#i brought her with me here and i'll carry her onwards

[sasusakucoded]

After Sasuke and Naruto released the infinite tsukuyomi, Kakashi asked his team to go back to Konoha.

Kakashi: I'll carry Naruto. Sakura, you carry Sasuke.

Sasuke: What? No! I can walk.

Naruto: Yeah right. After draining your chakra for undoing the tsukuyomi?

Sakura: It's—It's fine, Sasuke-kun.. I promise no one will see us. I'll move fast.

Sasuke: ...

Kakashi: If you're embarrassed to be carried by Sakura, then let me take you instead. Maybe she can piggyback Naruto–

Sasuke: I'm not. I— Well— If it's fine with her.

Kakashi: *looks at Sakura for confirmation*

Sakura: *nods* Yes.. It's okay..

Naruto: Hey, no fair! Why is no one asking me for my preference, dattebayo?!

Kakashi: *laughs* Let's go. We'll head somewhere more hidden, Sakura. Follow me.

Sakura: Hai, Kakashi-sensei! *helps Sasuke get up* Go on.. *motions to go behind her*

Sasuke: *follows but doesn't know where to put his hand or how he'll climb*

Sakura: *realizes his confusion* G-Give me your hand, Sasuke-kun. *guides*

Sasuke: *finally on her back* I'm heavy.. Sorry..

Sakura: Not at all. You're actually light.. *hides her blushing*

Sasuke: And sorry, I'm full of blood and sweat.

Sakura: It's fine. /thinks/ He's still the same.. He hates it when his clothes get dirty.. I guess he never really changed..

Naruto: Oi, how long are you two going to delay this?

Sakura: *simultaneously* Shut up! Chaaaa!!

Sasuke: *simultaneously* Shut up!

---

Kakashi: *brings Sasuke inside the interrogation room* I'll take it from here, Sakura.

Sakura: Can't he be checked up first like Naruto?

Kakashi: I'm afraid not.. He's still being treated as a criminal. The Kages, me included, still have to deliberate.

Sakura: I see.

Kakashi: Don't worry. I'll do my best for him to be pardoned.

Sakura: Please, Kakashi-sensei.

---

It was a busy day for Kakashi. There were lots of affairs that need to be attended by the Hokage.

Kakashi: Oh, hi Sakura! It's late. You're still here?

Sakura: Yeah.. Um.. I'm just wondering if I can bring food for Sasuke tomorrow.

Kakashi: *stands up* Ah, I totally forgot! I'm so sorry! I was consumed with my negotiations to lift his charges, so I forgot to check if he has eaten.

Sakura: Sensei..

Kakashi: Come, let's see him!

He left with Sakura and they went to Sasuke's location hurriedly. He asked the warden if food was served to him.

Kakashi: Has Uchiha Sasuke eaten yet? When was his last meal?

Warden: No, sir. Sorry. Everyone is scared to go near him..

Kakashi: *sighs* From tomorrow onwards, make sure he eats on schedule. Are we clear?

Warden: Yes, Lord Sixth. Sorry for not informing you earlier.

Kakashi: It's fine. But remember that anyone inside this building deserves to eat too.

Sakura: *looks upset* Can we buy him some food first?

Kakashi: Yeah. Sorry, Sakura. *takes her to the nearest store*

Sakura: *quietly gets some snacks*

Kakashi: Sorry, Sakura. It's my fault.

Sakura: No, don't say sorry, sensei. Besides, the reason why you're very busy is for his welfare.. Let's just go quickly and give him his meal as soon as we can..

Kakashi: Right.

---

Sakura: *sees him from afar* Th-That's Sasuke-kun? Does he really need to be restrained and blindfolded like that?

Kakashi: Unfortunately, yes. He's still very dangerous in eveyone's eyes.. Especially the other 4 Kages.

Sakura: But— *sighs* I'm sorry for complaining..

Kakashi: Don't worry, I understand.

They entered the cell and Sasuke knew his visitors instantly.

Kakashi: Hey, sorry. I forgot to check in on you.. You must be very hungry.

Sasuke: I'm okay.

Kakashi: Sakura is with me.. She'll feed you. I have to go back to the office.

Sasuke: *nods*

Kakashi: Sakura, I'll leave him up to you. The warden will watch over until you're done, okay? I have to go.

Sakura: *nods* Thanks, Kakashi-sensei! *sits in front of Sasuke* S-Sasuke-kun.. I brought some onigiri and tomatoes.. I-I was supposed to get apples too but they don't allow knife inside, so I won't be able to peel them.. The tomatoes.. They're a little bigger than cherry tomatoes but they're still bite-sized.. I-I'll feed you the onigiri now.. *opens the wrapper and brings the onigiri near his mouth*

Sasuke: *takes a bite*

Sakura: Is it good? Uh— Sorry— I didn't mean to—

Sasuke: *nods* /thinks/ Why are you still nice to me, Sakura? After all that I've done?

Sakura: Let me know if you want to drink. I brought water and iced tea.

Sasuke: *nods and takes another bite*

Sakura: *opens another onigiri* Here.. Sasuke-kun, do you want more after this one?

Sasuke: Can I have the tomatoes next instead?

Sakura: Of course! I also bought soup but you might feel hot..

Sasuke: Yeah.. Just the tomatoes and water.. Then I'm good.

Sakura: Sure! Um.. Sasuke-kun.. Is your arm okay? Does it hurt?

Sasuke: It doesn't hurt. You healed it well.

Sakura: Good..

Sasuke: /thinks/ It's good that I'm blindfolded. I can't face her like this.

Sakura continued feeding him and asked if he needed anything. She gathered her things and prepared to leave.

Sakura: I'm going now, Sasuke-kun.. *stands up*

Sasuke: Sakura.

Sakura: *surprised that he called her* Hm?

Sasuke: Thanks.

Sakura: *smiles* You're welcome! I'll be back tomorrow to bring you some snacks. Bye, Sasuke-kun! *gives a final look then leaves*

Sasuke: *smiles with his head down*

[serephinastardust]

The Book I'm writing, 1st attempt b4 I got it titled- Chapter 16

Odessa's nimble footsteps danced over the uneven ground of the Lunar meadow, the rhythmic thud of her running blending with the nocturnal symphony. As she weaved through the dense cluster of trees, her internal calculations became the metronome guiding her escape.

In the solitude of her thoughts, she gauged the probable duration of the conflict left in her wake. The clash between Seraphina's elders and the group, combined with the chaos of accusations, painted a chaotic scene that Odessa aimed to distance herself from.

"How long will the distraction last? Seraphina will catch up sooner or later. Focus, calculate, move." The rhythmic beat of her steps harmonized with the mental cadence.

"They're still engaged in the fight. A few more minutes at least. But time is an elusive ally." Her agile movements navigated the maze of trees, each step a strategic calculation to gain distance. "The river is my goal. Once there, I can vanish within its whispers."

Moonlight flickered through the branches overhead, casting an ethereal glow on her path. "Swift, silent, unseen. Like a whisper in the night." The urgency of her escape heightened with every stride, a silent agreement forged with the nocturnal landscape.

Her pace quickened, a silent pact with the night to carry her swiftly to the river that meandered through the Lunar meadow. The cool breeze whispered secrets as moonlight flickered through the swaying branches, casting fleeting shadows that mirrored her urgency.

Each calculated step brought her closer to the anticipated refuge of the riverbank. The rustle of leaves and the distant echoes of the ongoing skirmish urged her onward. The river, a silver ribbon in the moonlight, promised a momentary sanctuary, a fleeting haven in the heart of the Lunar meadow.

"The river should be near. The silver ribbon that separates me from their chaos." Odessa's internal dialogue spurred her onward, a pact with the night to conceal her within its embrace. The moonlit meadow bore witness to her calculated flight, a dance with shadows and moonbeams.

Seraphina's grip tightened on Odessa's collar, arresting her escape. "Fancy seeing you running in the moonlit meadow, plain one," Seraphina sneered, her tone a blend of mockery and disdain. She turned Odessa around to face her, and her gaze inadvertently fell on Odessa's lips.

Seraphina seethed with frustration, her whispers more like venom. "You think you can just waltz away after stealing a kiss from the prince? You'll pay for this. I'll drag you back to the Fallen Star Court myself!"

Odessa's expression remained stoic, the silence more powerful than any words she could utter. She focused on maintaining her calm demeanor.

As Seraphina continued her tirade, she suddenly remembered the poison. "Oh, and let's not forget the little gift I gave you. The Luminous Nocturne Iridescent Ethereal Luminaelixir! You'll need the cure, won't you?"

Odessa scoffed at Seraphina's dramatic announcement. "The Luminous Nocturne Iridescent Ethereal Luminaelixir? Seriously? You do realize I know exactly what it is, right?" Odessa's tone was calm, almost amused.

Seraphina, caught off guard, stammered, "What do you mean? It's a deadly poison!"

"Please," Odessa retorted, rolling her eyes. "That's just a fancy name for the Pixie Dust Tonic. I created it when I was five. It's hardly deadly."

Seraphina's eyes widened in disbelief. "You... you made it?"

Odessa, seizing the opportunity, retrieved a vial from her pouch. "Yes, and here's a little something you might find interesting." With swift precision, she released the contents of the vial, and a subtle mist enveloped Seraphina.

As the mist settled, Seraphina found herself immobilized, unable to move or speak. Odessa observed her handiwork with a satisfied smile. "Pixie Dust Tonic. Not deadly, just a temporary paralytic. I'd suggest using more reliable tricks next time."

Seraphina's mind swirled with fury and frustration as she gradually regained control over her body. She couldn't believe she had been outsmarted by a mortal, and the humiliation fueled her anger. Odessa, on the other hand, sprinted with unyielding determination, her mind working at lightning speed to calculate every detail of her escape.

As the paralytic effects began to fade, Seraphina fought against the lingering stiffness. She clenched her fists, vowing to catch up to Odessa and make her pay for this embarrassment. Yet, even in her vexation, a small seed of admiration sprouted for the cleverness Odessa displayed.

Odessa, running through the Lunar meadow, continued to calculate the time left until the Pixie Dust Tonic wore off completely. Each step, each heartbeat, was accounted for in her mind. The river, her escape route, drew closer with every meticulously planned stride.

The moonlit landscape blurred around her as she pushed her mortal body to its limits. Every second counted, and Odessa was determined to make the most of it. The calculations in her mind became a rhythmic mantra, guiding her through the obstacles of the meadow.

As Seraphina regained control over her limbs, she cursed under her breath, vowing to catch up to the elusive mortal. Meanwhile, Odessa, fueled by precision and intellect, raced against time, her escape plan unfolding with mathematical precision.

Odessa, though momentarily halted by Seraphina's grasp, didn't let the setback deter her determination. As Seraphina forcefully turned her around, Odessa's mind worked tirelessly to formulate a new strategy. With a calculated calmness, she adopted a seemingly timid and coquettish demeanor, her voice laced with feigned innocence.

"Oh, my Lord Seraph, I must apologize," Odessa began, casting her gaze downward as if in genuine contrition. "I got so frightened by the chaos, and my instincts took over. Please forgive this lowly one for her audacity."

Seraphina, still seething with frustration, looked at Odessa with a mix of irritation and curiosity. The sudden shift in Odessa's behavior left her momentarily perplexed, and she hesitated, unsure of how to respond to this unexpected change in demeanor.

Odessa, taking advantage of the uncertainty, continued to weave her words with calculated precision. "I mean no harm, my lord. I am but a mere mortal, lost in this mystical realm. Your presence is quite overwhelming, and I couldn't help but panic. I implore you, forgive my foolish actions."

Seraphina, though still simmering with frustration, found a momentary reprieve in Odessa's apologetic demeanor. As Odessa continued to feign contrition, Seraphina's expression softened, and a subtle sense of amusement danced in her eyes.

"Ah, my dear, there's no need for such distress," Seraphina said, her tone shifting from stern to reassuring. "I understand these mystical realms can be overwhelming for someone unaccustomed to their enchantments. But fear not, for you are in the presence of one who can guide you through this celestial tapestry."

Odessa, maintaining her facade, looked up at Seraphina with wide, doe-like eyes. "Lord Seraph, your mercy is truly a blessing. I am but a humble mortal, lost in these ethereal lands. Your guidance would mean the world to me."

As Seraphina continued to offer reassurances, Odessa, with a practiced grace, delicately reached into a hidden pocket and produced what appeared to be the Lunar Ember Blossom. Holding it in her hands, she presented it to Seraphina with a respectful bow.

"Lord Seraph," Odessa spoke with a demure tone, "I believe this is what you seek. May it serve as a token of my sincerity, and as a pledge to follow your guidance through these celestial realms."

Seraphina's eyes gleamed with triumph as she accepted the supposed Lunar Ember Blossom. She marveled at the delicate petals and the ethereal glow surrounding it. Little did she know that the actual Lunar Ember Blossom remained securely tucked away in Odessa's locket.

"Oh, my dear Odessa," Seraphina exclaimed, "you've proven your willingness to cooperate. Together, we shall navigate the celestial mysteries that unfold before us."

In that moment, Odessa triggered the moonshadow amulet discreetly hidden beneath her clothing. A subtle shimmer enveloped Seraphina, causing her to believe that the powders Odessa had tossed over her were, in fact, the essence of the Lunar Ember Blossom. Seraphina smiled with satisfaction, unaware of the illusion that had just transpired.

As Seraphina continued to express her guidance and plans, Odessa seized the opportunity to execute her cunning escape. With a calm and calculated demeanor, she subtly retrieved a concealed pouch from her attire. Inside it was a fine, shimmering powder that she had collected during her travels.

While Seraphina was engrossed in her elaborate speech, Odessa began delicately sprinkling the luminescent powder all over her unsuspecting companion. Each movement was precise, and not a hint of guilt surfaced in Odessa's expression. The celestial particles adhered to Seraphina's form, creating an illusory glow that mirrored the ethereal beauty of the Lunar Ember Blossom.

Satisfied with her work, Odessa, maintaining her façade of compliance, offered a graceful nod to Seraphina and excused herself with a subtle smile. In a swift and practiced motion, she made her way towards the riverbank.

Without wasting a moment, Odessa propelled herself into the refreshing waters, causing ripples to dance along the surface. As she submerged herself in the river, she could hear Seraphina's voice trailing off, and a sense of triumph enveloped her.

In a desperate attempt to create a diversion, Odessa swiftly grabbed two tinctures from her pouch. "Take it! This is the Lunar Ember Blossom!" she cried, flinging them toward Seraphina. However, instead of the anticipated celestial blooms, the tinctures burst, scattering shimmering powder over the water.

The river sparkled with the illusory brilliance of moonlit embers, casting an enchanting glow around the struggling figures. As Seraphina dived into the water after Odessa, the powdery illusion clung to her, creating a celestial spectacle that momentarily captivated everyone present.

Xander's group and Seraphina's entourage arrived at the riverbank, witnessing the surreal display. Kael, Leon, and Selene exchanged puzzled glances, trying to make sense of the unexpected celestial drama unfolding before them.

Seraphina, now submerged in the river, felt the illusory powder swirl around her, intensifying the celestial water's torment. She resurfaced with a mix of bewilderment and frustration, gasping for air and struggling against the water's resistance.

Odessa, submerged and hidden beneath the river's surface, watched the chaos unfold from her concealed vantage point. The illusory display had created the perfect distraction, giving her a crucial moment to escape the immediate pursuit.

Xander, keenly observing the situation, maintained his composed silence. His eyes, however, held a glimmer of curiosity and suspicion as he focused on the celestial spectacle before him.

As the river carried the illusion downstream, Odessa planned her next move, navigating the currents and contemplating her strategy to slip away from both Seraphina and the watchful eyes on the riverbank.

[nexyra]

RWBY Analysis - Ozpin & Ruby, on the concept of leadership

In her song "Burned out", Dodie sings of her fans, how they look up to her and how uneasy that realization made her. For everyone is at the end of the day just as human as their neighbour; and having the hopes and expectations of others put upon you when you're just as lost as them can be a frightening thing. And this... made me think of Ruby & Ozpin.

On the subject of leadership, Ozpin tells Ruby the following : “Being a team leader isn't just a title you carry into battle, but a badge you wear constantly. If you are not always performing at your absolute best, then what reason do you give others to follow you?”

While I love this quote, I also have to analyze the drawbacks of this mentality and how they align with both Ozpin and Ruby. At the time, Ruby is a newly appointed leader and unsure of this reality. Ozpin's counsel give her the confidence needed to step up as a leader and take her duties more seriously, which in return appeases Weiss' and make their team all the more balanced. It is, in that context, good advice. A good leader should strive to lead by example and work hard to be worthy of the respect others give them, both in and outside of battle.

However there is one aspect that I find much more complex and that is... what does it mean to "always perform at your absolute best" and to have others follow you ? Note the use of follow, people letting you lead alone as opposed to "standing by your side" or a similar expression. It showcases in my opinion one of the biggest problem of Ozpin's leadership, but one that I feel has been inadvertently repeated by Ruby's.

- - - - - - - -

To cultivate hope and lies

When it comes to Ozpin's lies, I am of the firm belief that he had good intentions. Soo if you think he's the scorn of this earth, this might be a good time to tap out :D Now, this said I have a lot to say on the subject but I'll keep this short to stay on track (& make another unrelated post to develop my thoughts.)

In my opinion, at the core of his lies stand different beliefs. And on the subject of leadership, I think one stands out in particular and aligns with the advice he gave Ruby : the need to perform at your best to give others a reason to follow you.

Ozpin is the reincarnation of a centuries-old wizard and the headmaster of a school : what is one aspect almost every character agrees on upon meeting him ? "Oh, he's wise. He's knowledgeable. He has the answers. He has his shit together. He can tell us what to do."

Inherently, Ozpin's existence inspires respect and reassure. Just like to a child, a parent is all-knowing and unbreakable, Ozpin's status automatically give others the assumption that he knows what he's doing. And this, in my opinion, is one of the core problems of his leadership.

May it be with his inner circle, with RWBY, with ANYONE really; as soon as Ozpin reveals himself there are unspoken expectations that will chain him. He has the knowledge, he was here when it all began, he's the one calling the shots so he HAS to know exactly what to do. In that situation, breaking down and revealing to everyone how lost Ozpin is, how out of his depth... is unconceivable. And this is where Ozpin's conception of leadership becomes a problem as well. If you always perform "at your best" then you keep your doubts to yourself, you hide your sorrows and you put on a brave face. There are expectations in place that Ozpin wants (needs even) to meet. And thus the hopes of others and Ozpin's desire to fulfill them feed one another, as a perfect recipe for disaster. Because the more time Ozpin spends acting as if everything is under control, the more the expectations pile up... And coming clean about his humanity, the fact that he's just as powerless as the rest of them, becomes impossible.

And in that sense, breaking down the pedestal Ozpin had been put on was probably one of the best thing to do for his own mental health (though the method lacked a bit of compassion in my opinion xD)

The other part that somehow causes problem is how RELIANT on him his inner circle is. Despite their apparent friendship, Ozpin is the clear leader and as soon as he's out of comission, everything falls apart. Ironwood is the only one to call out Oz but in the end still wishes for the wizard to tell him what to do in period of stress. Qrow plays spy and takes order but doesn't seem really interested in stading at Ozpin's side as an equal. Glynda is stern but still defers to him etc...

All of them FOLLOW Ozpin but are just a few steps off from standing at his side. And this is something I see reflected in Ruby.

✦ ✦ ✦ ✦ ✦

Following optimism up until it fails you

In Vol6, as secrets and lies are brought to the light, the loss of Hope that Ozpin feared so deeply happens. Is it worth it ? What are we even going to do with an immortal foe ? Maybe we should just go home. In that situation, Ruby is the simple soul who manages to keep her optimism, stand tall and say "No. We are taking the lamp to Atlas." And from then on her position as a leader and a bacon of light is reaffirmed. As Jaune put it in V4 "You gave us the courage to follow you."

Now is that, in itself, a problem ? Of course not. In fact I loved seeing Ruby come into herself and take the lead in Vol6. The problem in truth comes after, from the ramifications. From Vol6 onward, Ozpin has essentially been rid of his leader position and Ruby inherited it. And on a surface level sure, they are pretty different. Ruby is certainly closer to her partners : they're a family and they care about each other.

However, she is still clearly put at the lead. The others relied on Ruby's optimism and resilience to get to Atlas, and continue to do so. Setting foot in Ironwood's office, Blake tells Ruby "We'll follow your lead". They trust her, and whatever Ruby does... goes. They lie to Ironwood and Yang expresses some hesitations but eventually rally to Ruby's decision. And I emphasize this again : it is Ruby's decision. They did not pre-emptively discuss this as a group and then let Ruby be the spoke-person. Yang herself in Vol8 criticizes not their actions but Ruby's choices. Ruby calls the shots, Ruby is responsible for what happens, Ruby is their beacon of hope... Ruby is the new Ozpin.

Ruby has to be optimistic, and make the decisions and take risks because she's the leader. When Ruby leaves the room to break down, conversation & strategy stalls : the others don't take the lead. When things go south, it's Ruby's choices that led them here. Ever since Ruby has left Beacon, the only person who consistently encouraged Ruby to express the BAD, to share the negative has been Oscar. Even her silver eyes ask her to focus on only the happy memories to go off without a hitch ! The others comfort, they smile, they trust, they love even. But they don't want depressed Ruby finally grieving, they don't want honest "I don't know what to do" : they try to bring back confident and optimistic "we're gonna try" Ruby Rose. They want their earnest and happy but ultimately perfect leader that gives them reason to follow. In the end, even if they deeply care for her and have no shortage of warm coated reassurances for the teen, they still chain her down with their expectations. Ruby is NOT built for this. And I don't even say that in the "why is a kid calling the shots" sense, but "why is a kid put in a position where she's RESPONSIBLE for calling the shots ?"

Ruby is the youngest of the group apart from Oscar. The others should not rely on her this much to function. Blake telling Ruby that she looks up to her and that they'll follow her lead is admittedly sweet, but still builds up the pressure weighing her down. Blake calling out for Ruby's help when the teen has just been crashed to the ground by the Hound isn't even sweet anymore. They're all supposed to be equals. Blake is just as capable as Ruby. Calling out to your mind-controlled friend to bring them back from the edge is good. Calling out to your 17-old sister who's been beaten up because you need her to fight isn't.

They need to recognize that Ruby should not hold up the place alone. Because yes, they love her. But at the end of the day, Ruby is still the one bearing the weight of their decisions... Alone, even surrounded.

✦ ✦ BURNED OUT - DODIE ✦ ✦

He was certain; So was I There was comfort in her sighs

Dreams and ideas should not be the same thing You waited, smiling for this?

Oh, she'd want it, if she knew She could take it, I thought too Be careful, be cautious but you just wished harder You waited, smiling for this?

"But they love you!" Over and over, "they love you!" Thousands and thousands of eyes just like mine Aching to find who they are

"Oh, they love you!" Oh, you can feel how they love you ! Coated and warm but that's all they can do Words only get through if they're sharp

Oh, how fitting For one so fake Make me a fairy Whatever it takes

And just like a tale my dream was a scam You waited, smiling for this?

I am burnt out I smell of smoke It seeps through her cracks and so I start to choke Sentences sit in her mouth that are templated You waited, smiling for this?

Oh, maybe I'll talk about it... (maybe I'll talk about it) I can just talk about it... (I can just talk about it) I'll never talk about it... (I'll never talk about it) No, I cannot talk about it...

Don't build hope on something broken I am not cartoon. Cry for help, I am not joking I might just leave soon

[the-13th-battalion]

Tadaaaa! Day 4 of @febuwhump is here!! I stuck with the prompt "impaling"!

This originally went way different in my head?? but then Rex grabbed my phone and said "no this is how it happened" and honestly who am I to argue with Rex???

Enough

Rex pushed his way against the rush of Togrutans. He coughed at the rising plume of dust ahead of him. The earth trembled. He staggered and bumped into a Togruta. He apologized, stabilized the other man, then set his eyes on his goal again.

"Sir!" he shouted over the panicked cries and rumbling stone, "Sir, stop!"

Obi-Wan stumbled on a few paces ahead. Rex urged himself onward, his bare feet clumsy on the loose gravel. Self-sacrificing idiot!

"Sir!" He reached Obi-Wan's side and grabbed his arm. "Stop! You're going the wrong way!"

Obi-Wan tore his gaze away from the mouth of the tunnel, from the black dust and gases vomiting from its entrance, from the Togrutans running and staggering out of the darkness.

Obi-Wan set his jaw. His eyes spoke volumes about his iron determination. Rex knew it would take all his power to dissuade the Jedi. "I can help them. Let go of me."

Rex tightened his hold. "With all due respect, sir, you shouldn't go any further! The boiler will explode and the tunnel will collapse. You and I have seen enough explosions to know that we'll be of no use down there!"

"But I can contain it! I can push it back, create a shield-"

"And the tunnel will collapse around you!"

Obi-Wan's gaze drifted back to the tunnel. He brought his hand up to his chin. Instead of rubbing his beard, he picked at a scab.

Rex knocked his hand away. "Stop that."

Obi-Wan let his hand drop to his side. "Rex, I have to help."

"And we will." He grasped his other arm. "There's a time to use the Force and there's a time to use your head. If you go down there, you'll be hurt or killed. If you stay up here, we can get these people away from the worst of it in time."

Obi-Wan considered it, then he nodded. "Fine. But when it does explode, I'll still contain what I can."

Rex gave him a wry smile. "I'd expect nothing else from you, sir."

Together, the two of them helped countless Togrutans to relative safety. For once, Rex was glad the Zygerrians had apparently abandoned this group and left them to die. They would only make matter worse if they saw how Obi-Wan practically carried many of them away, how he muttered reassurances and eased their pain with a featherlight touch to the forehead and a whisper of the Force.

Rex looked into their grateful faces and hoped they remembered this instead of associating him with their pain.

They had families and friends begin counting heads to ensure everyone had made it out when the ground shook with greater fervor. Everyone turned to the mouth of the tunnel. Several shouts and cries rang out from the crowd. The few Togrutans not holding onto someone quickly found a neighbor with open arms.

Obi-Wan's eyes flicked to Rex. They held each other's gaze.

Rex shook his head. "No. Don't you dare."

Obi-Wan smiled. A sad smile. A farewell smile. "Apologies, Captain."

He dove into the darkness.

Rex's heart leapt to his throat. "No, wait- Obi-Wan!"

He ran after him but stopped before he could cross the threshold. Another tremor rattled the earth. A flash of flame burned from deep within the tunnel. The silhouette of a man stood in stark contrast against the blaze of red and orange.

Then the ground stilled. The fumes leaking from the tunnel subsided to a trickle. Even the stifling heat lessened in intensity.

Rex waited. He shifted his weight from one foot to the other. He scanned the black void, praying for a sign of Obi-Wan.

At last, he staggered into view. Soot and dirt coated every spare inch. Blood ran down his neck from a cut on his cheek and dotted several spots on his blackened clothes. A shard of metal protruded from his shoulder. Despite it all, when he caught Rex's eye, he smiled.

Relief flooded Rex's chest. He dashed to his side and draped Obi-Wan's arm across his shoulders.

Obi-Wan leaned against him and allowed himself to be led away from the tunnel. "Made it out."

"I'm very glad, sir." Rex caught a glimpse of metal poking out the other side of Obi-Wan's shoulder. "That's quite a wound you've got there."

"A small price to pay," Obi-Wan replied, "It's- hnggg- I'm fine."

Rex raised an eyebrow. "Of course you are, sir."

"I contained the explosion."

"That you did." Rex smiled. "No one was hurt, thanks to you."

"And you. You helped lead them out."

"All in a day's work."

Obi-Wan laughed lightly.

They approached the crowd of Togrutans. The people began to cheer. Many of them rushed forward to offer thanks. A woman kissed each of their foreheads, cupping their cheeks in her calloused hands and thanking them profusely.

For a moment, Rex could pretend they had completed a normal mission. He could imagine Anakin, Ahsoka, and all his brothers waiting outside for them. They would leave only to be swept up again on another adventure.

For a moment, he could pretend, and that was enough.

[connoraxel800]

May 9th, 1899

Amberino

Along the Spider Gorge

The wind blustery winds tore through the coats of the disheveled riders as a line of weary horses and frost-covered wagons marched through a snowfall. Two men rode side-by-side as the heavy gusts battered them from all sides. The younger of the two squinted through the haze, attempting to gaze ahead, but he could only see so far. 

The older of the men looked at his companion. "I know you want to know how they are, Dutch. But we must find shelter soon. Davey and Jenny are badly injured. They need a warm place to rest."

"I know, Hosea, but they have to be somewhere. I need to know that they were able to escape Blackwater."

Hosea gave a sad nod as he thought of the members of their gang that were separated. "I worry for them too, but they're strong and smart. Wily too. We all know if anyone can survive this, it's that girl of yours." He paused speaking to give a small cough into his hands. "This weather, it's May. I just hope the law got as lost as we did."

Dutch gave his own nod in response and as he did, a figure appeared in the distance. The man held a lantern in one hand and rode atop a dappled gray and white Appaloosa. He tilted his hat slightly and lightly jersey his head in a direction. "I found a place, a little ways back. We can rest for a bit and hopefully let the wounded recover."

Dutch gave a wave of his hand to the caravan. "Come on, everyone! Come on!"

Everyone went onward to a small village. It was clearly abandoned without a soul in sight. It was perfect for a ragtag group to rest. People dismounted their horses or hopped from the wagons. A young man helped a preacher move a young woman from the back of one. She groaned in pain, holding her side. A red spot was leaking through her bandages onto her shirt. 

She was moved into the village's old church and laid her gently on a dusty pew. Next a man was brought in and laid on a parallel pew, his eyes shut tight, breathing clearly shallow. A woman knelt over him to wipe his forehead and feel his forehead. "He's feverish. I fear infection may have set in into his wound."

Dutch turned away with a glimmer of despair in his eyes. "If Cahill were here, he might know how to stave it off temporarily."

The young man who'd helped carry the woman, looked at her wearily. "Will she be ok?"

"We're not sure," came the answer, not one he wanted to hear, but it was one nonetheless. "I'll do what I can, but what I know about wounds is limited."

Dutch let his gaze wander around the room. The candlelight barely illuminated the room at night, but he could see the exhausted faces. They wore the same unsure expressions, nervous eyes darting around at one another. 

He stepped over by the fireplace as it got going, clearing his throat.

"I know things have been a little rough the past couple of weeks. Our gang isn't what it was just days ago and we've lost a few. Jenny and Davey are struggling, but I believe they can and will survive. And I believe we will find our missing people Mac, Sean, and of course Trixie and Cahill. They will all be found safely, I have faith.

"But I need you to all have faith with me, I can't do this all alone. We are one and we will make it through this. Stay strong and stay with me. It's the only way we will survive. They may be after us, but we ain't done yet!"

The speech led to a few sets of eyes lightening up and the group got to work setting up the camp. 

[john-langley-bristol-blogger]

Every breath I take. November 2nd 2021. 23.30pm.

Unlike the Police song, every breath I take has nothing whatsoever to do with me being a stalker.

As temperatures plummet towards winter my breathing becomes more challenging. Within the past few weeks, I've noticed that the walk back from the city centre is at a much slower pace than walking in, as walking in nowadays for my morning stroll is the phlegmy bit. My emphysema is largely compounded by something called 'postnasal drip'. Whereby instead of all the snot which should drain from my nasal cavities, instead disappears down the back of my throat, and during the night when sleeping it seems to collect in pond-like fashion because it has nowhere else to go. So first thing in the morning what's gone down has to come up and this happens at various points as I take the seven-minute stroll into the city centre as the congestion - which could in effect choke me while I am deep in slumberland or walking into town, is brought up for rapid exit.

Shopping in itself is now quite interesting as it doesn't take a great deal of weight carrying to exert pressure on my chest and ability to breathe, and even though it is a relatively short walk back I do find myself either having to take a five-minute break at the halfway point, or pushing myself onwards because I'm one of those pain in the ass people who doesn't like to be beaten by anything, and although the connection isn't entirely clear I'm noticing that it has become really good exercise for bladder control, and this usually within two to three minutes away from reaching the front door of the building. The final leg of the journey is where I really begin to notice my breathing decline as I embark upon two flights of stairs, and by which time I am midway through breathing exercises until I reach my front door, where again I stop to catch my breath before inserting the key into the lock.

It's a relief to get in and flop down while I normalise my breathing again before doing anything else.

The other thing I've noticed recently are short, temporary gaps in my memory over the most stupid things. I haven't yet reached the stage, and hopefully never will, where I enter a room and then don't recall why I'm there and what my intention was. One example was arriving somewhat exhausted in town and recognising a face. I knew I'd seen her before and firstly assumed she was an entirely different person I'd met other than the person she really was. I stood staring for several minutes trying to recollect where the hell I knew her from and it was driving me mad because I was failing to figure it out. When the penny finally dropped it all came back and I'd been with her chatting for the best part of two hours only a few days before as well as subsequently having message conversations with her since. Part of me wanted to approach and ask where I knew her from while a further thought stopped me in my tracks and saved me from making a complete ass of myself by doing so.

This memory loss comes as no great surprise bearing in mind that the top half of my lungs have ceased to function and this is putting pressure on my heart, which in turn restricts oxygen to my brain and thus starves my brain of what it needs for full-on memory function. Oh, the joys. It's only a few days now before I have a telephone consultation with my consultant who'd previously offered me an oxygen cylinder to have here at home. I'm seriously considering taking him up on the offer this time, and while I have him on the other end of the line I'll also be asking if there are any further developments in the tests I had for potential tuberculosis because having emphysema somehow just doesn't seem enough for me. No, I seem to have a predilection for going for the jackpot when it comes to illness, and as I always say, if it's worth doing it's worth overdoing.

So watch this space.