was stuck feeling ecstatic and quite tired. Not a particularly pleasant mix. "Did it actually work? " He asked again, and this time, Y/N opened her eyes. Her gaze fell on Poe, and the look she gave him must have been enough indication because she saw his face falling. "…How bad is it? " "I don't want to talk about it. "

Her voice was so cold it took everyone by surprise. Y/N shared a look with Rey, who merely nodded in understanding. She wouldn't tell a soul. Feron chose this moment to return, entering with a chart and a spring in his step, followed by a waddling C-3PO. He must have been back with her bloodwork. "Well, my dear patient, I have good news- oh, General. Fancy seeing you here. " A look around the room told him there were far too many people in one room for his liking. Y/N knew that face, the one medics made when someone stood between them and their patient. BB-8 must have recognized it, too, because the adorable droid beeped, informing Poe he would wait out, and rolled out of the way. The General sat down next to Rey, arms crossed. Feron turned to his patient with his eyebrows raised, and Y/N waved his concerns away. "Poe can stay. He knows more about my medical history than anyone at this point. " This got a snort out of the pilot. "Not my fault that I get to stitch you up every time you do something stupid." And she certainly wasn't going to complain. "Alright, in that case… I'm happy to report your fainting wasn't caused by any exterior intervention. Your blood sugar is really low, and your blood pressure was, as well. Basically, you passed out from exhaustion and undernutrition. I assume you didn't eat much today? " Ah, shit. That was embarrassing. Y/N winced. "Not really, no. " "Well, Lieutenant, you ought to get some food. Using the Force can cause severe fatigue, as can an intense workout. I gave you some tabs to fix it, but you'll need a proper meal. " She really wasn't hungry. If anything, her stomach was in knots from the anxiety she had experienced earlier. Now that Rey had unlocked it, her memories of that night were playing freely in her mind, and it made her sick. "Will do," she managed to mumble. Feron raised an eyebrow but didn't comment on it. Instead, he went to one of the cabinets, rummaged through its content, and grabbed a syringe. Y/N grimaced in anticipation as he came next to her and disinfected her neck. "What's that? " "That's going to sober you up. It's a drug antidote. I need to inject it into your jugular vein, though, so it's going to hurt. " Y/N tilted her head to the side with a determined sigh. "Do your worst, doc. " With a mumbled apology, Feron jabbed the needle into her skin, and Y/N cursed, feeling the product burn on its way in as he injected it slowly. He then gave her a compress and let her hold it as he discarded the syringe. He had just finished cleaning his hands when his computer beeped loudly. With a frown, Feron went to the screen, read it, and gasped. His eyes widened in surprise, and he yelped and clapped his hands in delight. Under everyone's stunned gaze. "Something worth sharing with the group, doc? " Poe asked, visibly confused. Feron smiled. "I knew I wasn't crazy. I KNEW it! Sorry. It's your midi-chlorian test. It came back. I ran one on the sample I took; might as well, considering the situation. A little shy of thirteen thousand. Jedi grade. " That… Wasn't very informative. Y/N looked at Rey for an explanation, and the Jedi shrugged. "Normal count ranges from five hundred to twenty-five hundreds for the highest limit. You start being considered for Jedi training at nine thousand. " Okay. THAT was informative. And slightly concerning. It also made her wonder why Luke had refused to train her, as she had heard Ben mention. Assuming he wasn't lying at that time —he had no reason to— and considering past Y/N herself seemed aware of that fact. "Still makes me wonder what happened to the first tests I ran… " Feron wondered out loud. "I don't understand how they got corrupted. There wasn't anyone in the room. " Y/N mulled over that information, trying to make sense of it as silence settled around them. And then… Poe sighed. "But there was someone in the room. I should have thought about it," he all but growled at himself. The general turned around, facing AreToo, who patiently waited in a corner. "It was you, wasn't it, AreToo? You're the one who tampered with the results of Y/N's test. " The droid turned his head toward Poe, then toward Y/N, then toward C-3PO, who hadn't said a thing. Which was… Very out of character for the talkative droid. He started letting out beeps in rapid succession, entrusting his droid friend with the translation. Threepio flinched, staring at R2D2. "Oh, dear! Are you quite serious? " "Threepio. Translation," Poe grumbled, his patience running thin. The droid turned to him, taking a few tentative steps in the humans' direction. "What AreToo is saying… Oh, dear. He has informed me that he did, indeed, tamper with your results, Mistress Y/N. He apologizes, but he was only carrying the orders given. " "By whom? " Y/N asked, though she already suspected she knew the answer. "By General Organa, Miss. Mistress Leia asked us both to protect your identity and sensitivity at all costs. This was for your own safety. In case Master Solo tried to come back for you. " Poe blinked in confusion. "Why do I have a feeling you're not talking about Han…? "He trailed off. "Because he's not," Y/N answered in place of the droid, her voice fading. "He's talking about Ben. " "Mistress Leia was very adamant we protected your identity. Nobody was to know of your situation." "Threepio, is this why you pretended not to recognize me when we met the other day? Because we knew each other, didn't we? " The droid's yellow eyes landed on her, and he stopped moving altogether, his elbows sticking out as they often did. He was caught off guard. Poe watched the conversation in confused silence, Rey was dismayed and silent, and Feron… The poor doctor did his best to avoid looking at anyone and busied himself with his datapad. "That is correct. I participated in your childhood. If you must know, I taught you to speak Wookie, as you had requested. I must apologize, Miss Y/N. I was trying to honor my mission. Had I thought it would cause you any distress, I would have told you-" "Threepio, you did great," the woman interrupted. She had noticed he got very flustered when he thought he had done something wrong. "You completed your mission. " This seemed to calm his nerves. He looked around him tentatively. "Oh! I am pleased to hear this, Miss Y/N. Can I be of assistance in any other way? " She smiled tiredly at him. "Not for the moment, Threepio. " "Very well. Then, I shall take my leave and return to Miss Omaso to update my translation program. " With one last look at R2D2, C-3PO saluted Poe, then Rey, then Feron, and went out of the room on his shaky legs.

Y/N was glad she was sitting, or she wouldn't have been steady on her own feet. "AreToo. Do you remember anything about the events of that night? What happened after…." She couldn't bring herself to say it. Fortunately, the droid was smart. He rolled to her side, beeping more slowly this time. Beep Beep. Luke and I found you injured. Beep Beep. We flew you back to Hosnian Prime, where Leia was staying. Beep Beep. This was the last time I saw you. Y/N frowned. That didn't make sense. "What happened when we got to Hosnian Prime? " Beep Beep. I do not remember. Archives incomplete. Files deleted by Luke Skywalker.  By Malachor. Luke sure didn't make her life easier. It was all too much. The drug had worn off and left her exhausted. Rey sensed it and walked up to Y/N, putting a reassuring hand on her shoulder. "Get some rest, Y/N. We will talk about all of this when you feel better. Today was a long day for you. " Y/N put her hand on Rey's and squeezed, smiling tiredly at the young woman. Then, she did what she had tried not to until that point; she projected her thoughts toward the Jedi. "Thank you for what you did, Rey. I know it must have been difficult for you. I'm in your debt. " She winked at the pilot and went on her way, R2D2 following her. And then, there were three. Poe hadn't said a word, and Y/N was grateful for his silence, though she could feel his curiosity burning his tongue. His arms were crossed over his chest, his jaw was tight, and his eyes were glued to Y/N. She made a point not to meet his gaze for now. "Doctor Feron, am I allowed to leave, or do you want me to stay in observation? " Feron jumped upon hearing his name, almost dropping his datapad. He cleared his throat. "Oh, no, you're discharged, provided you take care of yourself and get a good night's rest. Should you experience any headaches, feel free to drop by, and I will prescribe some painkillers. And, please, Lieutenant, do try to stay out of my medical ward, huh? I've seen an awful lot of you lately. You're on your way to beating the General's record of attendance." He was trying to brighten the mood, and Y/N gave him a genuine chuckle. "Another field in which I might best him, then. " "Now hold on a second, Keebler. There's absolutely no area of expertise where you beat me." "I can cook." "By Malachor, I should NOT have told you about that," he breathed out, feigning annoyance. Poe being his joking self and ignoring the rancor in the room, was very gracious of him. She appreciated him so much for that. After one last warning from Feron -please eat something, Y/N- the two pilots left the medical ward, leaving the smell of antiseptics behind. The hallway outside was empty, save from BB-8, who waited diligently next to a bench. He rolled up to the two humans, nudging Y/N's leg with a worried beep. "Oh, sweetheart. I'm okay. That's what you get from not eating enough. It's just been a long day. Yes, baby, I'll get some rest. Do you want to walk me to my room? That's very nice of you, honey. " Poe still hadn't said anything, but he started walking with her and his droid, hands in his pockets. The universe must have taken pity on her because they didn't meet anyone. In the distance, as they walked past the hallway leading to the cafeteria, Y/N heard Skylen's laugh, and her heart broke a little. She wanted to see him and Klana so much. But she was too exhausted to explain anything to them at the moment.  Or to Poe. Who was uncharacteristically quiet. They reached her room, and before Y/N could say anything, Poe looked down at BB-8. "You stay with her. I'll grab some food for you from the cafeteria. You take a shower, alright? " He told her.  "Poe, you don't have to do that. Besides, I know Feron told me to eat something, but I just… I'm really not hungry. " She was expecting him to admonish her, but he didn't. Instead, he nodded. "I'll get you some soup. Is that something you think you can handle? " Y/N nodded. She couldn't form any coherent sentences. He smiled, and off he went, leaving Y/N in the company of BB-8. The two of them entered her room, and the door closed. Silence. Familiarity. Peace. "Your dad is really a special man," Y/N whispered. BeeBee approved.

Diligently guarding the door to the bathroom, the droid let her know he would make sure she was under his protection as she locked herself into the room, and Y/N chuckled under her breath. He took his mission so seriously; it was the most adorable thing.  Y/N ended up staying in the shower for a solid twenty minutes, eyes closed as the water ran down her face. It washed off the scent of antiseptics, but it did nothing to help calm her nerves. It did nothing to drown the cacophony of thoughts. She was drowning in them, which was far more painful than having her lungs fill with water. Knowing felt even more terrible than not knowing. Wasn't it ironic? Y/N had spent her entire life running after her past. And now that she had solved the mystery, she wanted nothing more but to forget. Because the implications were atrocious. Or perhaps she was overreacting. Poe would tell her since he was her moral compass. But did she have the strength to go over what had happened with him? It didn't help their current case, did it? It wouldn't help them solve the mystery behind the bounty or the kidnappings. They were just getting sidetracked by ghosts.  The water, left untouched, was getting colder, or at least, it felt like it. Y/N got out of the shower, put her head under the wall-mounted hairdryer after vigorously rubbing her scalp, and put up her damp locks into two braids. As her fingers brushed against the skin of her scalp, she felt a bump - her scar. Of course, she had noticed it before and had always figured it was a trace left by a fight. But she realized it was in the exact spot her head had hit the tree that night. Y/N nearly ripped the strand of hair from her scalp, hurrying up and tying up the braids. They were looser than usual, but it didn't matter.  Satisfied with the hairdo, she put on a robe (one Klana had given her, insisting she needed proper sleepwear) and left the bathroom, mindful of BeeBee, who was still waiting in front of the door. "I'm alright, baby," she told him as she walked into the room. "Sorry, it took- by Malachor!" She yelped in surprise, finding Poe sitting at her desk with his datapad. He looked up, and his eyes widened. He dropped the datapad, juggling with it as he tried to stop it from falling. He failed, and the device hit the carpet with a thud. "I'm so sorry! Didn't mean to startle you." As Poe leaned to the side, picking up the datapad, Y/N noticed he had kept his word. There was a bowl of soup on the small table, alongside a cup of tea (she assumed), bread, and- "Are those chocolate puddings?" she asked in disbelief. "I had to negotiate with the droid. It's usually one per person. I snagged two. Pretty impressive, if you ask me. " Y/N let out a genuine laugh, face breaking into a smile. She had already forgotten the earlier scare, even though BeeBee admonished his human, reminding Poe that the doctor had prescribed some sleep and not him scaring the living shit out of her. Sheepishly, Poe apologized as his pilot sat down in front of him. "It's alright. I was lost in my thoughts; I should have realized you'd let yourself in. " The soup was appetizing enough. To be honest, it looked delicious - a rich broth, full of flavors and smells, with pieces of mushrooms floating on the surface. Two halves of an egg had been added. It wasn't much, but it was enough to cause Y/N some discomfort. She was hungry, but the pit in her stomach seemed insurmountable. Still, she had to try- for Poe. And for the sake of avoiding yet another visit to Feron. Tentatively, Y/N picked up the spoon, dipping it into the liquid. She swallowed it before her body had any time to protest. It was good. Poe had picked up his datapad again, politely avoiding looking at her while typing. After two more spoons, Y/N asked: "So, what's the game plan for tomorrow?" He locked the device. "I didn't send the briefing yet, I'm sorry. " She shrugged. "That's alright; you've been busy. But since you're here anyway, might as well tell me face to face, no?" He must have sensed she was trying not to talk about the bantha in the room. Poe diligently grabbed the opportunity.  "Well, we're going to Chandrila. As you're aware, there's been some kidnapping activity in the Senate-ran planets lately, and some of the missing people we didn't rescue have been winding up dead all around the Galaxy. More specifically, in three locations: around Coruscant in the Deep Core, in the Bryx Sector, and around Forsen. " Y/N frowned. That last name rang a bell. "Isn't that Chancellor Xalun's home planet?" Poe nodded. "And it's also really close to Ajan Kloss. So… Whoever is in charge of disposing of the bodies is doing it purposely on these planets. To send a message. " Poe nodded again. "That's what we think, anyway. We're going to Chandrila to talk to the local police. They found a body this morning, and we're gonna fly around to look for any suspicious activity and get there before the Senate doctors do. " Ah. This was their actual plan all along, wasn't it? Y/N hummed in understanding. "You think they're covering up something? " "I don't know. Can't be too sure. I called ahead and asked the head of security for a favor. He's an ex-pilot of ours. Agreed to keep the body stored and report it tomorrow morning only. Gives us plenty of time to get there before they do and make sure no clue mysteriously disappears. Things are moving in the outer regions. I have a bad feeling about it. " Hm. Everything did seem to have a peculiar timing. At least they had a leg up, this time, and a chance -even a slim one- to uncover a portion of the truth. It was worth a shot. Y/N nodded, determined. "If there's anything to find out, we will." Poe chuckled as Y/N ate her soup, giving her other details about the mission. It was… nice to be briefed by Poe like this. And it gave her a sense of normalcy, even if it was a facade. A few hours to Chandrila, then a couple of hours on the planet, then back to Kuat. It was nice to have a game plan for once. Perhaps they were one step closer to figuring out what was going on. Who was after Poe, who was behind the disappearances, who had gotten the mafia involved?  "After that, we'll have a twelve hours break, and then, it'll be time for your first training session." This caught Y/N's attention. She looked up at Poe, who was purposely staring at the pudding, trying to appear nonchalant. It wasn't quite working out. "Alright," Y/N simply answered, eating more soup. He paused. "I wasn't expecting that answer."

She laughed. "What, you thought I would chicken out? I promised you I would try. Besides, it'll be nice to put my skills to good use. And chose what I do with them." The recent findings came back to her mind, and her smile fell. There was this visceral need to control the narrative again, reclaim a sense of ownership over her own life and goals. To dissociate Ren from who she was now. Poe was quiet. He studied her in silence, hazel eyes roaming her face. She took a shaky breath in. It was time, wasn't it? Y/N opened her mouth, but he beat her to it. "Don't," he said softly. She closed her mouth. "I know what you're about to do. What you- think you have to do. But you don't owe me anything." How- She had the most challenging time gulping down the lump in her throat. She could feel her emotions rising and threatening to spill out. "How do you always do that? " Y/N squeaked out. Poe raised an eyebrow as if he hadn't just read her like an open book. "What? Do what? " "Know exactly what to say. What I was going to say. " He shrugged sheepishly. "I don't know, I guess… I just know you well. " …He did. He really did. This simple sentence made her realize Poe knew just exactly who she was. Who she had been, yes, but who she was now, too. He was smart enough to have his own opinion. She didn't have to hide things for fear of how he would react. Besides… They were friends. And Y/N could need a friend to talk to. She stared at the puddings in front of her with hollow eyes. "Have you ever been betrayed by someone close to you? I don't mean a coworker or a fellow pilot. I mean someone you actually trusted, maybe even loved. " Poe fell dead silent. He couldn't have anticipated the question, yet Y/N could almost hear the wheels turning in his head. He wasn't surprised in the slightest.  Still. Poe's eyes got lost in the past for a second before he answered: "Yes. " Poe ran a hand on his face, pushing the curls away. They fell right back into place. "She was an ex-pilot. A good friend of mine. At least I thought so because she tried to sell Resistance secrets for that journal she worked for. Tried to use our friendship to make a quick buck. She almost got the location of our base. " It was pretty obvious he was upset, even angry, about this. He grumbled. "She later apologized and joined forces with us, though. But I was still pretty pissed. I mean, she did make Black Squadron at the time and saved my life, so I guess she made it up to us. " Y/N squinted ever so slightly. "You liked her. " He grumbled even harder. "Shut up. " HAH! "And I'm the one with a type, huh? " He glared at her, unamused, before breaking into a smile. "I guess I can see your point. " "Oh, can you, now? " He rolled his eyes.   "Why are you asking? " He added after a moment of silence. Y/N's smile disappeared. There had been a point to her question. She licked her lips. They were dry, despite the soup she had just eaten. Opening her mouth, then closing it again, she tried to come up with an answer but could only find more questions. "How- how did you move past it? " He frowned. "I don't really know. I guess… In our line of work, you get used to being disappointed." A fair answer. He was worried; now, she could see it. And he was also burning to ask more questions but knew better. Silence stretched on between them. There wasn't a single noise in the room until Y/N let out the tiniest sigh. "I was there. " Silence. "The night of the fall of the Jedi Order. I was there, Poe." To his credit, he did try his best to hide the look of utter disbelief on his face. He really did. "You- we were right. I did know Ren before I joined. I was… We were Luke's padawans. We grew up together. And that night, when he tried to kill Luke when he killed everyone else, I was… I was here. " Silence. Y/N took it as an incentive to go on. "I remember everything. I remember feeling death around me, knowing all of my friends, the padawans, were dead. I remember… I remember running after a figure in the dark, only to find out R-Ben. " The pictures were playing in her head, over and over again, as they had been all afternoon. The memory was crystal clear, and Y/N didn't know if she was grateful for it or not. "I remember the fear I felt, the confusion. But most of all… I remember feeling Ben's pain when I drew my lightsaber and tried to stop him. " Poe cursed. An appropriate reaction. "I remember the pull of the dark side. Ben invited me to join him. To run away from the Jedi, to live freely together. And I considered it, you know? I thought I could come with him and then be the voice of reason. But I couldn't do that at the time. And he… He tried to kill me, Poe. I think he was convinced he succeeded. He was my brother, and he left me for dead to join Snoke. " Her voice broke at the end as she got choked up, and she had to take a shaky breath. "I can't help but feel like it's my fault, you know? If I had managed to stop him. If I had gone with him, perhaps things would have been different. But I couldn't do it. He's the reason I'm like this today; I broke my skull in the fight. I think he's the one who caused my amnesia. I'm fucking ANGRY, Poe. I am SO angry. Not only because he betrayed me, but because he acted like he never did. He took me in and pretended we were perfect strangers when he was my brother. We grew up together. We fought together; I would have DIED for him. And I am so, SO sick and tired of men betraying me," she spat. "He stole my life from me, TWICE. And now he is dead, and I can't even tell him all that. I can't get revenge; I can't ask him why. I can't tell him to go to hell. So what the hell do I do now?!" She hadn't realized she was crying until Poe's hand gently wiped off the tears on her cheek. He had a look of concern on his face. "I'm so sorry, Y/N. " "No, I'm sorry. I'm such a mess, I-" He stood up, walked over to her side of the table, extended his hand to get her to stand up, and hugged her. Y/N felt the tension leaving her shoulders.  He just stood there, one hand on her back, the other on the back of her head. Poe was taller than her, and Y/N's face fitted perfectly on his shoulder. She rested her head right there, basking in his comforting presence. Her heart was beating like crazy, and it wasn't entirely from her outburst. The things he did to her. They stayed here, unmoving, for a long time. BB-8 rested his head against her head, hugging her in his own way. Y/N had rarely felt so calm. Despite her earlier experience, despite learning the truth- she was calm. Because she had Poe and nothing would ever go completely wrong when he was there. "I'm sorry. You never deserved any of this," Poe murmured in her hair after a while. "And none of this is your fault. None of it, you understand?" She nodded in silence against his shoulder.

They stayed immobile for a long time, and Poe didn't once loosen his grip on her, holding her tightly against his chest. He didn't say anything either. Words were futile anyway; there was nothing he could tell her that would soften the blow she had already taken. Still, after a few minutes of stillness, Y/N took a step back, compelled by the noise that had just broken the silence. A low growl. "Poe. Have you eaten today?" "This morning." "And since?" He hesitated. "I was going to, but then..." She hummed and grabbed one of the chocolate puddings he had brought her. "Share one with me?" Poe smiled. "I got them for you." "And I'm choosing to sacrifice one for the greater good." He snorted but sat down facing her, taking the lid off. Handing him one of the teaspoons, Y/N dug hers into the dark-colored paste. It was slightly too sweet for her liking, but it tasted good. "Realistically, I know you're right," she said after a moment. "I know it's not my fault. But still... Seeing Ben, knowing I was this close to stopping him... Not once, but several times? I just don't understand why he did all of this. Leia was so worried about him finding out I was alive that she swore the droids to secrecy. And yet, after all those years, he started training me when we met again? It just doesn't make sense!" she exclaimed, accidentally hitting the table. The empty chocolate pudding toppled over. Y/N put it back up with pursed lips. All of this was just so confusing. "Actually," Poe quietly chimed in, "it does make sense." His tone was careful, and his eyes were so intently fixed on her that Y/N knew he was watching her reaction. She had a feeling she wouldn't like it. "How?" He hesitated. "Poe, honestly, there's nothing you could tell me that would be worse than me finding out the man I thought to be my brother, who killed his father, who was a friend, tried to murder me too." He paused and then groaned. "Okay, yeah, when you put it like that... I think he knew exactly what he was doing. I don't know how or when exactly, but Ren knew Luke wasn't dead. I mean, he tried to find him, and that's the whole reason he kidnapped me in the first place..." Poe shook his head at that memory. Y/N knew he still struggled with the aftermath of that meeting, sometimes. The torture... She shuddered at the mere thought. "Anyway. Ren knew Luke was alive and wanted to destroy everything he stood for, right? Us. The Resistance. The Jedi. And what better way to do that than... To turn his uncle's protégée into a Sith and make you his padawan?" ...Mother of Force. Poe was right. Y/N froze, eyes lost in the distance, cutting through time and space. All of these training sessions, the meditation lessons. Her, stealing Jedi artifacts during the missions Ren had sent her on.  "He wanted revenge. Corrupting you was one way to get it, and it was the most gigantic 'screw you' he could ever pull off. Destroying not only your former identity but everything you ever stood for." She pressed her hands against her mouth as if to stop herself from yelling into the void. The depth of Ben's betrayal was just dawning on her. All of this had been part of his plan. He had cultivated her old training, the talents she had pledged to Luke and the Force, for his own benefits. All of this while keeping the Force at bay to ensure she wouldn't reconnect with her old life.  The feeling sunk deep in the pit of her stomach, trickling down her spine as well, chilling her to her very soul.  The bastard.  The motherkriffing bastard. She shook her head. "Ren, you scheming, evil, son of a mudscruffer." "He didn't succeed, though," Poe added calmly. "Because you left. He tried very hard to make you his padawan. But you didn't cave in, Y/N. You never caved in." Y/N gave him a dark chuckle. "You think?" "No. I know it."

Silence stretched on, only interrupted by BeeBee's low beeping as he voiced his support. Y/N absentmindedly caressed his head. "You're right. And at least, now, I know. I wish I had figured it out sooner, though. I wish there had been a way to know what he was planning. A way to get into his mind-" She stopped mid-sentence, her mouth agape, as a memory hit her like a star destroyer at lightspeed. "Oh Force, Poe, I think I know how we can find the mole," she whispered. How come she hadn't thought of it sooner?! Poe jumped to his feet, startled by the change of topic, as it was both unexpected and so sudden. "What?! How?!" "Ren. When- okay. Remember when I told you our missions were confidential? The only two people who knew what we were up to were... Well, him and I. Even though it was kept secret, he still had to keep track of our progress. He had to write stuff somewhere, right?" Poe frowned, obviously very lost. "Yes, I guess so." "Right. Ren couldn't write it down on the central server, correct? He would've had to keep his notes private." Poe blinked. Once. Twice. "You're telling me that Kylo Ren, leader of the Knights of Ren, kept a diary?" he asked, dead serious. That- Okay. That was one way of looking at it. Y/N giggled. "Yes. But Poe! That's not the best part! Part of the missions we went on was meant to scout new recruits. Promising students we could use to our advantage. It ranged from prisoners to bounty hunters, to politicians." Poe gasped. "No." "Yes! Anything he found useful, for Snoke or himself, he jotted down on that thing. Meaning..." "Meaning if he met someone who could have been an asset and whose name is on both his list and the Senate's records, we might find our mole," Poe finished in disbelief. Y/N nodded enthusiastically. "It's a long shot. We'd have to find his datapad, and this person might not be in here, but if they're so set against the Resistance and have invested in Imperial equipment, it's honestly possible-" He crushed her into an enthusiastic hug. "You're a kriffing genius, Y/N, by Malachor," he interrupted, laughing. She turned Sith red on the spot. "I wouldn't go that far; I just-" "Shut up. You ARE. Maker, Finn is going to lose his shit. Okay. For now, we need to focus. Where would this thing be?" He couldn't stay still and was practically bouncing from excitement, questions fusing between the two of them. Y/N thought about it for a second, awfully aware that Poe hadn't taken a step back after releasing her from his embrace. "Well. If it wasn't in his ship or on him, Kylo probably left it on the Finalizer when he turned on the First Order. The Dreadnought was out of the question; it was too close to Snoke." "He definitely didn't have it on him. Rey brought his stuff back. And his ship was empty." "Then there's a good chance it's still in his quarters," Y/N said, ecstatic. "Okay. Who do we know that could grant us access to the Finalizer discreetly?"  They exchanged a knowing glance and blurted out the same name, perfectly synchronized. "Jaso." The Chancellor's son, of course! He had been tasked with dismantling the First Order's ships, hadn't he? That was what he had told them. If anyone could sneak them into the junkyard, it was him. "I'll need to contact him myself. We can't let anyone know, and we can't go ourselves; it would draw attention." Y/N nodded. They had to be really careful with this. "It's a really long shot," she repeated. "All we ever needed was a spark of hope, Keebler." Poe was grinning. It was the happiest Y/N had seen him in days.  Hope looked good on him.

They stared at each other silently, a little breathless from the excitement. Poe's cheeks were flushed from the sudden rush of adrenaline. He laughed. "I wish I could see Ren's face. His diary might be the downfall of the separatists' last hope at rekindling the fight." How ironic it would be! Though Y/N tried to remain cautious, she couldn't help but be elated at the thought. They needed that win. "I'm going to call Finn and tell him about this. But for now..." He glanced down at his wrist. "...you need to sleep." "But-" "Y/N. Doctor's orders. You need to rest after the day you've had." His tone left no room for discussion, and Y/N bit her tongue. Truthfully, she felt a bit worn out, but she dreaded being alone with her thoughts. "You're right. I need to sleep. We have a big mission tomorrow." Poe opened his mouth to -undoubtedly- double down on his agreement but stopped to smile. "What?" Y/N asked. "Nothing. It's just... You have chocolate on your cheek." Oh, kriff! That was embarrassing. She rubbed her skin, furiously looking at erasing the evidence, but Poe shook his head, a soft smile gracing his features. "No, not here. Let me." In a gentler manner than Y/N ever expected, he wiped off her cheek, leaving a tingly sensation on her skin.  "There you go." But he didn't put his hand down, and it stayed there, against Y/N's skin, as he looked at her. There was a glimmer in his gaze, the faintest trace of something. He searched her face, eyes trying to read her like an open book. At least, it felt like it. Y/N had grown quite observant of the slightest changes in his expressions, but she wasn't familiar with that particular one.  Still, Poe was on the lookout for something specific. He wasn't speaking, wasn't moving, wasn't letting go of her cheek. Y/N was pleasantly aware of this fact as the warmth of his palm spread through her skin, coloring it a reddish hue under his fingertips. Whatever he was waiting for, he wasn't finding. Y/N's heart was beating like crazy. Sure, they had been alone up until this point, but she was now painfully aware of how alone and close they were. In her room. She wasn't sure whether to blame the emotional connexion she had formed earlier by confiding in him, but Y/N suddenly found herself wishing that he would just... Kriffing kiss her. The thought nearly made her step back, but she didn't. She was glued to the spot; her ears were buzzing, and her vision was getting blurry from focusing so hard. There was an undeniable conflict in Poe's eyes; one that seemed to be resolved after a few more seconds. Wait. Was he... leaning in? She stopped breathing altogether. The commlink beeped so loudly that Y/N yelped in surprise.  Poe dropped his hand and cursed, jolting awake from his trance-like state. He took a step back to read the message as Y/N tried to calm her pounding heart. What had just happened? She hadn't dreamed it, had she? "Speaking of the devil, it's Finn," Poe informed her. "Last minute stuff he needs me to fix before we leave tomorrow. I need to go." "Of course. Thanks for the meal." She discarded everything in the trashcan under her desk and called for a cleaning droid on her datapad while Poe grabbed his stuff. The air was thick with unspoken thoughts, tense enough to catch BeeBee's attention as he stopped between the two humans, his programming trying to make sense of something the pilots couldn't even sort out themselves. Y/N walked Poe back to the door, feeling the heaviness of upcoming sleep on her mind. She was exhausted.  As he stepped out of her quarters, standing right outside her door, Poe turned around one last time. "I'll see you tomorrow at six sharp." She nodded eagerly in response. The perspective of finally getting back in her X-Wing for an actual mission, despite it being brief, was enough to get Y/N enthusiastic. Besides, they would be one step closer to perhaps solving the mystery they were swimming in. The both of them paused for a beat. The hallway around them was quiet, save from the cleaning droid Y/N had commissioned rolling their way. But she barely paid it any mind. Her sole focus was on Poe, who was, once again, uncharacteristically quiet.  "Poe, I, uh... I appreciate what you did today. I'm sorry for always adding more drama to your plate. You're always doing your best to help me out, and I hope..." She paused. What was she hoping, precisely? That it was finally over? No. Y/N wasn't so naive. She shook her head, at a loss for words. He didn't pressure her to go on, though. He just waited patiently. She gave him a small smile. "I appreciate you." Before she could think about it, let alone stop herself, she leaned forward and kissed him on the cheek. His 3 o'clock shadow tickled her lips. When she stepped back, his eyes were wide in surprise, but he quickly hid his shock behind one of his infamous smirks. "Thank you, Poe." "Anytime, Keebler. Sleep well." He made the faintest move forward, thought better of it, and walked away with one last look behind him. Y/N closed the door. She gasped at her own boldness. As usual, Poe was her silver lining.    By the time Poe reached the end of the hallway, his mind was more of a mess than it had been for the entire day.  His droid beeped playfully, and he looked down in annoyance. "I'm not blushing; what the hell?"  As much as he wanted to ignore the tingly feeling on his cheek, he couldn't. With a deep sigh, he started walking toward the control room, focusing on the part of their discussion that was safe to dwell on. Their shot at identifying the mole. "She's awesome," he muttered to himself. BeeBee approved, knowing precisely what he was referring to. For the first time in at least a few weeks, Poe walked into the room with renewed confidence. Certainly not for the first time, though; he was still flustered when Finn greeted him.   By the time her clock switched from four to five, Y/N was wide awake. She had passed out the night prior a few minutes after Poe had left, basking in the calmness brought by their discussion. But she had slept for nine hours straight, which was apparently more than enough. She thought about going back to sleep, or at least cozy up under the covers until she had to get up, but thought better of it. She would be cooped up inside her ship for the best part of the day; might as well stretch her legs prior to the mission. Grabbing her sportswear, she slipped out of the room and into the dim hallway, eerily silent. It was far too early for the base to be buzzing with activity, but still, some droids rolled around, going about their day obliviously. Y/N made a pit stop at the cafeteria, grabbing a cup of coffee to wake herself up. There were only two people in there; Tarsen, who was barely awake and was dozing off on his datapad, and Rey. She walked up to the Jedi. "Morning, Rey. You're up early." "So are you," she noted with a smile. "Are you going for a run before you leave?" "I am. Might as well get some fresh air before I lock myself into my ship. What about you?" "I was about to go and meditate a bit. I would ask you to come with me, but you're busy. Another time. Then, I'm leaving with Finn on a mission. The Falcon is finally ready to take off again." They were leaving?  "We'll be gone for a day or two at most," she added. Y/N sensed she was pretty excited about that. She didn't peg her as the type to stay still for days. "Finally getting some action, huh? You must be relieved." Rey cocked her head to the side. "I am, actually..." "Y/N! What in the Force's name are you doing up so early?" Ah, just the person she was looking for. Y/N bid Rey adieu, wishing the Jedi well on her quest, before turning to Klana. She also sported her workout clothes and had a curious look. It felt like they hadn't seen each other in years. "I was waiting for you, actually," she said, walking up to her friend. "I'm leaving for Chandrila in an hour, and I was wondering if I could join you for a run? We need to catch up." Klana squinted for a split second before breaking into a smile. "Of course, you can! I'll go easy on you." Y/N snorted. "I appreciate the concern, Klan', but I'm not that out of shape. I'll need to be back in forty-five minutes, though." Klana giggled, and the two of them made their way out of the building and headed for the forest. Y/N hadn't had the chance yet to explore it during the day, and her only memories of the place were quite blurred by alcohol. The last time she had been out there was for that party with Zorii.  She grimaced. "So, how have you been?" Klana asked casually, starting her stretches. Y/N imitated her, trying to decide where to start. "It's been an... eventful week." "Tell me about it. I heard, you know. About you, and, uh... that droid." "About me using the Force, you mean," Y/N corrected. "Yes. And it doesn't change anything, I hope you know that. Skylen was super excited, actually. He said he wanted to see you Force-kick Tarsen's coffee from across the room. He's made a list of things to try out, actually..." Y/N burst out laughing. It did sound like Skylen. "I know, Klana. Well. I know it doesn't change anything for you, at least. But I'll need to talk to Rey about it, eventually, especially since... Ah, I have so much stuff to tell you. We should talk while we run, or we're gonna be here all day." And off they went. By the time they stopped to drink, Y/N had barely covered her visions and the discovery of her life as a padawan. Klana's eyes were wider than they had ever been, and Y/N hadn't even gotten to the "Ren's journal" part of her story. "Holy SHIT, that's a LOT for one person to go through in a day," her friend commented, pushing back a sweaty strand of hair. Leaning against a tree, she caught her breath while trying to get her thoughts out. "Ren did you dirty." "Tell me about it," Y/N grumbled. "I'm livid. It's a good thing Poe took the time to talk to me yesterday because I would still be beating myself up otherwise." This was NOT a good topic of conversation, as she realized too late. Klana grinned. "You two have been spending an awful lot of time together lately, huh?" "No more than usual-" "Really? Because I distinctively remember him telling me you were with him and then sending me another message in the middle of the night to inform me he had walked you home." Y/N grimaced. That might have slipped her mind. "We hung out after the party. Poe took me out for a bite. Walked me home. It's no big deal. By the way, speaking of that party," she added excitedly, seeing an opportunity to change the subject, "I need to know EVERYTHING about you and Varun." "Don't try to deflect-" "Hey! I've been talking for twenty minutes! It's your turn! I want ALL the details, lady." "ALL of them?" ...Kriff. "Gross. No. Maybe keep it PG," she answered, grimacing, and Klana laughed as they started running again. Her friend did look slightly embarrassed, though, which was delightful. Y/N finally had an opportunity to tease her and get revenge for her endless jokes about Poe. Or Kit. Or everyone else, really.

They started jogging again as the forest awoke around them. It was a chilly morning but warm enough not to be uncomfortable, one of the last days of the nicer weather. Soon enough, the warm fall days would morph into the colder days announcing winter, even though the planet's climate was kind to its inhabitants.  And Y/N realized it would soon be a year since she had first stepped foot on Kuat. "He made me breakfast, you know," Klana said, snapping her friend out of her daze. "I thought we were going to just... part ways because these things always end like this. But no. It wasn't awkward; it wasn't weird. And he asked me out on a date. I'm not sure-" "Oh, you better be going, or I'll kick your ass," Y/N interrupted. Klana snorted. "Look at you, playing matchmaker." "Let me have that one! Besides, you obviously like him, and Varun is a great guy. What harm could it do? The worst thing he could do is screw with your ship if you break his heart. Nothing a droid can't fix." "Y/N!" she squealed, and they dissolved into a fit of giggles. It wouldn't be unheard of for a pilot and her mechanic to date. Even in the First Order, Y/N had walked into her fair share of awkward situations.  "I'll think about it. We have so much going on, it doesn't feel like it's the right time." "Tell me about it," Y/N muttered. "With everything going on with Poe's bounty, the kidnappings, Rey, and now, my training sessions, even if I wanted to date someone, I don't know where I'd find the time." "Hold on! What training sessions?" Klana asked, leaping over a fallen branch with ease. "Exactly how much did happen in the last twenty-four hours?!" Ah, yes. That. As they jogged toward the base, time passing, Y/N told her about Poe's new request and her new mission. The training she would have to give her fellow soldiers, the responsibilities that came with it- and everything else. "I think it's a wonderful idea," Klana commented when they finally stopped. "Poe knows what he is doing, and so do you. You're skilled in ways few can gloat about, and it can give us a leg up in a fight." "I know. I just don't know if I can teach anyone. I've never given any lessons! And the way I learned isn't really... Resistance-friendly." Being beaten black and blue every night for four years wasn't exactly an uplifting teaching method. "You'll do fine. When Poe asked me to give language classes, I wasn't sure I'd be good at it. But if you're passionate about it, it comes naturally. Be patient with yourself, alright? If you're really stressed, I'll come by and hang out for a while. But I'm sure you'll be fine." Y/N wasn't surprised to hear she had been enrolled in teaching others. Klana was a highly-skilled polyglot, and that was useful in any situation. Not everyone had access to a droid like C-3PO with extensive knowledge of all things linguistics. "Now, I'd love to stay and chat, but you need to take a shower, and you only have ten minutes left before your rendezvous. We'll catch up later. Don't keep Poe waiting for that too." Wait. What did Klana mean by 'that, too'- But before she could ask, her friend smiled and walked away, throwing a few words of encouragement over her shoulder as she disappeared inside the base. Not cool.

Y/N was happy. Back in her X-Wing, going at light speed across the Galaxy, she felt at home. Her fellow squad members zoomed forward by her side, standing in formation in the light speed tunnel. They had been flying for a few hours, and Y/N was grateful for her run with Klana. For the first time in a long time, she was at peace. Flying was her life. Being in this tiny hull, in this small seat underneath the transparisteel canopy, this was her place. She moved her head to the side, catching sight of Poe's black and orange ship. What were they flying toward, exactly? The truth? More mysteries? "Black Leader to Blue squad. Prepare to drop out of light speed. We're approaching Chandrila." One by one, the pilots disappeared from the tunnel, leaving its bright lights behind. With a deep breath, Y/N did the same. She hadn't been to Chandrila in years. The only time she remembered flying near the planet was… with her squadron, four years before, as they searched for the Resistance. How ironic that she was now there on an official mission with the very people she had initially sworn to destroy. The planet was beautiful. With its vast oceans, it was luscious and lively. It was her home planet, too, which Y/N realized as they started descending toward the surface. Where she was born, where Ben was born. Where she had grown up. It was a bittersweet feeling to see it again and yet, not remember anything about ever being here. They landed in the capital, Hanna City, right by the old building that used to house the Senate years ago. Though it was apparent they had done quite a great job at erasing the traces of the war, Y/N wasn't fooled by the flags flapping in the air, sporting the Republic's sigil. The facades of the buildings were still heavily disfigured by years of war. Chandrila had been a First Order outpost, and the battles to free the planet had raged for weeks. Still, the citizens welcomed the sight of the X-Wings with enthusiasm, pointing toward their X-shaped silhouettes as the squadron flew above them. Once they were out of the ships and back on solid ground, they were welcomed by a group of soldiers. Dressed in standard-issued uniforms from the new Senate police, they greeted the pilots, and one of them stepped forward. He smiled at Poe, and the two men shared an embrace. "General. It's good to see you." "Wes. It's been too long. How's Chandrila treating you?" "It's kriffing boring, I'll tell you that." He nodded towards the other pilots, who seemingly recognized him before his eyes stopped on Y/N. He shot her a beaming smile. "I don't know that one. Hello, there." "Wes, this is Lieutenant Thunderbird, our newest addition to the squad." His smile faded. Whoops. Someone knew that name. "Pleasure to meet you," she still said. Wes looked at Poe, then lowered his voice. "Thunderbird? You're an ex-trooper, aren't you?" Yep. He definitely did know her. "Guilty as charged," Y/N answered. He shook his head. "Look. I'm not asking because I... There's something I need to show you. Things have been weird lately." He and Poe shared a knowing look. "Alright, Pava, Arlo, you go check up on the troops. Grakkus, you go with Wes's men and ensure the area is secure. Can't have anyone knowing we're here before we have a chance to look at what we came here for. Thunderbird, you're with me." Y/N followed him with a firm nod, walking by his side as they made their way deeper into the city. The streets were lively and bustling with joyful interactions, but something was amiss. Y/N felt the lingering feeling of angst everywhere they went. Droids were hard at work, clearing debris around the streets. The war had done a great deal to this place. "It started a few weeks ago," Wes said as he took them toward the quieter parts of town. "A bunch of thugs defaced some public buildings, writing stuff in support of the Order. At first, we thought it was just kids being dumb kids. But this morning..." He paused for a moment, voice dropping to a low murmur. "Things haven't been as quiet as they should be this deep into the Core, Poe. Which is why I called you when we found the body." "Does the Senate know we're here?" "No, but I had to call it in before you arrived. Would be suspicious otherwise." Poe nodded but didn't add anything.

The alleyways he was taking them in were narrower and less crowded. The buildings were unassuming, dark, and tall, and Y/N realized they were in a First Order-built neighborhood. "How did you know who I was?" she asked as they slowed down. Wes shot her a smile. "Well, Lieutenant, you've made quite a name for yourself among some of us pilots. I looked your name up earlier today and found out about you. But that's not how I first heard about you." They stopped in a square. A dog was sniffing around in a corner, and someone had left a toy on a bench. Otherwise, it was all empty. Except, of course, for the painted mural facing them. Y/N recognized it instantly. She had forgotten about its existence. "This was painted during the war. We're in the Order's district. Built this place and housed some families before they kidnaped their kids or forced the men to enlist. And they often put up displays like this to promote their elite troops." Red and thick angry lines framed the painted scene in an imperial-like style. TIE fighters were shown in the back, with two silhouettes painted in the foreground, clad in their elite pilot uniform. A man and a woman who had Y/N's hair color. "I forgot Hux had those made," she whispered. The message underneath was simple: "Fight with the 204th, the best squadron in the Galaxy. Join the First Order." But it wasn't that text that drew Y/N's attention. It was the graffitis scribbled across the woman's face. Her blood ran cold as she realized exactly what they meant.   THUNDERBIRD - REBEL SCUM - THE ORDER DOESN'T FORGET   "It was made last night; the paint was still fresh when we patrolled this morning," Wes explained as Poe stood still. "I don't know how they know who you are or how they'd know you'd be here. But someone out here has it for you, Lieutenant." Silence. The square was oppressively quiet. Poe hadn't moved a muscle since his eyes had landed on the message, and he was paler than Y/N had seen him in a while. "Well, at least they spelled my name right," she commented. It wasn't the first time someone had threatened her, even though the message was quite cryptic. But it was the first time someone openly associated her past with her current affiliation— the first time someone called her out for being an active Resistance member. It wasn't good news. But, hey, it still made her a tiny bit proud! "You think it's fucking funny?" Poe snapped, turning to her. He was angry. No, scratch that, he was furious. She sighed. "Poe, that's not-" "Someone out there is threatening my pilots by name, for Force's sake. I thought they'd stop at me. I'm fine with the death threats. But this is not okay. This shouldn't be happening, and this is..." He clenched his teeth and trailed off, shaking his head. BeeBee beeped sadly. "It's not the first time I've been threatened by fellow troopers, Poe. I'll be fine." "Lieutenant, if I may, it's the first time I've seen anyone be addressed by their names in tags like this. This is new. Dameron is right. This isn't funny; it's alarming," Wes interrupted. Y/N pursed her lips. He really didn't need to say that. "I knew you shouldn't have risked it on Andooweel," Poe hissed before shaking his head. He knew better than to go off about that because it was neither here nor there.   "I made the call, and I'll live with the consequences," Y/N replied coldly, silencing him. "Thank you for showing us, Wes, but we didn't come here for that," she added. The soldier nodded, sparing a look in Poe's direction. "Right. Follow me; our headquarters are right around the corner." Indeed, it didn't take more than five minutes to reach the tall, heavily-guarded building. They were let in with no questions and made their way to the lower floors, walking past dozens of unassuming rooms and half a dozen security checkpoints. By the time they had reached the morgue, as indicated by the red faded letters above the door, the hallways were empty and quiet. Wes opened the double doors, and the three humans and one droid walked in. He locked the door behind them, securing each lock before turning to his guests. "We found him in the city center. Dropped off by two people in black coats. Couldn't see their faces, and we lost them on the security footage. They put him right in front of the local Resistance office. Pure provocation." He looked at the square doors on the wall and opened one of them, sliding out a carbonite pod. He looked at Y/N, then at Poe, and muttered something under his breath as he defrosted the body. The three of them took a step back as the machine did its job, freeing the corpse from its carbonite prison. The room was dimly lit, cold, silent. It reeked of cleaning products. "We IDed him pretty quickly. Crossed his name with the list of missing people from the planets you asked us to keep an eye out for. But that thing on his chest, we haven't been able to find out what it is." Wait... A thing? On his chest? Poe was just as confused. "What did you find on him? Clothes?" "No. The sick bastards carved a symbol on his damn chest. At least, it was after he'd died; there's no blood around it." The carbonite pod stopped fuming, revealing the body. It was still covered by a shroud, and Wes pulled it off, revealing the person underneath. He was young, probably around Y/N's age, and was mainly unscathed, save from... ... No. It could not be. The angry lines on his chest had been meticulously carved. A rhombus, with two short lines from its top sides, pointing toward the middle. No. "It can't be," Poe whispered. Before Y/N could stop herself, her hand slid down, and she locked her fingers with his, finding his hand. He squeezed them tightly. "What? You look like you've seen a ghost. You know what that is?" Neither of them spoke up. Y/N couldn't tear her eyes from the symbol. Of course, they knew. They had seen it on Exegol. "It's not provocation; it's a threat," Poe rasped.  He paused. "...It's the Sith Eternal sigil."   

[be-the-spark-flyboy]

Pathfinder [1]

The mummy Au

Pairing: librarian!Poe Dameron x GN!Reader

A/n: I’ve tagged some ppl I think might be interested. If you don’t wanna be tagged please lemme know

Series warnings: major spoilers for both the mummy and star wars movies (duh😂), swearing, violence, fluff, Finn’s a jedi bitches!!!

Word count: 2.8k

—-

Sweat slid down your back as you adjusted your grip on your blaster. This was just going to be a massacre, you know it. No one was coming for a troop of soldiers who went wandering. The bandits were getting closer on their speeders and you cursed your commander once again. Fucking idiot. Now you were going to pay for his curiosity with your lives.

You felt something moving in your peripheral. Not something, someone. Your commander was sprinting full speed towards his speeder. Fucking coward. You could feel the unease within your troop passing through like a wave. Uncertainty, watching their leader running away, leaving them for dead.

“You just got promoted,” a voice snarked. You looked at Hux kneeling on the sand beside you with his own blaster in a death grip.

“Hold your positions!” You bellowed to your men. “You’re with me on this one right?” You asked him.

“Oh, your strength gives me strength,” Hux replied. Bantha shit. You only hoped he didn’t run off too early in the battle for you to notice. No such luck. 

Hux scrambled to his feet, kicking up a cloud of sand as he ran for his life. “Wait! Wait for me!” It was so quiet you could hear his blaster clatter to the sand where he dropped it. 

“Steady!” Force help us. “Fire!” Figures toppled from speeders as many of the glowing red bolts found its marks. Some nicked just the right places of the speeders for them to combust. But it just wasn’t enough. They kept coming. It took seconds for the sand to be littered with spoils of a battle. At least the scavengers were up for a treat.

“Shit, shit, shit,” They were gaining too fast. Where the hell did this many bandits come from? There were already many soldiers running for their lives. And there were only so many bolts left in your blaster. You got up from your position, firing and running. And it wasn’t easy by any means.

You catch a glimpse of Hux running before you. Now his decision to desert only seemed smart. You never should’ve trusted your commander.

“Run Hux! Run!” You yelled after him, trying to take out as many bandits on your tail as possible. Hux was running towards a heavy stone door.

“Get inside! Get inside!” You yelled again. Maybe you could make it too.

“Hey!” No, no, no. “Don’t you close that door!” That fucker! Hux was very enthusiastically shutting the door after himself. Kriff, he really didn’t care if you died, did he? “Don’t you close that fucking door!” Again, no such luck. Hux shut the door on your face. The stone ledge cracked and crumbled under the assault of the blaster bolts and you took off running again.

Leaping over walls and dodging pillars did no good. You only ended up more winded by the time you got cornered against a large sculpture. There was nowhere left to go. About eight bandits stood in a single file before you, their blasters aimed for your head. There are worse ways to go, you tried to tell yourself. Like what? Your brain unhelpfully supplied. 

You squeezed your eyes as tightly as possible, bracing for the impact of the blaster bolts ripping you apart, but it never came. You slowly opened one eye against the harsh sun and saw... nothing. None of the bandits were there anymore. Only a lingering cloud of dust signalling their swift exit. Weird.

You dared to venture one step from the shelter of the statue. Then another one. The sounds of battle had ceased. The only thing you could hear was the distant sound of speeders fleeing. And a rasp in the air like a whisper.

“You will die,” It chanted. You had to run. 

“You will die,” You took a step forward and the sand shifted beneath your feet. Jumping to your side, trying to dodge the sand which now erratically shifted around like something was moving underneath it.

You stumbled backwards just in time to see the sand form the shape of a huge screaming face. And then there was a deafening roar. Nope, you were not sticking around to see what happens next.

--

“The creature remains undiscovered,” The dark-skinned man announced, sitting on the speeder, flanked by men and women dressed similar to him in robes of beige.

“And what of this one, Finn?” One asked, nodding at the figure scrambling away towards the vast spread of sand.

“Should we kill them?” The figure turned as if it heard them speaking about it.

“No,” Finn said as it turned back and continued running. “The desert will kill them,”

---

“Battle of Yavin volume one, volume two,” Poe was standing on a ladder propped against a shelf, sorting out the new arrivals into their proper places. His dress shoes pinched uncomfortably, but Ben insisted that the dress code be strictly followed at all time. It did get annoying at times.

“Crait Terrains? What are you doing here?” That doesn’t go on that shelf, he must’ve picked up a wrong book.

Poe wasn’t mad, talking to books in an empty library. It was routine work and it got really quiet sometimes. The sound of his own voice was his only companion. “I’m gonna put you where you belong,” 

It would’ve been wise to climb down the ladder, prop it against the opposite shelf, climb said ladder, then place the book in its place. But sometimes, Poe liked to work smarter, not harder. Or so he told himself.

He reached back towards the shelf behind him, firmly gripping onto the rung. The problem however, was not how hard he held on to the ladder. The momentum of his weight shifting forward was enough to move the ladder in an upright position.

With a yelp, Poe managed to pull himself up, which wasn’t the smartest move considering he was now perilously balanced on a ladder propped against nothing.

And then the ladder wobbled, Poe shifted his weight, trying not to fall. But he was just having a very bad day and the ladder wasn’t cooperating. He managed to wrangle it in an ever more precarious position away from the shelves.

“Help,” he whispered unable to find his voice in his very mild panic. The ladder creaked and wobbled again but at least now he faced the shelves.

Then he fell.

Right on top bookshelf he had painstakingly sorted and arranged all day long. It toppled right on top of the next on, setting off a chain reaction as Poe watched in horror. He crambling away just in time as the last shelf collapsed over the spot he was standing on barely a few seconds ago.

Well, fuck.

“What... How...” It seemed his bad luck wasn’t done fucking with his day. Just then, his employer appeared seemingly out of nowhere. Very few things really elicit a visible reaction from Ben Kenobi, but Poe seemed to be the only person who managed to make his blood boil without even trying.

“Oh, look at this! Force!” He exclaimed. “Give me Banthas! Or even porgs! Anything but you!” Poe grimaced, shrinking back from the old man who was a whole head taller than him, now marching over to him.

“I’m so very sorry, it was an accident,” He stumbled over his apology, but it seemed his employer wasn’t done berating him.

“You, are a catastrophe! Look at my library! Why do I put up with you?” Ben threw his hands in the air. 

“I put up with you because... because,” Poe grappled for something to say. Something that wouldn’t send Ben into another fit of rage or get him unemployed, but he couldn’t come up with anything.

“I put up with you because of your godmother is one of our finest patrons!” Oh well, “Now, I don’t care how you do it, I don’t care how long it takes. Straighten up this mess!” Ben exclaimed one final time before spinning around towards the entrance, his long tan cloak billowing behind him like a cape.

Poe threw his head back groaning, loudly. It seemed like luck just wasn’t on his side when it came to Ben Kenobi. In just one week of employment, Poe managed to get himself almost fired, not once, but a total of three times. He wondered if he was going to break some kind of record for the fastest person to ever be sacked as a librarian of all things.

A clattering noise pulled him out of his reverie. Poe sighed. The last thing he needed right now was something else to fall apart in the storage room and risk further angering Ben Kenobi. He quickly grabbed a flashlight from the desk before going to check on the noise.

The storage room, much to his annoyance, almost never had working lights in it. Somehow, the room filled with ancient artefacts and important documents was almost always dark. The beam of light dancing over random objects made shadows dance over the walls. Poe hated the dark.

“Hello?” Poe called out into the room and no one responded. He wasn’t sure if he would’ve preferred to hear a reply. Great. Now he’s got to risk his life twice before lunchtime. Librarians are so underrated.

“Snap?” He called out, noticing his voice only wavered slightly despite the darkness. Poe swore to himself, he was going to haunt the hell out of Kenobi’s ass if he died today. “Beebee?”

Poe almost jumped out of his skin at the sound of a loud thud coming from a corner. Please let it be Beebee, please let it be Beebee. Poe chanted under his breath. He couldn’t die, not today, not in the hands of a ghost. No way.

Thud. With a rare boost of bravery, Poe persevered towards the sound. How bad could it be? It was just a storage room in a library, there’s no way he was going to-

SCREEEEEEEE

A skeletal figure popped up with a deafening screech. Poe screamed, almost dropping the flashlight in his hurry to get the fuck out of there. But the sound of laughter that soon followed the screech, stopped him on his tracks.

He turned back to the open sarcophagus that Rey sat on, her whole face red from wheezing from laughter. The withering glare Poe sent her might have sent a stranger running but Rey only laughed harder at his expense.

“Don’t you have any respect for the dead?” He started to berate her.

“Of course I do, But sometimes I’d rather like to join them,” she grinned up at him, throwing an arm over the skeleton as if it weren’t a fucking skeleton. Poe suppressed a shudder. He hated bones. Yeah, ironic for someone trying to dig up dead stuff.

“Well I wish you’d do it sooner rather than later before you ruin my career-” Rey gave a long-suffering sigh, having heard this speech just about enough times already.

“Oh please, career is too generous of a word for whatever it is you’re doing,” She folds her arms behind her head, leaning back. But Poe wrapped his hands around her arms, easily hefting her off. For someone who looked like they’ll snap in half if it gets a little too windy, Rey got into more trouble then anyone he knew. Himself included.

“Now get out,” Poe unceremoniously dropped her on the floor.

“Woah! Hey, now who pissed in your drink,” she kicked him, dusting off her tan pants.

“Rey, im really not in the mood right now, I just made a bit of a mess in the library and Kenobi’s gonna kick my ass if I don’t fix it.” Poe plopped into an upturned crate, signing. He really didn’t want to go back into the library. It gave him a headache just thinking of the colossal mess he made.

“Besides,” She continued, paying no mind to him. “I’ve got just the thing to cheer you up!”

“What did you do this time?” He whined as she thrust a pyramid-shaped object into his hands, softly glowing a deep shade of red. There were inscriptions along the edges. Inscriptions he recognized.

“Rey, I think you found something,” He whispered, looking at her wide-eyed with excitement. Rey thought he looked very slightly deranged like this. In an endearing way, of course. “Its the Sith pathfinder,”

---

“You see the inscriptions on it? It’s the royal seal of Palpatine the first, I’m sure of it,” Poe announced as Ben Kenobi intently examined the pyramid-shaped object.

“Two questions,” Rey interrupted, “Who the hell was Palpatine the first, and was he rich?”

“He was the second emperor of the Sith dynasty, said to be the wealthiest emperor of them all,” Poe informed her. He had more than a little distaste for the name. After all, his parents were both taken by the war started by the Sith sympathisers. 

“Good. That’s good. I like this fellow,” Rey proclaimed. “I like him very much,” Poe shook his head in resignation. He didn’t fault her, Rey was way too young to know the horrors of war. But she was no stranger to hardship. She was just a scrawny eleven-year-old alone and fighting for survival in the harsh Jakku dessert when Ben Kenobi and Luke Skywalker found her.

“I’ve already dated the map, its almost three thousand years old,” Poe pointed to a part of the map, “And if you look at the hieratic just here, well,” Poe shrugged, knowing full well the kind of scepticism the place invoked. “Its Exegol,” Rey perked up at the sound of the name, suddenly becoming a hell lot more interested in the object that had come into her possession.

“Force, don’t be ridiculous. We’re scholars, not treasure hunters.” Ben Kenobi snaps at him. “Exegol is a myth told by ancient storytellers,”

“Oh? Was the war instigated by the senator who believed in Sith dictatorship a myth too?” snapped back at him. Ben looked taken aback by his reaction. It was rare for Poe to act out or even be disrespectful, at least it had been the past few years. He had more than a few rebellious years when he was much younger. Poe sighed, dragging a hand down his face. “My research has led be to believe that the city itself may have actually existed,”

“Are we talking about the Exegol,”

“Yes, the City of the Sith, located right over the cave kyber crystals are said to be found,”

“Oh, yes. A cave full of kyber crystals,” Rey’s voice was full of awe. Ben scoffed at her eagerness. “Oh please, everybody knows that story,” then proceeded to yelp as the sleeve of his robe sleeve caught on the edge of the table and the sith pathfinder goes tumbling over the desk. Poe and Rey dived right after it trying to catch it before it hit the ground but to no avail.

“You broke it, you broke a part of the city!” Rey accused him, scooping up the pathfinder, now missing a chunk on the side which laid shattered on the ground beside her.

“It’s for the best, I’m sure,” Ben said. “Many men have wasted their lives in the foolish pursuit of Exegol. No one’s ever found it.” He had a distant look in his eyes, almost like he was reminiscing. “Most have never returned.”

Rey’s voice was soft when she spoke again. Poe almost missed it. “Is there where uncle Luke went?” Ben sighed, getting up from his seat. He walked over to Rey, cupping her face in between his palms. Her small face dwarfed by his much larger hands.

“What makes you say that, Rey?” He asked her with a tenderness Poe had almost never heard from the man before. He felt like he was intruding in a private moment. “No one knows where he went or why, my child,” Ben pulled Rey into a hug, allowing them a single moment’s grief for their missing family member.

“Now run along, you both have things to do,” Poe didn’t resist, mentally drained from the eventful day he just had he was more than ready to call it a day, even if it was barely three o’clock.

Rey nudged him with her elbow as the two of them walked out of the office. Her face was alight with the conspiring smirk Poe was well acquainted with. “I have an idea,” 

Despite his earlier reservations about being more than ready to end the day, Poe felt his own lips pull into a smile at the promise trouble. “Lead the way, Kenobi,” Just like old times then, he thought. Rey hooked at arm under his elbow, skipping down the steps as she led him out of the library.

---

Part 2

—-

Series Taglist:

@witchyavenger @dameronsethnichips @wasicskosgirl @autumnleaves1991-blog @spider-starry @arkofblake @writefightandflightclub @demigod-dragonrider-schoolidol

[summahsunlight]

Perhaps It’s Fate, Part 22

Rating: T, to be safe

Word Count: 1.6k+

Summary: After joining the Resistance as a mechanic, you were happy to keep to yourself, until a little orange and white bb unit and his master wander into your workshop one day.

Pairings: Poe Dameron x Mechanic!Reader

Start from the beginning! 

Taglist: @ms-dont-care​, @starless-eyes-remain​, @elmoakepoke​, @marvelobsessiononastick​, @kiaralein​, @softly-sad​, @totalpoedameron, @ordinarymom1​, @sevvysaurus​, @spider-starry​, @liadamerondjarin​, @jingyuhearteu​, @dream-alittlebiggerdarling​, @paintballkid711​, @ren-ni​, @lostinwonderland314​, @elite4cekalyma​,@elisabethbathgate​

Here is the next part! Likes, comments, and reblog are always appreciated. I hope that you enjoy it. Remember the taglist is open if you want to be added just let me know! Happy reading lovelies!🥰❤️

Poe gasped, jolted awake suddenly. It took several seconds for him to realize that he was no longer on the Finalizer, that he was no longer shackled to that table.  He spent so much time making sure you didn’t have panic attacks that he never dealt with his own trauma.  He couldn’t deal with his own trauma--you were more important.

Shifting on the tight little bunk, Poe looked down at you sleeping soundly next to him. For several months the base of operations for the Resistance had been an old Rebellion battle cruiser while they searched for a new base. Living on a cruiser was nothing new to Poe--he’d spent plenty of time on them when he was with the Republic Navy.  You on the other hand, you were not used to living in space and it was sparking an increase in your anxiety attacks. 

Simply put--there was no time for Poe to face his own demons.

“Commander Dameron?” his commlink chirped. 

Cursing, Poe shifted trying not to wake you and snatched the comm up. “Yeah?” he whispered, anxiously as he saw you stirring. Please go back to sleep--you haven’t slept well in weeks, he thought, waiting for the bridge to answer him. To his relief, you fell back to sleep. 

“General Organa needs you on the bridge, sir.”

Sighing, Poe rubbed a hand over his face and confirmed that he was on his way. He managed to sneak out of the bunk, get his boots on, without disturbing you--however, BB-8 wasn’t as easily fooled. He instantly woke up from his charging state when he detected movement. 

Poe hushed him as they hurried out of the tight quarters. When the droid questioned why he was attempting to sneak away, the pilot confessed, “I didn’t want to wake Y/N.”

BB-8 whistled, sadly. Even he had noticed your mood change since Crait. Poe normally would assure the droid that you were going to be fine but the pilot wasn’t sure any of them were going to be fine after what they’d just endured. He might only be a droid--but he was very much aware the nightmares that both you and Poe were having. He just wished he knew how to help.

Moving through the silent, tight corridors of the cruiser, Poe made it to the bridge. There was only a skeleton crew working so it was unnervingly quiet. Poe had never been one to actually enjoy silence. 

“Commander,” Leia called him over.

“What’s going on, General?” Poe asked, approaching her.

“We might have found a decent location for our new base.”

“That’s good news. Things are cramped around here.”

Leia looked at him seriously. “Poe, I need Black Squadron to go scope it out, make sure it will work for us.”

Poe swallowed, anxiously. This meant he would have to leave you for a few days, maybe several. He felt uneasy leaving you behind, especially since your panic attacks had increased. “Is it possible for Black Squadron to go without me?”

“You can’t hover over her forever, Poe.”

“I...I know...it’s just...the panic attacks have gotten real bad.”

The General sighed and nodded in understanding. She had noticed--and felt--that your panic attacks were getting worse. However, Leia needed Poe--the Resistance needed Poe. The young pilot might not realize it yet, but. she needed him to be the leader she knew he could be. “Poe,” she said, softly, “she’ll be fine.”

He glanced away from Leia, briefly, and when Poe looked back at her, she could see the conflict in his eyes. “I know she will be. I just feel...guilty... leaving her to deal with it on her own.”

Leia smiled, sadly. “Poe, how do you think she handled it before you came along? She dealt with it on her own. She has other friends here that can help her if she needs it. I need you right now, Poe. Can I count on you?”

Poe pursed his lips and ran a hand through his unruly curls. “Yes ma’am,” he replied, hoarsely. 

“You leave in the morning. Go get some rest.”

“Yes ma’am.”

If the older woman was concerned by Poe’s lack of conversation, she didn’t show it on her face as he turned to go. She wanted to tell him that everything was going to work out in the end and take all his worries away--but the truth was, she couldn’t. 

Poe, with BB-8 right behind him, headed back towards his small quarters knowing what was unspoken between himself and Leia. Truth was, Poe wasn’t sure even if she had said the words if he would have believed her. 

BB-8 whistled, moanful. Poe didn’t even have the strength to reach down and give the little droid some comforting head scratches. He went straight back to the bunk, finding you still fast asleep, and he pulled you into his arms.

You stirred, eyes opening to gaze up at him. “Everything okay?” you murmured, sleepily. 

No. “Fine,” he lied, as if he wasn’t worried about his next mission. “The General wants Black Squadron to go scope out a spot for a potential base in the morning.”

“That’s good, right?” you asked, snuggling closer to him. 

“Yeah. Means we can get off this cruiser,” he responded. 

“Good; I’m ready to leave here. I’ll miss you.”

“I’m gonna leave Bee with you.”

Shifting slightly, you gave him a puzzled look. “Why? Don’t you need him for your mission?”

Poe sighed and kissed the tip of your nose. “It’s just a scouting mission; I can take another droid.”

BB-8 beeped indigently. Even on simple scouting missions Poe and Black Squadron got into trouble.

“He’s not wrong you know,” you said, laughing softly.

“I would just feel better if he stayed with you,” the pilot argued.

“Does this have to do with my panic attacks?”

“Yes.”

“Poe, I’ll be fine. You’ve left me behind before--without Bee staying.”

Lazily his fingers slipped through your hair. It was true that he’d left you behind before, without leaving BB-8, he would just feel better this time if his droid stayed with you. “I just want to make sure you’re comfortable.”

It wasn’t that you didn’t appreciate the gesture--you just felt better when BB-8 went with him, as if Poe was somehow safer if the little droid was on the mission. “I’ll be okay,” you assured him. “Rey and Finn will be here with me.”

Poe didn’t feel any less guilty; Rey and Finn didn’t know how to calm you. I suppose she could make the argument that neither does Bee. He nuzzled his nose against your hair. “Are you sure you don’t want me to leave BeeBee?”

“Yes, I’m sure. He should go with you.”

“Hopefully I’m not gone too long.”

“Well,” you said, drifting off back to sleep, “with any luck we’ll have a new base when you return.”

“Yeah,” he agreed, wishing he could fall back to sleep with you, “with any luck.”

-----

When you woke up the next morning you were not surprised to see that Poe was gone--and that he indeed left BB-8 behind.  You had expected him to do that, even if you had told him not too. The little droid wasn’t too thrilled about being left behind, but it had been Poe’s orders, so he stayed. 

It turned out incredibly helpful to have BB-8 around since you were busy fixing up some fighters the Resistance had recently come into possession of. You had to admit it was nice having the company--even though Rey, Rose, and Finn were all still on the cruiser, they all had their own work to complete and you very rarely saw them during the day.

Your panic attacks were held at bay while you were busy working and chatting with BB-8, it was at night, when you were laying in the bunk alone without Poe that the attacks reared their ugly head.

“I...I’m fine,” you told BB-8 two nights after Poe left. “Just...just a bad dream.”

BB-8 didn’t sound like he was convinced as he watched you desperately try to catch your breath. He offered to go find Rey or Finn. 

Shaking your head, you felt yourself beginning to calm down slightly as you worked your way through the breathing exercises that Poe would normally walk you through. “No. It’s...it’s late...I don’t want to...I don’t want to wake them.”

The small droid moaned and rolled closer to the bunk. You smiled at the simple gesture of comfort and almost instantly the panic passed. Maybe Poe leaving BB-8 with you had been a good idea after all. You reached down and gently pat the droid on his domed head. “Thanks Bee,” you whispered, laying back down and snuggling underneath the blankets. They smelled faintly like Poe which comforted you even more. 

You had just started to fall back to sleep when you felt the bed shift. Opening your eyes, you saw that BB-8 had somehow climbed onto the bed and was reseting at your feet. Smiling, you hugged your pillow and fell asleep.

[authorbarbie]

Dancing With Our Hands Tied (1/?)

Summary: When you first joined The Resistance, you came into contact with several things: brand new equipment to mess around with, your very own work station, and even General Organa herself. But somehow, a charismatic pilot turns out to be the best of them all.

“THERE he is!”

A round of raucous cheers and applause erupted around the cantina, the sound bouncing off the surrounding walls, as Poe Dameron, freshly promoted to the role of Commander, entered the room. He rolled his eyes good-naturedly, holding out his hands bashfully as a sign for his friends to stop, though the grin on his face remained.

“Have a busy night, Commander?” Temmin “Snap” Wexley joked as Poe joined the small group at their table.

“Yeah, we saw you leave with that cute technician last night,” Jessika Pava took a sip of her Batuu Brew with a quirk of her brow. “You guys have your own little celebration?”

Yolo Ziff snorted into his glass, Snap teasingly knocking his shoulder into Poe’s.

“You’re all hilarious, really,” said Poe, unaffected.

“C’mon, Poe,” Jessika continued. “We’re all on the edge of our seats here.”

“Nothing happened,” Poe shrugged, eyes rolling at how the group’s excitement visibly faded.

“Oh,” Karé Kun pouted. “Well, that was disappointing.”

“Why are you all so interested anyway?” Poe swiped Snap’s drink from his hand, ignoring the pilot’s disgruntled ‘hey!’ and took a sip himself. He grimaced as the liquid burned down his throat. “She wasn’t exactly sober so I helped her to her quarters and left. Plus, she wasn’t really my type.”

“What? Hot and single isn’t your type?”

“Hm, let’s see,” Ziff began. “You also said that about that guy back on Tiisheraan, that handsy Twi’lek on Bespin, the—”

“We’re rooting for you, that’s all,” Karé told him, effectively shutting down Ziff’s tangent. “Even a hotshot Commander deserves a little love every now and then.”

“I don’t have time for romance, guys,” argued Poe, jaw set. He was no stranger to flirting — enjoyed it more than the average person, actually — but with the growing threat of the First Order on the horizon, he found no point in going further and growing attached to someone. “I’ve gotta focus on my work, on helping the galaxy. We all do.”

“We’re not saying you have to marry someone, Poe,” said Jessika. “But going out on a date wouldn’t hurt, right? Plus, I don’t remember you ever being so adverse to one-night stands.”

Poe continued to down his drink instead of answering, resulting in a disapproving gaze from every member that sat around the small table.

“I’m telling you, Dameron,” Snap added, matter-of-factly. “One day, you’re gonna meet someone that sweeps you off those damn stubborn feet of yours and you won’t know what hit you.”

“Uh-huh,” Poe agreed, a feeble attempt to end the conversation rather than genuine agreement. “That’ll be the day.”

“Well,” Jessika began to stand from the table with her drink in hand, eyes set on the figure of Kaydel Ko Connix sitting at the bar. “Just because you’ve sworn off cute girls, doesn’t mean I have.”

Watching Jess walk away, Snap wolf-whistled loudly in support, earning a swift kick to the leg from Karé that made the table howl with laughter. More drinks were later shared and the conversation quickly shifted, much to Poe’s relief.

●  ●  ●

It’s safe to say that you were pretty damn nervous.

Your heart was racing, your palms were sweaty and you felt like you might lose the breakfast you had eaten that morning at any given second. Kriff, you prayed you wouldn't. Throwing up all over your first patient’s shoes probably wasn’t the best way to make an impression.

“Hey, calm down,” said the figure next to you, a comforting hand resting on your arm as if she could sense the anxiety rolling off of you in waves. “There’s nothing to be nervous about.”

“I know,” you nodded, adjusting your dark tunic for the fifth time since you’d put it on. The white medical services armband stood out against the brown material of your uniform. “Just first day jitters, I guess.”

“Because graduating top of our class wasn’t enough to fill you with confidence?” the same girl, Zella, asked jokingly. The two of you had been close since the Academy; you had lived in the same quarters and studied for every class together. You were more than thrilled when she agreed to join the Resistance with you. Having someone you were already close to nearby helped put you at ease.

“Yeah, pretty much,” you nodded, teeth chewing on the skin of your bottom lip; a nervous habit.

Zella’s retort didn’t get the chance to leave her lips, the words dying on her tongue as two figures entered the room— Hermit Farwell AKA the head of the medical station AKA your new boss.

And General Leia Organa… AKA your boss’s boss and overall galactic legend.

The General's hair was wrapped up in a neat crown braid and under the dim lights, the younger girl could see the shines of grey showing through her usual brown colour, a sign of how long she had been fighting for freedom in the galaxy. She wore a brown vest over her light green coveralls that were tucked into a pair of brown boots, and her face was attentive as she took in the new faces in the room. Despite being the leader of the entire organisation, you noticed that while others had their own badge indicating their commanding roles in the whole affair, her rank wasn't shown anywhere.

"Good morning," the woman smiled and though it was directed at everyone, you felt strangely as though she was speaking directly to you. "I thought I'd stop by to wish our new recruits good luck— not that you'll need it. You're in the perfectly capable hands of Colonel Farwell and you wouldn't be here if you didn't have the ability to handle yourselves. If anyone has any trouble or worries, feel free to find me later. But for now… Enjoy your first shift. The Resistance is very lucky to have you.”

She took her leave shortly after and Colonel Farwell clapped his hands together to gain the attention of the room which had started to buzz with excited chatter.

“You heard the General,” he said. “Grab yourself a datapad and let’s get to work.”

The station jumped into action immediately, pressing their keycards to the screens of their datapads and waiting for their patient files to load. You searched through your own itinerary for the day and steeled yourself with a slow breath.

Your first day as a nurse was about to begin.

●  ●  ●

Poe’s head was pounding.

A couple of days had passed since his little visit to the base’s cantina but he swore he was still feeling the effects of downing one more ice-twist than he likely should have; something that he was currently cursing Snap for coaxing him into. After complaining to BB-8 about the pain yet again, the droid had argued with him back and forth until he finally agreed to visit the med station for some form of relief. The smug astromech currently sat at his feet as he waited to be called in, as if to make sure the pilot followed through on his promise.

Others sat scattered around the waiting area (which was essentially just a few rows of chairs pushed together), each finding their own ways to pass the time. A technician was speaking on his holopad, supposedly unable to stop working even when awaiting medical attention, while a strategist sat with her hand on her stomach, clearly in an uncomfortable amount of pain. Poe himself found his fingers drumming against his knee, voice humming a tune under his breath that he couldn't remember the name of.

"Dameron, Poe?"

Poe continued his melody, about to go into the second verse when BB-8 knocked into his leg to catch his attention and an unfamiliar voice rang out.

"Dameron, Poe!" the voice called again, frustration beginning to seep through.

Poe lifted his head and searched for the source, a charming grin lighting up his face at the sight of you, your eyes squinting as you searched the room for the man who must have been deaf not to hear you. He had been right about you being unfamiliar, he noted as he all but swaggered over to you, lifting a hand into a wave. You said nothing in return, gesturing for him to follow you into your private work area. Poe's eyes scanned your form quickly from top to bottom.

“Take a seat, Commander,” you said, ensuring you used the proper title you had gotten from his patient files. ‘Commander Poe Dameron, top pilot of the Resistance, peak physical condition’ were just a few phrases you remembered.

“Nurse,” Poe grinned, confidence and charm practically exuding from his every pore.

You fought back the urge to roll your eyes, having spent the whole morning dealing with quite a few patients just like him. While some had been kind and quiet, even nervous, others had piled on the compliments until you were ready to push them back out the door. That, coupled with the growing ache in your back from standing so long, had you on the verge of collapsing from tiredness.

“That’s what they call me,” you agreed with a professional tone. “What brings you here today?”

“You mean I needed a reason other than meeting you?” Poe’s eyes lit up with mischief and your skin prickled with irritation. BB-8, who had stuck by his side the whole time, beeped loudly.

“Ah,” you nodded, typing the information into your notes. “So you’ve been doing a little drinking, huh?”

“In my defense, I was celebrating… But I will admit that yes, my head feels like it might explode,” Poe confessed, casting an offended look in his droid’s direction before turning back to you and scratching the back of his neck. His confidence clearly knocked down a peg (by his own best friend, no less), he let out a humble chuckle. “So you speak Binary, huh?”

“That I do. What’s your name, little guy?” you smiled kindly in BB-8’s direction (Poe was only slightly bitter that BB-8 had gotten a smile from you before he had), listening to his reply. “Well, Beebee-Ate, I think my own little Cipher would love you.”

“Cipher?” Poe repeated.

“My droid,” you explained, your hands moving to wrap the blood pressure cuff around his arm and jotting down his results afterwards. “He’s back in my quarters. Figured if he were here on my first day, I’d spend the whole time worrying about him instead of doing my actual job.”

Poe smiled, knowing the feeling of being attached to a droid all too well. “You’re new here, right?”

“I am.”

Poe studied your face as you put the tips of your stethoscope in your ears and pressed the bell against his chest. A small crease formed between your brows, entirely focused as you listened to the steady thump of his heart. Once you were satisfied, you turned back to your datapad. “Yeah, I’d definitely remember someone like you.”

You huffed out a breath, heat creeping up your neck and into your cheeks at his words. Luckily, your back was still facing towards him, face hidden, and you intentionally took longer in busying yourself with his typing up his results.

Even back at the Academy, you had made yourself a promise: no fraternising allowed. You weren’t against the idea of love by any means, but you were well aware of the ominous, growing threat that was gathering out there in the galaxy. You were well aware that war — and casualties because of said war — were inevitable. Hell, it was entirely possible that some of the people you had examined today wouldn’t survive what was coming, and you weren’t about to put your heart on the line just for it to be torn in two. Not when you had the chance to prevent that from happening.

The room fell silent then and Poe allowed it to, being a model patient as you shone a light in his eyes to check his pupils contraction and muttered your final decision to yourself under your breath. He watched as you turned to search through one of the cabinets behind you, eventually finding the bottle you were looking for and quickly reading the label.

“It’s my first day,” you finally said, Poe blinking in surprise at your return to the conversation. “Hold out your hand.”

Poe did so without question and watched as you set two pills in his palm. Filling a glass with water, you held it out for him to take in the other.

“Swallow those now and take two more later tonight if it still hurts. Like your chart says, you really are in peak physical condition,” you waited for him to follow your instructions before passing him the small bottle of remaining pills, pointedly ignoring the smirk on his lips at your comment. “Your hangover should pass soon.”

“Well, thank you for your thorough work…” Poe trailed off and you knew what he was indicating.

“Nurse is fine,” you told him simply.

“Come on, I make it a habit to learn everyone’s name here,” Poe told you, almost pleadingly and he wasn't lying. He really did know the name of every single person in the base, no matter their rank or job. For his own squadron, he had memorised their birthdays, too, and ensured they always received something special when the day came, be it something simple like a small cake or something a little grander, like an upgrade to their ship. “The cleaners, the line cooks, whoever.”

“That’s… very nice of you,” you said genuinely, meeting his eyes over your datapad. He really was quite handsome and clearly, he was aware of it. A square chin with a jawline you were pretty sure could chisel fiberplast, soft chocolate brown eyes that had a warmth to them that reminded you of a fire crackling, full lips with the bottom looking just a little bigger than the top and a tall build that you noticed made him appear confident even when seemingly at ease. It was a shame, really. If you had met him in some other way, at some other time, you probably would’ve fallen for his charm already.

But unfortunately, you hadn’t.

“If you need any more help, feel free to visit again.” Clearing your throat and reluctantly breaking the eye contact, you held out your free hand which he took firmly, giving it a shake. “And congratulations on your promotion.”

“Thank you. It was a pleasure to meet you… Nurse,” Poe told you, releasing your hand and turning to leave as BB-8 beeped his goodbyes. Before he had fully stepped out the door, he turned back, the right side of his mouth quirking into the beginnings of a smirk. “I hope we see each other again soon.”

Your gaze softened, brows furrowed together as you gestured around the room which held various medical supplies. “For your sake, I hope we don’t.”

A warm laugh escaped his throat but he said nothing more. And with a wink, he left.

[we-are-all-obsessed-here]

Heart Strings And Melodies (Modern Musician!Poe AU) Part 21 ~Ending~

(Not my Gif)

Summary: Little Shara finally decides to meet her mother and father.

(Proof-read when tired, so, sorry for any mistakes that might crop up. Please enjoy folks!)

Pairing: Poe Dameron x Reader

“It’s starting to get bad out there.” You noted, turning away from the window in the lounge. Beebee was curled up in front of the fireplace enjoying the warmth from it. Meanwhile Poe was sat on the floor by the coffee table putting new strings on his guitar and keeping up to date with any maintenance.

“The snow will let up soon. We’re not planning on going anywhere. So, we’re good.” Poe stated. There was a slight static like noise before the only light in the room was that of the fireplace.

“Shit.” Poe exclaimed.

“Cursed is what you are Poe. Every time you open your mouth something happens.” You sighed, a smile betraying you.

“Haha, hilarious.” Poe rolled his eyes, his lips quirking up into a ghost of a smile.

“I’ll go get the candles out for later, for if the power doesn’t come back on before it gets dark.” You stated as you began to move slowly towards the cupboard where all your odds and ends were kept. Poe called your name and was at your side in a second.

“Take it easy. Go sit down, I’ll sort the rest out.”

“Poe.” You whined. He gently placed his hand on your bump.

“You’re already a few days past the due date. Lets not have a home birth in the middle of a snow storm.”

“You’ve definitely cursed us now.” You teased. Poe lovingly squeezed your hand and offered you a smile.

“Go read some more of your book. Relax. I’ll go grab the candles for later.”

“Love you.” You leaned in and pressed a kiss to his cheek before starting to return to where you had been sat in the lounge while Poe gathered several candles and placed them on the coffee table. Poe then continued to tinker with his guitar and gathered paints to finish the decorations he’d planned for the body. Meanwhile you settled in a cosy chair by the fire and opened the book you’d balanced on the arm earlier on. Beebee jumped and curled up on your lap as you leaned back and lost yourself in the tale being told on the pages. Every so often you’d close your book and simply watch as Poe painted his guitar, following the lines he’d planned out a few days prior. Poe would bring you a warm drink every now and again, as he’d step away to return to his guitar his lips would press a kiss to your temple. A laugh escaped your lips on the occasions where Poe would absentmindedly pick up one of the two mugs on the coffee table and almost drink his paint water rather than the coffee he’d made himself. Poe cleared his throat, and kept his head down in an attempt to hide the flush across his cheeks.

“God I love you Poe Dameron.” You smiled lovingly at him. Poe looked at you, an almost identical smile on his lips.

“I love you more.” He countered.

“Not possible.” You replied before opening your book again.

A twinge of familiar pain flashed through you and a small sound of discomfort escaped your lips. Poe moved from his kneeling position within a split second, his hand reaching out to take yours, his face etched with worry as his eyes searched your face for any indication that something was wrong.

“I’m fine. Just Braxton Hicks again.”

“You’re sure?” Poe questioned, moving a little closer to you.

“Sure.” You offered him a smile in an attempt to allay the worry in his expression. Squeezing his hand, you then began shuffling to the edge of your seat.

“I’m going to run a warm bath, my back is really starting to hurt again.” You grumbled. Poe helped you to your feet and despite you assertion that you would be absolutely fine running yourself a bath, your husband refused to leave your side. As you stood in the bathroom which Poe had littered with several lit candles, the steam from the freshly filled bath beginning to fill the room, Poe helped you undress. He pressed kisses to each exposed piece of skin, across your collarbone, your shoulder, between your shoulder blades and then slowly further down. Each kiss was a simple declaration of love and care, never once was there intent of anything sexual, just love in its entirety. Poe helped ease you into the bath, made sure you were comfortable then pressed a kiss to the top of your head. He cupped your cheek in his hand and you gently nuzzled into his touch.

“Just shout when you’re done, I’ll come and help you out.”

You nodded your agreement and then you were left to enjoy the peace and warmth of your bath. You began going through the mental list you’d created, making sure that everything was ready for when the baby did decide to arrive. The bedroom was fully decorated now, there was nothing left to do there. Shara had a handful of clothes ready for when she would come home, so there was nothing left to do there. A whole week had been spent making sure all the key items, from baby bottles to sterilisers to just about everything that could be thought of were well stocked in the house, definitely nothing else needed there. Searching through your mental list took you until the bath started dropping cool. Giving Poe a shout, you began shuffling around in the bath, trying your best to get yourself in a position that would make it slightly easier to get out. He appeared a moment later, a towel in his grasp.

“It’s somewhat warm.” Poe admitted, gesturing to the towel.

“What do you mean, somewhat warm?”

“I couldn’t throw it in the dryer for a few minutes, so I had it by the fire instead. Fires out now though, it was getting a bit too warm in there.”

You chuckled softly.

“Thank babe. King of ingenuity.” You smiled sweetly at him. Gently Poe helped you up and out from the bath, pressing a kiss to your cheek he wrapped the towel around your body.

There was a moment between a sudden splash of water hitting the tiled floor and when Poe spoke.

“That’s not…” He cocked a brow.

“No, it’s not bath water Poe!” You sighed. “I think my waters just broke.”

An abrupt wave of pain hit you and you gripped Poe tightly.

“We need to get you to the hospital.” Poe started to guide you out of the bathroom.

“Not in just a towel I’m not Poe Dameron!” You growled out.

“Okay… erm stay here I’ll be right back.” Poe carefully helped you lean against the wall outside the bathroom for support before he dashed towards your bedroom. Several moments passed.

“Poe! What’s taking so long!” You called.

“I’m coming! Hold on!” He shouted back. You could hear footsteps rushing around your room, saw a blur of a figure disappear into the baby’s room and the sound of more hurried footsteps. Then a crash. A curse. Then a very dishevelled Poe appearing, his arms crammed high with clothes and only God knows what.

“Poe we have a to-go bag for a reason y’know.” You sighed, looking at the several days worth of clothes in his grasp.

“Shit.” The handful of clothes dropped to the floor and as Poe went to dash off again he suddenly turned, picked up then handed you a few bits of clothes to get changed into before he disappeared for a second time to reappear with a travel bag.

“Ready?” Poe asked after he helped you shimmy into some loose fitting clothing.

“Ready.” You replied. The walk to the car was slow, especially when it came to passing through the thick layer of snow that covered the path to the car. Poe made sure you were sat securely in the passenger seat before he went to get in the driver’s side, he pressed a kiss to your forehead before he closed your door. The engine roared to life and Poe carefully pulled out of the driveway. The snow was still coming down heavy and despite the roads already having been cleared, the snow was starting to stick and gather across the surface. Another flood of pain overcame you, a short cry left your lips and you screwed your eyes shut and pressed your head into the headrest. You felt Poe grasp your hand and rub comforting circles into your skin.

“Just breathe. You’re going to be fine. I’m going as fast as I can sweetheart.” Poe tried to reassure you. Looking towards your love, his eyes were focused solely on you, filled with worry.

“Poe!” You gave his arm a whack as you shouted, having noticed the cars in front braking. Poe quickly brought the car to a halt as smoothly as possible, just managing to stop as the cars in front began to set off again.

“How about, I focus on trying not to give birth in the car. And you focus on driving.” You gave a nervous chuckle.

“Deal.” Poe breathed.

As you came to the main junction for the turning towards the hospital, the two of you noticed how traffic was moving ever so slowly.

“This doesn’t look good.” Poe noted as you drew closer to the turning you needed. The road had been closed off, traffic being diverted, as an overturned car had been t-boned by a small van and now blocked most of the road.

“Shit.” You cursed, a grunt of discomfort following. Poe slowed as he passed an officer which was directing traffic, much to the frustration of the drivers behind who started to use their horns. The officer came to the window once Poe rolled down the window, the cold air entering the car and making a shudder rush through you.

“We need to get to the hospital, my wife is in labour.” Poe explained, looking over to you quickly to make sure you were alright.

“Carry on and at the next junction keep going straight ahead then take your next right at the junction after that. Should bring you guys back onto the main road,” She directed. “Oh, and congratulations.” She added as Poe started to pull away. Following the directions given, it wasn’t long before you were back on track towards the hospital. Poe turned on the radio, hopeful that it might offer a slight distraction.

“We need to call your dad.” You suddenly remembered. Leaning forward you pressed several buttons on the screen in the centre console and soon the sound of a phone dialling came over the car’s speakers. It took a couple rings before Kes picked up.

“You alright there Poe?” Kes asked immediately.

“We’re heading to the hospital, baby is on the way.” Poe explained briefly.

“I’ll head over as soon as I can, take it easy out there it’s dangerous.”

“We know, there’s already been one crash, had to be diverted to the hospital.” Your disgruntled voice called out. Kes spoke your name softly.

“You take it easy too, I’ll see you both soon, just focus on getting to the hospital.”

The two of you called your goodbyes before Kes hung up. Suddenly you took Poe’s hand tightly in yours as another wave of pain flooded your system, surprising you as you had not expected it.

“We’re almost there.” Poe reassured you.

“Good,” You grumbled. “I’m sick of sitting in this car!” You complained, shifting in your seat. Poe chuckled, he quickly squeezed your hand before returning to focusing on the road.

It wasn’t long after you’d entered the hospital that you were rushed to maternity. After being hooked up to monitoring machines, examined and made comfortable, it soon became a game of waiting for the contractions to be closer together. Poe sat beside you as you reclined in the bed, he held your hand in his.

“Is Kes on his way?” You wondered aloud.

“Dad texted, he set off a bit ago. Might be an hour or two, depending on how things are out there.” Poe answered. You hummed to acknowledge his words then closed your eyes, the contractions beginning to tire you slightly.

“How are you feeling?” Poe questioned, pressing a kiss to the back of your hand.

“How do you think Poe.” You grumbled, a small smile tugging at your lips. Poe shook his head the leaned over to press a kiss to your forehead. His hand rested on your bump for a moment.

“Hurry you, you’re driving your mother nuts.” Poe teased.

“Reckon she’s like your mum?” You joked.

“Headstrong and stubborn when she wants? Wouldn’t surprise me.”

It was a long waiting game, Poe would tell you random stories, some you’d heard before and others which were new, it took your attention away from the examinations and the slowly growing closer together contractions. You squeezed Poe’s hand tightly during one particularly harsh contraction.

“You’re alright.” Poe spoke your name, trying ever so hard to comfort you but knowing there wasn’t much he could do.

“I feel like I want to push.” You grunted. Poe called for a nurse who gave another examination before confirming your instinct. You hadn’t realised how long labour could last for, although it had all become a bit of a blur, the contractions becoming stronger and the instinct the push taking over. Poe held your hand, helped you change positions when the one you were in became uncomfortable, when possible he’d rub your back in comforting circles. He’d whisper words of encouragement into your ear and hold you close when he could. It was a long while later before the nurses instructed you to stop pushing and to take breaths instead, the baby almost ready to be birthed. With a final yell your baby was brought into this world. Poe cuddled you tightly as high-pitched cries filled the room. Poe let out a small excited laugh as he watched as your baby was cleaned and wrapped in a blanket before being handed to you.

“She looks like you.” You commented tiredly. Poe gently moved the strands of hair that were matted to your sweat streaked forehead and pressed a kiss to your brow.

“She has her mother’s eyes.” Poe added. The small bundle in your arms instinctively cuddled close and you cradled her ever so softly.

“She’s beautiful.” You grinned.

“Just like her mother.”

“Not so much at the minute.” You groaned, shifting slightly in an attempt to get comfy.

“Believe me, post-labour you is looking stunning.” Poe reassured, giving you a bright smile. You laughed.

You eventually found yourself freshened up and dressed in more than just a hospital gown, settled in a bed on the ward. Kes had arrived a few hours ago but now that labour was over he was able to finally visit.

“She’s gorgeous.” Kes admitted as he held your daughter.

“She is, isn’t she.” You smiled.

“How’re you feeling?” Kes wondered, gently passing little Shara back to you.

“Exhausted and everything hurts and aches, but otherwise I’m absolutely fine.” You answered.

“Good.” Kes gave your hand a squeeze then turned to his son who had just entered your room. He passed one of the coffee cups in his hand to his father then came to sit by your side.

“We might be stuck here for a bit.” Poe explained, taking a sip of his drink then placing it down on a nearby table.

“Why?”

“Since we’ve been in here, the snow has really come down. It might be a longer drive home.”

You groaned in annoyance.

“As if the ride here wasn’t bad enough.”

You searched for the nearest window and seeing the still falling snow, you frowned.

“You just had to arrive in the middle of all this didn’t you?” You looked down to Shara whose hand was trying to grasp at your clothing, little unintelligible sounds escaping her mouth. The vague annoyance you had about the weather outside melted away and you gently stroked Shara’s cheek, a smile finding its way onto your face. Poe leaned forward in his chair and took your hand, his thumb gently rubbing small circles into your skin, he then pressed a kiss to your knuckles and offered you a smile as he pulled back.

“I almost forgot.” Kes noted, bending down to pick up a gift bag. Poe gently took Shara from your arms, and you watched in adoration as he slowly stepped towards the hospital cot, bouncing her softly in his arms and making unintelligible noises as he put his face close to hers and smiling. You smiled as Poe made his way back to your side once Shara was safely in the cot. Kes offered you the bag and shuffling to a sitting position you then opened it. A small teddy bear was the first thing you took out. You gave it a quick squeeze, feeling how soft it was and with help from Poe, placed it in the corner of Shara’s cot. Reaching in again, you grasped a crocheted blanket. Lifting it out, you held it up to get a good look at it. It was primarily white and in the corner you spotted Shara’s name stitched in black.

“Kes this is beautiful.” You beamed.

“Reminds me of-“

Kes nodded towards the bag. Poe cocked a brow and peered inside. A smile tugged at his lips as he reached in and pulled out another blanket. This one looked a little worn, the wool frayed in areas. Poe showed it to you, spreading it out across your lap, his thumb running slowly over the name in the corner. Poe. 

“Shara made that one too” Kes motioned to the blanket with Shara’s name on it. “It was blank of course. I added the name,” Kes went on. You glanced at the two names and noted how one seemed a little neater than the other. “I’ve been practicing, but I’m still not as good as your mother. Anyway... she thought or well… she hoped that you’d have children of your own someday and she knew she might not be around for that day. So she made a couple before she passed-“

“A couple?” Poe cocked a brow, a smile playing on his lips but when you looked over you could see his eyes becoming glassy with barely held back tears.

“Your mom was… very hopeful,” Kes smiled. “I’ve kept them safe and well-looked after over the years so I could give you it when it was time.”

Poe was speechless and simply brought his father into a tight hug, burying his face in his shoulder. You wiped a tear from your cheek, touched by Kes’ and the late Shara’s gift. Poe cleared his throat as he pulled away from his father, his hands coming up to wipe the tears away. Kes himself was fighting tears and offered his son, and then you a soft smile.

“Thank you so much Kes. I haven’t got the words to say how much this means. I really wish I could’ve met her.” You sniffed a little as you gently rubbed the soft wool of the blanket in your grasp.

“I know I’ve said it before but she would’ve loved you,” Kes smiled at you, a glimmer of sadness in his expression. “I should let you get some rest. I’ll come by later, probably with some better food than what you can get here.”

“Thank you Kes, for all of this,” You looked over to Poe. “I imagine you’ll want to talk to your dad. I’ll be fine on my own for a while.”

Poe stepped over to you and captured your lips in a loving kiss. He gave you a nod and turned to leave. He stroked little Shara’s cheek before leaving with Kes.

The following morning you were cleared to go home, Kes and Poe walked on either side of you as you took the slow journey back towards the car. Once you were in the passengers seat, Kes leaned in and pressed a kiss to the top of your head.

“Take care. The both of you.” Kes then turned to Poe who had just finished securing your sleeping newborn in the vehicle. 

“We will.” Poe smiled then brought his father in for a hug.

“I’ll speak to you both soon. For now I’ll let you get home and get some rest,” Kes clamped a hand on Poe’s shoulder. “Get it while you can, this one always decided to cry the moment you shut your eyes.” Kes motioned to Poe with his thumb.

“Well lets hope Shara doesn’t take after her dad in that sense.” You smiled softly.

“I love you both. Take care.” Kes stepped back and watched as Poe got in the car and began the trip home. Thankfully, the journey was uneventful, the thick layer of snow that had fallen luckily hadn’t effected the roads too much, and soon enough Poe was pulling up the driveway. The warmth of your home welcomed you as you stepped through the door. Poe had already made the trip home a few hours after the birth of Shara to make sure the power was working and to feed his tabby. A few steps in and Beebee was at your side within a moment. The tabby appeared curious at the bundle in your arms, pawing at your leg and becoming rather verbal.

“Beebee, hold on a minute.” You chuckled, stepping further into your home. Shara still remained asleep in your arms. Poe followed in behind you, carrying the to-go bag and heading towards your bedroom.

“Hungry?” Poe called as he came back into view. He placed the moses basket in his grasp in the lounge, ready for you to place Shara in.

“Definitely!”

“Get comfy and I’ll whip something up.” Poe rubbed your shoulder as he passed by, offering you a gentle smile. While the sounds of Poe cooking emanated from the kitchen, you decided to find a comfy spot on the sofa. The moment you sat, Beebee jumped up beside you, his head moving to try and get a clear look at what you held. Very slowly you tipped Shara in Beebee’s direction, the tabby putting its front paws on your leg and peering at the newborn. Beebee took a tentative sniff then drew back before curling up at your side and purring. Eventually Poe returned to the lounge with two plates, he placed them both on the coffee table in front and motioned for you to pass Shara to him. After, Poe very carefully laid Shara in the nearby moses basket. You shuffled forward and took the two plates, passing one to Poe once he sat beside you.

“Thanks.” You spoke before starting to eat.

“Welcome.” Poe replied through a mouthful of food. For a time the two of you enjoyed the temporary silence that filled your home. Waiting for the moment little Shara would wake and call desperately for her parents attention. 

The remainder of the day passed, Poe and yourself interacting with Shara during the moments when she would wake, then enjoying the moments when she was asleep to get some semblance of rest. Before you realised, it was nightfall and the exhaustion that had been hampering you all day finally started to tug at you. Looking at Poe, whose head was resting slightly on your shoulder, his expression was that of a tiredness.

“We should head to bed babe.” You whispered. Poe hummed in agreement and after a slight groan he shuffled off the sofa and held a hand out to you. You took it gratefully and eventually found your feet. Poe took the little bundle out of the basket and carefully passed Shara to you before lifting the basket itself and carrying it towards your bedroom. Shara didn’t stir as you followed behind Poe and once the basket was placed near to your bed, you slowly placed her back inside. Leaning down you pressed a kiss to the top of her head. It was a slow process getting ready for bed, but soon enough you were under the covers with Poe by your side.

“It’s been a long day.” Poe noted, propping himself up with the last reserves of energy he had.

“It’s going to be an even longer couple months before things settle back down.” You added. Poe smiled softly, his gaze passing over the basket before returning to you. He shuffled closer and wrapped you in his arms, his fingers gently playing with your hair for a time before he rested his head beside yours.

“Completely worth it. Sleepless nights here we come.” He teased, you could hear the tired smile in his voice. You turned and pressed a loving kiss to his cheek, as you began to turn away, Poe’s hand came up to cup your cheek gently to keep you close. He leaned in and pressed several kisses your lips, some long and passionate, others short and sweet, either way you were both left breathless.

“You’re a remarkable woman.” Poe spoke with certainty. He gave you a quick squeeze then settled down beside you.

“I’m also lucky,” You added in a whisper. “To have you. To have you both.” Your gaze fell on the basket where your baby slept.

“We’re lucky to have you too.” Poe replied in a whisper, you felt his lips against your skin then felt as he relaxed. With Poe holding you, and the exhaustion of the day, it didn’t take too much longer for sleep to find you.

A cry woke you from your sleep and you grumbled as you slowly slipped out of bed, Poe stirred but after some reassurance he seemed to drop back off to sleep. You stepped over and took Shara in your arms then quietly stepped out of your bedroom, shushing your newborn and gently rocking her in your arms. You soon settled down in the armchair placed in Shara’s bedroom and started to feed her.

“You’re going to be trouble I can feel it.” You smiled lovingly at your little girl. For a time you just sat there, enjoying the relative peace and the quiet sounds of your baby. You held her close against you afterwards, rocking her and shushing her as she began to fuss again. The sound of heavy shuffling footsteps drew your gaze to the door where Poe tiredly stumbled through.

“Everything alright?” Poe wondered, his voice full of sleep.

“She’s just hungry. Go back to bed.”

“Not without you, I’m not.” Poe rubbed the sleep from his eyes and came to sit on the arm of the chair. He stroked your hair softly, humming gently as he watched how you soothed little Shara. Slowly you passed her to Poe, letting him gently stroke her cheek and whisper soothing, loving words to her. He held her for a time, gently bouncing her to encourage her to back towards sleep. Poe carefully placed Shara in your arms and placed his hand on your shoulder. You pressed a loving kiss to the top of your little girl’s head then cradled her close to your chest as you leaned back in the armchair.

“Isn’t she just gorgeous Poe?” You enthused.

“Just like her mother.” Poe smiled, his fingers running through your hair before they rested on your jaw to guide you in for a passionate kiss. He then disappeared from the room for a moment before returning, his guitar case in hand. You smiled softly at him as he began to take out the instrument.

“Daddy is going to play for you Shara. Your daddy makes the most beautiful music, just listen.” You spoke gently to your newborn. The small bundle made an unintelligible noise before nuzzling closer. Poe sat beside you, his guitar resting on his thigh and he began to play. The music was quiet, slow, calming. A lullaby. Then a moment later, Poe began to sing. You realised then why the music sounded familiar, Poe was singing his Mother’s song. Your baby’s namesake. There in the dim light, you shared a loving look with your husband before gazing at the child in your arms. The music drifted around the three of you, wrapping you in its comfort. You watched as little Shara closed her eyes ever so slowly and eventually succumbed to sleep. And as you sat there with your eyes beginning to flicker close, a mix of exhaustion and peace coming over you, you thought fondly of all the years to come. Of all the years of love yet to share between the three of you. Of the memories to be made. Of how perfect all this was. And how it all started one night in a bar listening to a wonderful man playing the most beautiful music you’d ever heard.

~Fin~

Tagged:

@petah-parkah-and-potahtas @mirkwoodshewolf @sleepretreat @jessicaguerreiro07 @pdamn-eron @imagine-that-star-wars @yourwonderbelle @imaginecrushes @simplyonehellofapilot @unstoppableforcce @mirkwoodavengersherlockianwhofan @pinkdreamsandglitter @i-said-goddameron @ghost-with-spaghetti-arms @sassy-satanunicorns

@ponycake27

@playbucky​​

@arrowswithwifi​​

[poeticandors]

So Many Words Part 4

Poe Dameron x Female!Reader

Summary: Poe and Y/N became pen pals after their first meeting when they were younger, and since then, they continued to write letters to each other. Following the letters throughout their lives, we will see just how far these letters go, as well as their relationship.

Warnings: None

A/N: I hope everyone enjoys this chapter! Almost to the end!

I do not own GIF!

Part 1 Part 2 Part 3

22 Years Old

Dear Poe,

I hope everything is treating you well. I miss you so much, I can’t wait to see you when you get to visit again. Our last visit wasn’t long enough ;). Tell Commander Andor I begged you to give you more another leave (tell him I am giving puppy dog eyes right now).

Finals week is here, I’m dreading it so much. I’ve literally studied nonstop and I don’t feel like I’m retaining ANY information at all. I wish you were here to help me study ;).

I can’t believe I’ll be walking in just a few more days. I have NO idea what I’m going to be doing after this. It’s going to be weird not studying and having to get an actual job. 

I miss you every single day you’re not here. But I am so proud of all you’ve accomplished. Never thought I would still be writing letters to you as often as I do. But I wouldn’t change a thing.

Stay safe. 

I love you,

Y/N

~~~~~~

Smiling down at the letter, you fold it up and push it into the envelope before sealing it off. You would be sure to send it as soon as you had a chance to. A small bark is heard, and you glance down to see BeeBee wagging his little nub. 

“Time to eat?” The pup’s ears shot up and he quirks his head to the side before jumping up.

“Alright, alright,” you chuckle as you stand up, grabbing the envelope with BeeBee following behind. 

You had gifted Poe with BeeBee a while ago, when he first started his training. The two were thick as thieves— always cuddling together on the couch while you studied. BeeBee would always get upset when Poe left, but the moment he came back it was like he never even left. 

As you poured the food into the bowl, you glanced at a few pictures that were hanging up on your wall. There were a few from when you were really young, like when you, Ben, and Poe went to the zoo. And then there was one of you and Poe at your high school graduation

Then, there were some more recent. There was one of you, Poe, and BeeBee when he was just a puppy, and another of the two of you in front of the Disneyland Castle with your churros. 

So many memories from your childhood, and they only kept growing as you both get older. Never would you have thought that you would end up still writing letters to him, having a shared apartment and dog. 

You smiled.

You were so in love with Poe Dameron.

+++++++

“Dameron! You’ve got some mail.”

Poe glances up as Cassian hands him a few letters, nodding in thanks as his Commander continues to pass out mail. He reads the first one from his father, seeing that he is well and how he hopes that he is staying safe and not getting into any trouble.

He smiles, setting the letter aside before recognizing your handwriting. He opens it up and begins to read as Cassian sits next to him, opening a letter that’s most likely from Jyn. 

“Your sweetheart write you?” 

“Yeah, she said to tell you she’s begging you to give me another leave. Says she is giving you puppy dog eyes right now.”

Cassian chuckles. “So, she doesn’t know you’re dropping by for her graduation, then?”

“Nope. Her parents do, I’ve already talked with them. And my father will be flying out to see her walk, as well.”

“That’ll be nice. Give her my congratulations, will you?” 

“Sure,” he nods as Cassian pats his shoulder before walking off. 

Poe smiles, grabbing the letter and placing it in a box with all the others you’ve written, along with picture you’ve sent of you and BeeBee. 

He would never get tired of seeing your smile.

He knew joining the Air Force meant not being with each other as often, but it didn’t stop your love from growing. Each visit made him realize just how thankful he is to have you in his life. 

It would only be a few more days until you walked, and Poe would be there to witness it— although you didn’t know that. He glances down at the small box he kept with your letters, gently picking it up as he stares at the beautiful ring hanging on a chain inside. 

He knew from the moment he met you that he wanted you in his life for a long time. As your relationship blossomed, he wanted you to be in his life not only as his best friend, but his wife. 

His mother gave him the ring when he was younger, saying that she wanted him to give it to the one person he loved with all his heart. He kept that ring with him every day after she passed, determined to find that one person.

And that person was you. 

Poe smiles— his heart warm and full at the thought of you wearing his mother’s ring. He sets the box away, grabbing a paper and pen as he sits down to write. 

~~~~~~

Sweetheart,

You’re right, our last visit wasn’t long enough. I have a feeling we have PLENTY of time to catch up ;). Commander Andor gives his congratulations on graduating, I think you MIGHT have gotten him to consider letting me take another leave. 

I’ve told you before, sweetheart. You’re going to kick those finals asses. You have nothing to worry about. You are going to be amazing at whatever you . And I am already so proud of you. No matter what, I will be by your side. 

I love you more than anything, sweetheart. And I promise, I’ll see you sooner than you think.

I love you,

Poe

~~~~~~

”Alright, smile!”

Holding up your diploma and a bouquet of flowers you received, you smile widely as your parents and Kes take photos of you. 

You finally did it.

The moment you heard your name being called almost didn’t seem real to you. All your hard work, all the late nights… they finally paid off. You were a graduate.

You were so thankful to be joined with your family and Kes— your loved ones. They cheered so loud for you as you waved to them while grabbing your diploma. You could only imagine how loud Poe would’ve cheered for you. This thought made your heart feel heavy. While you wished that Poe were there, you knew he needed to be where he was at.

“Okay, how about—“

“Just one more!” Your mother calls out, a sly smile on her face.

Shaking your head with a smile, you pose for another picture, when you feel an arm wrap around your shoulders. Quickly looking up, you were frozen in place for a mere moment as you stared into the familiar eyes of Poe. 

“Hey, Sweetheart.”

Your Poe was here.

All of the emotions hit you at once like a wave— relief, exhilaration… they were all there. A choked sob escapes you, and you carefully hand the flowers and your diploma to whoever held their hands to grab them before embracing Poe. 

“Poe!” You cry out, tears falling down your cheeks as he spins you around. “I-I can’t believe you’re here!”

“You really think I would miss seeing my girl’s big day?” He chuckles, setting you down.

Your hands are on his cheeks, and you quickly press your lips to his— kissing him fervently. As he pulls you close, you feel him smile against your lips.

Pulling away, you can’t help the smile that forms on your face. “I’m so happy you’re here.” 

“Well… your graduation isn’t the only reason I’m here.” 

Your brows knit together, and before you can ask what he means, Poe reaches into his pocket and pulls out a box.

Your hands are quick to cover your mouth, and you already feel more tears forming as Poe smiles up at you. 

“Y/N… from the moment we first met, I knew I wanted you in my life.” He starts. “From that first summer to us becoming pen pals, to us becoming best friends… then on to more than friends. I can’t imagine my life without you. I don’t want to.”

He opens up the box, and you try to hold back a sob.

It was the ring his mother gave him.

You remember him first showing it to you when you were younger. The ring then was hooked on a small chain, ensuring that he took it everywhere with him, and it was then that you realized that he always had it with him. 

Poe told you about that day his mother died, and your heart ached for him. Though full of sorrow, he continued to tell you many happy memories— all the stories of her time in the Air Force, how she always took him to the park close by the airport so they could watch the planes take off. 

Then, he told you about the moment she gave him her ring, telling him to give it to the one person he truly loved— the one he wanted to marry. 

He was giving it to you. 

Poe glances up at you— his gaze nervous and pupils so blown.You had never seen Poe this nervous before, not since your prom night. He’s trying to come up with the words, you can see him trying to rack his brain around just what to say. 

“...Sweetheart, I’ve loved you from that moment by the lake. My love for you continues to grow every single day, and I want to continue showing just how much you mean to me,” he exhales shakily, holding the ring out for you. “Will you allow me to spend every waking day as your husband? To be able to call you my wife and build a happy life together? Y/N… will you marry me?”

There was no hesitation. You quickly nod, tears falling down your cheeks as you pull your hands down. 

“Yes, Poe. Yes! I’ll marry you.”

[oopsitsstella]

Fairytale of New York

Poe Dameron x Solo! Reader

Fandom: Star Wars (Modern AU)

Summary: Y/N Solo and Poe Dameron have been best friends all their lives, and dating since Senior Year, High School. They grew up close to each other in the outskirts of New York City, and moved in together in Los Angeles when they got accepted to college there. After graduation, Poe got accepted into the Air Force and now he’ll be gone over the Holidays.

‘I’ll miss you.’ Y/N whispered.

Her and Poe were standing in their apartment in LA, and Poe was about to leave for a mission with the Air Force. Sadly, he’d be gone over the Holidays, a very important time for both of them.

‘I know, and I’ll miss you even more.’ Poe said.

‘Not possible.’ Y/N chuckled, when a bark brought them both back to earth. Their two pets, an orange and white corgi named Beebee and a grey tabby cat called Koi, were standing by their feet.

‘Of course I’ll miss you too.’ Poe said, crouching down to pet them both.

‘You need to get going.’ Y/N spoke up, as much as she just wanted him to stay.

‘Yeah, I know.’ Poe stood up and gave Y/N one last kiss before opening the front door.

‘Please be careful!’ Y/N called after him.

‘Always am!’

***

‘Hi mom.’ Y/N said into the phone.

‘Hi sweetie. How are you doing?’ Leia asked.

‘I’m doing alright.’ Y/N said. She was sitting on her couch with her friends Finn and Rey. ‘Just called to say I think I’ll be staying in LA over Christmas this year.’

‘How come?’ Disappointment was clear in her voice.

‘I don’t know. I was thinking I might spend it with Rey and Finn this year, since Poe’s away with the Air Force, and they said they weren’t heading home this year.’ Y/N said.

‘Oh, but it’s so rare we see you now with you living in California.’ Leia said. ‘Say, why don’t you ask them if they want to come along?’

‘Are you sure?’

‘Of course. The more the merrier, and we have room for more guests then just Luke.’

‘Alright, I’ll ask them. One second.’ Y/N turned to her friends. ‘Mom’s asking if you two want to come to New York and celebrate Christmas with us.’

‘Works for me.’ Rey said, looking at Finn.

‘If it’s fine.’ He said.

‘Well, mom said it was, so.’ Y/N said and placed her phone to her ear again. ‘They said yes.’

‘Perfect! I’ll be sure to have the guest rooms ready for them.’

‘Okay great! I’ll see you at Christmas then.’ Y/N said with a smile. After a last goodbye with her mother, she hung up and turned to her friends. ‘Guess we all have some packing to do then.’

***

Y/N came to a stop in front of one of the houses on the street. It was quite large, plenty of rooms inside, Y/N knew. The roof was lined with fairy lights, there was a wreath hanging on the front door and candles were seen in a few of the windows.

‘Here it is.’ Y/N said with a smile, walking towards the front door, a Finn and Rey following. She opened the door, and Beebee immediately walked in, but he was stopped after a small distance because of his leash.

‘Hello?’ Y/N called into the house once she was fully inside, while Rey shut the door behind them. Dull thuds were heard from one of the rooms and the next moment a large, fluffy, brown dog was rushing towards the group.

‘Hi Chewie!’ Y/N said with a smile, crouching down to greet the dog, while a short, brown-haired woman entered the room. ‘Hi mom!’

‘Hello, welcome home.’ Leia said, giving her daughter a hug.

Y/N bent down to take Beebee leash off and let Koi out of her carrier while Rey and Finn greeted Leia. ‘Is no one else home?’

‘No, not yet. Your dad is out running a few errands, and Ben hasn’t arrived yet, he should be here by tonight, and you know Luke won’t be here until the twenty-third, so right now it’s just us.’

***

The day before Christmas Eve. It was about nine thirty in the morning, and Rey and Finn were on a mission. They had received very specific instructions, and now it was time to put it in motion. Rey opened the door to Y/N’s bedroom, finding the h/c girl laying in the bed. She carefully walked in, and jumped onto the bed. Y/N let out a yelp of surprise once Rey landed.

‘Rise and shine, bestie!’ Rey said. ‘We have plans for the day, and we need to leave by 2 o’clock if we want to make it on time.’

‘What? What are we doing?’ Y/N said, sitting up in the bed.

‘We have plans for food at three-thirty, so we have to leave by 2, and then we’re going ice skating at Rockerfeller Center.’

‘Alright, alright. I’m up.’ Y/N laughed, leaving her bed, and heading to her wardrobe.

***

Y/N, Rey and Finn had left the restaurant, and were lacing up their ice skates, Christmas music playing around the rink. It was starting to get dark, the little sky visible through the clouds was pink and purple, and light snow was begining to fall. While Rey and Y/N stepped on to the ice, Finn stayed behind and picked up his phone. Once he ended the phone call, he hid the smile of mischief spreading on his face, and joined the girls.

‘I’m feeling pretty done now.’ Finn said, coming to a stop on the ice.

‘Yeah, so am I. Should we call it a day?’ Rey asked.

‘Yeah, sounds good, I want to be home when Uncle Luke arrives later.’ Y/N said, and the group skated over to step off the ice.

‘Y/N.’ Rey said, a smile on her face.

‘What’s up?’ Y/N asked.

‘Turn around.’

Y/N furrowed her eyebrows in confusion, but did so anyway, and froze in place when she saw who was standing a small ways away. He was smiling, and a grin broke out on Y/N’s face.

‘Poe!’ She exclaimed, sprinting towards him. Poe caught her in a tight hug, both of them laughing.

‘Why didn’t you say you were coming?’ Y/N questioned once they released each other. In her surprise, Y/N had missed the arrival of her parents, brother and uncle.

‘Well, I kinda needed the element of surprise. I had a plan.’ Poe replied, taking a step back, before getting down on one knee and holding out a (gold/silver) ring with a f/c crystal sitting in the middle.

‘We’ve known each other, pretty much our entire lives. And I’ve loved you through all of that time. And when I left for my Air Force mission a few weeks ago, I realized how much I couldn’t bare the fact that I might die without you knowing how much I love you. Which is part of the reason, the other being that I just love you more then anything in the world, that I want to ask you, Y/N Solo, if you’ll marry me?’

Y/N didn’t think she had ever smiled this much. Or cried. She had tried to keep the tears at bay, but it was ultimately undoable. ‘Yes. Yes, of corse I will!’

Poe stood up, placing the ring on her finger, before picking her up and spinning in a circle. Once Y/N was back on the ground, she pressed her lips to Poe’s.

Finn had been grinning since Rey had asked Y/N to turn around, Rey could barely contain her excitement, while Ben’s smile had been growing since his sister was reunited with Poe. Both Han and Leia were fondly smiling at their daughter, happy for her and Poe.

‘You knew, didn’t you?’ Y/N turned to face Finn and Rey.

‘Of course we did! Pretty sure everyone did.’ Finn said, looking over to Y/N’s family.

‘Luke didn’t until we told him earlier today, but aside from that, yeah. We all knew.’ Han said.

Y/N laughed, wrapping her arms around Poe.

‘For the record, Poe.’ She said, looking up at him. ‘I feel the same way.’

[onthesandsofdreams]

Comfort Found

Prompts: #4.- I know you didn’t ask for this, #12.- What if I don’t see it? From @fictober-event Day 2 of Damerey Week: Comfort Fandom: Star Wars  Pairing: Rey x Poe Rating: G Words: 1448 Warnings: None

Read @ AO3

Rey stood alone, watching as the sun set on Yavin. She felt rattled and lost. The Resistance had whittled down , Luke Skywalker had passed and the saber broken. Over all, she felt useless.

“Rey?”

Poe’s voice broke her out of her gloomy thoughts. “Hey Poe,” she tried to smile at him, but she was sure it came more like a grimace.

“Hey now, Rey, what has you in such mood?” Poe said as he drew closer to her, friendly smile on his face.

“I  was thinking. I - I don’t know. It feels like I failed,” It was hard for her to admit that. “I gave Kylo the chance and he - he just... went on to try and kill us all. And now Luke’s dead and I barely know anything. I have the jedi books, and I’m reading them, but it’s not the same.”

Poe looked at her, not with pity, but with understanding. “Listen Rey, I know you didn’t ask for this. I know that you only wanted your family, and now you’re here, fighting a war you didn’t even knew about. But I want you to know that you’re not alone. You have me, and Finn and Rose and Chewie and Leia. We'll beat them, you are enough and you’ll see it, don't worry about it.”

“But what if I don't see it? What if I'm not enough?”

“No,” Poe shook his head. “Don’t go down that path. You did the best you could under the circumstances. Ren made his choice, you made yours. What matters now is what we do next. The Resistance will rise up again. We have Leia, and she’s contacting old friends of her. Just… take care of yourself. And I know it's hard to believe that you're enough, but you are. You kicked Ren's ass the first time. And your good nature made you want to help him, that's amazing, but like I said, he's chosen his path. And you can't torture yourself over it, you are strong and brave, fierce and open, you want to do good. That is enough, you hear me? Also there's some place I want to take you.”

“Where?” Rey asked, feeling already lighter at Poe’s words. He was right, they could defeat the First Order, she could do it, she wasn’t afraid.

“I grew up on this planet, you know? And Luke once gifted my mom a sapling of the Force tree, it grew near our home and well, I figured you’d like to see it.”

Rey’s eyes shone at the prospect and a smile blossomed on her face, “Truly?”

Poe smile at her enthusiasm and seeing the change in her mood was a relief. “Absolutely! I asked Leia if I could take you there and she gave us a couple of days off, called my pa too and he’s waiting for us. So, c’mon on Rey, grab some things and let me show you the Tree.”

Rey rushed off and packed a small bag, she did not have much to take, but she didn’t mind at all. She rushed back to meet Poe,  who was waiting with Beebee, “Ready!”

“Excellent! We’re taking a small landspeeder if you don’t mind.” At the shake of her head, Poe led her to the speeder they'd use. “You’ll like it, I promise!”  

“I have no doubt I will, I can't wait to see the Force tree!”

Poe beamed at her enthusiasm, “Come along then, ready Beebee? Rey, I gave my pa a call, so he’d know we’d be dropping in. But don’t worry about it, he’s fine with it and wants to meet you. C’mon, let’s get going.”

Rey hesitated for a moment, self-doubt and worry creeping back. Now she was going to meet Poe’s father, she’d only hope the elder Dameron was someone like his son. Beebee bumped her leg and gave her some quizzical beeps. “Yeah, I’m coming Beebee.”

Rey followed Poe to the small landspeeder and settled in and made sure Beebee was there as well. Poe turned at her with a smile on his face, “Ready?”

“Yeah.”

Poe didn’t wait much longer and off they went. Rey allowed herself to watch a part of Yavin that she didn’t get to see often. Neither of them spoke, they made their way in comfortable silence.

At Poe’s childhood home, they weren’t even out of the speeder, when a tall, broad shouldered man came out the door. “Poe! Mijo!”

“Pa!” Poe rushed to meet his father and Rey watched as the two embraced, Beebee was chirping with excitement. Then Poe let go and motioned for her to come closer, “Come here Rey, meet my pa!”

Rey walks towards them, and as she draws closer, she has a better opportunity to observe Poe’s father. The man is tall, and he would be intimidating if he didn’t have such kind eyes and gentle smile and she feels at ease. “Hello, I’m Rey.” She extends her hand in greeting.

“Welcome home Rey, I’m Kes.” Kes took her hand and shook it with care. “Kid over here told me a lot about you.”

“He did?” Rey turns and looks at Poe, who simply smiles and shrugs his shoulders. “He didn’t tell me anything.”

“Well now that’s rude Poe,” Kes jokes. “Come in, leave your things inside, we’ll have dinner and then you kids can go and see the Tree.”

Kes led then inside and Rey allowed herself a moment to look around, the house was small and, well, cozy. It was so different from any place she’d ever been, it was a home. She looked at Poe, unsure as what to do.

“Here, let me show you where you can put your things,” Poe said as he guided her inside his home. Until he stopped in front of a door and opened it, “Here’s your room Rey.”

Rey let her small bag near the bed and smiled. The room was Poe’s. Pictures of starfighters and others on the walls. And there was the picture of a woman, she trouble identifying her as his mother, “You look like your mom,” she said.

Poe’s whole face softened, “Yeah. Pa always says so. She’d have loved you, she was a pilot you know? She’s the one who taught me how to fly. But c’mon, let’s eat.”

Rey followed Poe back to the living area and they found Kes setting the table. “C’mon kids, sit down, food’s ready.”

Rey sat near Poe, and the three of them began to eat. The food was good and with peaceful conversation. Kes, would sometimes sprinkle little stories about Poe, that made her laugh and Poe roll his eyes at his father.

At the end, Kes all but pushed them out towards the Tree. And Rey followed Poe, but she didn’t need him to tell her which tree it was. She could feel it vibrating with the Force.

Rey looked at the Tree and extended her hand, letting the waves it was emitting wash over her. It felt better than the cave in Ahch-To. “It’s amazing,” she whispered.

“Yeah,” Poe said, voice just as low. “Even I can feel it, it’s peaceful. Isn’t it?”

“Yes,” Rey spoke as she closed her eyes and let herself feel. She felt the Tree and the force, Poe’s warm presence alongside hers. Any and all doubt and worries that she felt faded away.

“You know,” Poe’s voice came from below. “I used to climb this tree a lot. Fell a couple of time, broke my arm once.”

Rey opened her eyes and looked at Poe, who had opted to sit at the roots, back against its bark. “I can imagine,” she said as she sat with Poe. “Must have been nice growing up here.”

Poe tossed an arm around her. “Rey, it hurts that you were left behind, you deserved better and I let me tell you, if I could, I would change it. And stars above I’m glad you’re out of that planet and I want you to know that you’re one of the strongest people I know. People have given up for less.”

Rey was silent for a bit, “Thank you.”

“You’re welcome.”

Silence fell, but it wasn’t uncomfortable and neither of them felt the need to break it. Rey allowed herself to close her eyes and rested her head against the bark of the tree. The galaxy might be in turmoil, but here, sitting with Poe under the tree, her worries seemed to melt away. She felt the weight of Poe’s arm around her shoulders and smiled, she had been in need of comfort and she had found it thanks to Poe. The galaxy could wait for a day or two.

[saltylikecrait]

Ballad of the Legendary Hero - Finn/Rey Legend of Zelda AU

For this week’s @finnreyfridays! I’ve been working on this one for a while and it kind of goes with both of this week’s themes. 

This fic is long and can also be read on AO3.

Rey paced back and forth along the black and white tile of the flooring, glancing at the staircase every couple of minutes with worry. She had been waiting for hours while Finn was completing the Hero’s Trials, but she respected his wishes when he told her he needed to do this alone. The point of the trials was to test the skills of every potential hero because according to the legends, only the Spirit of the Hero could complete them and remove the legendary sword from its pedestal. Rey might not have been someone to ever believe in fairy tales, but she knew when to respect sacred ground.

Besides, she reminded herself, Finn wasn’t alone exactly. He had Beebee, the strange little machine that Commander Poe Dameron had lent them, and Rey held the comm link to Beebee. If Finn ran into any problems, he could talk to her through Beebee and she could run in to help if he needed her.

They were a strange pair. A soldier from the army of Kylo Ren, the enemy of the Kingdom of Alderaan, and a girl from the sands of Jakku who survived by repairing the machinery of travelers. She would have never bet in a million years that she would leave her home in the west, hoping that one day the family that left her there would return, let alone be one of the two people that the Kingdom of Alderaan placed all its hopes on.

Finn never liked to think of himself as a hero, but if he succeeded and could retrieve the sword, there would be no doubt that he was the hero in the legends, back to aid Alderaan in its hour of need.

She fell asleep at some point leaning up against a pillar while telling herself the legend of the Hero and dreaming of Finn in his place.

The sound of echoing footsteps woke her up, though she had no idea how long she had been sleeping. Looking up, she saw Finn approaching her, sword sheathed against his back. Behind him, the little round machine called Beebee ran his motors to keep up. The machine-thing only stood to height just below Rey’s knees and he could be a quick when he wanted to be. Commander Dameron was a genius to create such an invention. Beebee even had a sort of personality, but neither of them could understand the series of beeps it used as a language. Most of their interactions with the creation involved a lot of guesswork.

“Nice getup,” she laughed, pointing at Finn’s new garb consisting of a green tunic, chain mail, and a ridiculous floppy hat to match.

“A blessing of the goddesses.” Finn folded his arms together, looking down at her. “Show some respect for the Hero.”

Rey beamed excitedly. “So you got it?” She tried to see the hilt of the sword stick out from behind him.

“Yep.” Finn grinned as he unsheathed it and presented it to her.

The legendary Master Sword, the Blade of Evil’s Bane. No one alive had seen it before, but she had seen ancient drawings of the blade. A normal sword would have rusted after centuries of going unused and uncared for, but the Master Sword almost seemed to glow, the blade shining like the goddesses themselves had forged it.

In her arms, the sword seemed to glow just for her, almost as if it were greeting an old friend. Rey looked at it curiously and wondered to herself why the energy from the sword seemed so warm and familiar to her. Perhaps, it was just her nostalgia for the old and ancient. Her magic would never be as strong as the magic of this blade.

“And now we put a stop to Kylo Ren,” Finn announced.

She laughed. “We know it’s not that easy.”

“Okay,” Finn corrected, “now we go find the map to help us put an end to Kylo Ren.”

Speaking of which, that gave Rey an idea, and she reached for her pack to unfold her old and tattered map of the world. She scanned it over, noting that they were only about a day from the Resistance camp, which was close to the Takodana forest, the rumored location of the Temple of Stars. They didn’t have a lot of clues to where Skywalker’s map might be, but there were stories of him visiting the three great temples of the goddesses before he came here, the Temple of Time, and vanished. It seemed as good of a place to look as any.

“Let’s see,” she hummed. “We’re a few hours from the Resistance. If we leave now…”

“Can’t I take a break to rest?” Finn asked. “I just completed the Hero’s Trials and defeated a magic statue.”

“Knowing you, it was probably just a normal statue…”

Finn huffed.

0---0---0---0

They walked out the doors to the front entrance of the temple. “You can rest on the ride,” Rey offered. “Falcon and I get along just fine. You can lean against me.”

Beaming, Finn nodded. He didn’t want to sound like a creep, but he found that he was growing very attached to Rey and the thought of leaning up against her sounded like a dream come true. Especially if it meant that he didn’t have to do much with that old nag. Han Solo’s gray steed might have once been a beauty in her youth, but like her owner, she was now cranky on the best of days and lame on her worst. She could also use a bath because each time Finn patted her, his hands came away covered in dust and dirt. But of course, Rey, ever the equine enthusiast, adored Falcon.

The mare was right where they left her, dozing in the overgrown grass. They had to take more frequent breaks for her in their riding, but so far, this hadn’t been much of a problem. Han would have their heads if they didn’t return old Falcon in one piece.

Rey stroked her neck lovingly. “You up to go back to the queen?” she asked the mare. Finn would have never guessed that the Queen of Alderaan would have married a guy like Han Solo or that Falcon belonged to a man that was part of the Royal Family, but he supposed that Han had been a nice enough. Surely Queen Leia had seen a diamond in the rough when she met the smuggler in his youth.

Helping Rey, Finn situated Beebee into the netting over the side of Falcon's saddle. Then, he mounted the horse, waiting for Rey to shimmy up behind him and take the reins herself.

“Ready?” Rey asked, waiting for Finn’s answer.

“Ready.”

“Falcon,” she commanded, “forward.”

She began to walk briskly down the street, surprisingly springy for such an old horse. Finn caught the curious gazes of a few townsfolk, but he paid them no mind, guessing that they probably were wondering what exactly Beebee was and why he was being toted on horseback.

The fields outside of the town walls were rolling and gentle, green and lush with grass. It wasn’t a difficult ride unless you were in a hurry.

Letting him rest for half the day, Rey eventually asked him to take the reins as evening drew near. He had fallen asleep about an hour into the ride and Rey took care of him so he would not fall off. Now, he would return the favor. Night in the fields could be dangerous, cursed creatures sometimes roamed around, looking for unsuspecting travelers to harm. He guessed they were only about an hour or two to the forest, but he needed to make sure they kept moving to avoid being out after the sun went down.

He let out a sigh of relief when he saw the beginnings of the forest. Curiously, an owl perched on a tree branch at the area’s edge, as if he were keeping watch over the field. He regarded Finn and his companions with large, unblinking eyes.

“Guess the forest is letting us know we’re back,” Finn said to the horse.

Falcon kept walking forward, paying her rider no mind.

They walked through the trees, heavily dotting the area and providing cover and shade to the travelers. Finn kept his eye out for any sign of a scouting party, knowing the Resistance was nearby and always on their guard for the First Order.

Rey groaned and groggily looked around. “Almost there?”

“Think so.”

It was always possible the Resistance moved camp if they were worried about being discovered by the wrong people. If that happened, Finn wasn’t sure how to find them again. He glanced at Beebee and wondered if the little robot had some sort of communication set up with Poe.

But luckily for them, the Resistance was not far and the very person he was thinking about was leading the group.

“Finn! Rey!” Captain Dameron shouted. “You’re back!”

In the netting, Beebee wobbled excitedly, beeping at his master.

“Beebee! Good to see you, buddy!”

Dismounting Falcon, Finn held his hand out to help Rey down before they worked together to get Beebee untethered. Once free, the robot rolled over to Poe and circled his ankles before waiting expectantly for Poe to pat him on the dome. It was odd to see a robot act like a dog, but Finn wasn’t sure how robots were supposed to behave anyway.

“He’s been a big help to us,” said Rey. “Thanks for letting us borrow him.”

“Anytime.” Poe smiled, then he faltered when he caught eye of the sword at Finn’s back. “Is that-?”

“Hmm?” Finn turned around, trying to figure out what Poe was talking about. “What?”

“That’s the Master Sword,” Poe gasped. “Right?” He looked back and forth between Finn and Rey for clarification.

Finn was too humble to say anything, so Rey answered for him. “Finn went through the Hero’s Trials alone and removed the sword from its pedestal.”

0---0---0---0

Rey was the one that told the story to the group of Resistance soldiers sitting around the campfire. Finn sat in silence and only added the details of the trials in because he and Beebee were the only ones that knew what actually had happened there.

The Resistance looked at him with hero-worship and Rey knew this made poor Finn uncomfortable. It must feel odd and lonely to be thought as the Hero of Legend, she realized. A couple of weeks ago, Finn was a foot soldier in the First Order, now here he was, the hope of the Resistance. She knew that some of the soldiers still didn’t trust him, but Rey knew Finn now. He was a far better man than anyone she had ever met and deserving of the Master Sword.

“So you’re going to find Skywalker?” one of the soldiers – a woman called Rose – asked as she looked upon Finn and Rey with a sense of hero-worship in her eyes.

He shrugged. “That’s the idea, at least. We’re not sure what else to try.”

“We’re thinking about investigating the Star Temple,” Rey added. “We thought maybe Skywalker left the map in one of the sacred temples in Alderaan.”

Poe hummed in thought. “Her Majesty might have an idea,” he mused.

It was decided that at sunup, Poe would escort Finn and Rey to the main camp where the queen operated in secret. She might be back at the castle, but she always made the ride each week to check on things.

Before she curled up into her bedroll and fell asleep, Rey spotted Finn still sitting up against a downed log near the campfire. He held the Master Sword in his hands, careful inspecting the blade with a mysterious expression on his face.

0---0---0---0

True to his word, Poe led the two travelers to the main campsite when the sun began to light up the sky. It wasn’t a far ride, but the forest could be treacherous and it was full of monsters that lurked behind every corner.

“Those weren’t here the last time,” Rey observed, her lips tense with worry.

“It’s funny you mentioned the Star Temple,” Poe told them. “A few days ago, we spotted a group of these… creatures swarming the area like they were looking for something. We followed them and found that the bulk of them went into the temple.”

“Really?” Finn looked bewildered.

“I don’t think it’s a coincidence that they went to the same place you were going to look for a map to Skywalker.”

Well, it made as much sense as anything. Finn knew from experience that wherever Kylo went, those strange creatures went too. He often wondered why it was necessary to command an army of humans when the monsters seemed a lot stronger and numerous. They also didn’t question their orders, like some of the soldiers did from time to time, hence why Finn was now traveling with the Resistance and not still in the First Order.

If the monsters were in the temple, that meant that there was something Kylo was looking for. He wasn’t the kind of guy that took old relics over sentimental value.

It was settled then, Finn decided. That was where he would start looking. And if he was wrong, that at least meant that Kylo also was.

Falcon stopped in her tracks on the ride, along with Poe’s stallion Black. A very uncreative name for a black horse, but it suited him all the same. The horses sniffed the air, their legs grounded to the dirt beneath their hoofs in fear.

“What’s wrong?” Rey asked Falcon as she patted her neck.

Poe dismounted and reached for his sword. “Trouble,” he explained.

Finn and Rey followed his lead, their weapons drawn as they looked around for intruders. In the distance, they saw a shadow of something in the bushes, rattling as they drew closer. Finn held his breath.

A single creature popped its head out of the brush. Red and boar-like, it seemed to have some intelligence, but nowhere near a human’s. As if excited to see them, it grinned widely and jumped up and down, waving the club it held in its hand over its head.

The pair glanced at each other curiously, but Poe warned them, “Here they come.”

Behind the first creature came a small army of more similar creatures. There were the stocky red ones, purple ones with slender snouts, gray ones with bows at their side. Finn wasn’t sure how many of them there were since he was certain that more were hiding in the forest.

He drew the Master Sword from its sheath and readied himself.

The leading monster glanced at him warily, then, as if suddenly realizing what Finn was gripping, he called out to his allies. Their attention snapped to Finn and with a battle cry, they charged at him.

“Goddesses,” he swore as he tried fighting them off. The Master Sword was a far more powerful weapon than he had ever held, it’s magic flowing through it. The creatures tried their best to keep away from the blade, but when they were struck, they fell to the ground and vanished into a puff of black smoke.

Poe looked over at Rey and Poe and found that they were struggling. Their weapons hit the monsters and Finn knew that both of his friends were formidable fighters, but the creatures did not vanish like they had when Finn struck them down. Instead, they wobbled and screeched in pain where they were hit, but always ready to keep fighting.

That must mean the Master Sword was the only weapon that could defeat them, Finn figured.

“Hang on, you two!” he called out as he ran to their side. The three of them quickly figured out a strategy that worked for them. Poe and Rey kept the creatures away from Finn by fighting them off, and Finn made his way through the group to take each monster down.

By the time the last monster fell, all three of them were panting and exhausted. Rey slid to the ground to rest while Poe leaned up against a tree and tried to calm Beebee from the excitement.

“We’re okay, buddy,” he promised, soothingly. “Look. Finn can make the monsters disappear.”

The robot beeped nervously before he gazed at Finn, tilting the dome of his head at an angle on his body. With a hoot, the droid almost seemed to sigh in relief.

“So Finn is the only one that can defeat the monsters,” Rey deducted. “I wonder if my magic can do some damage…”

“Don’t tire yourself out,” Finn pleaded. Rey’s magic was a sight to behold, but he had already seen how it drained her of energy, leaving her half-asleep if she used too much in too short of a time. Magic was a great thing, but not always the best plan to fight with.

“I feel useless,” she admitted. “My quarterstaff just bruised them.”

“I’m even more useless,” retorted Poe. “You at least have magic.”

Finn heaved a large sigh. “It’s not a contest.”

With no trace left of the hoard that just attacked them, the trio mounted their horses again and continued on their way.

0---0---0---0

As full as the campsite looked, judging by the number of small, individual tents pitched near larger canvas ones that seemed to be core operations locations, it was eerily quiet. They only passed by a few people who were working on domestic chores like cooking or repairing and making weapons for the soldiers.

“Those monsters showed up yesterday and Her Majesty sent us all out to scout and protect the camp," Poe explained. "The ones here man the stalls and operations.”

“Is the queen here?” Rey asked as she looked around.

Poe shrugged. “She was here yesterday, but if she sensed trouble, she might have gone back to Castle Town.”

The pair looked disappointed because they really needed to talk to the queen. She would know if the monsters were linked to her brother’s disappearance or if they would be searching for him too.

They approached the tent in the center of the camp where the queen usually held briefings. Peering inside the flap, they were relieved to find her sitting at a table with two of her commanders, Admiral Ackbar of the aquatic Mon Calamari tribe from the western provinces and Vice Admiral Holdo, an old friend of the queen's with an odd sense of fashion. Finn was certain purple hair wasn't naturally occurring, so he was a little curious to know how she got it such as vibrant shade.

“Why the long faces?” the queen asked. “Did you lose anyone?” She looked between the three, concerned.

Immediately, their faces brightened. “Your Majesty,” Poe sighed before bowing. Finn and Rey followed his lead.

Upon seeing the sword at Finn’s back, Admiral Ackbar's amphibious mouth nearly dropped. “This is-" he began, approaching the young man to get a better look.

“It is.” Poe grinned proudly. “Finn here’s the real deal.”

“A big deal,” laughed Rey.

Yet, Finn looked wistful. “I’m not a hero,” he said.

“Not yet you aren’t,” Leia agreed. She looked Finn up and down with a smile. “You wear the clothes of the Hero, but you haven’t quite earned that title. There’s no doubt you are brave; no one will dispute that after you left the First Order. But tell me Finn: are you ready to face the darkness?”

“That’s actually why I’m here, Your Majesty.” Finn looked at her straight in the eyes, daringly. “Those monsters are going to the Star Temple; that’s where Rey and I think the map to your brother is hidden.”

Nodding, Leia agreed. “That was the last place I saw him, though he visited the other two temples on the continent.”

“We think the map is there,” confessed Finn, “and now that we know that Kylo’s sent monsters there, we’re positive that it’s a good lead.”

At mention of the name, General Organa’s face fell into some conflicted emotion. Finn wasn’t sure what to call it or how to explain it, but it was a mix of pain, sorrow, and dare he say… hope?

“Stay the night,” Leia offered Finn and Rey. “Eat up, get potions and fairies, if you need them. Then go to the temple in the morning.”

Poe went wide in the eyes. "It's dangerous to go alone!" he exclaimed. "Take Beebee with you.

The little robot wobbled on its round base with excitement.

“What if we’re too late?” Rey squeaked.

The queen laughed. “From what I’ve observed,” she comforted them, “those creatures aren’t smart enough to get through the temple. No, only someone with magic or the Master Sword could get to what my brother went there for. I know him well enough to believe that.”

It came a little as a relief to Finn to hear this, but he wondered what exactly was in the temple and what Skywalker might have used to protect whatever he sought there to begin with. Rey was planning on going with him, which was a relief, but she couldn’t rely on her magic for everything and that could pose to be a problem. Sure, she could beat the monsters senseless with her quarterstaff, but without the Master Sword, they would not vanish. She would have to rely on Finn to an extent to protect her.

And he knew she would hate that.

The very first time he caught a glimpse of Rey was near her repair stall in the backwater town of Niima, a short distance away from where Finn abandoned his post with the First Order and decided never to return. He watched in half-awe of her as she beat off a group of thugs that took an interest in Beebee – Poe had left him there to hide after his capture by Kylo Ren. For someone as lithe and slender as Rey, Finn would have never guessed that she was as strong as she was. Her strength was a testament to her rough upbringing in the country of Jakku.

Then, she swept him off his feet – both literally and figuratively – with her quarterstaff, believing that he was another thug wanting to take Beebee for himself.

Quickly, Finn felt himself being drawn to her once they sorted out their scuttle. There was just something utterly amazing about her, but he couldn’t quite put his finger on it. He was thankful she was on his side, anyway. He would have never escaped the First Order if it wasn’t for her and her magic.

He would never admit it to her but he thought she was very-

“Where’s my girl? Falcon!”

The queen’s husband – and that’s all he went by, no title, thank you very much – exited the central tent and looked around the area. Behind him, the strange brown, hairy creature known as Chewbacca followed. No one knew what exactly Chewbacca was, but it didn’t matter to Han. He met his friend decades ago when both were far from home and had been inseparable ever since. Spotting Finn and Rey, they approached them.

“You two had better taken good care of my horse,” Han growled. “Where is she?”

Rey pointed to the nearest water trough. “Over there. She’s a wonder.”

“Girl’s never let me down.” Han smiled and went over to his horse, patting her affectionately on her fuzzy neck. Gently, he looked her over, making sure there were no scrapes or cuts that weren’t there before. “I think you like the kids, huh?” he asked her.

Falcon snorted like she was agreeing with him.

“That’s my girl, and I think you took good care of them.”

From a distance, Finn could see a slight smile on Rey’s face. He wondered if she wanted a horse of her own; she seemed to have a natural talent with taking care of them. She had said that horses weren’t common in Jakku, the people preferring boars for their hardiness and tough skin over the more delicate structures of horses.

They passed a ranch on the way back to the forest, he thought. Maybe they could check it out later to see if it was something she could afford if she decided not to go back to Jakku. For a reason he couldn’t explain, Finn really wanted to convince Rey to stay in Alderaan when all this was over, yet he knew he couldn’t force her to. She kept insisting that her parents would return for her and maybe it was true, but Finn had a feeling that Rey knew they weren’t coming back after so many years away – he thought it was possible that they died – and that Rey was just sticking around because then she could keep holding onto that hope and not have to find out anything she’d rather not know.

…He really hoped she would stay. Finn would hate to have to follow her back to that junkyard. Too much sand for his liking and the locals were hostile, even the ones who were nice.

Wait, why was he making plans about this? He wasn’t sure if Rey would want him to stick around after they completed what they set out to do. Maybe Rey would want to learn more about magic with Skywalker. Finn didn’t have a magical bone in his body to even try.

Han said something to Rey before he looked over at Finn and winked at him. “Good job, Big Deal.”

Finn felt his eyes grow wide at the nickname.

0---0---0---0

The location to the Star Temple, it turned out, was deep in the forest. Marked as a shrine to the heavens with a well that symbolized healing, most onlookers would have thought it was just that. There were etchings of constellations throughout the shrine walls and carvings depicting heroes of the past; more than enough to catch anyone’s attention and occupy their thoughts.

What they would find, if they looked more closely, was the well had gone dry, likely from years of a lack of use. If anyone looked down into the blackness, they would see that the fall downwards was long and seemingly never-ending, but if they glanced to the side of the well, they’d see a trail of steel bars leading into the dark.

“This looks sketchy,” observed Rey. Beebee beeped in agreement

“Yeah, but do you think we have any choice but the ladder?” Finn asked. “We don’t have a long enough rope to get down.”

“You could always jump in first and break my fall,” she said with a grin. “Maybe we’ll get lucky and there will still be water at the bottom.”

Pouting, he teased back, “But I’m the Hero. Aren’t you supposed to be protecting me?”

Rey rolled her eyes back before looking down again. She moved over to where the ladder was. “Right,” she said. “Well, Hero, since I’m supposed to be protecting you, I’ll go first. No different from scavenging the ruins in the Graveyard. Easier, actually,” she referred to an area in Jakku full of old ruins from a civilization lost to time and sand. That was where she found a lot of the scrap she traded in Niima. She pulled the netting she was using to tote Beebee around and handed it to Finn, who slung it over his shoulder.

Watching her as she swung a leg over the old stonework, Finn was impressed as she tapped her foot against the first bar a few times before sinking half her weight onto it. Seeing that it wasn’t about to collapse under her, Rey boldly swung her other leg over and onto ladder. She repeated this routine as she went down each step, making sure she wasn’t going to fall.

When she had gotten a couple of feet down the well, Finn scrambled in after her, but had to be careful with the added weight of the robot. “If you think the ladder is getting dangerous,” he called, “let me know. I’ll climb back up.”

“Sounds good.”

They carefully descended into the darkness, not sure what they would find at the bottom. They couldn’t hear anything, but they bet that whatever the temple was hiding, it was deeper into the cave’s underground. They hadn’t come across any monsters yet, thankfully, but unless Kylo found what he came here for, it was certain that they were lurking inside.

At the bottom, they were met with water. It wasn’t deep, just enough to cover their ankles, but it reminded them this was a well and the temple might have deeper water as they ventured forth.

“Can you swim?” Finn asked Rey as he thought about how scarce water was in Jakku.

She shook her head. “Where would I have learned?” she wondered out loud, half-laughing. “Quicksand?”

“We’ll figure out something if we come across deep water, then.”

It made him nervous to think he might have to leave Rey behind if the water was too deep for her. Already, she had gotten him out of a few tight spots thanks to her magic and he didn’t want to leave her alone in a place that might be full of monsters.

They luckily had glow rods with them – magical, thin lanterns that Queen Leia gifted them with before they left – and this helped them see what was in front of them. The bottom of the well was wide, but the only way forward was through another dark tunnel that was blocked by a grate.

Finn and Rey glanced at each other, frowning.

“Now what?” Finn asked.

Rey looked around. “Are we sure this is right?”

“Has to be. This is where the map says the temple is.”

A sigh huffed past Rey’s lips. “I hope this isn’t just a normal well,” she began, looking upward. Suddenly, she came to a pause. “Finn, draw the Master Sword.”

“Wah-?”

“Trust me. Can’t hurt, right?”

True. Finn reached behind him to draw the sword from it sheath. He held it out, gaping at it as a dim blue light emitted from the metal.

“Woah,” he breathed. “It’s never done that before.”

“I think I know why.” Rey pointed upwards.

He held the Master Sword up to where she was indicating and the light glowed against a faint etching in the ceiling. Taking a closer look, Finn saw that the etching was the crest of the Royal Family of Alderaan.

As if reacting to the Master Sword’s presence, the crest began to glow the same shade of blue. The duo gasped as they felt the ground shake beneath their feet.

“Now what?” Finn asked.

They stood back in shock as they watched the grate lower, vanishing into the ground.

This time, Rey said, “Woah.” And she inspected the new way into the temple. “I’m definitely sure this is where we’re supposed to go.”

“Me too.”

"Ready for an adventure?” she pressed.

Finn chuckled. “Not at all. I hate crawling through little holes.”

She rolled her eyes. “You’re telling that to the girl that squeezed into tight spaces for fifteen years to survive.” Then, Rey crouched down, strapping her quarterstaff to her back. “We really are going to have to crawl.” Patting through her bag, she huffed in frustration. “Got anything in that pack of yours that’ll give us light? I’m not sure the glow rods are enough.”

Thinking, Finn furrowed his brows before he waved around the Master Sword. “This?” The sword glowed faintly.

Rey stared at him in disbelief. “Really? You’re going to use an ancient, sacred artifact as a torch?”

“Got anything else?” he challenged as he held it out to her. “I think this sword has a mind of its own,” he mused.

“What do you mean?”

“I mean, well, look.”

Staring at the sword in her grip, Finn noted how even though he was no longer wielding it himself, it still glowed.

“It’s like it knows we need its help.”

As if to prove Finn’s point, the sword glowed brighter until it illuminated the shadows around them.

This shocked Rey. “Huh,” she said. “I guess it does.” She looked into the open space that led to the temple. “I guess I’ll be leading, then?” This would be hard enough with her quarterstaff strapped against her.

Finn grinned. “Well, as you said, you are the expert of crawling into holes.”

In the netting, Beebee whined and tried to move to give Finn the hint that he wanted to be placed on the ground. He moved in front of Rey and the tiny glass orb under his bigger "eye" projected a beam of light.

Rey grunted something rude in a language Finn didn’t understand, but got on her hands and knees to crawl forward through the opening the grate revealed behind Beebee. Water had collected at the bottom of the well and it soaked through Rey’s canvas pants. The feeling of cold against her skin was unpleasant, and she wrinkled her nose, but she moved forward. When she was far enough in, Finn followed.

It probably was only a minute or two of crawling, but Rey was relieved when the tunnel opened up and she could stand upright again. From the deep breath Finn took, he thought the same. It was pitch black, and even Beebee's light couldn't cut through it.

“Alright,” he began, “if you were a map leading to an old sage, where would you be hiding?”

Rey blinked. “I don’t even know where here is.” She held the sword up, trying to illuminate the cavern, only to find she could only see a few feet in front of her. “Ugh! How are we supposed to find a map if we can’t even see what’s ahead?”

But Finn wasn’t listening to her as he stared down at her feet, looking puzzled.

“Can I have the sword back?” he asked.

Almost as puzzled as he looked, Rey gave him the Master Sword. Finn studied the ground again, and then raised the sword aloft before he struck it down against a small stone. It glowed with the pattern of dots connected by thin lines, reminding Rey of traces of constellations.

When the sword contacted the ground, a thin, soft ringing sound chimed somewhere beyond them. The stone lit up, followed by another stone and then another. Soon, a path of these stones were illuminated, creating a pathway for them to follow.

Ahead of them was a lone, steel door.

Finn looked to Rey. “I guess this is where we go?”

She shrugged. “Guess so.”

They approached and turned the knob, finding it was unlocked and easy to open. They stared inside the room beyond it and found it was empty. The only thing there was another door across the way. It was almost too dark to see even with the Master Sword lighting the way, but the walls looked like a mix of old, weathered, and moldy gray stone bricks with ancient dirt.

“This is a temple?” Finn asked. ��Like, people came here to pray to a goddess?”

“Dunno,” Rey replied. “Maybe we’re in whatever’s left of it. We saw that shrine outside the well. People pray there.”

Recalling something, Finn turned to her. “What about the Sun Temple? You’ve been there before, haven’t you?”

“I have, but it’s not like this,” she explained. “It’s huge and well-lit. People visit it all the time.”

The door shut behind them, startling them out of their conversation. A chill ran up their spines. It was never a good sign when doors suddenly closed on their own.

Somewhere in the darkness, a chuckle rumbled through the room, echoing. “Children playing heroes,” a deep voice intoned. “It was foolish to come here.”

Then, the voice vanished, leaving not even an echo.

Shaking, Rey felt her lungs constrict with fear, making it hard to breathe. She fumbled her arm around until she found Finn’s hand and gripped it, discovering that he was trembling too.

The movement caught his attention, distracting him from the fear. “I thought you didn’t want me to take your hand?” he commented, recalling the day they met in Niima and were chased by some of Kylo’s men. He took Rey’s hand to try to lead her to safety, which she refused with annoyance. She could handle herself just fine, thank you very much.

Whatever the reason for her change of attitude, however, gripping Finn’s hand seemed to relieve their shaking. Rey took a deep breath, trying to calm her nerves.

“Well, I think we know Kylo’s been here,” she observed, trying to keep her mind off things, though the thought of coming face to face with the man that called himself the Conqueror might have been more terrifying. Finn's hand was warm in hers, however, and when she focused on that she felt a shimmer of hope in her heart.

She let Finn still hold her hand as they walked across the empty room and into another. Before they entered the room proper, Finn stopped and took a deep breath, like he was bracing himself. "I've got a bad feeling about this," he said.

A swarm of one-eyed bats – keese, Finn recalled a soldier calling them – surrounded them the moment they stepped inside. He had no choice but to let go of Rey’s hand.

“Hit them as much as you can,” he told her. “If that’s not enough, I’ll come back to finish them off.” He swiped the Master Sword in an arch over his head. When the keese were hit, they would fly backwards, towards the ground, and explode into a poof of purple smoke.

They passed into a series of more rooms like this. Empty, with monsters appearing. Finn guessed this was an area for storage. He had no idea why a temple would need this many rooms this small.

Then, they finally came to another room, bigger than all the others, but almost just as empty. And this time, there was something in there besides monsters, but it was nothing either of them liked to see.

In the center of the room stood a wooden structure, two planks crossed over each other like a giant X. There were metal bindings attached to each arm of the structure.

The pit of Finn’s stomach sank. It probably hadn’t been used for a long time, but it was an old tool of torture.

What were people doing in this temple?

Rey tugged at the back of his tunic urgently. “Finn,” she said, frightened.

He looked up and saw a strange, eerie apparition, a creature he had never seen before. Like a skeletal bird plucked of its feathers, the creature stared at them as it stood in a corner behind the device. It stared back at them, it's elongated, rotted beak tilting with its head.

Then, almost in a blink of an eye, it vanished.

Alarmed, the pair looked around the room, trying to figure out where it went or if the creature was just their imagination. A high pitch, crackling chuckle echoed around the room.

“Ah!” Finn cried out, alarmed. “Goddesses!”

Spinning around, Rey saw Finn grasping the skin on his side before she heard the harsh cackle again. She caught a glimpse of Beebee rolling quickly into a corner, as if trying to hide for safety.

“Did it… hit you?” she asked.

Finn pointed up, eyes wide. “Watch out!”

She saw the odd creature reappear just in time to get out of the way of its attacks. Rolling to the ground, Rey watched a dark ball of magic hit near where she had been standing and shatter. She knew magic, but had never seen anything like this.

Trying to strike at the creature with the Master Sword, Finn found he was swiping at nothing but thin air as it vanished again. Helpless, the Hero couldn't defeat the creature as he was. He needed help.

And who better to help but someone that knew magic herself?

“Finn,” she called out, hoping the creature wasn’t intelligent enough to understand them. “Can you keep it… occupied for a bit?”

He grunted as he dodged another attack of magic. “Uh… sure?”

“I have an idea,” she tried to reassure him. “I just need a moment to concentrate.”

As Finn ran around the room, waving his hands to keep the creature’s attention and dodging its attacks, Rey closed her eyes and concentrated on creating an attack to toss the creature off balance. She needed to keep it down long enough for Finn to strike it.

The air around her turned into a gust that would have been impossible if not for her abilities. It collected into an orb not unlike the dark magic of the creature, held together by her strength and will. When it was large enough for her to use, Rey checked to see where Finn was and anticipated the creature’s next move.

“Out of the way,” she warned him as she shot the gust of magic at their enemy. Timing himself just right, Finn was not affected and stayed out of reach of the strong blast of wind.

The creature, however, was. It wobbled as it lost its balance, falling to the ground with a cry of shock.

It was his chance, and he took it. Gripping the Master Sword in hand, Finn made the killing strike into the creature’s chest. It shrieked in pain before it shuddered, bursting into the dark magic that it used against them.

It left behind a silver key on the dirt floor.

Rey sunk to her knees, out of breath. She had used magic before multiple times, but never like this, quickly and urgently. The power she used left her exhausted.

“Are you all right?” Finn was at her side almost instantly. He reached out and placed a warm hand against her back.

She nodded. “Just… winded.”

“I’ll say,” he grinned. “That was some gust.”

Grinding her teeth together, Rey grimaced. “Not. The. Time.”

“Okay, okay.” He held up his hands as if to surrender. “But that was amazing. I’m glad you’re here and I’m not down here in the dark alone.”

Her response was a smile, quiet and genuine.

Holding up the key, Finn inspected it. “Think I know where this goes,” he said as he went over to the door on the far end of the room that was closed off with a lock and chains. He inserted the key into the lock and turned it, removing the barrier.

Standing up, Rey brushed the dirt off her pants before she went over to Finn to join him. “That thing gave me an idea.”

“Oh?”

“We’ve seen keese and that… thing. What are the odds we’ll see more monsters?”

He seemed to understand what she was saying. “Likely.”

“Right, and if we need magic to stop them, we need to create a weapon to fight them with. I can’t keep having you stall so I can concentrate my magic.”

Finn winced. “No, that idea will eventually not work out for me. Do you have any ideas?”

“Well…” Rey began, shuffling through her bag. “Maybe.”

She pulled a couple of small square objects out and held them out to Finn. The little robot returned to their side and tilted his head as he watched Rey with curiosity.

“What are these?” Finn asked as he took a couple into his arms.

“Bombs,” she said in a matter-of-fact way.

Startled, he jumped and almost dropped them.

“No, no. They’re just shells.”

Finn heaved a sigh of relief.

“I was thinking I could add magic before I add the explosives,” she explained. “Then when we set them off, they create a wave of magic with them.”

He thought about it. “Might be worth a shot. Have you done it before?”

“Once.” Rey winced and Finn mirrored her. “I know I can do it again.”

0---0---0---0

The room behind the lock door was actually a tunnel… though the floor was missing in some spots.

“How can there be a bottomless pit in the middle of a temple?” Finn cried.

“I don’t know,” answered Rey, “but I already don’t like this.”

They looked around the room for something to help them. “How did Ren get around this?” Finn hummed to himself. “He had to be here himself.”

Rey lowered her voice and mumbled, “Probably had his minions make a bridge with their own bodies.”

That gave Finn an idea, though he wasn’t sure he wanted to let on either. Ren had magic, which had to help him out somewhere. He bent down and touched around the perimeter of the pit.

Then, his hand made contacted something, though he wasn’t sure what. He placed his hand against something solid but invisible to the eye, unable to press through it.

“What are you doing?” Rey gasped as Finn stood up with a grin and pressed his foot against the solid force.

He allowed his whole body to stand on the bridge, looking like he was hovering over it. “I think I just answered our Kylo Ren question.”

She stared down at his feet puzzled. “Dark magic,” she mumbled. “Strange magic. I wonder why I couldn’t see it?”

“Well, as long as it doesn’t vanish when we’re halfway across… Come here Beebee.” He scooped the droid up into his arms. Finn shuffled his feet forward, careful to not step too far ahead of him.

Not too sure about the whole thing, Rey felt around for the bridge and staggered upward, trying to follow close behind Finn. They both took careful steps until they got to the other side.

“See?” Finn said as he set the robot down again, though he sounded relieved. “Easy.”

Coming to another door, they braced themselves for what was on the other side.

To both their horrors, the room was filled with a nest of red-eyed rats. Another door was across from them.

“Think we can sneak around?” Rey whispered.

They stepped quietly in, but the moment their feet touched the ground, the rats registered their presence and attacked. With her quarterstaff, Rey smacked them out of the way while Finn finished them off with the Master Sword.

A clear clink rang throughout the room as the last rat vanished in a puff of smoke, revealing a golden key in its place.

It took a couple of minutes to clear the room, but when all was quiet, the only thing they could hear was the sound of their heavy breathing.

“I really hope we’re at the end of this temple,” Finn commented as he picked the key up. He sighed. “Let’s get this over with.”

Rey glanced at the key curiously, turning it in her hands. “That’s not like the other keys.”

Taking a closer look, Finn realized she was right. “I’m really dreading what’s behind that door now.”

The moment they saw the empty room and heard the door lock behind them, Finn and Rey immediately became tense.

“Right, now I really got a bad feeling about this,” said Finn.

“I would have never guessed,” Rey retorted.

In a burst of colorful light – the last thing they would have expected here – a strange creature suddenly appeared in the middle of the room. In just as colorful attire, purple and yellow clothes patterned with diamonds and decorated with bells, topped with a floppy, four-pointed hat, the creature grinned widely and unsettling.

On the defensive, Finn and Rey gripped their weapons, waiting to see what it would do.

Then, the creature twirled in its sport and vanished, almost reminding them of the grotesque creature they faced before.

They waited for a moment, bracing themselves for it to reappear, but the room remained silent and still. Puzzled, the duo looked around before looking at each other, mirroring confused expressions.

“What the-?”

Suddenly, the creature appeared behind them, giggling.

“Watch out!” yelled Rey as she got out of the way just in time. Hovering above them, their enemy shot out blasts of metal four-edged weapons that spun until it hit the ground, firmly planting themselves until they vanished into a puff of smoke.

Looking up, they realized that there were three of the creatures now.

“What is this?” asked Finn, alarmed.

More of the edged-weapons rained down from the ceiling, this time, triple the amount. Quickly thinking, Rey pulled one of the bombs out of her back, set it for detonation, and tossed it. In midair, it erupted into gusts of wind, aimed for the nearest creature.

Upon contact with the spell, it vanished and didn’t reappear.

“Finn, only one of them is the real one,” she told him. “It’s trying to trick us.”

“Can you get the other ones?” he called out. “It's just out of reach.”

She aimed at the next one that was near her, concentrating before she let loose another bomb. The gust hit it directly, then the creature screamed in pain and withered to the ground.

Quickly, Finn rushed over and began to stab at it with the Master Sword. It shook with each strike until it pulled itself away and vanish, reappearing on the opposite side of the room.

“I think it’s going to be more than a one-hit kill,” said Finn. “How are you doing?” He turned to Rey. “I’m feeling kind of useless.”

Panting, Rey answered, “Just keep striking it when I bring it down.”

It was a repetitive pattern, Rey used her magic to knock down the creature and the many illusions it created. Finn used the Master Sword to strike at it. Once they had that pattern down, it was a lot easier than they thought it would be.

During the third cycle, however, the creature seemed to figure out what they were doing and opted to go after Rey and her quarterstaff. She tried to aim for it to knock it over again, but it vanished and reappeared behind her, grabbing her staff and trying to shake it out of her grip.

Rey yelled, catching Finn’s attention. He ran over to help.

“Can you reach him?” she asked.

He tried to strike from where he was standing but the creature was just too high still. “I barely just can’t reach it,” he said between his clenched teeth.

That seemed to give her an idea. With a sudden burst of strength, Rey tugged her quarterstaff down, catching the creature by surprise and dragging it down with the staff.

It was his opening.

With all his remaining energy, Finn slashed the creature, bringing it to the ground with a thud before he ran over and gave the final blow. The creature made a shrill cry before its head fell to the ground and didn’t move again. Another moment, and it burst into a cloud of smoke like all the other monsters.

Instead of a key, however, the monster dropped a strange black thing. From a distance, it looked like a tube.

Taking a closer look, the pair found that the tube was actually a black piece of paper rolled up and kept together by a blue string. Unrolling it, they found it was a strange map, marked with white chalk-like ink.

“I think it’s a star map,” said Rey. “But I can’t read it.”

Indeed, when Finn looked at it a second time, he realized it resembled that exactly. Problem was, he couldn’t read it and none of the constellations were familiar to him.

“I can’t read it either,” he added, sadly.

Rey rolled the map up and handed it to him to put into his bag. “Guess that means our next stop is to find someone who can.”

Rolling out from the corner where he hid, Beebee rolled up to the two and beeped to get their attention.

“Oh, there you are, Beebee.” Finn smiled.

The invention wobbled on its base, then opened one of its compartments in the panels of its body. Sparkles flew out, collecting in a nearby area and creating a glowing circle in their place.

Beebee rolled over to it and beeped at them again, tilting his head.

“I guess he wants us to follow,” said Rey.

“Is this safe?” Finn asked, looking at the circle warily.

She shrugged. “It’s not dark magic. Can’t be any worse than what we’ve gone through.” Then she approached the circle. “Are you coming?”

He stepped in next to her and before they knew it, the magic of the circle flashed with blinding light. When their vision came back – though albeit a bit spotty – they were outside the entrance of the temple.

“Huh,” Finn started. “That’s handy.”

A voice started behind them, “That’s what my brother said the first time I got him out of a dark cave.”

Startled, Finn and Rey jumped to see who was nearby, only to find themselves in the presence of the Queen of Alderaan.

Finn stuttered, “Your Majesty” as he and Rey respectfully bowed to her (Rey’s curtsy was horrendous).

Queen Leia smiled. “Good job, you two.” She held out her hands and rested one on the dome of Beebee’s head as he rolled over to her. “And good job bringing them back, Beebee.”

The robot beeped, sounding pleased.

“That was your magic?” Rey asked.

“It was,” said the queen. “I figured you may need help getting out at some point.”

Rey grinned. “Certainly saved us a lot of time.”

Not hesitating to change the subject, Queen Leia looked between the pair. “Did you find anything there?” she asked hopefully.

Digging through his bag, Finn found the rolled up parchment and approached the queen, handing it over to her. “Just this and a bunch of monsters,” he admitted.

She opened it up and stared at the map for a moment, then set it in her lap as she looked around. “Where did that husband of mine vanish to this time?” she wondered out loud.

There was rustling in a group of overgrown bushes that led out of the clearing where the temple was to the forest. “Right here,” Han growled. “No thank you for making sure there weren’t any wolfos running around?”

“I heard you cooing to that old nag of yours,” Leia retorted. “Unless that wolfos you were looking for also happens to be named Falcon?” She arched her eyebrow.

“I was making sure she was safe where she was!”

“Come here and make yourself useful,” she ordered and handed him the parchment.

He glared at her as he unrolled it and glanced at it. “Looks like a map.”

“Thank you for that enlightening observation, Han,” Leia deadpanned. Rey laughed under her breath.

“Well excuse me, Your Majesty! I was going to say-" he snapped “-it’s incomplete.”

Finn felt his hopes drop and from Rey and Leia’s faces, they were experiencing the same feeling.

“Is there a way you could piece it together from maps in the archive?” the queen asked, there was a hint of desperation in her voice.

Han shrugged. “Maybe,” he said. “These star patterns aren’t familiar to me and there’s too much missing.” He ran his finger down an edge. “It’s been ripped in a few places too.”

That piqued Finn’s interest as an idea popped in his head. “I was thinking about this before, but if Luke visited the three temples before he vanished, wouldn’t there be a chance that he left a piece of the map in each one?”

“That’s exactly what I was thinking,” said Rey.

“Yes, the other two temples might have another piece.”The queen's eyes lit up, but just as she stared at the pair, they filled with guilt. “I hate to ask you to go. You’ve done so much for me already.”

“It’s for the kingdom,” Finn said. “Kylo’s dangerous to everyone in it.”

The queen and her husband glanced at each other sadly before they gave their attention back to their young heroes.

“We’ll never be able to truly express our gratitude,” Leia said.

Rey took her map out of her bag and spread it out on a nearby rock. The others surrounded her.

“I know the Sun Temple is here.” She pointed to the eastern desert on her map, in the region of Jakku and a few miles out of Niima. “But where it the Moon Temple?”

Tapping his finger on a spot on the map, Han replied, “Up on Mt. Mustafar,” he said. “It’s not an ideal place for a temple, but it’s been there for as long as the history books can recall.”

Finn’s eyes drifted across the map. “That’ll take days to get there on foot!” he exclaimed. It wasn’t as far of a journey like it was to Castle Town, but it was still far.

Waving his hand passively, Han added, “Take Falcon. She’ll get you there.”

“You’d let us take her again?” Rey’s eyes were wide.

Leia looked equally shocked. “Han, are you sure?”

“She’ll take care of you and I trust you’ll take care of her.” He looked at the pair pointedly. “And if you don’t-“

“-You’ll skin us alive,” Rey finished for him. “We know.”

0---0---0---0

The next day, Finn and Rey headed out on the back of Falcon with Beebee still with them. Poe was so impressed with his little invention that he was hoping the heroes would discover more of what he was capable of.

“Think we can put up with each other for a little while longer?” Finn turned his head to ask her. They were planning on taking turns with the reins so the other could rest.

She looked out to the horizon where they could see the grassy flatlands out beyond them. “We’ll have to,” she said. “But I think it won’t be so hard.” Rey winked at him.

They looked out to the mountaintop in the distance and sighed simultaneously. Mt. Mustafar wasn’t known for being a hospitable environment.

“Ready to go find a temple in an active volcano?” she asked. From his place slung against the saddle, Beebee sounded his disdain.

“Doesn’t sound like we have much of a choice,” Finn laughed nervously as he cued Falcon into a walk.

[dracosollicitus]

Thank you for continuing the #80 prompt. I loved it! I hope you'll write more (hopefully, in the next one, they'll patch things up).

Ask and ye shall receive @raissapl 

(Part Three of my Damerey “Does He Know About the Baby” Angstfest)

Word count: ~3500

Prequel

Part One

Part Two

tagging:  @branlovesouat @greyone01 @roguecompanion1812 @dame-reylo-ve @dragonfodder44 @therebeccaw​ @warqueenfuriosa @melanoradrood (who either requested another part to this angstfest/listened and helped with my rambling about it)

(This is AngstCentral, y’all)

Rey spoke to Poe once more, a week after he discovered that she was pregnant.

She’d been avoiding him, most likely abusing her knowledge of the Force to do so, but he managed to time his arrival in the hangar perfectly with her departure from her shift in the mechanics bay. Rey was wiping her hands on a towel when Poe nearly fell flat on his face sprinting over to her. 

“Rey,” he managed to gasp. “Rey - can we - I need to -”

She figured there was no way to get out of it now, so she stared at him stonily, dropped the filthy towel blindly into a waiting basket, and crossed her arms over her chest, no longer caring if it highlighted her protruding stomach. She didn’t speak, didn’t indicate any interest in what he had to say; she merely stared at him. He gulped, and - if he hadn’t left her for four months, she’d actually be in danger of feeling sorry for him.

“Uh,” Poe looked surprised that she hadn’t hurled him through the air using the Force (she’d thought about it). “I just…I really need to talk to you. Explain some things, see how you were doing.”

“How I’m doing?” Rey repeated coolly.

“Yeah,” Poe nodded, looking somewhat relieved that she’d responded. The part of her that had never been hardened by the desert cooed in sympathy; she silenced it rapidly. “Yeah, I wanted to make sure you were okay, you know, and I wanted to see if you needed anything, or if I could do anything for you-”

“Why do you even care?” Rey demanded. “I suppose it’s because it’s your kid, or whatever.” He flinched at the way she threw his past phrasing back in his face.

“That’s part of it,” Poe said, rubbing the back of his neck in the way Rey used to find endearing (the way she used to love), but now the sight of it only made her gut hurt like she’d drunk too much water, too fast, coming back in from the desert heat. “But it’s also because you’re my girl. Aren’t you?”

Rey stared at him in shock. They’d slept together every day - sometimes two or three (the record was five) times a day - for a whole month before he left, but never had he described her as a girlfriend or even a lover. But now he - they were - No.

“Is that how you treat ‘your girls’?” Rey asked, angry that her voice sounded more weak that infuriated. 

Poe recoiled as if she’d physically struck him. “What?” He asked. “What - no, Rey, you were the only one, I didn’t even look at another person after we- even after I met you-”

“That’s not what I meant,” she interrupted him, and he looked at her with what looked like a fire burning in his eyes, a fire that threatened to burn them both. 

“Then what did you-”

“I asked you to stay,” Rey said, hating the tears burning at the back of her eyes. Poe looked tormented, opened his mouth to speak, but she cut him off with a tired hand. “I asked you to stay, Poe, and you left anyway. You held me in your arms and promised me you’d always be there for me, and then you kriffing left me. I’m sorry that I find your promise now to be just as untrustworthy as the one you made then.” 

She walked past him, and noticed he was frozen to the spot. A small, vindictive part of her, the part that was still deeply interested in that cave on Ahch-To, thrilled in the knowledge that maybe she’d hurt him even a tenth of how much he’d hurt her. 

The rest of her begged and sobbed to run back to him, to let him kiss her and hold her the way he seemed so desperate to do; but, Rey had made her mind up. She wouldn’t (couldn’t) be left behind again. And she certainly wouldn’t put her child through that.

Rey from Jakku knew all too well what it cost a child to watch someone they loved fly away.

Rey was kicking the wall in her bunk while lying flat on her back. If she owned a limmie ball, maybe she’d throw that instead, but she enjoyed the rhythmic thunk thunk thunk of her booted foot against the durasteel. 

She hadn’t talked to Poe in two days since she walked away from him in the hangar; but she had caught a reproachful look from Finn when he’d escorted Poe out of the mess yesterday. Rey’s heart had frozen solid in her chest when she saw the red rimming Poe’s eyes, when she saw how tired and lined his face was. She knew she needed to go and patch things up with Poe; but she was still too heartsick herself to try. 

This contemplation had taken the better part of half an hour when her door hissed open, and a droid’s chirp reached her ears. 

“Hey, Beebee,” Rey called, not looking away from the ceiling. “I’m not feeling much like company.”

[You and Master-Poe have fought for over a week] BB-8 noted, wheeling over to her. The doors hissed shut a moment later, and Beebee whirled quietly to itself for a moment while Rey continued to scowl upwards. [He has cried almost every night for ten days.] Rey was about to inform the droid that Master-Poe’s crying habits had little do with her, when it continued. [It is almost as dire as the nights during his most recent mission.]

“What do you mean?” Rey asked, flipping over to lie on her stomach before remembering that her stomach was roughly the size of BB-8 these days. She winced and sat upright, her back against the wall. 

[It will be easier if BB-8 shows you] the droid informed her, and Rey gestured for it to do so. 

With a noise suspiciously like a throat being cleared, BB-8 lifted a panel on the front of its interface. Poe Dameron’s voice flooded Rey’s room, and she winced from how much it soothed the ache in her stomach. 

“I wish I was back on base,” Poe was saying. “Gods, Sunshine, you have no idea how hard it was to leave you. Can’t believe it’s only been sixteen hours since I’ve seen you .Wish you could see the stars up here. I’ve been flying almost my whole life. Never seen anyone who looks at stars the way you do. 

“Beebee,” Rey said cautiously, leaning forward as much as she could. “What is this?” The droid didn’t answer, but merely fast-forward, causing a strange scrambled noise over the audiofile before it cleared up again:

“Day Two. Flew through the weirdest little moon today to refuel. They had these giant fruits, bigger than your head, Sunshine. I almost bought one to bring back to base for you, but then I remembered I wouldn’t be back for a few months, and it might not smell too good sitting in the back of my X-Wing. Shit.” There was the sound of heavy breathing for a moment, and when Poe started talking again, his voice was clogged with barely suppressed emotion. “I miss you so much, sweetheart. I haven’t slept since I left you. I don’t think I remember how to sleep without you lying next to me. Ignore me, just falling apart over here. You’d be way better at this mission than me. I don’t think you’d fall apart quite as fast. You’re much stronger than I am.”

“Beebee,” Rey stared down at the droid in realization. “Did your master record these on purpose?”

[BB-8 always records its surroundings,] the droid said smugly. [Master-Poe is speaking to himself, but he referred to you, Savior-Rey, as “Sunshine,” which is his particular coded designation for you in one-on-one conversation, so BB-8 classified them in the database as messages intended for your consumption.]

“I don’t think Poe would want you to-”

Day Three, Poe sounds a lot shakier now. Flew through an electromagnetic storm. Almost died there. Oops. I’ve never been afraid of dying, so many people I loved died with a bravery and honor, and I always thought I’d be able to do the same. Came close a few times. But this time, all I could think was, you’re never going to see her again. And I’m not proud of this Sunshine, but that made me cry. Because I know you wanted me to stay, and I had to go, but I promised myself I’d come back to you. There’s so much I need to tell you. Like the fact that I - I -” 

The message cut off before he could say anything else, and Rey beckoned BB-8 to come closer. She rested her hand on its dome while she listened to the messages, tears rolling down her face the farther along she got. 

The worst one came from two weeks before the end of his mission; it was the longest one, and she sobbed almost uncontrollably afterwards. 

“Did you ever think about us getting married? I wanted to ask you that every morning I woke up with you next to me. I always thought to myself, gods, what inspired my father to propose to my mother in the middle of an intergalactic crisis, lure her away to some random rock, build her a home, make a family with her, and then have to go right back to fighting? I never really got it - I respected it, sure, but I didn’t get it. But I woke up next to you that first morning, and I thought: Damn. Look at her. The whole galaxy spins around her, and she has no idea; she’s so damn important, and so damn perfect, and she chose me. 

Even if it was only for a second, and I never got to hold you again, there was this one shining moment of my life where I was the lucky guy you chose. And I wanted you to choose me again. And again. Because I knew I’d choose you every day, I’d choose to spend every day of my life with you if I could. So, I’d wake up every morning, after you’d chosen me again, and I’d consider kissing you on your cheek, or your cute little nose, or that one spot under your ear that if I could get just right, you squeaked like an Ewok - I’d think about kissing you awake to ask you, hey, Sunshine, do you ever think about us getting married? And you’d say something sensible like, kriff, Dameron, you haven’t even taken me on a proper date yet. And I’d say, fair enough, when are you free? Is now good? 

I miss you so much it hurts, Sunshine. Two more weeks now. Two weeks and I can hold you again. I think that’s the first thing I’m going to do when I get off this bird. I’m going to find you in the crowd - because yeah, there’s gonna be a crowd, after the pile of banthashit I went through to finish this mission - I’m going to jump down and run to you and kiss you until I’m blue in the face, and you’re making that face where you’re embarrassed but you don’t want anyone to know that you’re secretly also happy, and I’m gonna take you on a real, proper date, so when I give you this ring you aren’t going to ask me why I haven’t taken you on a real, proper date.

…Maybe I’ll take you back to my bunk first. Yeah. I’ll probably do that first. But then. I’mma date the kriff outta you.

Rey covered her mouth with her hand, foolishly thinking she could somehow contain her grief in that way. 

“Play the last one,” she whispered to the attentive droid, wanting to skip forward to the end, to the last day of his mission. She couldn’t listen to ten more, but the potential for his optimism - before he’d gotten down from the X-Wing, before she’d blown him off, before she’d yelled at him and pushed him away - maybe that could salvage her spirits somewhat. “Please?”

BB-8 made an odd noise, and then briefly thought to itself. When the audio file started up, Rey frowned at Poe’s voice. He sounded distressed, not at all like he was coming back to base after a long journey.

“Hey, hey - Beebee-” His voice cracked, and Rey’s own breath caught with it. “You recordin’ this, buddy?” A faint beep from the droid in affirmation, and then, “Okay. So, I’m prob’ly gonna die in this war, yeah? Yeah. Uhm. So, in case I die, I just - gods. Rey, could you play this for him? Or her - I don’t want you thinkin’ - I don’t want them to think I don’t care ‘bout them either way. Just please, please play this for them. Can you - would you do that, for me? No matter how mad you are?”

“That’s not what I meant,” Rey said quickly, “Beebee, no I meant the last one from the mission not from the last few days-”

“Hey there, little one,” Poe sounded so, so sad, and Rey felt her heart being carved open from it. “Hey little - I guess not little Dameron. Didn’t exactly earn that. So, I’m Poe, your uh - well. Maybe not father. Fathers are…there. And I don’t want you thinkin’ I didn’t want to be there, it just - things were complicated. I … I really messed up, but I want you to know how badly I wanted to be there for you, and how much it hurt me that I wasn’t. I loved you from the second I knew you existed, and I hope you have the best life. I’m not around anymore, but uh - I’d like to think I’m part of the Force, and that I’ll love you and your mom until the galaxy doesn’t exist anymore. 

Let me tell you about your family, little one. For starters, your mother. She’s…I’m sure you know, but she’s the most amazing person in the galaxy, and I loved her so much. She’s a Jedi, and she’ll make sure you have the best life. No one loves like she does. So be nice to her. No joyrides on speeders, no hijacking her ship. I did that to my own mama, and she chased me around Yavin 4 for an hour. 

Your grandmother’s name was Shara Bey. Your grandfather’s name was Kes Dameron. Kes might still be around when you get this, and if your mama lets you, you should go and visit him. He would love to meet you, and he’s a pretty fun person. He fought in the first war against the Empire, and Shara was a fighter pilot, and they were both heroes, just like your own mama. I bet you’re gonna be a fighter, little one. 

There was a banging on her door, but Rey couldn’t tear her attention away from Beebee. By this point, she was kneeling on the floor, one hand on its round body as she drank in every word, her other hand resting on her stomach. Tears rolled down her face as Poe finished the message with:

“I bet you’re spectacular. I love you, so, so much. And I hope that no matter what, you’re happy. I hope that you’re always happy. Gods, I wish I coulda met you.” 

The doors to her room hissed open halfway through the closing message, and Rey looked up as she heard a muttered curse.

Poe stood there, hair on end like he’d dragged his hand through it, eyes wild - he looked horrified. 

“No!” He shouted over the recording of himself wishing that the baby and Rey would be happy. “No, BB-8, you were not supposed to play that unless I -”

“Unless you died.” Rey whispered. She stood up on shaky legs, almost losing her balance. Poe jolted forward like he wanted to catch her but then thought better of it. He remained a foot inside the doorway. “Poe, why didn’t you-”

“I’m sorry,” Poe said hastily. “I’m sorry he bothered you. He’s going now-” and Poe pointed aggressively at the door while glowering down at his droid. “And he won’t bother you again. Right, Beebee?” 

The droid rolled forward shame-facedly, and cooed something too quiet for Rey to hear up at Poe. Poe’s face softened. “I know, buddy,” he whispered back. If she wasn’t Force-sensitive, she doubted she would have picked up on Poe’s quiet response. “I miss her, too. But that’s not how we get her to talk to me again.”

Beebee rolled out the door, and Poe smiled sadly at Rey, hands in his jacket pocket. “I’m really sorry,” he said again. “Gods, I don’t know what he was thinking.”

“He played your messages,” Rey blurted out. 

“Messages?” Poe blinked, not understanding. “I only recorded the one-”

“From your mission,” Rey clarified. “He played all the things you wanted to say to me.” Poe looked confused a moment longer before horrified understanding crept over his face. 

“No,” he said, hands coming out of his pockets to pull at his hair. “Oh, no, no, no, nonono-”

Rey walked over to him, and he lowered his hands to look at her warily. His eyes flitted down to her lightsaber, and a part of Rey twinged that things had soured between them so much that he’d thought her capable of using it on him. 

“I’m sorry,” she said, voice cracking. “I’m sorry Beebee played all those tapes, it was an invasion of privacy, but - I wouldn’t have known otherwise.”

“Known what?” Poe laughed, a self-deprecating grin on his face. “How pathetic I am?”

“No,” Rey said, stopping only six inches away from him. It was the closest they’d been physically in over four months. “I wouldn’t have known you missed me as much as I missed you.” Poe looked startled, but she kept going, wanting to level the field between them. “I wouldn’t have known how much you cared about me, even before you knew I was pregnant, and I wouldn’t have known that you didn’t want to leave. And, Poe?”

He looked her with less trepidation and more hope, and it made her heart beat for what felt like the first time in months. 

“I did think about marrying you,” she whispered. “I thought about it when I saw you helping cadets even when you were bone-tired, I thought about it when you were half-awake and stumbling around before you got your cup of caf. I thought about marrying you that time you got food poisoning and spent all night in the ‘fresher vomiting your guts out, and you were so determined to make me not worry that you kept telling horrible, horrible jokes.”

“Oh.” Poe blinked, and settled on the single syllable in response to her confession. “Oh.”

“Can I kiss you?” Rey asked, worried that he’d refuse her. “I’ve wanted to since the second you left, but I’ve been so angry, and I wasted so much time, and-”

Poe reached out to cup her jaw with one hand, the other pulling her in at the small of her back until she was flush against him. His mouth was warm on hers, and the kiss was slow and languid and felt every bit like she was coming home. His stubble scratched at the corners of her mouth and her cheeks as much as it ever did, and he tasted faintly of caf and ration bread, and Rey hummed into the kiss, feeling something unfurl inside her chest. 

Poe’s large hand came around from her back to her stomach, where he rested his hand almost reverently over her abdomen. The kiss became a series of shorter, less deep but no less passionate kisses, and Poe eventually pulled away to rest his forehead against hers and gaze down at where his hand was placed. 

Rey covered her hand with his. “That’s your papa,” she whispered to the life she was growing. “Say hi, little one.” As if listening to her, a light kick answered her request. It wasn’t uncommon, but it was the first time she’d shared it with someone else, and Rey found herself crying at the shaky intake of breath from Poe. 

“Oh gods,” he groaned, his thumb lightly stroking back and forth over her stomach. “That’s -”

“That’s our baby,” Rey confirmed. “And he and I both want you to know that your message, while sweet, was unnecessary because you are forbidden from dying, Poe Dameron. Do you hear me?”

“I hear you, ma’am,” Poe chuckled. There was a pause, and Rey smirked into it, hearing Poe’s next question before he said it.

“He?!” 

[soldiergirlscorned]

Call Me Rio and I’ll Call You Jack Ch. 8

Call Me Rio and I’ll Call You Jack Ch. 8

1950

           Rio jumped onto the desk in Captain Lester’s classroom as the freshmen filed out. Some of them looked at the women with awe written across their faces and Rio had to wonder whether it was because of who Rio was or because she was a senior getting ready to leave. With freshmen she never knew.

Captain Lester closed the door after the last freshman scampered from the room, “You’re leaving tomorrow.”

“Yep.”

“You going to miss us?”

“No,” but Rio’s voice was already breaking.

Captain Lester held his arms out and his TA ran into them. The both of them stayed silent for a minute, listening to the familiar ticking of the clock and the whirling of the fan.

“Thank you,” Rio said, “For everything.”

Lester laughed, “I should be saying that to you. I’ve relied on you for three and a half years now. I’m going to have to find more cheap labor once you’re gone.”

“I already have a list of people for you to look at.”

“Still trying to take care of me?”

“A little.”

Lester let go of her, and started for the desk, “Well, you’ll still be some help for me, either way.”

“Why is that?” The captain smiled and pulled a large book out of the drawer. “This has been added to the reading curriculum. I am required to teach the book to every freshman.”

“You’re kidding me.”

“Sergeant Richlin, you are part of the West Point curriculum.”

“You have to teach all of the book?”

“Yes, I do.”

“Could you…uh…no one really needs to study…you know.”

“We can gloss over Tunis.”

“Thank God.”

“Speaking of relationships: is your husband coming?”

Rio nodded, but her eyes didn’t leave the ground, “Not every day your wife graduates college. Let alone West Point.”

“Everything okay?”

Rio shrugged, “He’s a little…upset. I did go to college when he didn’t. Let alone one that everyone knows by name. But he’s putting on a brave face. He’s wondering what’s next for me. Or for us. I can’t really be in the army in Gedwell Falls. At least not to the extent that I’ve been trained for. So, we may move. Or we may stay. I might work or I might not.”

“He doesn’t want you to work?”

Rio laughed, “In his mind, West Point was just an excuse to put off having a baby. So, to him, we’ve waited four years and that’s long enough. He wants a kid and he thinks that me working will distract from that. Or make it harder to actually get pregnant.”

“That scares you.”

“To Hell and back.”

“You all will figure it out.”

Rio swiped her foot across the floor, “I hope so.”

(*&*)?><<>??><<>?><<>??><<>??><<>??><<<>??><<>??><<>??><<>??><<>??><<>??><<>??><

“Look at you!” Zhen wrapped her arms around her friend. “You look hot!”

“I’m wearing my dress uniform, Zhen. I’m not supposed to look hot.”

“Take the compliment.”

Rio laughed.

Zhen let go of Rio and Richlin walked to her husband, “You made it.”

Strand shrugged, kissing her on the cheek, “Of course, I did. You’re my wife. And, I also can’t wait to bring you home.”

Rio tried to laugh, and also tried not to look behind her at the imposing buildings that felt more like home than the comfy house waiting in California.

“Hey, Richlin!” someone called and Rio waved.

Strand stared at her for a moment, “I didn’t realize you went by your maiden name here.”

Before she could respond, Zhen grabbed Rio and turned her around, “So, I did something.”

“That’s scary.”

Zhen shrugged, “I just made some calls. And promised you’d buy a few drinks.”

“What?”

“Richlin!!” Richlin was raised up onto a shoulder.

“Geer?!” Rio shrieked, holding onto his head as he paraded around, holding her on his shoulder.

A small crowd of familiar faces from Geer and BeeBee to Milkmaid were there. And Sergeant Cole.

When Geer puts her down, all she can do is stare at him.

“You look good, Richlin. Those stripes fit you.”

Richlin beamed more than when she had received her diploma, “Thanks, Sarge. That means a lot.”

“Hey, hey, hey!” Geer called. “We have to go celebrate!”

(*&*)?><<>??><<>??><<>??><<>??><<>??><<>??><<>??><<>??><<>??><<>??><<>??><<>??><

Strand sat in a booth full of Army people in a crowded bar on the edge of town. Everyone had seemed to have the same thought and had eventually ended up at the bar. Rio occasionally had to break from the conversation to hug a graduate good-bye or to promise to stay in touch. Captain Lester eventually joined the group, saying he had gotten a call when he got home to meet them here (Zhen was busy talking to Geer when Rio had looked in her direction). Now, he stood amongst her old platoon looking very comfortable laughing and telling stories.

Lester laughed at a story Geer said, “You don’t have to tell me that! I remember one time that she came into my class and immediately said ‘Look, I’m hungover, so I’m not doing anything and I’m curling up beneath your desk’.”

“What did you say to that?” Zhen asked.

“I asked her how she got through PT that day and she just turned green.”

Everyone roared with laughter.

Eventually, Rio was able to escape to the bar and was joined by no one other than Molina.

“What are you doing now, Molina?” Richlin asked, leaning against the bar.

Molina shrugged, “I have a husband. A one year old. I work as a teacher in the local elementary school.”

“That’s good. How do you like being a mom?”

Molina smiled, “I love it. He’s just perfect. He gets so excited about anything new…I just want to show him the world.”

“If you don’t mind me asking: how do you manage to have a job and a kid?”

Molina grimaced, “It’s hard. Really hard. Both jobs are so demanding. I wish I had help, but I can’t afford it. Occasionally, I can get my husband to put him to sleep if I’m grading papers, but…mostly it’s just me. The schedule helps though.”

Rio looked down as her drink that she had just ordered as Molina studied her, “I don’t know how anyone would handle a job with a more demanding schedule. They would need their spouse to help support the child a lot.”

Rio nodded.

“Strand seems nice.”

Again, Molina’s old, confident sergeant nodded.

“He has also brought up kids four times since we’ve been here.”

Rio finally looked up at her, “Yes, he has.”

Molina continued to study her, “What do you want to do, Sarge?”

“Sometimes it doesn’t matter what I think.”

Molina’s face twisted, “That’s not what my sergeant would have said.”

“Your sergeant wasn’t married. I have another person that I have to take care of.”

“Sure. Just as long as you’re still taking care of yourself. If you’re not happy with having a child, then don’t have one. And there’s nothing worse than having a mom that didn’t want you. If you can’t love that child completely, then do it a favor and don’t get pregnant.”

Richlin looked up at someone who used to be her inferior, and Molina stared back with absolute certainty, “I may not know you very well, Richlin, but I do know your sense of duty is strong. So, you have to pick which duty you’re going to fulfill: the duty to your husband or the duty to yourself and your unborn child.”

Richlin turned back to the bar, “I don’t think I could fulfill that duty to him even if I tried. When I went to West Point for my senior year I found out that I was pregnant. I was so close to graduating and I didn’t know if I wanted it and I knew Strand would try to force me to come home and…I panicked. I had an anxiety attack and woke up in the hospital and….”

Molina looked down, “I see. It happens to a lot of women. That extra stress can sometimes cause…problems with the pregnancy.”

Rio didn’t look at Molina as she whispered in the crowded bar, “I never told Strand.”

Molina studied the sergeant for a while, but Richlin suddenly perked herself up, “Come on, Milkmaid. Enough heavy talk. Let’s go back to the others.”

Then, Rio slipped across the bar and sat down in the booth, sliding into her husband’s embrace.

[yourstarwarslife-blog]

I’m not sick! P.D

pairing: Poe Dameron X reader  warnings: mentions of death of a minor character, nothing else.  spoilers: non  wordcount: 1982  disclaimer: gifs go to their rightful owners. 

You walked into the control room of the resistance base of D’Qar several minutes after the meeting had started. ‘good of you to join us captain Y/L/N.’ General Organa speaks as you quickly stand beside Poe Dameron. The pilot places an arm around your shoulder, leaning into you like he always did during meetings. 

‘I’m sorry general.’ You say, the general shoots you a simple nod before going over the mission plans of the next couple of days. The meeting goes on as she assigns every squadron and tells ground staff what had to be taken care of. 

‘great surveillance flights.’ You mumble to yourself once you hear what the general had planned for your squadron, and for that matter every squadron. You joined the resistance after working with the Rapier squadron for the republic fleet. Once you joined the resistance you started working for the black squadron for a while before Leia promoted you to captain and gave you your own squad, the red squadron. ‘good, you’re away from battle.’ Poe speaks, his voice was hoarse. This small detail made you scan his face, it was somewhat paler then normal and he had dark circles around his reddish eyes. ‘Poe, are you alright?’ you question out of instinct place a hand on his head, it wasn’t alarmingly hot but it was hot. ‘I’m fine y/n. I need to get my x-wing ready for my surveillance flight.’ A small kiss is placed to your temple. You hadn’t quite noticed Leia had ended her speech and several of the others had already left. ‘good your away from battle.’ You shoot at him as you watch him walk away. ‘don’t use my words against me, y/l/n.’ he shouts over his shoulder. ‘course Dameron.’ You laugh. ‘Captain, is he alright?’ the General speaks. ‘I’m not sure, you know Poe general, he’ll keep flying no matter what.’ The general let’s out a small laugh. ‘keep an eye out for him, he might listen to you if he needs rest.’ She says with a kind smile. ‘I will general though I doubt he’ll listen.’ You give the general a small smile before heading toward the hanger. Leia however knew that if there was one person who’s advice the commander would listen to it was yours. Most of your red squadron was already working on their x-wings. You soon started to do the same, now and then you’d glace over to the other x-wings, especially the black one. Poe was working on it together with his droid, he seemed tired and sneezed from now and then. ‘I’m fine Beebee.’ You could hear the commander say over the sound of people working. You roll your eyes if he wasn’t going to listen to his droid why would he listen to you. You look at your own droid, the red and white R3 unit was fixing one of the lower parts of your x-wing. ‘artree go check what beebee has to say about poe’s health.’ You tell the droid, poe was your best friend, but also the most stubborn person you knew. You jump of your x-wing when you’re sure it’s ready for flight and walk toward your droid and bb. ‘so he is not feeling well.’ You whisper when R3 gives you a series of beeps, bb’s head seemed to nod in agreement.   ‘Captain, are you ready?’ One of the members of your red squadron asks walking over to you.   ‘yep go alert the others we’ll be leaving in a couple of minutes.’ You shoot him a sweet smile before you turn back to the droids. ‘beebee do me a favour and make sure he doesn’t do anything to crazy.’ I kneel beside the orange and white droid. It beeps a yes to you, you thank the droid and sign R3 to follow you to your x-wing. ‘Y/N’ It’s Poe who calls out to you. ‘take care!’ he was seated at op his x-wing working on one of the wings, his face looking just as pale as before and if it weren’t for bb and his promise you might’ve dropped out of this mission and just watched him. ‘as long as you’ll do the same.’ You say, the tone in your voice serious and Poe can hear it. ‘always, dear.’ It wasn’t uncommon for him to call you that. And you kind of loved it. you hopped into your x-wing, closing the top you fired up the engine. ‘well artree let’s go.’ It was almost 2 days later when you returned. The surveillance flight didn’t go as well as planned, once your squadron had arrived at your destination you were met by a tie fighter squadron. 2 x-wings were shot down, 1 of them beyond repair it had crashed into the planet, killing the pilot. Once the tie fighters were down, you and what remained of your squadron had repaired the x-wings and buried the remains of your co-pilot.   Once the x-wings landed on D’Qar you sent your squadrons to get medical checks and to get some rest. You yourself needed to go find the general and debrief her on the mission but you hadn’t even gotten a chance to walk away from your x-wing when your name was called.   ‘Y/N!’ Poe’s voice was rough and cracked midway through your name. ‘your back.’ His voice was softer so it sounded normal. ‘I am, and you are ill.’ ‘how was the mission.’ Poe straight up ignored you. ‘we lost a pilot, tie fighter ambush, Poe go get medical check.’ ‘I’m fine y/n, you aren’t you lost a friend.’ Poe puts an arm around you shoulder and pulls you into a tight hug. ‘I’m alright Poe, we can all die, it’s part of the business.’ You sigh, he knows that this dead hit you, it always did when someone was killed. Being in Poe’s embrace gives you the bit of comfort that you need. But it’s interrupted but a series of sneezes from him. It is then that you take a closer look at him, his eyes were full of fatigue. ‘you sure you’re alright?’ you place a hand on his forehead, he was leaning on you, his weight resting on you and he for sure as hell had a fever now. ‘you know I don’t care what you think we’re going to the med bay whether you like it or not Dameron.’ With an arm around your shoulder Poe has no choice but to follow you. BB-8 following the pair of you closely. The walk to the med bay seemed to longer than ever with Poe’s weight on you. When you arrive a nurse is quick to escort you to one of the beds where he sits down. ‘I’ll get you a doctor.’ She says before leaving, Poe leans his back against the headboard while you sit down on a chair beside his bed. ‘what can I do for you?’  A male doctor soon joins Poe and you. ‘he needs to have a check-up.’ You spoke for him, not trusting whatever excuse Poe was going to make up this time. ‘alright then.’ The Doctor says kindly before starting to examine Poe. it took the doctor a moment, you watched as he did his checks. Your noticed he checked Poe’s temperature and some vitals. ‘he’s caught a heavy flu, there isn’t a lot we can do about it but wait for it to be over. I advise rest and no work for you pilot.’ The doctor spoke to Poe who let out a groan. ‘I’ll trust on it that your girlfriend makes sure you take his rest.’ The doctor looks at you but you just shake your head. ‘I’m not his..’ ‘she will.’ Poe interrupts you with a cheeky smile. ‘you are dismissed but if the symptoms get any worse please come back in. It should be over in a week or so.’ the doctor heads toward his next patient and Poe gets out of the bed. ‘I told you, you were ill.’ You shoot at the pilot, like he would’ve done if he proved you wrong. ‘you got that right, now I get you as my nurse for the next week.’ You roll your eyes at his reaction but do help him walk to his quarters. BB was beeping all the way, happy that his master was going to be alright and that you were going to take care of Poe and keep BB company. Once in his room you help him out of his jacket and boats before tucking him in. ‘get some sleep.’ You order, you turn to leave his room but he grabs your hand before you can. ‘stay, after all doctor’s orders.’ you knew he was going to use it as an excuse, ill Poe was going to hell but you nothing you wouldn’t be able to handle. ‘I’m only going to tell the general to give you the week of and get you some soup, I’ll be back before you wake up idiot.’ Poe hums in agreement, he was already falling asleep which made you relax a little. You stayed until you knew he was fully asleep, gave bb the order to watch him before heading to find the general. ‘awh captain, I heard about your mission I’m sorry about what happened.’ Leia speaks the moment she sees you. You had kind of forgotten about the mission simply by worrying over Poe. ‘thank you ma’am, it’s not why I came though.’ The general looks at you curious. ‘Poe is ill, he’s caught some kind of flu and I wondered if he could have the week of. I’m sure he thinks he’ll be fine tomorrow but it’s pretty serious.’ ‘you may both have the next week off, go take care of your pilot , captain.’ She says with a knowing smile. ‘thank you general.’ You nod. Now that you’ve got the week of you head toward the kitchen, sure there you would be able to find something to eat for Poe and you, he clearly wasn’t capable of going to the mess room for dinner without getting half the base the flu. one of the cooks gladly helped you get two bowls of soup and some bread, which on a tray you carried to Poe’s room. You put in the code to open the door which was harder then you thought with a tray of hot soup in your hands. Inside you place the tray down on the small table and kneel down beside Poe’s bedside. Softly you stroke a few of his hairs from his forehead and lay your cold hand on it. ‘that’s nice.’ Poe’s low voice speaks. His eyes flutter open and you remove a hand from his forehead. His hand is however quick to place it back on his head. ‘it helps against the ache.’ He keeps his hand on yours and it’s just as warm as his forehead. ‘I got us some soup, you need to eat and drink.’ You stand up, Poe let’s out a slight groan when your hand leaves his forehead but is soon smiling  when he sees you got him his favourite. ‘come site beside me.’ he asks with a sleepy smile, you don’t even have time to protest before he makes room for you and takes the tray from you so you can sit down. the pair of you sit in silence, eating your soup and the bread. Once the food is gone you set the tray aside, Poe lays down and drags you with him. he places his head in the croak of your neck placing a small kiss there. ‘thanks, y/n.’ for everything.’ His voice is muffled by your hair. ‘I know I’m not easy but thanks.’ ‘it’s nothing Poe.’ You cuddle up in his side, making him smile. He might not like being sick, but he did love you taking care of him.

[summahsunlight]

All For You, Part 7

Rating: T

Word Count: 2k+

Pairing: Poe Dameron X Pilot!Reader

Summary: Your life in the Resistance was not easy, being married to Commander Poe Dameron and a skilled pilot yourself. When you unexpectedly get pregnant, your life is forever changed. Raising a child on base is hard, but never having parents of your own as a child, you are determined to love your little girl and give her the best life. Poe is equally as devoted to you and your daughter, vowing to keep you both safe from the impending threat of the First Order.

Taglist: @thescarletknight2014​, @elmoakepoke​, @xxidontwikeitxx​, @liadamerondjarin​, @marvelofwitch​, @blushingwueen​, @april-14-blog​, @softly-sad, @agents-assemble, @paintballkid711​

Taglist is still open! Just let me know if you want to be added!

Being confined to your bed had some perks. One of them being that you saw more of Poe throughout the day than you normally would. He would bring you meals, pop in to make sure you were still in bed, and when he wasn’t available, he’d send BB-8. You found that the little droid was far more enthusiastic and eager to take care of you than you thought he would be. Somedays you wondered if Poe sent BB-8 along just to make you smile.

Leia wss doing her best to keep him on base now that you were on bed rest, but you knew that sooner or later, she was going to need him again to go on a mission.

Doctor Kalonia informed you that the baby could arrive any day now at your last check-up--which had taken a painfully long time to get to since Poe made you walk so slowly. You rubbed your belly now, feeling the building excitement and dread at the thought of finally welcoming your baby girl into the galaxy. She was still very active, always on the move, which you blamed her father for.

Poe would just smile at you when you complained about the baby’s constant movement and how she had inherited it from him.

“Hey, sweetheart,” your husband greeted you as he entered the quarters.

“Hi. Please tell me you brought lunch!” you exclaimed.

Grinning, Poe handed you some food. “I did. You didn’t think I’d let my girls go hungry now did you?”

You stuffed some of the sandwich in your mouth. “Well, considering how late you are today--for a while there I thought you might have forgotten about us.”

Sitting down on the edge of the bed, Poe leaned forward and pressed his lips to your cheek. “Never, baby. I could never forget about you or our little girl. Speaking of our daughter--is she still active?”

“Constantly on the move. Just like her father.”

“Nah, she's just excited to come out and join us.”

“Well then she gets her enthusiasm from her father.”

Poe chuckled and then his eyes grew serious. “Leia needs me,” he simply said.

Swallowing, you gently nodded your head. “How long will you be gone?”

His fingers slipped along your back. “I’m not sure. At least a day; I can leave Bee with you...’

“No!” you cried, suddenly. “He needs... he needs to go with you!”

“Sweetheart I can get another droid for the mission,” Poe said.

“No, you can’t! I only trust Beebee to take care of you!”

“Now you sound like BeeBee-Ate.”

Tears streamed down your cheeks. Your emotions were running so high already but the thought of Poe going out on a mission without BB-8, who on a few occasions was the whole reason Poe was still alive--it made you terrified. You couldn’t lose Poe now, not with the birth of your child so close. Your daughter was going to need her father.  “Please, please, take him with you.”

Wiping the tears from your cheeks, Poe sighed. He shifted on the bed to pull you into his arms and whispered, “Okay...I’ll take Bee if it will make you feel better.”

Hiccuping, you buried your cheek against his shoulder. “Yes. It would make me feel better.”

“I’ll have Rose check-in on you,” Poe promised, kissing the top of your head.

“O-okay,” you whimpered, hating how scared you sounded.

“Sweetheart, I’ll be fine. Promise.”

“I know you probably will be, but I’m still worried.”

Poe wished there was more to say to you to ease your fears--but there wasn’t. He pressed one more kiss to your hair and then untangled himself from your arms. He had to get moving; Black Squadron was taking off in the next thirty minutes and he had mission prep. Taking your face in his hands, he studied every feature and then he smiled. “Don’t have that baby while I’m away.”

You laughed, even as tears streamed down your cheeks. “I don’t think I have much say on when the baby decides she’s ready to come out into the galaxy. Just get back before that happens, okay?”

His thumbs stroked your cheek. “I love you.”

Blinking back tears, you rasped, “I love you, too.”

Poe kissed you, lingering longer than he probably should have, but it was breaking his heart leaving you right now when you were bed ridden and could give birth any day.  But he needed to go; he needed to go to ensure that you and your baby were safe.

-----

Twenty-four hours turned into thirty-six that Poe was away.

Rose did indeed check-in on you frequently to make sure that you were comfortable, fed, and helped you get to the refresher.  She tried to keep an upbeat attitude but you knew she was nervous that Black Squadron was away so long as well. After all, this was supposed to be a reconniance mission.

You busied yourself with watching holo-movies or reading. Sometimes Kaydel would stop by and work with you. Still, your fears that Poe wasn’t going to return were ever present.

As it passed the forty-eight hour mark that Poe was gone you noticed how increasing uncomfortable you were. By the tine Rose stopped by to bring you lunch, you were in mild pain.

“Do you want me to call the doctor?” Rose questioned.

“No,” you responded. “I’m nine months pregnant. There’s just no comfortable position to sit in.”

“Y/N--I think you’re in labor. We need to call her.”

“Labor? Rose...I’m not in labor. Go back to work.”

Rose hesitated. She was pretty certain you were going into labor but she also had learned over the last two days not to argue with you--Poe had been pretty clear to her that she shouldn’t upset you and that it could make the stress on you and the baby worse. “Fine, but I’m coming back in an hour and if you’re still in this pain, I’m calling the doctor.”

You agreed to those terms and watched her leave. Trying to get comfortable, you started reading the book Rose had left you. Or you attempted to read the book. The pain was getting worse; was it possible the tear was getting worse? You weren’t sure how that was possible, you had barely moved from your bed for the last several weeks.

Wincing, you tried to grab at the commlink on the nightstand, but your hand was shaking so hard that it fell to the floor. You cursed watching it roll across the floor. You had two options here--get up and get it, which you were sure you could hear Poe yelling at you from wherever he was--or just wait until Rose returned.

Under normal circumstances you probably would have waited for Rose, but the sharp pains coming from your abdomen sent you into a panic. If you were not in labor then something was wrong and you had no way of letting anyone know unless you got off the bed and went to get the com.

Making your decision, you rolled out of bed and waddled towards the discarded commlink. It was not easy--nothing really was these days as big as your belly was--but you managed to pick the com up.  Fumbling with it for a few seconds, you got a hold of the medbay.

Just as the medic told you that she was going to send someone to come get you, you felt something warm and wet trickle down your inner thighs. Glancing down, to your horror you saw not only a pool of clear liquid underneath you but blood as well. “There’s blood! I’m bleeding!”

“Captain Dameron, please just stay calm. The team is on the way.”

“Stay calm? My baby could be dying!”

“Everything is going to be fine. Breathe, ma’am.”

“Poe isn’t here! He’s gone!”

The medic was still talking to you on the commlink, but the blood thundering in your ears drowned her out. The baby could not come yet! Her father wasn’t on base! He should be here! You felt sick to your stomach, you felt dizzy--the pain only grew in intensity and you just wanted to curl up into a ball and sob.

Hands gently grabbed a hold of you; you were not even aware that the team of medics had arrived and used override codes to get into your quarters. They were helping you down onto a gurney. A needle pricked your arm and you anxiously swatted at the droid that had done it.

“Captain,” the nurse explained, “we’re prepping you for surgery.”

“Surgery!” you gasped.

“Doctor Kalonia thinks it will be safer to deliver the baby this way.”

“What do you mean safer?”

The nurse helped the medical droid continue preparation to move you to the surgical bay. “The tear in your placenta has obviously enlarged and you’re bleeding. A natural birth would make the tear even worse and you could end up hemorrhaging. She just wants to make sure that both you and the baby have a safe, healthy delivery.”

You wanted to scream that this was not how things were supposed to go. Poe was supposed to be here and you were supposed to hold your daughter the moment she came into this galaxy--now, you were going to be in a surgical bay, probably semi-unconscious, and Poe was still not on base.

Everything hurt, everything was falling apart and you could barely breathe...

“Y/N! Breathe!!” Poe’s voice shouted through the haze.

“Poe?” you responded, weakly, opening your eyes.

Bright lights flashed overhead as the gurney was pushed through the base, but there was Poe, his concerned face right beside you. He managed a smile, even if you could see the fear in his brown eyes. “I’m here, sweetheart, it’s gonna be fine. Just breathe. You scared us for a second there.”

Somehow, even in this panicked state, Poe made everything seem like it was going to be okay. His hand gripped yours tightly, and he continued to smile at you, assure you that it was alright as you were moved into the surgical bay. Doctor Kalonia immediately checked your vitals, instructing her team to prep for the baby and you saw Poe’s jaw twitch. “Is she... is she okay, doctor?”

Kalonia smiled at you. “Your baby is fine. Heartbeat is strong. Let’s get her out of there and bring her into this world, okay? I think she’s ready.”

You managed a weak nod of your head as Poe pushed your hair back and kissed your forehead. It was really the last coherent moment you had, the last thing you even remember happening before you heard your baby’s first cries. You couldn’t see her, thanks to all the medical droids and nurses around you, but you could hear her.

Trying to lift your head so you could catch a glimpse of your baby, Poe gently eased you back down onto the cot. “Sweetheart, don’t move okay. She’s fine. I can see her! I counted ten little fingers and ten little toes! She’s perfect, just like her mama.”

“Can...can I see her?” you asked. Force did you sound tired.

“Lemme get her, alright?” Poe said, letting go of your hand.

He returned a few moments later, your little baby swaddled in a pink blanket, softly mewing. Seeing your baby for the first time brought happy tears to your eyes, mirroring Poe’s.  She looked so much like you, but you could see Poe in her--especially her wildly curly hair. You prayed she never lost it.

Poe gave the baby a little kiss and then situated her so she was close enough to you that you could give her kiss also and run your hand over her soft hair. She was perfect and you never wanted to stop holding her the moment Poe gently laid her across your chest.

You were so busy focusing on your baby that you were not aware that Kalonia and the nurses were still working or that Poe’s expression changed from positively beaming when he looked at your daughter to positively terrified when he glanced at the doctor. “Poe,” you said, softly, but still loud enough to grab his attention, “she needs a name. What are we going to call her?”

“I liked the last one you came up with,” Poe said, smiling at you.

“Emmeline?”

“Yeah. I think it’s perfect for her.”

As if on cue, the baby little out a little cry. You brushed soft kisses on her cheeks. “Emmeline. I like it.”

Poe saw the doctor step back out of the corner of his eye. She gestured for him to take the baby from you. “Honey, I need to take her now; the nurses need to do a little check-up. Everything is fine though, okay? You rest.”

Reluctantly you handed the baby back to your husband and watched through heavy lids as he handed her to the nurse. “Poe, I’m sleepy.”

“Go to sleep, baby,” he coaxed you. “Both Emmeline and I will be here when you wake up--and probably BeeBee-Ate too, he was rather worried about you when we arrived.”

“Then go tell him I’m fine,” you said, as you began drifting off to sleep. “I don’t want me to worry, Poe.”

Licking his lips, Poe watched as you fell asleep thanks to the anesthesia. If BB-8 knew what was happening right now, that you needed an operation to stop the internal bleeding from your placenta tear--he’d be worried, and perhaps just as terrified that you were going to die as Poe was.

[x-dudes]

Can you do a Poe x reader where the reader is a sarcastic mechanic. She and Poe constantly argue like they hate each other but in reality it’s like they’re flirting unknowingly. While arguing, Poe interrupts her by kissing her? If that makes sense

Notes: Totally does!! I gotchu. Also, from the moment I started writing this Han and Leia parallels (without all the toxic tendencies in their relationship) just grabbed at me and I almost couldn’t resist. hope you like it!!! It’s kind of long so you can find it under the cut for convenience sake.

Published: December 28th, 2017

Warnings: Some spoilers for The Last Jedi? Nothing too major. I’d say it kind of spoils the opening scene but it was put under a read more link regardless.

-

The sweltering heat of the main ship’s gas system almost overcame you, causing heavy beads of sweat to drip from the skin of your face, neck, and back as you worked vigorously on your repairs. A little BB unit sat propped up on your workbench, with it’s center panel opened as you examined the mainframe. Moments earlier he had gone through major electrical damage, evident still in the singed appearance of the orange paint and the heat the droid still radiated hours later, and you were assessing the damage from within, hoping silently it wouldn’t be anything that couldn’t be repaired with what you had available.

“How’s he looking?” A voice called, breaking you from your concentration. You flinched slightly, causing your hand to press against the heated metal of the droid’s outer shell and obtain an oblong burn across your forearm. Though recognizing the voice in question, you refused to let yourself appear anything less than snide and disdainful as you finally lifted your head up to lock eyes.

“Don’t talk to me.” You answered, turning your chair back to the little droid and placing your electric wedge between two magnetic plates along the damaged perimeter of his body.

“(Y/N),-”

“Poe, I’m working, and unlike your job, mine consists of serious concentration and deliberate thought.” You scorned, sending an electric shock through the metallic plates of the wedge and effectively rebooting the droid’s motion system.

“Woah, woah, woah, be careful with my droid.” He chuckled.

“His gyrosystem was in permanent motion lock. Y’know that thing that allows him to even move in the first place? Although, I think it might do him some good to do something other than follow you blindly. So did you want a frozen droid? ‘Cause I can always take out one of his chips if tha-

“I think I get it.”

“No, Poe, I don’t think you do get it.” You snapped. “BB-8 almost died out there- I don’t know if you believe that droids can die like that, I know it’s kind of a ‘controversial’ topic.” You placed air quotes around the word controversial. “But I do. I believe that there’s some other part to them that we can’t build or program. You see it in BB-8, don’t you? He sees it in himself. I know he does.- He’s in here kind of frequently you know?” Of course, it couldn’t be some sort of talk with (Y/N) without a snarky comment or sarcastic remark. “And he risked it all, knowing that this could mean everything, to help you be a careless idiot, because he trusts you. He did it because he loves you.” For once, Poe stood before you completely wordless. Any thoughts of what he could say all died down in his throat before they had the chance to surface. The thick silence was cut with the sounds of happy whirring and chirping as the familiar little droid powered back up. Poe only watched as (Y/N) screwed his plate back into place and gave everything a good shake to test for durability. BB let out a series of low whistles, causing you to laugh as you met the droid’s gaze.

“Sorry, sorry. Hey, Beebee, how ya’ feeling?” He whirred in response. “I can imagine…” You replied as you cleaned the sweat and oil from her palms. You stood up to stroke his side, and Poe watched carefully as the little droid leaned into your touch, hearing your words from just moments earlier play on loop in his head. “Well, I think you’re very brave.”

“Oh, but I’m careless?” Poe gloated, nudging your shoulder with his fingers as he pulled closer to your workbench.

“I think you’re certainly something.” You taunted.

“What kind of something?”

“Well, the last time I was as mean to you as I’d like to be, General Organa called me into her quarters to scold me.” You teased in return, a faint smile playing at the corners of your lips just faint enough for BB-8 alone to notice. “…to say the least.”

“Wait, her quarters?”

“Yeah, and I was still really young and real new to the Resistance mech team, too, so I was convinced that I was going to walk out of there wearing my ass as a hat or something because I couldn’t keep my mouth shut.” You chuckled.

“Oh, man, I don’t even remember what happened that day. What did you do?”

“I think that was one of many times I would threaten to beat you senseless if you didn’t start taking better care of BB-8.” You quipped. “Poor fella…”

“So what’d she do to you? You know, (Y/N), I think ass hats are going to be the next big fashion trend of the decade.” He taunted, scooting closer to your seat on the workbench. You replied with a tempting ‘hmm?’ which he couldn’t help but smirk at. “Yeah, because you are one.”

“Fuck off, Poe.” You replied, shoving him roughly from his seat with a visible smirk. “Getoutta here, your atrocious face and horrendous personality make my working conditions just about unbearable.”

“And we were getting along so well…” He mocked, wiping an imaginary tear as he lifted BB-8 from the table and placed him on the laminate flooring of the ship.

“Uh uh uh, what do you think you’re doing with h-”

“I’m taking him home? As he is mine and I think I have the right to do so?”

“And what makes you so sure he’s all fixed up? That one flight repair won’t turn him into scrap metal and spare parts?” You countered. He stood silent. “Yeah, thought so.” You crouched to speak one-on-one with BB, hearing him whir conflictedly. “Hey, I never said you couldn’t go. Just go easy on yourself, alright? And check up with me at least once every couple of days until I say otherwise, you got that?” The droid rolled his head to signal he understood. “That means no being reckless for you, either. Promise?” BB-8 extended one of his thin metal arms from his chest in a sort of pinky-promise. Your little finger wrapped around the arm with a grin as you stood up to face Poe once again. “If he ends up back in here, I’ll have you wearing your ass as a hat. Are we clear?”

“I’m sorry, princess.” He sneered, one eyebrow raised in his signature Poe Dameron fashion that you’ve grown to resent. “But I think I can handle him.”

“You fucking better…” You called, though he and the little droid were already stepping away.

BB-8 chirped his concerns through the speaker, trying to keep his voice low until they turned the corner. It came out as more of a question than anything else, though it still made Poe chuckle in disbelief.

“Like her?” He repeated. “Yeah, I guess she’s alright…”

“I told you, I told you if he found himself in there one more time, Poe, I wouldn’t fucki-”

“Yeah, I’m aware, princess, what did you expect me to do? I needed him. We can’t all sit along the edge of the battlefield doing-”

“Call me princess one more time see if I don’t smack you into next year.” You threatened, feeling him grow closer with each insult spewed at each other. “Give me one good reason why I shouldn’t report to the General that you’re unfit to hold a droid and that BB-8 should essentially be repossessed.” You prompted. He turned his head in serious thought, making you realize only now that you could feel his warm breath fan out against your cheeks.

“Shit- (Y/N), you can’t be seriou-”

“I’m absolutely serious. You and Organa are already kind of on thin ice here, Poe, and for good reason, too. It wouldn’t be very hard at all to report the instances in which-”

“Well then why haven’t ya’, (Y/N)?! Huh?!” Poe snapped slamming his fist on to your workbench with such force, and at such a close proximity that it was second nature to jump.

“Poe,” You began, evening your voice out so were no longer shouting. Fighting wasn’t your goal, you reminded yourself. 

“With such an active effort to call me out on every mistake I make with ‘im, why haven’t you just turned me in already?”

“Poe, I-”

“No, I don’t want anymore bullshit from you, (Y/N)! I wan-”

“Because I didn’t report them, Poe! I DIDN’T REPORT ANY OF BB’S PREVIOUS DAMAGES BECAUSE I KNEW IT WOULD GET YOU INTO A LOAD OF SHIT YOU DIDN’T NEED TO BE IN, EVEN THOUGH IT WAS AGAINST VERY STRICT RESISTANCE CODE THAT I DID, ESPECIALLY WHEN SAID DROID HAS HELD INFORMATION CRITICAL TO THE ENTIRE WELLBEING OF THE RESISTANCE. ALL BECAUSE I WAS TRYING TO KEEP YOU OFF THE BENCH AND AWAY FROM THE SHITTY SIDELINES AS MUCH AS POSSIBLE, BECAUSE WITH HOW OFTEN BB-8 IS IN HERE I ACTUALLY KIND OF BEGAN TO BELIEVE IN YOU. A LONG TIME AGO, ACTUALLY. BEFORE FLEEING D’QAR, BEFORE THE BLACK SQUADRON, MAYBE EVEN BEFORE YOU BECAME ‘THE POE DAMERON’ POSTERCHILD PILOT OF THE RESISTANCE WHO EVERYONE BUT LEIA’S AFRAID TO CALL OUT, BECAUSE THEY THINK HE CAN DO NO WRONG.” You stopped to catch your breath in short pants, realizing you had moved yourself even closer as you screamed at him. You spoke again, voice now gravelly and soft from misuse, yet still just strong enough to speak your peace. “God, you’re such an idiot. Although I guess this is partially my fault, because I didn’t realize at the time that you were actually kind of a prick- stop that.”

“Stop what?” Poe replied, stepping closer with his signature eyebrow raised in a taunting look. Although this time it was different, and you couldn’t place why.

“Looking at me like that.” You answered.

“Looking at you like what, princess?”

“Stop calling me that.” You stated softly.

“What, Princess?” You nod bitterly. “Weren’t you a princess?” He recalls, thinking back briefly to a conversation he overheard between yourself and Leia.

“Not exactly. Though this is something you would know if you bothered to pay mind to anybody but yourself f-” Your snide remarks died on your lips as Poe feverishly closed the distance, pressing his own to yours. He pulled away, a smug look marking his features. “What? Do you think that just kissing a woman solves all of your problems? You questioned, sneering angrily, yet placing your hands over his chest and keeping him in place by the lapels of his jacket.

“Not exactly. But the years worth of backed up sexual and romantic tension? That’s another story.” You rolled your eyes in a dramatic display, pushing him away from you with a soft thud. He furrowed his brow, unsure of whether to follow as you walked away.

“My shift ends at seven.” You explained, turning back to meet his confused gaze a few feet behind you with a taunting smile. “You want to wait up for me? We can finish this afterwards.”

[senatorrorgana]

What Binds Us

Summary:  Based off of the prompt I got from an anon: Continuation of the meeting scene in TLJ, BB-8 interrupts the two and embarrasses Poe by saying/beeping that he should consider giving his mother's ring to Rey. (x)

Pairing: Damerey

A/N:  There were a bunch of people who really wanted me to write this prompt up, so I figured I'd get it done as soon as possible! I hope you guys enjoy, it turned out really fluffy and I just really wanted more Damerey fluff :3 This fic is for @wonderrbat , I hope you like it!

AO3: (x)

   Poe trusted BB-8 on many things, he’d had the little droid in his life long enough and knew when BB-8 was onto either a brilliant idea or had a few wires loose somewhere that needed to be checked out. He was right about Rey, in fact, the little droids tales of the woman who saved him while lost on Jakku didn’t do Rey much justice past her being a kind soul - then again Poe didn’t expect BB-8 to even register that Rey was attractive too. But now he was convinced that perhaps BB-8’s attempt at fixing his X-Wing hours ago might have done him in with a short circuit or two.

   [Friend-Poe, you should give the ring to Friend-Rey as a sign of friendship!] BB-8 said, the droids cheerful beeps exuding innocence that his buddy was so often known for.

   “Ring?” Rey asked curiously, confusion scrunching up her features.

   “Sorry, he’s got a short circuit or something,” Poe said, trying to fight off the nerves bubbling up in the middle of this now awkward encounter. “Buddy, uh, it’s...it’s not a friendship ring.”

   He’d only met Rey just now, and while Poe wasn’t afraid to admit that she was a beautiful woman, the ring around his neck wasn’t just for any beautiful woman.

   [Is it not for someone special? Friendship is special,] BB-8 said.

   Seemingly catching on to the conversation now, Rey’s cheeks flushed slightly and Poe wished that BB-8 understood humans just a bit more.

   “Friendship is special, Beebee-Ate,” Rey said, kneeling down to BB-8’s height and talking to the droid one on one, “but I think maybe what Poe is trying to say is that he’s saving that ring for someone really special.”

   [What could possibly be more special than friendship?] BB-8 asked, confused.

   Rey smiled at that, Poe was relieved that at least she seemed to find BB-8’s misunderstanding to be funny rather than awkward. “Not a whole lot, but when something is more special than friendship, it really means a lot.”

   [But how will the Resistance know about your friendship?] BB-8 asked.

  Before Poe even has the chance to respond, Rey is already reaching for the leather band around her wrist, taking it off in one easy motion and holding it out to Poe.

   “Rey, you don’t-”

   “Don’t worry about it, just take it,” Rey said, offering up a small smile.

   Poe gently takes the bracelet from her grasp before rolling up his jacket sleeve and putting it on, holding up his wrist to BB-8 to show the droid that there was, in fact, something now tying him and Rey together. BB-8 looks between the two of them, his head spinning back and forth before finally settling on Poe again.

   [Now the Resistance will know your friendship!] BB-8 said happily.

   Rey gets back up to her feet, a smile still on her face as BB-8 happily rolls off to investigate the rest of the ship and discovering the porgs nesting in a nearby hole in the wall of the Falcon.

   “You didn’t have to,” Poe said finally with BB-8 out of earshot.

   “It’s fine, really,” Rey said, a slight laugh following.

   Poe moves to take the bracelet off, but Rey’s hand lands gently on top of his, causing him to stop in place before locking eyes with her, realizing just how close they were now; close enough to count the freckles on her face and see the splashes of green in her hazel eyes.

   “Keep it, it suits you,” Rey said, not missing a beat and seemingly unfazed by their closeness.

   At that, Poe can’t help but smile, and suddenly the simple bracelet on his wrist starts to hold more meaning than he could have imagined.

   There weren't many places left to run, but the small size of the Resistance gave them a slight advantage of traveling relatively unnoticed for at least a short time. They couldn't stay on the Falcon forever, and with a lack of better options of standing Resistance bases, they ended up on Yavin 4. Under normal circumstances, Poe would have been happy to be back home, but now it only left him nervous at the thought of the First Order being drawn to his home planet.

   “This place is amazing,” Rey said, walking up beside Poe on the loading ramp of the Falcon after the rest of the Resistance was off board.

   “You should have seen it back in the day, it was really something special,” Poe said.

   “You saw it back then?” Rey asked.

   “Ouch, you think I'm that old?” Poe asked, a smirk now present.

   “No, no, of course not, I'm sorry-”

   “Don't worry about it,” Poe laughed, trying to calm her down now, “my parents used to work out of this base back during the Rebellion, they have old holos of them with their friends.”

   “Your parents were Rebels?” Rey asked, her interest clearly piqued now by his history.

   “Yeah, my dad was a foot soldier and my mom was a pilot,” Poe explained.

   “Sounds like you took after your mom,” Rey said.

   “Tried to,” Poe said, reaching up for the ring around his neck and giving it a squeeze, he wondered what his mother would think of him now, caught up in the middle of all of this after the years her and his father had already given to the cause.

   “I think she'd be proud of you,” Rey said, an almost sad look on her face now.

   “I hope so,” Poe said. “What about your parents?”

   Poe knew he touched on a sore subject when he saw her body language shift from proud and confident to almost scared.

   “They were nobody, just junkers...I think,” Rey mumbled.

   “They couldn't have been nobody, they had you,” Poe said, a twinge of hope in his tone.

   “I'm just a nobody from Jakku,” Rey said.

   “You're not nobody, you're the farthest thing from a nobody that I've ever met in my entire life, you're a hero Rey, don't forget that,” Poe said.

   When he got her to smile, he knew she'd be okay. However, he was telling the truth, there were no nobody's in the galaxy, he believed everyone had a purpose big or small, and clearly, Rey was meant for something far greater.

   “Commander, we found some X-Wings we might be able to repair,” Kaydel Ko Connix called out from across the tarmac, a few other hopefuls behind her that seemed impressed with what they found.

   “I'll be there in a minute,” Poe called back, “I better go check on that, if you need any help with the Falcon repairs just let me know, I'd love to see what makes this thing tick.”

   “Sure, yeah,” Rey nodded.

   Poe found himself wanting to stay behind and keep her company like something was drawing him towards her, but duty called.

   It had been a few days, and that was more than Poe could have hoped for given how far the First Order had chased them before. They had an illusion of peace at least, and while everyone was still on edge, there was at least enough peace for people to sleep somewhat. He’d gotten a few hours in all over the past few days, he tried not to sleep too much, it only made him remember that almost all of his friends were dead. In hindsight, he knew the Resistance wasn’t the safest place to join, that people he’d come to know could die at any minute, but it was the right thing to do, even if it weighed on him too much from time to time.

   He figured that was just what was happening to him right now, one of the only people up and moving around on the tarmac, trying to repair one of the downed X-Wings; he thought he was just having an anxiety attack. His heart was beating too fast, his mind racing, his throat tightening; it had happened before and with finally sitting still after all the losses they took, it didn’t seem strange. But when it persisted, no matter what he did, no matter how he distracted himself, he knew this wasn’t normal.

   [Friend-Poe!] BB-8 beeped with a sense of urgency, rolling up to him near the X-Wing at top speed, [Friend-Rey is in distress, she’s asleep and in pain but won’t wake up even to Chewbacca.]

   It was an odd mixture of relief and even more panic that had set in on Poe when BB-8 told him this, almost as if he somehow knew that Rey was what had caused his anxiety. Past that, Poe didn’t think but rather acted, jumping to his feet and running down the tarmac. BB-8 hadn’t even told him where Rey was, but he knew where she was - on board the Falcon, sleeping on a makeshift bed in the common area of the ship. Had it been any other time, Poe would have stopped and said hi to Chewbacca before going past him, instead his thoughts were focused on helping Rey.

   “Rey, Rey, come on wake up,” Poe said, trying to shake her shoulder to no avail.

   Rey mumbled something in response but nothing coherent, she was covered in a layer of sweat and breathing heavily, even unusually pale compared to her normal complexion.

   [I’ll go find a medic,] BB-8 said.

   “Wait a minute, buddy,” Poe said.

   Poe went with his gut feeling yet again. He slid his hands under Rey and carefully lifted her up, situating himself so that she could lay down on him and holding her close. He grabbed ahold of her hand and felt a jolt go through him, like some of her energy was transferred through to him.

   “Rey, it’s okay, wherever you are in that head of yours right now, it’s not real,” Poe tried to reassure her, “It’s not real, okay?”

   Rey jolted awake in that moment, sitting upright in Poe’s embrace, her hand gripping onto his wrist that still wore her bracelet tightly.

   “Rey!” Poe exclaimed, “Rey, are you alright?”

   She turned around in his embrace quickly and wound up closer to him than anticipated, her face just inches from his, but it didn’t feel awkward or forced, instead, it felt as if this was simply meant to happen.

   “Poe?” Rey asked.

   “Are you alright?” Poe asked again.

   “Yeah,” Rey finally said with a nod, “Yeah I’m fine, I heard you...wherever I was I heard you.”

   Rey reached out and grabbed his wrist wearing her bracelet again, running her finger over it and tugging his hand closer.

   “Thank you,” Rey said quietly.

   “No problem,” Poe said.

   They were so close, one move in the wrong direction and they could end up more entangled than they planned, but there was something comfortable about this closeness. Rey’s eyes searched his as she moved a bit closer, she was looking for something there between them, only for it all to be interrupted by BB-8 in a cheerful manner.

   [Friend-Rey is okay!] BB-8 said.

   “Yeah, yeah buddy, she’s okay,” Poe said, still not taking his eyes off of Rey or making a move to break the connection between them.

   Rey finally looked away, her eyes landing on the bracelet still under her grasp, a small smile breaking across her face.

   “You kept it,” Rey said.

   “Of course I did, you gave it to me,” Poe said.

   “I’m just not used to that I guess,” Rey said, “people keeping things around. Especially things that I give them.”

   He didn’t know what to really say to that, he wanted to do something to reassure her but found himself frozen in the moment. Again it was Rey who continued on, this time reaching out for the ring hanging around his neck without hesitation, taking it between her fingers and studying it closely. For a moment, Poe felt the need just to give the ring over to her and let her have something to hold on to, but there was still that need to hold onto this ring for just a little bit longer - a need to be certain he’d give it over to the right person when the day came.

   “You should hold onto this,” Rey said, seemingly parroting his thoughts back to him, “for a little longer.”

   “Yeah, I’ll keep that in mind,” Poe replied quietly.

   Rey closed the distance between them, an almost painfully slow yet sweet kiss taking over the moment. Nothing else in that moment mattered more to Poe than this one kiss; it was foolish for people in the middle of a war yet it made sense with emotions running high. Not even a disgruntled Wookie’s grumble and groan could make them part in that moment, especially when Poe finally worked up the courage to kiss her back.

   It felt like an eternity before they finally parted, Rey now resting her hand on his chest and her forehead against his. He wasn’t entirely sure what had just happened between them, but he knew it wasn’t smart, though that didn’t stop him from wanting to be even closer to her - the mysterious woman from Jakku who took his breath away.

   Poe was used to putting his own life at risk, it was part of the job of being a pilot, he’d go up in the air and didn’t know if he’d come back down or if this would be the time he was turned into nothing but dust. Regardless, it was a fact that he’d grown accustomed to, what he wasn’t used to was someone he truly cared about putting themselves out there in the line of fire, of having someone he possibly even loved be in harm’s way just as much as he was. Love was a strong word to use after only a few short weeks, but with every day uncertain, it only felt right to say that he was in love with Rey.

   They’d just gotten back to base from a mission that narrowly claimed them both. His X-Wing was barely holding together, and the Falcon had taken more than enough hits that should have surely downed it, though the ship kept going. As soon as his ship hit the tarmac, Poe was already trying to get out of it as fast as possible, running as soon as his feet hit the ground towards the smoking Falcon. The loading dock to the ship had barely touched the ground before Poe was running up and straight into Rey’s embrace, holding her tightly and burying his face in her hair. He thought he’d lost her so many times, and while he knew it was possible, he didn’t want to face the reality of it.

   “I’m okay,” Rey assured him, burying her own face into the crook of his neck and letting herself melt into his embrace.

   Poe pulled away only just enough to capture her lips frantically, he didn’t lose her - not today - but he didn’t want to ever lose her without her knowing just how much she meant to him. When they finally parted, Poe wasted no time in reaching up and getting his necklace off over his head before putting it around Rey’s neck.

   “Poe-”

   “Keep it,” Poe insisted, “I think it belongs with you.”

   [Friend-Rey has your special ring! Does this mean she is very special?] BB-8 rolled up between the two of them, his cheerful beeps causing them both to smile.

   “Yeah buddy, she is,” Poe said.

   He knew the ring had found its home with Rey like it’d been pulling him towards her since the minute he laid eyes on her, but now he hoped it’d stay there, forever.