#jazzoriented | Explore Tumblr posts and blogs

bittybug-sunflower-blog · 6 months ago

Text

Chapter summary: Jetto is on board

Warning A: Mature themes and language, sex, drugs, abuse, blood, death, drinking, suicide attempt, gun and gang violence, and smoking

Word count: 5631

Rating 21+

Extra: alternate universe story

Chapter 24

The streets were slick with the evening's rain, the distant hum of the city blending with the occasional rattle of a passing car. Jetto made his way to the dimly lit phone booth at the corner of the street. The glass was fogged with condensation, a halo of light from the streetlamp casting eerie shadows on the wet pavement.

Inside the booth, Jetto pulled the card Hunter gave him and dialed the number, his fingers trembling slightly as he listened to the ring. It was always a risk, these late-night calls, but the information he had tonight was too important to keep to himself. The phone clicked, and a familiar voice answered on the other end.

"Hunter speaking."

Jetto's voice was low, barely above a whisper, as he spoke into the receiver. "It's Jetto. I've got something big. The Death Watch is planning a meet at the docks in Mon Cala—major players from across other cities. We're talking the kind of crime lords that make headlines."

There was a pause on the other end, the weight of the information sinking in. "You're sure?" Hunter's voice was sharp, all business.

"Positive. They're gathering under the cover of the docks tomorrow night. Weapons, cash, drugs, maybe even a few new faces we haven't seen before. If you're planning to make a move, this is your shot."

Hunter's tone softened, but only slightly. "Good job kid, keep your head low, we'll meet you at the docks."

Jetto leaned against the cool glass, glancing over his shoulder to make sure he wasn't being watched. "Pre Viszla might make an appearance too."

"Alright," Hunter said, the decision made. "We'll be there. You just stay safe and keep your cover intact. We can't afford to lose you on the inside."

Jetto nodded, even though Hunter couldn't see him. "I'll do my best."

As the call ended, Jetto hung up the receiver, his heart pounding in his chest. The rain began to fall again, a steady patter on the booth's roof, but Jetto didn't move. He took a moment to steady himself, he had done his part; now, it was up to Hunter and the rest to make sure the information didn't go to waste.

The warehouse was dimly lit, the shadows dancing on the walls as the various figures gathered. The air was thick with tension and uncertainty. Seneca, having arrived alone, scanned the room with a mixture of curiosity and frustration. Her eyes landed on Jazzori, who was standing with a stack of papers in hand, a look of determination on her face. Then she saw Valree leaning on a stack of crates looking unamused.

As everyone settled into their places, Jazzori stepped forward and addressed the group. "I have the papers here," she said, her voice steady despite the gravity of the situation. "If we cooperate and testify against Death Watch and the Pykes, we can secure a deal that will keep everyone safe, no jail time." She said staring at the family.

Seneca's gaze flicked around the room, searching for Beka. "Where's Hardt?" she asked, her voice tinged with worry.

Hunter's expression remained stoic, and he simply shrugged. "We're not here to discuss Beka. The plan is what matters right now. Our inside man is already making progress."

Valree's eyes narrowed. "Who is this inside man?" she demanded, looking around at the assembled group. Hunter's silence was all the answer Valree needed. Their face turned from concern to rage as they put the pieces together. "Jetto," she snarled. "You're putting Jetto in the middle of this mess?" Before Hunter could respond, Valree lunged at him, their fists clenched around his shirt. "How could you involve him? He's just a kid! He shouldn't even be part of this!" she yelled, her voice cracking with fury.

Seneca moved swiftly to intervene, grabbing Valree and pulling them away from Hunter. "Stop it!" she shouted, her voice echoing off the warehouse walls. "It's too late to pull back now. If we pull Jetto out, he or Gruno—or both—will be killed!" Valree back down walking away to punch the crates. Seneca turned around, her face flushed with anger, and punched Hunter squarely in the face. "Damn it, Hunter!" she swore, her voice seething with fury. "How could you be so reckless with their lives?"

Tech, Echo, Crosshair, and Phee, who had been watching the escalating drama, exchanged confused glances. They were about to step in when Hunter held his hand up to stop them.

Hunter, recovering from the blow, wiped the blood from his lip and met Seneca's gaze with a hardened expression. "We don't have time for this," he said, his voice cold. "The plan is in motion, and there's no turning back."

Seneca, her anger still simmering, turned to the others. "If anything happens to him, I'll see to it that deal is void and I'll arrest you personally myself. I don't care what Beka will say, but she'll agree with me."

Jazzori nodded slowly, her eyes still filled with uncertainty. "Alright," she said, her voice steadying. "Everyone just calm down, what's been done has been done."

The room fell into a tense silence as the group prepared to execute their plan, the weight of their decisions hanging heavy in the air. The faint hum of fluorescent lights above cast a stark glare on the blueprints and notes spread out before them. Seneca, still seething from the confrontation, took a deep breath and tried to focus on the task at hand.

Hunter nodded, glancing over the documents. "Jetto has already made some headway. We've got intel that they're planning a major shipment tomorrow night. If we can intercept it and use it as leverage, we can get the testimonies we need."

Tech, his face illuminated by the dim light, adjusted his glasses as he examined the blueprints. "We'll need to set up surveillance around the drop-off point. I suggest we split into two teams. One to cover the perimeter and monitor communications, and the other to handle the intercept."

Echo, his arms crossed, chimed in. "I can lead the team handling the intercept. We'll need to move quickly and quietly to avoid tipping them off."

Phee, who had been watching in silence, spoke up. "I'll coordinate the perimeter team. We need to ensure that we have all exits covered and that we can handle any unexpected complications."

Valree, still visibly agitated but focusing on the task, added, "And what about Jetto? He's the one in the middle of this mess. How do we keep him safe?"

Hunter sighed, clearly irritated but resigned. "I will have him out before anyone knows he's the inside man."

Seneca, her anger subsiding but still palpable, leaned over the table. "We have to make sure Beka, Jetto, and Gruno are protected. If we mess this up, it's not just their lives at stake, it's everyone's. We need to be flawless in our execution."

"I have Rex, Gregor, and Wolffe staking out at Gruno's shop," Hunter said.

Tech nodded in agreement, tapping on the blueprint. "We've mapped out the entire area. A new shipment coming in at the docks in Mon Cala" he said, pointing to a location on the map. "From there, we can coordinate the operation and manage any changes in real time."

Jazzori looked around at the assembled group, her eyes meeting each of theirs. "This is a high-stakes operation and there's no room for mistakes. You all execute this plan with precision. We can't afford to let personal grudges or misunderstandings derail us."

Seneca glanced at Jazzori, a hint of gratitude in her eyes. "Fine. We need to put everything else aside and focus on the mission. For Beka, For Jetto, for Gruno, and everyone depending on us."

The group nodded in unison, their expressions steely and determined. They began to divide their roles, each person taking on specific tasks to ensure the operation's success. As they finalized their plans, the gravity of their mission hung over them, a reminder of the risks they were about to face.

"Let's get to work," Jazzori said, her voice resolute. "We have a lot to do, and not much time."

As Seneca stepped outside into the cool evening air, preparing herself for the daunting task ahead, she noticed Crosshair leaning against the wall, his gaze fixed on the bustling activity within the warehouse. His posture was relaxed, but his expression was thoughtful.

"You're Hardt partner, Mori, right?" Crosshair asked.

"You must be Crosshair," Seneca said, trying to shake off the tension.

Crosshair turned his head slightly, his eyes narrowing in curiosity. "So, what's the deal with Hardt? She's put you through hell, and yet, you still defend her."

Seneca's face tightened. "Beka's had a rough time. I know you've been giving her a hard time, but there's more to it than you know."

Crosshair raised an eyebrow, his interest piqued. "Go on."

Seneca took a deep breath, her frustration evident. "No one knew you boys were crime lords. Everyone looked at ya'll as rich brats from old money—no one thought you were anything more than that. It wasn't until someone ratted you out that we discovered the extent of your operations. But by then, you had covered your tracks so well that proving anything was nearly impossible. You got connections that keep us out of reach."

Crosshair's expression shifted slightly, reflecting a mix of surprise and contemplation. "And?"

"When Beka was dating Hunter, she had no idea ya'll were the Bad Batch. And being hard on Beka isn't fair," Seneca continued her voice firm. "She's stuck in the middle of this mess. It's not her fault she didn't know. In fact, she's always spoken highly of you to me, despite everything."

Crosshair's eyes widened slightly, surprised. "She has?"

"Yeah," Seneca said, nodding. "She's mentioned your skills and your dedication. Said you were someone who could be trusted when it counted."

Crosshair seemed to consider this, his gaze shifting back to the warehouse. "I didn't know that. Maybe I've been too harsh."

Seneca's face softened. "You think? Beka, Jetto, they never asked for this, so cut them some slack."

Crosshair nodded slowly, a newfound respect for Beka evident in his eyes. "Alright, I'll keep that in mind."

Seneca offered a small, appreciative nod before making her way to her car.

As the night deepened, the mansion's grandeur was bathed in shadows, its opulence stark against the darkness surrounding it. Inside, Omega, always curious and adventurous, had slipped away from the watchful eyes of her servants. Tonight, she was determined to uncover what the adults were up to.

She crept through the corridors, her steps light and cautious, her ears straining to catch snippets of hushed conversations and the distant rumble of approaching vehicles. Her heart raced with excitement as she followed the sounds, moving like a shadow through the opulent hallways.

Reaching the garage, Omega paused by a sleek car, her eyes widening as she heard the distinct voices of Hunter, Echo, Phee, Tech, and Crosshair. They were discussing their final plans for the night, their voices muffled but tense.

"Alright, let's make sure we're all clear on the plan," Hunter's voice came through the darkness. "We meet Brights and Mori at the rendezvous point. No mistakes."

"Got it," Echo replied, his tone clipped and focused. "We're ready."

Omega, driven by a mix of curiosity and apprehension, slipped into the back seat of the car, concealing herself behind the seats. She barely breathed, careful to stay silent as the vehicle's doors shut with a soft click.

The engine roared to life, and the car began to move, its tires rolling smoothly over the driveway and onto the street. Omega's small frame was hidden well enough, and she remained perfectly still, her mind racing with questions about where they were going and what was happening.

As the car drove through the city streets, the muffled voices continued in the front seats. Phee's laughter broke through, though it was subdued. "I hope we can get this done quickly. I don't like the idea of staying out too late."

"We'll get it done," Crosshair assured, his voice carrying an edge of determination. "We've planned every detail."

Tech, always the strategist, chimed in. "Just remember, the timing is crucial. We need to synchronize with Valree's team perfectly."

Omega's eyes widened as she heard the word "rendezvous." She tried to piece together the fragments of conversation, but the specifics eluded her. All she knew was that something important was about to happen, and she was right in the middle of it.

After a short drive, the car slowed and turned into a secluded area. Omega peeked cautiously from her hiding place, catching glimpses of the meeting point—a shadowy, industrial area where dim lights flickered, and the sound of distant machinery hummed.

The vehicle came to a stop, and Omega's heart pounded with a mix of fear and excitement. The adults began to disembark, their movements purposeful and serious. She remained hidden, her breath held as she watched them gather and start their preparations.

"Let's make sure everything's set," Hunter's voice came again, now more distant as he moved toward the meeting spot.

Omega carefully shifted, trying to get a better view while remaining out of sight. Her tiny form stayed curled up, her mind racing with questions. What were they planning?

The night air was thick with tension as the group gathered in the shadow of a towering warehouse. Jetto had slipped away moments earlier, from the others to meet up with Hunter and the others.

Jetto took a breath and glanced around the group, his voice low and serious. "Lom Pyke and Pre Vizsla are here like you predicted." Looking at Hunter. "There's another party involved. I overheard some chatter—this isn't just about the Pykes and Death Watch anymore. There's someone else pulling strings."

Seneca's eyes narrowed as she absorbed the information, her hand resting instinctively on her blaster. "Who?"

Jetto hesitated for a moment, then met Seneca's gaze. "I didn't get all the details, but there's more at play here than we thought. We need to be careful."

Valree, who had been silent up until now, shifted uneasily from their hiding spot. She peered over the crate their sharp eyes catching a glimpse of movement in the distance. She groaned quietly, "Uhm, hell no. fuck."

This caught Echo's attention. "What is it?" Echo asked, his voice barely a whisper.

Valree clenched her jaw, her expression a mix of frustration and dread. "It's Hondo Ohnaka."

Echo raised an eyebrow, clearly puzzled. "Hondo Ohnaka?"

Valree nodded, her gaze still fixed on the distant figures. "He's a wildcard. Plays any side as long as it benefits him, but the only side he is loyal to is himself. If he's involved, it means there's big money on the table."

Seneca frowned, her thoughts racing. "And who's he playing for this time?"

Valree shook her head. "Hard to say. With Hondo, it could be anyone. But if he's here, we're in deeper than we thought."

As they continued to watch, more figures emerged from the shadows—Ciddarin Scaleback and Bib Fortuna, Crosshair's eyes narrowed, a flash of anger crossing his usually stoic face.

"Scaleback and Fortuna are here too," Crosshair muttered, his voice tight with barely controlled rage as he flicked his toothpick to the ground. "One of them was responsible for the shootout at the warehouse. I know it."

Hunter, sensing the shift in Crosshair's demeanor, stepped forward and laid a hand on his shoulder. "Get to the top and start looking out. We need eyes on the situation. If anyone makes a move, you take them down."

Crosshair didn't need to be told twice. He moved swiftly, his long strides carrying him to a vantage point where he could set up his sniper rifle. From there, he would have a clear view of the entire area, ready to eliminate any threat that presented itself.

Hunter turned back to the rest of the group, his voice calm but commanding. "Everyone else, get in position. We're not letting this get out of hand. We stick to the plan but be ready for anything. If this goes south, we adapt."

The fog hung thick over the docks, a shroud that clung to every surface, swallowing the distant lights. Everyone moved like shadows, their figures barely more than silhouettes against the gray mist that curled around them.

Seneca's hands worked with practiced ease as she loaded her gun, the soft clicks of metal barely audible in the stillness. Her eyes, sharp and focused, met Echo's as he did the same. No words were exchanged—none were needed just a simple nod.

Phee's fingers curled around the worn handle of her revolver, the weight of the cold steel grounding her in the moment. Valree, close by, checked their weapon with a swift, efficient motion, their eyes scanning the fog for any sign of movement.

Hunter and Tech positioned slightly apart, loaded their weapons with the same deliberate care. The fog made it difficult to see far, but it also provided cover, a veil that would mask their approach until the last possible moment. The docks were eerily quiet, save for the occasional creak of a boat or the distant call of a gull, the sounds swallowed almost instantly by the fog.

As they settled into their positions, the weight of the night pressed down on them, a reminder of the stakes at play. The silence was oppressive, broken only by the faint rustle of clothing and the soft clinks of metal as they adjusted their weapons.

Hunter's eyes scanned the fog-shrouded docks, his senses on high alert as he gave a quick nod to Jetto. "Jetto, get to the car and radio for backup," he ordered his voice a low growl of command. Jetto didn't waste time. He bolted toward the car, his boots barely making a sound on the damp ground. Hunter signaled for everyone to move in. Hunter was the first to move, his instincts honed to the shift in the air. He signaled with a quick hand gesture, and the team sprang into action, weapons ready. His eyes narrowed as he scanned the fog, waiting for the inevitable. "Let's light 'em up," Hunter muttered, his voice barely audible over the tension.

A muzzle flash split the darkness, and Hunter fired back instantly, his shot followed by the unmistakable thud of a body hitting the ground.

The fog thickened around the dockyard, swallowing the chaos in a dense, swirling veil. Cid's eyes widened in disbelief as the sudden ambush unfolded. "What the hell?" she yelled, her voice lost in the cacophony of gunfire.

Hondo Ohnaka's eyes darted around, his usual grin replaced by a look of genuine concern. "Ambush!" he bellowed, drawing his gun with quick reflexes. His tone was sharp, edged with frustration. "Looks like our little party just got a lot less exclusive!"

As the violence erupted, more bodies fell to the ground, their forms illuminated by the sporadic flashes of gunfire. Pre Vizsla squinted into the fog, recognizing the unmistakable figures of his enemies. "No, the Bad Batch," he growled, his voice a deep rumble as he fired with precise anger.

"Did you set us up?" Lom asked angrily.

Bib Fortuna, always more interested in preserving his own skin, was already calculating his exit. "I didn't sign up for this!" he shouted, his voice tinged with panic. Clutching the money, he had brought, he made a hasty retreat, his massive figure slipping through the fog as he sought a quick escape.

Echo, crouched behind a stack of crates, moved with practiced precision. He fired off a shot, his barrel glowing briefly before he shifted positions. "Two more, down," he reported, sliding around the corner and taking out another thug with a clean, efficient shot.

Beside him, Seneca moved with a blend of fury and precision, her body low as she advanced, gun in hand. "Watch your left!" she called to Echo, taking down an enemy with a quick squeeze of the trigger. Her shots were precise, and deadly, each one finding its mark.

Phee moved like a shadow through the fog, her revolver barking with authority. "Keep moving!" she ordered, her voice sharp as she took down another target. The fog swirled around her, masking her movements. "Valree, on your six!"

Valree was right beside her, moving with deadly grace. "I've got you," they replied, their gun firing in rhythmic precision, each shot calculated, each target falling as if in slow motion.

Tech, ever the analyst, fired methodically, his mind a whirlwind of calculations. "Three o'clock, two more!" he called out, his shots finding their targets with cold efficiency.

Up high, Crosshair had found his perch on an old crane, giving him a vantage point over the battlefield. Lining up a shot, he squeezed the trigger, sending a bullet spiraling through the fog. The enemy never saw it coming.

Hunter's voice cut through the chaos, barking orders. "Crosshair, take out the spotters! Tech, cover Brights and Phee! Echo, Mori! Flank them!"

Crosshair's sniper rifle barked again, and figures in the shadows dropped one by one. "Spotters are down," he confirmed, never missing a beat.

"Covering fire!" Tech shouted, his blaster sending streaks of energy through the mist, creating havoc among the enemy ranks.

Valree and Phee moved in tandem, their guns blazing as they cut down anyone in their path. "We're clear!" Valree called out, reloading quickly.

Seneca ducked behind a stack of crates, reloading in a smooth motion. She and Echo looked at Hunter as he gave a confirming nod.

Hunter then turns his head to the other side to look at Phee and Valree. They gave nods in acknowledgment. He then led the charge, his gun barking in short, controlled bursts as he moved through the fog. "Let's finish this!" he ordered, his voice filled with determination. The team advanced with lethal precision. The docks had become a war zone.

As Jetto reached the vehicle, his hand moved to the door handle, he threw the door open and slid into the car looking for the scanner. He then heard a quiet voice, but he froze in place, his heart skipping a beat. From the shadows of the backseat, two wide, innocent eyes stared back at him. He slowly turned his head back expecting the worst.

"Omega?" Jetto whispered, shock evident in his voice. "What are you doing here?"

"I...," Omega stuttered in a small voice, sensing the seriousness of the situation.

Jetto didn't have time to question. A sudden burst of gunfire erupted the sharp cracks of bullets. The car shook as rounds slammed into it, the metallic thuds echoing in Jetto's ears. "Get down!" Jetto barked, throwing himself in the back seat of the car and pulling Omega down to the floor. His body shielded hers as the sound of gunfire intensified.

Omega's breath came in quick, frightened gasps, "Jetto."

Jetto kept his voice steady, trying to calm her even as fear clawed at him. "Stay down, Omega, don't move," he ordered, his tone leaving no room for argument. His mind raced, trying to figure out how they could survive this onslaught. The sound of gunfire continued to ring out, relentless and deafening. With the sound of glass shattering and metal clanking, the car was taking hit after hit, and Jetto knew they couldn't stay there for long. "Hang on," he said.

Omega clutched onto Jetto, her small hands gripping his jacket tightly as the car shook with each bullet's impact. Jetto's heart pounded in his chest, his senses heightened by the acrid smell of gas that filled the air. Realizing the imminent danger, he acted quickly, grabbing Omega and pulling her out of the car just in time.

Boom.

The explosion rocked the docks, a fiery blast that briefly silenced the chaos around them. For a moment, everyone froze, eyes wide as they stared at the smoldering wreckage. But the pause was fleeting. The gunfire resumed, more intense than before, a relentless barrage that turned the docks into a war zone. The fog cloaked the violence, but the staccato flashes of gunfire illuminated the scene in bursts, like a twisted fireworks display.

Bodies fell, the ground slick with blood, but the team pushed forward, their resolve unshaken. The night was a symphony of chaos and violence, but they were driven by a single, unyielding determination—to see this through, no matter the cost.

Jetto picked up Omega in his arms and began running trying to dodge gunfire behind crates. His heart raced as he scanned the fog-filled battleground, the chaos swirling around him. Amid the scattered debris and fallen bodies, his eyes landed on a discarded weapon, half-buried in the muck. He dashed towards it, snatching the gun with a grim determination. His breath came in sharp, controlled bursts as he turned, weapon in hand. Jetto's focus narrowed. He moved swiftly, positioning himself to hold the young, frightened girl.

The advancing thugs smirked, "Nowhere to run now kids." One of them laughed mischievously.

"Shut your eyes, Omega," Jetto whispered in the young girl's ear. Omega buried her face in Jetto's chest and shut her eyes tight. As the thugs approached, their weapons raised and intent clear, Jetto fired with precise, controlled bursts. The gunshots cut through the fog, and one by one, the assailants fell back.

Omega clung to Jetto's shirt, her eyes shut tight as Jetto fended off the attackers. Jetto kept his focus sharp as each shot rang out.

As the last of the gunfire died down, the fog began to lift, revealing the carnage that had been hidden moments before. The docks were littered with bodies, the ground slick with red. Everyone regrouped, their breath coming in heavy gasps, but their resolve unbroken.

Hunter gave a final nod, his eyes scanning the area for any remaining threats. "Stay sharp," he muttered, his voice low and steady. "This isn't over yet."

Everyone had their weapons aimed, their fingers poised on triggers, eyes sharp and alert. The team moved in slowly, the heavy fog concealing their movements. During the shrouded chaos, the crime leaders stood with a smirk of defiance on their faces, their arrogance a stark contrast to the bleakness of the situation.

"Hondo Ohnaka, Ciddarin Scaleback, Lom Pyke, and Pre Vizsla," Seneca's voice cut through the fog with authoritative clarity. "You are under arrest for illegal business practices, drug dealing, and smuggling."

The quartet of criminals met her declaration with cold, triumphant smirks. Hondo's eyes gleamed with a mix of amusement and disdain, while Cid's lips curled in a sneer. Lom Pyke's gaze was calculating, and Pre Vizsla, ever the enigma, exuded an air of detached amusement. Their thugs, bristling with weapons, closed in around everyone, the oppressive weight of their presence a palpable threat.

Seneca, Hunter, Tech, Echo, Phee, and the others found themselves encircled, and outnumbered by the crime lords and their thugs. The fog, thick and impenetrable, swirled around them, turning the standoff into a shadowy tableau where every movement seemed exaggerated, every breath a silent calculation of what might come next.

Crosshair, perched high and steady with his sniper rifle, was poised to provide crucial support. But before he could take his shot, he was abruptly ambushed. Rough hands seized him, dragging him down from his vantage point and forcing him to the ground. The crime lords—Hondo Ohnaka, Ciddarin Scaleback, Lom Pyke, and Pre Vizsla—watched with cold, calculating eyes as Crosshair was brought before them.

Cid's voice cut through the silence, tinged with malicious satisfaction. "Looks like you're in a bit of a bind," she said, her eyes gleaming with triumph. "You didn't think we'd let you get away with this, did you?"

Hondo chuckled, his laughter a harsh sound in the tense atmosphere. "Seems like you're all boxed in. Might as well make yourselves comfortable."

Pre Vizsla's gaze was cold, his smirk unwavering as he surveyed the scene. "It's a shame, really. I was hoping for a bit more of a challenge."

Just when all seemed lost, the wail of sirens pierced the fog, cutting through the oppressive silence with a sudden clarity. The screeching of tires on wet pavement signaled the arrival of reinforcements. Jazzori stepped out of a police vehicle, her expression one of cool confidence. She surveyed the scene with a smirk that hinted at satisfaction.

"Figured you might need some backup," Jazzori called out, her voice carrying over the din of the battle. She nodded towards the advancing officers, who quickly moved to apprehend the crime lords.

"Dalear?" Valree looked surprised.

"You can thank me later. For now, let's get this scum off the streets." Jazzori smirked putting her hands on her hips.

The air was charged with relief and disbelief as the officers closed in, their movements swift and coordinated. Hondo, Cid, Lom, and Pre Vizsla, along with their thugs, found themselves surrounded and outnumbered.

The officers moved in with methodical precision, their authoritative presence slicing through the fog as they secured the handcuffs onto the four subdued crime lords. The clinking of metal and murmured commands punctuated the stillness that had settled over the docks.

Hunter glanced over at Crosshair, noting the telltale signs of a rough encounter. "You going be, okay?" he asked, concern evident in his voice.

Crosshair, unfazed by the bruises and cuts, responded with a characteristic nonchalance. He slipped a toothpick between his lips, the gesture a semblance of his usual calm. "I'll be fine," he replied, his voice steady despite the evident weariness.

Jazzori, leaning casually against a nearby crate, wore a sly smirk as he surveyed the defeated crime lords. Her eyes gleamed with a mix of satisfaction and anticipation. "Now," she drawled, her tone laced with a hint of amusement, "would anyone like to make a deal?"

The crime lords, their faces etched with defiant scowls and begrudging acceptance, remained silent. No one dared to speak, their hardened expressions betraying their reluctance to negotiate under the crushing weight of their defeat.

Jetto, still holding Omega tightly, emerged cautiously from behind the crates. His eyes darted nervously between the armed thugs and the advancing police. Omega, sensing the shift in the atmosphere, wriggled free from Jetto's grip and darted toward Hunter, her small form cutting through the fog with desperate urgency.

"Hunter!" Omega cried out, her voice barely audible over the distant clamor.

Hunter, along with Crosshair, Tech, and Echo, was caught off guard. Their eyes widened in disbelief as they saw Omega running toward them, a beacon of hope in the thick fog.

"Is that—?" Echo began, his voice choked with surprise.

"It's Omega!" Tech confirmed, his voice a mixture of relief and concern.

Pre Vizsla, his eyes darkened with malevolent intent, spotted the young girl in the midst of the chaos. With a fierce snarl, he shoved one of the officers aside, the man stumbling backward with a yelp of surprise. Seizing the opportunity, Pre Vizsla lunged for the officer's gun, his movements swift and ruthless. His gaze, seething with hatred, locked onto Omega. She was inches away from reaching Hunter. Pre Vizsla's breath came in harsh, ragged bursts as he raised the gun, the metal of the barrel glinting ominously in the dim light. A cruel smirk played on his lips as he aimed, the sight of the innocent child only fueling his anger further. His finger tensed on the trigger, the gun's cold weight.

Jetto's instincts kicked in. "No!" he yelled. Without a moment's hesitation, he shoved Omega out of harm's way. A gunshot that followed rang out with a chilling finality, its echo cutting through the fog like a mournful wail. Jetto fell to the ground with a loud thud, the bullet finding its mark with brutal precision.

"Jetto!" Seneca screamed, her voice breaking as she turned toward the fallen figure.

The world seemed to hold its breath, a collective pause. In this eerie calm, Pre Vizsla's hand was struck by a sudden, sharp clang. His gaze snapped up, his eyes widening. Before he could react further, a powerful fist collided with his face, sending him crashing to the ground in an unconscious daze.

Valree rubbed their knuckle that was still stinging from the impact. She quickly retrieved the knife she had hurled. Her expression was one of grim as she stared at Jetto.

Omega sat up trembling on the ground. Her eyes, wide and glistening with tears, locked onto Jetto's crumpled form. Crosshair rushed to the young girl, and with a swift, practiced motion, he lifted her into his arms, gently but firmly turning her face away from the horrific sight.

"Don't look Omega," Crosshair whispered holding the young girl tightly.

Everyone gathered around Jetto, their movements urgent and filled with a grim determination. Seneca dropped to her knees beside him, her heart pounding in her chest. With trembling hands, she flipped Jetto onto his back, her coat swiftly removed and used to staunch the flow of blood from his wounds.

"Stay with me, kid," Seneca said working hard to stop the bleeding.

Valree knelt beside her, their own expression a mixture of grim resolve and sorrow. Together, they worked to stem the bleeding, their hands working with a shared sense of urgency.

"Hang in there kid," Hunter said as he bent beside Seneca.

"Someone call an ambulance!" Jazzori barked, his authoritative voice cutting through the chaos.

Jetto's vision started to blur as a sharp pain surged through him. He groaned, the sound a mix of agony and exhaustion. The world around him seemed to distort and waver, the fog intensifying the disorienting haze. His vision suddenly went black as the sun began to rise.

4 notes · View notes

bittybug-sunflower-blog · 6 months ago

Text

Chapter summary: Seneca’s dating history

Warning A: Mature themes and language, sex, drugs, abuse, blood, death, drinking, suicide attempt, gun and gang violence, and smoking

Word count: 7900

Rating 21+

Extra: alternate universe story

Chapter 23

At the precinct, it was alive with the usual bustle—officers moving in and out, the hum of phones ringing, and the murmur of conversations that blended into a low, constant drone.

Crosshair walked through the front doors, his presence drawing little attention. He was disguised as an officer, the standard-issue uniform fitting him like a second skin, his cap pulled low over his eyes. He moved with a purpose, slipping through the sea of blue with practiced ease until he reached the back offices where the more delicate operations were managed.

Seneca was in there, leaning over a cluttered desk as she sifted through a pile of files. Jazzori stood beside her going over the scattered paperwork. Their eyes flicked up as Crosshair entered, narrowing slightly in recognition.

"We're moving forward with the plan," Crosshair said quietly, his voice low enough that it wouldn't carry beyond the room.

Seneca straightened, her expression serious. "What's the plan?"

Crosshair's lips curled into a faint, almost imperceptible smile. "Someone's going inside."

Seneca's gaze sharpened. "Inside? That's all you're giving me?"

"That's all you need to know, for now," Crosshair replied, his tone making it clear that there wouldn't be any more details forthcoming. He wasn't here to divulge the intricacies, just to set the wheels in motion.

"Get the legal side sorted," Seneca said, nodding toward Jazzori. "Witness protection, all the usual channels."

Jazzori nodded, she gathered some papers and walked out of the office in a quick haste. She was a picture of efficiency, her mind several steps ahead.

Crosshair watched her for a moment, then turned back to Seneca. "What's her story?" he asked, his voice tinged with curiosity.

Seneca leaned back against the desk, crossing his arms as she considered how much to reveal. "Jazzori's a chairman's daughter. Her father was as corrupt as they come, but she distanced herself from that mess. Made a name for herself, graduated top of her class, and worked her way up to becoming the new DA. She's not one to be underestimated."

Crosshair raised an eyebrow, his gaze sliding back to Jazzori. "And can we trust her?"

Seneca didn't answer right away. Instead, she watched Jazzori as she meticulously worked on the paperwork, she watched her fingers moving swiftly over the forms as she began preparing the necessary documents. Finally, Seneca spoke, her voice measured. "I told her who she's going to be working with, and she didn't bat an eyelash."

Crosshair nodded slowly, considering Seneca's words. With that, Crosshair turned to leave. As he walked out of the precinct, the shadows of the night were waiting to swallow him up again. The plan was in motion, and now it was just a matter of time before things truly began.

Jazzori was absorbed in her work, the soft hum of her office's fluorescent lights a stark contrast to the tumult of her past. As she sifted through case files and legal briefs, her thoughts wandered back to the life that had shaped her into the woman she was today.

She remembered the silver spoon she was born, a life of privilege marred by the rot of corruption. Her father, Montych Dalear, was a figure of power and infamy, a man whose shadow loomed large over their opulent home. The mansion, with its crystal chandeliers and marble floors, was a façade hiding a darker reality. Behind closed doors, deals were made, and lives were destroyed, all in the name of politics, greed, and control.

"Please Mr. Dalear just a few more days. I can get money by tomorrow." Another one of his victims begged.

Jazzori would hear either grateful praise or desperate begs come from her father's study throughout her childhood. She had grown up amidst the opulence, expected to embrace a world she found repugnant. The extravagant parties, the endless parade of influential guests—everything about her life was a carefully crafted illusion. Yet, from a young age, Jazzori was acutely aware of the moral decay that pervaded her family's world. Her father's ruthless dealings and the pervasive corruption were a constant reminder of the hypocrisy she vowed to escape.

Amidst the chaos of her high school years, Jazzori faced a different kind of turmoil. Her life, already marred by her family's corruption, was further complicated by the relentless bullying she endured. Her peers were quick to taunt her with their harsh jabs.

"Well, if it isn't the chairman's daughter, here to make more bad dealings?" they would sneer, their voices dripping with disdain. The corruption surrounding her family was common knowledge, a dark cloud that seemed to follow her wherever she went.

The taunting was a constant backdrop to her days, an unrelenting reminder of the world she wished to escape. But one day, everything changed. As Jazzori was cornered by a particularly aggressive group of bullies, she felt a surge of frustration. Her usual attempts to ignore them had failed, and she braced herself for yet another round of cruel remarks. But then, a loud voice cut through the noise.

"Hey, lay off!"

A rock sailed through the air, striking one of the bullies in the side of the head. The group turned in surprise, their hostility momentarily forgotten. There, standing with an air of defiance and confidence a young girl. She casually tossed another rock up and down, her stance radiating a bold spirit that caught everyone's attention.

"Who do you think you are?" one of the bullies demanded, glaring at the girl.

"My name is Seneca Mori," she replied with unwavering confidence. With a flick of her wrist, another rock flew through the air, hitting a second bully.

"Run!" One of the bullies ordered.

The bullies, now thoroughly intimidated, scattered like startled birds, leaving Jazzori and Seneca standing amidst the remnants of the confrontation. Seneca turned to Jazzori, her expression softening.

"You, okay?" Seneca asked, reaching out to help Jazzori to her feet.

"Yeah, thanks..." Jazzori replied, brushing herself off. "You knew?"

"Yes, ma'am," Seneca said with a grin.

Jazzori's eyes took in the young girl before her. Seneca's school uniform was neat, but there was something about her demeanor that spoke of a world different from the one Jazzori was not used to.

"You don't seem like the type to come to these types of schools," Jazzori said, trying to navigate the awkwardness of the moment.

"What's that supposed to mean?" Seneca asked, her tone defensive but curious.

"I just mean..." Jazzori faltered, searching for the right words.

"That I'm not rich," Seneca finished for her, her gaze steady.

"Yeah... and you're different..." Jazzori said, her voice trailing off.

"Different can be good," Seneca replied with a smirk, her eyes twinkling with a mix of mischief and warmth.

In that instant, Jazzori saw something in Seneca that was both intriguing and comforting—a stark contrast to the world of wealth and corruption that had dominated her life. Their encounter marked the beginning of something more. The school year seems less harsh with Seneca by her side.

It was another late night in the school library, and Jazzori was buried in her textbooks, her mind struggling to focus on the assignments that seemed to consume every inch of her attention. The silence was interrupted by the sudden clanking of boots hitting the table, making her look up with a start.

"Seneca?" Jazzori asked, blinking in surprise.

"You done already?" Seneca's voice was light, almost teasing.

"No," Jazzori replied with a frown. "Shouldn't you be finishing up your own assignment?"

"Already done mine," Seneca said with a smirk. Jazzori sighed in frustration. "Come on, Dalear, you need a break."

"Maybe later, Seneca," Jazzori said, her eyes returning to her book. But the book was suddenly closed with a firm snap, and she looked up sharply at Seneca. "Seneca!"

"Shhh, come on," Seneca whispered, placing a finger over her lips and gesturing for Jazzori to follow her. They crept out of the now deserted school library and climbed several flights of stairs. They finally arrived at a large, heavy door. With a strong push, they entered the chilly night air.

Seneca rummaged in her bag and pulled out two glass bottles, handing one to Jazzori.

"Is this...?" Jazzori began, looking at the bottle with suspicion.

"Live a little, Dalear," Seneca urged, walking to the edge of a low stone wall and expertly knocking the cap off her own bottle.

"I don't drink beer," Jazzori said, a hint of irritation in her voice.

"Oh, sorry," Seneca teased. "I couldn't afford champagne."

"No!" Jazzori shook her head. "I don't drink at all."

"Like I said, live a little." Seneca's smirk widened.

Jazzori eyed the cold bottle warily but eventually mimicked Seneca, tapping the cap off against the ledge. She took a hesitant gulp and immediately grimaced.

"This is gross! Tastes like horse piss!" she exclaimed, scrunching her face in disgust.

Seneca burst into laughter, her eyes twinkling with amusement. "Okay, I'll take it if you don't want it," she offered, reaching out for the bottle.

"No... I'll drink it," Jazzori sighed, resigned.

"Okay then." Seneca chuckled. The two of them sat on the ledge of the school's rooftop, their legs dangling as they gazed out over the city, illuminated by the vibrant neon lights.

"Been meaning to ask," Jazzori said after a moment, breaking the comfortable silence, "how did you even manage to get into this school?"

Seneca grinned mischievously. "I stole another girl's uniform and pretended to be her."

"You what?" Jazzori stared at her in disbelief.

"I'm kidding," Seneca said with a playful punch to Jazzori's arm. "I won a scholarship."

"Oh phew," Jazzori sighed in relief, her shoulders relaxing.

"You don't get out much, do you?" Seneca asked looking at her friend with concern.

"My father doesn't like me by myself. Only allowed at school or home alone. Anywhere else has to be with the bodyguards." Jazzori said looking at the bottle in her hand.

"Must be rough, under constant watch?" Seneca asked.

"Yeah, doesn't help your dad just sucks." Jazzori sighed bringing her knees to her chest and looking at the bright lights of the city.

"Well duh, all politics sucks." Seneca teased. Jazzori didn't respond. Seneca felt bad for her comment, she tried to change the subject, "You ever wanted to leave?" She asked.

"Leave?" Jazzori looked up.

"Yeah, leave Pantora, see what else is out there?" Seneca asked.

"Sometimes." Jazzori smiled.

At that moment, the two stared at into each other's eyes in silence. The city's hum and the distant flicker of lights add a sense of serenity to their shared space. Seneca's eyes softened as she looked at Jazzori, the soft glow of the city reflecting in her gaze.

Before Jazzori could say anything else, Seneca leaned in closer. There was a brief, charged silence between them. Jazzori's heart raced as their faces grew inches apart. Seneca's hand reached up to gently cup Jazzori's cheek. With a tender smile, she closed the gap and pressed her lips to Jazzori's. The kiss was soft at first, filled with the hesitant sweetness of youthful affection. When they finally pulled away, both were breathless, their eyes locked in a mixture of surprise and newfound understanding. Jazzori's cheeks flushed with a blend of embarrassment and exhilaration, while Seneca's expression was a mix of relief and satisfaction.

"Well," Seneca said softly, breaking the silence, "that's something we'll definitely remember."

Jazzori nodded, her heart fluttering with the warmth of the shared moment. "Yeah," she said quietly, "definitely something we'll remember."

As they continued to sit there, the city lights glittering around them, they both knew that their lives had been forever changed by this fleeting but intense connection. In that moment it felt like all the problems Jazzori had been consumed by were gone by just that kiss. For the rest of their school years, their romance was a burst of youthful exuberance, a passionate affair that felt like a beacon of hope in Jazzori's dark world.

Unfortunately, all good things must come to an end. As their high school graduation approached, the paths of Jazzori and Seneca were set on diverging trajectories. Seneca had been accepted into the police academy in Kiros, an opportunity she had fought hard to secure, while Jazzori was preparing to start at a local university, her ambitions aimed at a future in law and justice. Despite their shared dreams and intense connection, the reality of their circumstances began to strain their relationship. One evening, as they sat in their favorite spot on the roof of their school, the weight of unspoken tensions seemed to hang in the air. Seneca stared out in the large city, her fingers nervously fidgeting with the edge of her jacket.

"Seneca, we need to talk," Jazzori began, her voice trembling as she struggled to keep her emotions in check.

Seneca's eyes were shadowed with frustration and weariness. "I know, Jazzori. I've been feeling it too."

"I don't understand," Jazzori said, her voice cracking. "We've been through so much together. Why do you just want to leave?"

"It's not that simple," Seneca shot back, her frustration palpable. "You're about to embark on a journey toward justice, and I'm about to dive into a world of corruption and danger. Our lives are going in different directions!"

"I thought we could make it work," Jazzori pleaded, tears welling up. "I thought we could find a way to bridge our worlds."

Seneca's eyes hardened. "You have your path, and I have mine. It's not fair to either of us to keep pretending otherwise."

"You don't get it!" Jazzori shouted, her voice rising. "I don't want to lose you. I want us to fight through this together!"

"Fight through what?" Seneca retorted, her own voice now a harsh edge. "You think I don't want to stay? I can't stay in Pandora with this constant pressure and your family's shadow hanging over us!"

Jazzori's face flushed with hurt. "So, you're just going to walk away? Leave me here, alone, to deal with all of this?"

Seneca's eyes were wet with tears. "I'm not walking away because I don't care. I'm walking away because I do. I want you to succeed, to be happy. Can't you be happy with my choices?"

Jazzori's heart felt like it was cracking under the weight of Seneca's words. "Honestly, it feels like a selfish decision."

Seneca's expression turned angry but softened, though her resolve remained firm. "We're just too different. Your future is in Pandora, fighting the battles you believe in. Mine is somewhere else, and it's not fair to any of us to try to make something work when we both know deep inside, we'll both be miserable trying."

"Is there someone else?" Jazzori asked her eyes blazing with anger.

"What?! No. You know there isn't anyone." Seneca frowned a bit offended.

"I just don't understand why we can't try." Jazzori sniffed.

"You do, you just don't want to understand." Seneca tried to take Jazzori's hand who quickly moved her hand away.

The argument reached its peak, leaving both of them emotionally drained. The finality of Seneca's words hung heavily in the air. They stood in silence for a moment, the reality of their impending separation settling over them like a shroud.

"Is this really how it ends?" Jazzori whispered, her voice trembling.

Seneca nodded, her tears mixing with her resolve. "I'm sorry, Jazzori. I love you. But it's what's best for both of us."

"So, you're just going to walk away?" Jazzori's heart shattered as she struggled to accept the finality.

Seneca didn't answer but walked to the door, she looked back one last time, her expression a mixture of sadness and determination. "Goodbye, Jazzori."

Jazzori stood by herself holding her sides as tears fell continuously down her cheek.

Years later, as Jazzori, who is now a top-notch lawyer, was deeply immersed in her work, a letter arrived that took her by surprise. The familiar handwriting was unmistakable. Seneca's name was scrawled across the envelope, even more surprisingly it came from Coruscant. With a mixture of anticipation and apprehension, Jazzori opened it and began to read.

Dear Jazzori,

I hope this letter finds you well. It's been a long time since we last spoke. I saw one of the cases you defended in the newspaper and thought I write you. Life has taken me on a journey I could never have anticipated. I am now a police officer. I've also found love again and am expecting my first son with my wonderful wife.

I wanted you to know that I'm happy and fulfilled in this new chapter of my life. I think of our time together fondly, and I hope you do too. I wanted you to hear this from me. I hope you are happy and able to create your own happiness.

I wish you all the best in your endeavors. You've always been incredibly strong and determined, and I have no doubt that you will continue to make a significant impact in the world.

Take care, Jazzori.

Sincerely,

Seneca Mori.

As Jazzori read the letter, tears streamed down her face. She wiped them away with a determined resolve, knowing that there was no time for dwelling on the past. She had cases to work on, battles to fight, and a future to build. The letter was a bittersweet reminder of what needed to be said. With a deep breath, Jazzori tossed the letter into her trashcan and refocused on her work.

The clock now struck a little past midnight by now, Jazzori pulled herself from her thoughts and looked at her desk. She gathered her things and began making her way to Seneca's office.

"I'm clocking out Seneca, I'll go over the documents in the morning with you and the others. Have them set a meeting somewhere." Jazzori said.

Seneca looked up from her files and nodded, "Alright, thanks Jazzori. Have a good night."

Jazzori nodded and headed out of the precinct.

Seneca sat at her cluttered desk in her dimly lit office, the steady hum of fluorescent lights overhead casting a sterile glow. Her eyes fell upon a small, framed photograph resting on the corner of her desk.

The picture of her wife and two young sons, their faces lit with radiant smiles. They were captured in a moment of pure joy. Her wife's arms were wrapped around their boys, her face glowing with happiness. Seneca's gaze lingered on the photograph, her heart aching with a mix of pride and longing. The image was a beacon of warmth and love, a stark contrast to the cold, harsh realities she faced daily as a police detective. It was a reminder of the life she had built away from the dangerous world she navigated. Her fingers traced the edge of the frame as if trying to reach through the glass and hold her family close.

She often looked at the phone on her desk, the thought about calling them to just hear their voices. But the temptation was always overshadowed by a lingering fear. The last thing she wanted was for her wife to worry about the risks she faced every day. Biala believed that Seneca was cheating, though unfounded, was a painful thought, but necessary. It's better than knowing the criminals she decided to work with to help stop bigger threats.

Seneca thought back to the day she first met Biala, a day that had changed the course of her life in ways she never could have anticipated. She was just a young rookie officer in the city of Kiros, Seneca had always prided herself on her ability to handle danger, to face down the worst of the world with unflinching resolve. But on that fateful day, everything changed in an instant.

A routine patrol had turned into a violent confrontation. Shots rang out, and before she knew it, a bullet had found its mark. Seneca crumpled to the ground, her vision blurring as pain radiated through her body.

The world around her began to fade—the shouts of people, the sound of feet pounding the pavement, and then, amidst the chaos, there was a scent, something sweet and earthy that filled her senses. She looked up, and for a brief second, she saw her—Biala—but only for an instant. As Seneca slipped into unconsciousness, the last thing she remembered was the faint memory of a warm hand pressing against her cheek and a voice, soft and urgent, speaking words she couldn't quite grasp.

"Hang on, you're going to be okay," the voice had whispered, but Seneca was already slipping away.

Days passed, and Seneca remained in a coma, her mind trapped in a deep, dreamless sleep. The hospital room was sterile and cold, the beeping of machines the only sign that life still clung to the injured officer.

Finally, after what felt like an eternity, Seneca stirred. Her eyelids fluttered, and with great effort, she opened her eyes. The world came into focus slowly, and she found herself in a stark, white room, the faint smell of antiseptic in the air. The first thing she noticed was the silence, a heavy, oppressive quiet that filled the space. She tried to move, but her body protested with a sharp pain that made her wince.

"Where...?" Seneca managed to croak out, her voice barely more than a whisper.

"Officer Mori, you're awake," the doctor said, stepping closer with a relieved smile.

"What...?" Seneca tried to ask more, confusion clouding her thoughts. As she attempted to sit up, the doctor gently placed a hand on her shoulder, guiding her back down.

"You were shot. You're in the hospital. Try to relax," the doctor said calmly, his voice soothing.

The door to her room creaked open, and a young woman stepped inside, carrying a bouquet of vibrant flowers, their colors a stark contrast to the sterile white of the hospital room. Seneca looked over, curiosity piqued. The woman smiled, her eyes warm and kind.

"Hello, Officer Mori," the young woman said softly, her voice like a balm to Seneca's tired soul.

Seneca's eyes widened in recognition. "You..."

"I'll let you rest," the doctor interjected, sensing the moment. He excused himself quietly, leaving the room and shutting the door behind him.

The young woman watched him leave, then turned back to Seneca, her gaze warm and steady.

"Who...?" Seneca asked, her voice still weak.

"I'm Biala Quif. My father owns a shop near where you were hurt. I... I was there when it happened," Biala explained, her tone gentle, as if she were speaking to a fragile thing.

Seneca's heart skipped a beat as a flicker of recognition passed through her. She remembered that voice, the one she'd heard just before everything went black. "You... you helped me?"

Biala nodded, setting the flowers down on the bedside table. "I did what I could until the medics arrived. I couldn't just leave you there."

A wave of gratitude washed over Seneca, and she managed a small smile. "Thank you. I don't know what to say."

Biala shrugged, her cheeks flushing slightly. "Anyone would have done the same. I'm just glad you're okay."

As the days turned into weeks, Biala continued to visit Seneca, always bringing flowers or a small gift to brighten her room. Their conversations started off awkward, each of them unsure of what to say, but soon, they grew comfortable, sharing stories and laughing over small things. Biala's presence became something Seneca looked forward to, a light in the long, tedious hours of recovery.

"You know," Seneca said one day, glancing over at Biala as she arranged yet another bouquet in the vase by her bed. "I've been thinking... once I'm out of here, maybe I can take you somewhere. You know as a thank you for saving me. If you're interested, I mean."

Biala looked up, a smile tugging at her lips. "I'd like that, Seneca. I'd like that a lot."

The day Seneca was discharged from the hospital, Biala was there, helping her get settled back into her life, offering assistance in any way she could. What began as a friendship quickly deepened into something more. They spent more time together, going out for coffee, taking walks in the park, and enjoying each other's company.

One evening, as they stood on the balcony of Seneca's apartment, looking out over the city, Seneca turned to Biala, her heart pounding in her chest. "Biala, I... I've never been good at this sort of thing, but I want you to know that I care about you. A lot."

Biala smiled, her eyes shining with affection. "I care about you too, Seneca. More than you know."

The distance between them closed, and in the soft light of the setting sun, their lips met in a gentle, tentative kiss. It was a kiss filled with promise, a beginning of something neither of them had expected but both had hoped for.

Their relationship blossomed like a garden in spring, each moment spent together deepening the roots of their love. Seneca found in Biala a love that was unlike anything she had ever known, something she didn't feel when she was with Jazzori. Every smile, every shared glance, every whispered word brought them closer, weaving their lives together in a way that felt natural, inevitable.

One evening, as they sat on the balcony of Seneca's apartment, the city lights twinkling below like stars fallen to earth, Seneca turned to Biala, her heart pounding in her chest. "Biala," she began, her voice soft but steady, "I've never been good at this sort of thing, but I want you to know how much you mean to me. I... I can't imagine my life without you. I have something I want to ask."

Biala looked at her, her eyes shining with affection and something deeper—something that made Seneca's breath catch in her throat. "Go on," Biala replied, reaching out to take her hand.

"I like for us to be more for you to be my girlfriend." Seneca's nerves made it sound more like telling than asking.

"No," Biala responded simply. Seneca's eyes widen her heart about to sink, "I'm messing with you, of course, I love to be your girlfriend."

Seneca laughed with Biala joining in. The distance between them seemed to vanish, and in the soft glow of the city lights, their lips met in a gentle, tentative kiss.

A few years have passed by now, one evening, under the soft glow of the city lights, Seneca and Biala sat on the balcony of their apartment, enjoying a quiet moment together. Seneca's heart raced with anticipation, but she knew it was time. She had thought about this moment endlessly, and now, she wanted nothing more than to make it a reality.

"Biala," Seneca began, her voice slightly trembling, "there's something I've been wanting to say... something I've been thinking about for a while now."

Biala turned to her, curiosity and warmth in her eyes. "What is it, Seneca?"

Seneca took a deep breath, her hands gently clasping Biala's. "You know how much you mean to me, right? How every day with you has been better than the last? I never imagined I could be this happy, or that I could find someone who completes me the way you do."

Biala's expression softened, her smile growing as she listened to Seneca's heartfelt words. "Yes?" She raised an eyebrow waiting to see what she'll say next.

Seneca's heart swelled with emotion, she tried to push down her nervousness. "I've thought a lot about our future—about the life we've started building together. And I know, with all my heart, that I want to spend the rest of my life with you." Biala's breath caught in her throat as she realized where this was going, her eyes widening with surprise and anticipation. Seneca gently got on one knee, reached into her pocket, and pulled out a small, velvet box. She opened it to reveal a simple, elegant ring that shimmered in the dim light. "Biala Quif," Seneca said, her voice full of love and determination, "will you marry me? Will you be my partner, my wife?"

Biala's eyes filled with tears as she looked at the ring, then back at Seneca. Her smile was radiant, her voice shaking with emotion as she whispered, "Yes."

Seneca let out a breath she hadn't realized she was holding, a wide grin spreading across her face. She slipped the ring onto Biala's finger, stood up, and kissed the woman who was a light in the dark world she fought. They embraced, holding each other tightly, the world around them fading into the background.

Not long after, their wedding day arrived, sealing their love with vows of forever. The ceremony was small and intimate, attended only by their closest friends and family. Seneca stood at the end of the altar, dressed in a tailored suit, her heart swelling with anticipation. As she gazed ahead, her eyes were fixed on Biala, who was making her way down the aisle. Biala wore a gown fit for a princess, her arm linked with her father's as they walked together toward the altar. The sight of Biala, radiant and poised, took Seneca's breath away, marking the beginning of their lifelong journey together.

The officiant's voice rang out, clear and resonant in the intimate setting. "Do you, Seneca Mori, take Biala Quif as your lawfully wedded wife?"

With a look of pure adoration, Seneca responded, her voice filled with heartfelt emotion. "Hell yeah." Her words were met with a ripple of laughter and fond chuckles from the audience, and Biala's eyes sparkled with joy as she let out a soft, delighted giggle.

The officiant then turned to Biala, asking gently, "And do you, Biala Quif, take Seneca Mori as your lawfully wedded wife?"

"I do," Biala replied, her smile radiant and full of love as she gazed deeply into Seneca's eyes.

The officiant smiled warmly and continued, "If there are no objections, you may now exchange the rings." As they exchanged rings, their hands trembled slightly with the weight of their emotions. The simple act of sliding the rings onto each other's fingers felt monumental—a promise of forever. Seneca's heart swelled with the certainty that this was the beginning of something profoundly beautiful. She looked at Biala, feeling as though she was standing at the threshold of a new life, one shared with the person who completed her in every way. The officiant's voice broke the tender moment, full of joy and finality. "I now pronounce you wife and wife. You may now kiss!"

Seneca took Biala into her arms and dipped her gently, sealing their vows with a passionate kiss. It was a kiss that seemed to set off a cascade of fireworks in their hearts, bursting with joy and love. The room erupted into applause, cheers, and whistles, each sounds a testament to the celebration of their union.

As they pulled away, their faces flushed with happiness, they shared a moment of unspoken understanding, knowing that this was just the beginning of a lifetime together.

A year after their wedding, Seneca and Biala made the decision to start a family. When Seneca found out she was pregnant through a sperm donor, the joy they shared was indescribable. The months passed in a whirlwind of preparations, each moment filled with excitement as they imagined the little life that was soon to join them.

One evening, as they sat together on the couch, Seneca gently placed Biala's hand on her growing belly. "Feel that?" she asked, her voice tinged with awe. "He's moving."

Biala's eyes widened with wonder, her hand pressing slightly as she felt the flutter of tiny kicks beneath her palm. "He's really in there," Biala whispered, her voice filled with amazement. "Our little Isaac."

"He's going to be perfect," Seneca said softly, her eyes shining with love. "Just like his mom."

Biala looked at Seneca, her heart swelling with emotion. "And just like you. Strong and brave."

The night Isaac was born, their world shifted in the most beautiful way. As Seneca held her son for the first time. His cries pierced the night, but Seneca and Biala didn't care. "Hello Isaac," she whispered, her voice trembling with emotion.

Biala leaned in, wrapping her arms around both of them, tears of joy streaming down her face. "He's perfect, Seneca."

"I love you," Seneca whispered, her voice thick with emotion. "And I love him more than I ever thought possible."

"I love you both." Biala smiled hugging her wife and gently stroked their son's cheek.

"Welcome to the world Isaac," Seneca whispered, her happy tears falling down her cheeks as she kissed his little forehead.

Their little family continued to grow, and just a year later, Biala decided to become pregnant with their second child. The news was met with the same joy and excitement, though this time, they were joined by a curious and excited Isaac, who loved to rest his head on Biala's belly and talk to his soon-to-be sibling.

"You feel that, Isaac?" Biala asked as Isaac rested his head on his mother's stomach.

Isaac was only one, but he smiled as he felt the small kicks. Biala smiled warmly.

One evening, as they sat on their bed, Isaac nestled between them, and Seneca placed a gentle hand on Biala's stomach. "What do you think, Isaac? Are you ready to be a big brother?" she asked with a smile.

Isaac looked eagerly, his eyes wide with excitement.

Biala laughed softly, placing a kiss on Isaac's forehead. "And I know you'll be the best big brother ever," she said, her voice filled with warmth. She then turned to Seneca, her eyes filled with love.

The months passed, and their love only deepened as they prepared to welcome their second child. When Lon was finally born, their hearts swelled with even more love. As Seneca cradled their newest son, she looked over at Biala, who was holding Isaac in her arms.

"Hello Lon," Seneca whispered, her voice thick with emotion. She turned and placed Lon in Biala's arms. Isaac stared curiously at the young baby.

Biala chuckled, her eyes glistening with tears. "Say hello to Lon, Isaac."

Isaac just rested his small head on his mother's arm as stared with content. Seneca stared at all three, this was all she ever wanted in her life. Their days were filled with the joyful chaos of parenthood, the laughter of their two sons, and the unbreakable bond that had grown between them.

A few years had passed since their wedding, and Seneca returned home after a long, grueling day dealing with crooks. She hung her coat and hat on the rack by the door, her usual fatigue melting away as she heard the familiar, joyful sound of her two boys racing toward her.

"Mom!" Isaac and Lon yelled in unison.

Seneca dropped to one knee, her arms wide open to embrace them. "Hey, you two," she greeted, her voice brimming with happiness as she squeezed them tightly.

"How was work?" Lon asked, peering up at her with eager eyes.

"Did you beat up some bad guys?" Isaac inquired, bouncing on his heels.

Before Seneca could answer, Biala appeared in the doorway leading to the kitchen, a warm smile on her face. "Let mom breathe first," she laughed, shaking her head affectionately.

"You two, go wash up for dinner," Seneca instructed, her eyes crinkling in a smile as she stood up.

"Okay, mom!" the boys chorused, rushing off to the bathroom.

Seneca walked over to Biala and pulled her into a passionate kiss. The moment was tender, their connection evident in every touch and glance. As they pulled away, Biala looked up at her with curiosity.

"So, how was work?" she asked, her voice soft but filled with concern.

Seneca sighed deeply, the weight of the day still lingering. "Same as always, rough. But there's some big news—I've been made detective," she said casually, trying to mask her own apprehension.

Biala's eyes widened with happiness. "Really?" she asked, her voice filled with pride and excitement.

"Yeah, but there's more," Seneca continued, her expression becoming serious. "I've also been offered a position in Coruscant."

"Coruscant?" Biala echoed, her eyebrows knitting together. "That's another state away."

"I know," Seneca said, her voice heavy with the weight of the decision. "It's a big move."

Biala's eyes met Seneca's with understanding. "I know that look," she said softly, a hint of concern in her voice. "You're thinking of taking it."

"And I know you don't want to leave Kiros," Seneca replied, reaching out to gently touch Biala's arm. "Your family is here, your life is here."

Biala looked away for a moment, deep in thought. "It's not just about leaving Kiros," she finally said, turning back to face Seneca. "It's about the impact it will have on us—on the boys, on everything we've built here."

Seneca nodded, her eyes full of empathy. "I understand. It's a huge decision, and it's going to change everything."

Biala took a deep breath, her resolve firming. "But if this is something you want, something that could be important for your career and us, I will support you wherever we go."

Seneca's heart swelled with gratitude, she kissed Biala warmly. "Thank you for being so understanding. I want us to make this decision together. If we decide to go, we'll do it as a family."

Biala smiled, her eyes meeting Seneca's with unwavering support. "I'm in this with you."

The discussion that followed was thorough and heartfelt, filled with both excitement and trepidation. They weighed the pros and cons, considered their future, and ultimately decided to accept the offer. They knew it would be a challenging transition, but their commitment to each other and their family made the decision clear.

Sometime later, Seneca stood in front of the mirror, adjusting her tie with meticulous care. The sun was just beginning to rise over Coruscant, casting a warm glow across the skyline. Today was her first day as a detective in the Coruscant Police Department, a role she had worked tirelessly to achieve. But as much as she had dreamed of this moment, it was bittersweet.

In the reflection, she saw Biala standing in the doorway, her arms crossed, a small, anxious smile playing on her lips. "You look sharp," Biala said, trying to sound upbeat, but Seneca could hear the worry in her voice.

"Thanks," Seneca replied, turning to face her. She walked over and took Biala's hands in her own, squeezing them gently. "I know this move wasn't easy for any of us."

Biala sighed, her shoulders relaxing slightly. "It's just...Coruscant is so different from Kiros. The boys are still getting used to the new school, and I'm still trying to figure out where everything is. But I know this is a big opportunity for you, and I'm proud of you, Seneca. I really am."

"I couldn't have done any of this without you," Seneca said softly, her thumb brushing over Biala's wedding ring. "We're in this together."

Biala smiled, her eyes softening as she leaned in to kiss Seneca gently. "Always."

Just then, the sound of little feet pattering down the hallway interrupted the moment. Isaac and Lon burst into the room, both still in their pajamas.

"Mommy!" Isaac exclaimed, his eyes wide with admiration.

"Are you gonna catch the bad guys today?" Lon asked, his voice full of excitement.

Seneca crouched down to their level, ruffling Isaac's hair and smiling at Lon. "That's the plan, kiddo. But remember, it's not just about catching bad guys. It's about helping people, too."

"We know," Isaac said seriously, nodding his head, "Always help those in need."

Seneca's heart swelled with love for her family. "And that's why I do this. For you guys."

Biala knelt beside them, wrapping an arm around both boys. "We're going to be just fine here, right? We've got each other, and that's what matters."

"Right!" the boys chorused, their spirits lifted by their mother's confidence.

Seneca kissed each of her sons on the forehead and stood, pulling Biala into a tight embrace. "I'll be home for dinner," she promised. With one last look at her family, Seneca headed out the door.

The Coruscant Police Department was a sprawling complex, bustling with activity as officers and detectives went about their duties. Seneca took a deep breath as she entered the building, feeling a mixture of nerves and excitement.

"Detective Mori?" A voice called out, pulling her attention to a tall man with a distinctive appearance. He was bald with a lined face that spoke of years of experience, and his presence commanded respect. "I'm Sergeant Ki-Adi Mundi. Welcome to Coruscant."

"Thank you, Sergeant," Seneca replied, shaking his hand firmly.

"I've heard good things about you," Mundi said, leading her down a corridor. "Your record is impressive. But Coruscant is a different beast. You'll find that things work a bit differently here."

"I'm ready for the challenge," Seneca assured him, her voice steady.

"Good to hear," Mundi said with a nod. "You'll be partnered with Detective Rebekath Hardt. She's one of our best—sharp, experienced, and she knows this city inside out."

They stopped outside an office, and Mundi gestured for Seneca to enter. Inside, a woman was leaning over a desk, examining a case file with intense focus. She had short, dark hair and an air of confidence that was immediately apparent.

"Hardt," Mundi called out, and the woman looked up, a warm smile breaking across her face as she stood to greet them.

"You must be Seneca," Beka said, extending her hand. "I've been looking forward to meeting you."

"Likewise," Seneca replied, shaking her hand. "I've heard a lot about you."

"All good things, I hope," Beka quipped, her smile turning into a grin. "Come on, I'll show you around, and get you settled in."

As they walked through the precinct, Beka filled Seneca in on the current cases and the ins and outs of the department. It didn't take long for the two women to find common ground. By the end of the day, they had already established a camaraderie.

One evening, Seneca invited Beka over for dinner. It was a chance for their families to meet and for Seneca to show Beka a bit more of her life outside the precinct.

Biala greeted Beka with a warm smile when she arrived, welcoming her into their home. The boys were thrilled to meet someone new, especially someone who worked with their mom.

"So, you're the one keeping their mommy safe, huh?" Isaac asked, his tone serious, though his eyes were full of curiosity.

"Something like that," Beka replied with a laugh, ruffling his hair. "But your mom can handle herself pretty well, too."

The evening was filled with laughter and stories, the easy rapport between Seneca and Beka evident as they shared tales from their past. Biala quickly took to Beka, appreciating her straightforward nature and the obvious care she had for Seneca.

As the night wound down, and Beka prepared to leave, Seneca walked her to the door. "Thanks for coming over. I think the boys have already decided you're their new favorite person."

"They're great kids," Beka said, smiling. "You've got a beautiful family, Mori. I look forward to many more cases together."

"Me too," Seneca replied, feeling a sense of peace she hadn't expected. "See you tomorrow?"

"Bright and early," Beka confirmed with a nod before heading out.

As Seneca closed the door, she turned back to her family, who were still lingering in the living room. Biala met her gaze, her eyes soft with understanding.

"Looks like you've got a good partner," Biala said quietly, moving to stand beside her.

"Yeah," Seneca agreed, wrapping an arm around her wife's shoulders. "I think we're going to be just fine here."

Seneca remembered the night Biala, and the boys left. The tension in the house was palpable as Biala and Seneca stood in their cluttered living room, their voices raised in a heated argument. The normally warm atmosphere of their home felt colder than ever.

"Seneca, this isn't just about the late nights," Biala snapped, her eyes flashing with frustration. "It's about you constantly being away, and now I've seen you with her—Jazzori! At the police station! What's going on?"

Seneca's face turned pale. "Jazzori? Biala, I swear, there's nothing between us, she's the new DA. I was just working on the case. Beka's case got complicated, and I had to deal with it."

"Complicated?" Biala's voice was filled with disbelief. "How many late nights do you need to 'work on cases' before it's clear you're not coming home for us? And now, you're ex is back, make it make sense!"

"I'm telling you it's not what you think!" Seneca tried to explain, her voice strained. "Jazzori's just a part of the investigation. There's no cheating involved. You have to believe me."

Biala's eyes filled with hurt and anger. "Believe you? After all these late nights and excuses? I can't just ignore what I've seen." She turned abruptly, her voice rising. "Isaac! Lon! Pack your things. We're going back to Kiros."

Seneca's heart sank as she watched Biala's face, the lines of anger and pain etched deeply. "Biala, please, don't do this. Let me explain. Finding Beka is important, and I'm not cheating on you. I'm just—"

"I know she's your former partner, but I'm your wife! No," Biala cut her off sharply, her tone final. "I've had enough. We're leaving."

With that, Biala grabbed the boys, who looked up at Seneca with confused, sad eyes. They quickly packed their belongings, the sound of their small feet and hurried movement echoing through the house. The boys looked between their two moms before rushing to the car. Biala grabbed a bag that looked like it had been packed for a while.

Seneca didn't even have time to ask about it. Biala got in the car slamming the door and wiping tears from her eyes. As Biala and the boys drove away, Seneca stood alone in the doorway, feeling the weight of their departure crush her. Once they were gone, she punched the door, she trudged back inside, slamming the door behind her, her mind a whirlwind of emotions.

2 notes · View notes

bittybug-sunflower-blog · 1 year ago

Text

Chapter list Part 1

5 notes · View notes

bittybug-sunflower-blog · 1 year ago

Text

Chapter summary: Hunter and Beka, along with their team, overcome challenges, including fighting the Empire. Hunter and Beka get married surrounded by friends and family, lead fulfilling lives, and have a child named Jafan. Hunter expresses gratitude to Beka for their life together, and they reaffirm their commitment to each other.

Warning: none

Word count: 3442

Rating: 18+

Extra: alternate universe story

…..

Chapter 20

As everyone was adapting to the new normal, Beka and Crosshair emerged from the medical bay with Tech, their faces a mix of relief and determination.

"Now, it'll take time to adjust," began Tech as he hobbled, still recovering from his broken ankle.

"Yeah, yeah," Crosshair said, looking at his new cybernetic hand, testing its capabilities.

"How do you feel?" Hunter asked, looking at Beka with his hand on his hip, concern evident in his eyes.

Beka walked up to Hunter and smiled, "Just a bit of surgery and some med patches. No permanent damage," she said, giving Hunter a quick peck on the lips.

"What now?" Omega asked, curiosity sparking in her eyes.

"With all the data destroyed, and Beka declared 'dead' thanks to Jazzori. I say we can finally feel safe," Hunter smiled, a sense of relief washing over him.

"Are you going to stay this time?" Omega asked, her voice tinged with hope as she looked at Beka.

Beka crouched down to Omega's eye level, her expression warm. "I wouldn't want to be anywhere if I'm not with you guys," she said, a genuine smile spreading across her face, reaffirming her commitment to the team.

The three of them stood together, gazing at the clear skies, their thoughts drifting to the countless lives they had saved, the children they had protected, and the bonds they had formed as a team. In the quiet moment, they found solace and strength in each other, knowing that their unity had made all the difference in the lives they had touched.

"I'm heading to Pantora to help get some of the clones settled," Echo said to Emerie, his tone resolute. "I'm sure Senator Chuchi would find what you have to say very helpful for our cause."

"I have a lot to make up for. I'd like to help however much I can," Emerie Karr smiled back, her determination matching Echo's.

Echo put a warm hand on her shoulder before they both started walking towards their newly acquired ship, ready to engage with the other clones and make a difference in their lives.

"Beka, Master, I have a favor to ask," Seneca said with Biala wrapped around her arm.

"Yes?" Beka replied, turning her attention to her former padawan.

"I'd like you to train my sons," Seneca requested, a hint of hope in her voice.

Beka glanced over to see Seneca's sons playing with fruit but not touching it as it hovered in the air. "I'd be happy to," she agreed warmly, ready to impart her knowledge and guidance to the next generation.

"Well, we're off for a while," Valree smiled, her expression bright as she approached Beka, with Jetto following closely behind.

"Off? Where are you two heading?" Seneca inquired, curiosity piqued. Biala excusing herself to attend to her sons.

"Got to collect a bounty," Valree chuckled, a mischievous glint in her eyes.

"Going to help Senator Organa with this 'rebellion'," Jetto responded, his tone serious yet determined.

"Will you see Boba again?" Beka asked, concern evident in her voice.

"Maybe, but I'm prepared if I am," Jetto responded with resolve.

"You going too?" Beka asked the little droid, her voice filled with curiosity.

Sprig beeped in response, its lights flickering with excitement.

"He's going to come help me," Jetto explained with a smirk, his eyes glinting with determination.

"Good luck, little guy," Beka said, patting Sprig's head affectionately as they prepared for their journey ahead.

Beka's smile radiated warmth as she bid farewell to Valree and Jetto. She wrapped them both in tight embraces. As they parted, Beka clasped Jetto's hand firmly, a silent vow of unwavering support passing between them. Seneca, too, joined in the gesture, her well-wishes for their journey spoken with sincerity.

"Don't be a stranger," Seneca said, her voice filled with genuine affection.

"Don't be afraid to reach us if you need to," Beka added, her tone reassuring.

Hunter shook both Valree and Jetto's hands, his respect evident in the gesture. "It was an honor to fight by your sides."

"You too, Sergeant," Jetto replied, using Hunter's old status with a hint of nostalgia.

"You really have to go?" Omega asked, her eyes wide with disappointment.

Valree crouched down to Omega's level. "I do, but this isn't permanent, my friend. Our paths will meet up again," she assured with a comforting smile.

"See you around, kid," Jetto said, giving a finger salute to Omega as they began their departure.

As Valree and Jetto disappeared from view, their spirits uplifted.

Now it was just Seneca and Beka. "I'm proud of the person and Jedi you've become," Beka said, looking at her former apprentice.

"I know," Seneca replied softly.

"I mean it, Seneca. I watched you grow from a youngling to the person you are today. You defined what it means to be a Jedi knight when all else was against you. For that, I couldn't be prouder."

Seneca smiled and hugged her old master tightly, gratitude shining in her eyes. "You were always the best Master, and now you deserve to be happy," she said, gesturing towards Hunter and Omega.

"Where will you go?" Beka asked, curiosity tinged with a hint of sadness.

"I still have to help people with Jazzori, but you, though, have to help these kids know how to use their gifts right," Seneca replied with a warm smile.

"Seneca, if I may, I'd like to join you for a bit," Tech interjected, his voice filled with determination.

"We can discuss details on the way," Seneca replied, returning his smile as she put a comforting arm around Tech's shoulders, ready to embark on their next journey together.

Beka walked over to Hunter and intertwined her fingers with his. "What's next?" he asked, his gaze searching hers for guidance.

"We'll have to find out," Beka said with a determined smile, feeling Hunter's reassuring presence beside her. Omega approached and hugged Beka's waist, a silent reminder of the family they had become.

That night, Beka stood under the spotlight, a sense of nostalgia mingling with excitement as she prepared for her final performance as Miss Ribbon Singer.

"Good evening, everyone. I will be retiring as Miss Ribbon Singer; this will be my very last performance," Beka announced, her voice steady with emotion.

Her old performing group joined her on stage minus Liana and Gil, their presence a reminder of the memories she had shared. Beka sang and danced with passion, pouring her heart into every step and note. As the song reached its end, she approached Hunter, extending her hand to him and guiding him to the dance floor. With a flourish, Beka removed her mask, revealing her true self to the audience as she sang directly to Hunter. With a playful toss, she passed the mask to Lyana, a symbolic gesture of passing the torch.

At the end of the performance, Hunter smiled warmly, his eyes reflecting admiration. "So, Miss Ribbon Singer is retired?"

"Miss Ribbon is, but Beka will still perform here on Pabu and only here with you and Omega," Beka replied, her smile radiant with love.

Hunter's smile widened as he pulled Beka close, their lips meeting in a tender kiss, sealing their shared future filled with music, love, and companionship.

Time passed, and with each passing moment, new adventures unfolded everyone. Beka found fulfillment in her role as a teacher for the children of Pabu, passing on her wisdom and guidance to the next generation. Despite her retirement as Miss Ribbon Singer, she continued to grace the stage on special occasions, her performances a source of joy and inspiration for the community. Echo and Rex remained steadfast in their mission to save clones, their dedication unwavering as they tirelessly worked to ensure the safety and freedom of their brethren. Valree forged her own path as the leader of a bounty hunter guild, using her skills to protect the weak and bring justice to the galaxy's darkest corners. Her guild became one of the most recognized in the galaxy. Seneca, Tech, and Jazzori stood by Echo and Rex's side, their partnership evolving as they continued to expand and improve their transportation system, providing vital support to their allies in their ongoing fight against oppression. Jetto joined forces with Bail Organa, lending his voice to the growing rebellion against the Empire, as a trusted ally and advocate. Gruno, ever the loyal friend, found his calling as the manager of the Ribbon Singers, using his talents to ensure the success and prosperity of the group. With his guidance, the Ribbon Singers continued to captivate audiences far and wide. And Echo and Rex, they continued their aid with clones that rebelled against the empire. Crosshair and Wrecker found solace and purpose in their newfound freedom, spending their days helping around the island and enjoying its peacefulness.

One night, under the starlit sky, Hunter and Beka found themselves alone on the beach, the gentle sound of the waves lapping at the shore providing the perfect backdrop for what was to come. As Beka gazed out at the horizon, lost in thought, Hunter seized the moment.

When Beka wasn't looking, Hunter dropped to one knee, a nervous but determined expression on his face. "Rebekath, will you..." he began, his voice catching with emotion.

Before he could finish, Beka turned to him, her eyes filled with anticipation. Without a word, she leaned in and kissed him passionately, their lips meeting in a moment of pure bliss. Lost in the intensity of their embrace, they tumbled together onto the soft sand, their laughter mingling with the sound of the crashing waves.

Breathless and overwhelmed with emotion, Beka pulled back slightly, her eyes locking with Hunter's. "Yes," she whispered, a radiant smile illuminating her face.

In the distance, they could hear the sound of laughter and cheering, their teammates and friends rejoicing in the love shared between them. As they lay intertwined on the beach, surrounded by the warmth of their love and the support of their loved ones, Hunter and Beka knew that their journey together was only just beginning.

The day of Hunter and Beka's wedding dawned bright and clear, filled with anticipation and joy. As Hunter stood at the altar, his breath caught in his throat as he watched his bride-to-be make her entrance, radiant in a gown that took his breath away. Beka's heart swelled with happiness as she walked down the aisle, her eyes locked on Hunter's. The love and adoration reflected in his eyes filled her with a sense of belonging she had never known before.

Shep officiated the ceremony, the couple exchanged vows that spoke of a lifetime of love and devotion. Hunter and Beka stood facing each other, their hearts beating in rhythm with the gentle lapping of the waves against the shore.

"Hunter," Beka began, her voice steady yet filled with emotion, "from the moment we met, I knew you were someone special. You showed me what it means to be part of a family, to stand together in the face of adversity and emerge stronger than before. Through every trial and triumph, you've been my greatest ally. Today, I stand before you, ready to embark on this next chapter of our journey together. I vow to stand by your side, to support you, and to love you unconditionally, for all the days of my life. Our journey has only just begun, but with you and Omega by my side, I know that together, we can conquer anything." Beka smiled looking at Omega as she gave a thumbs up.

Hunter's eyes glistened as he took Beka's hand in his own, his voice filled with a quiet strength as he spoke. "Beka," he began, his words carrying the weight of a lifetime devotion, "from the moment you were assigned to my squad, I knew my life would never be the same. Through every battle, every triumph, and every hardship, you stood by my side, a beacon of strength and unwavering support. Together, we've faced challenges that would have broken others, but we emerged stronger, united as a family. Today, I stand before you, ready to embark on the greatest adventure of all—building a life together filled with love, laughter, and endless possibilities. I vow to cherish you, to support you, and to love you with every fiber of my being, for as long as we both shall live."

And with a joyful declaration of "I now pronounce you man and wife!" Shep announced. Hunter and Beka sealed their union with a tender kiss, surrounded by the cheers and applause of their loved ones.

Despite arriving after the ceremony, Rex and Echo made their presence known with warm smiles and heartfelt congratulations as they approached the newlyweds. Beka's joy knew no bounds as she enveloped them both in a tight embrace, feeling grateful for their unwavering support and friendship.

"Rex, Echo, I'm so glad you could make it," Beka exclaimed, her eyes sparkling with happiness.

"We wouldn't miss it for the world," Rex replied, returning her embrace with equal enthusiasm. "You both look absolutely radiant."

Echo nodded in agreement, a proud grin spreading across his face. "About time you two tied the knot."

Beka beamed at the compliment, feeling overwhelmed with gratitude for their presence on this special day. "Thank you both so much," she said, squeezing their hands affectionately.

Sprig bustled with excitement, ensuring every detail of Hunter and Beka's wedding was perfect. During the ceremony, he emitted cheerful beeps and whistles.

As Phee and Tech stood side by side, watching the tender exchange of vows between Hunter and Beka, a silent understanding passed between them. Phee's heart fluttered with affection as she stole a glance at Tech, her brown eyes twinkling with warmth and admiration.

Tech, ever the stoic one, felt a rush of emotion swell within him as he met Phee's gaze. "Beautiful ceremony," he remarked softly, his voice barely above a whisper.

Phee smiled, her cheeks tinged with a faint blush. "Yes, it truly was," she agreed, her gaze lingering on Tech's face. Their shared moment was interrupted by a playful nudge from Wrecker, who had noticed the subtle exchange between them. "Hey, brown eyes," he called out with a grin, earning a chuckle from the others nearby.

Phee and Tech found themselves drawn to each other, their steps mirroring the gentle rhythm of their burgeoning romance. With a shy smile and a gentle touch, they finally acknowledged the feelings that had been growing between them.

As the members of the Bad Batch and Beka's team gathered around to celebrate the newlyweds, the air was filled with laughter, love, and the promise of a future filled with endless possibilities. Echo clapped Hunter on the back, a proud grin on his face as he offered his congratulations. "You did good, brother," he said, his voice filled with genuine warmth.

Rex stood beside them, a knowing smile playing on his lips as he observed the scene before him. "Looks like we've got some new recruits for the married life," he quipped, earning a chuckle from the others.

Valree and Jetto exchanged knowing glances. "Here's to love and adventure," Valree declared, raising her glass in a toast.

"To happiness." Jetto said clanking his glass with Valree's.

As Seneca, Biala, and Jazzori stood side by side, their eyes lingering on the newlyweds, a sense of happiness washed over them. Seneca's smile was radiant as she held Biala close to her side, her heart overflowing with joy for her friend. "She's finally happy," Seneca remarked, her voice filled with warmth and affection as she glanced at Beka.

Jazzori nodded in agreement, her own smile mirroring Seneca's. "Absolutely," she agreed softly, her gaze drifting back to the newlyweds with a sense of contentment.

Gruno, Wrecker, and Crosshair stood nearby. Wrecker's booming laughter filled the air as he clapped Hunter on the back, his enthusiasm contagious as he offered his heartfelt congratulations to the newlyweds. "You did it, buddy!" he exclaimed, a grin spreading across his face.

Crosshair, ever the stoic one, watched the festivities with a quiet sense of satisfaction, his sharp eyes taking in every detail. Though his words were few, his presence spoke volumes, a silent affirmation of the bond that united them all.

As the evening wore on and the stars glittered overhead, Hunter and Beka found themselves enveloped in a warm embrace, surrounded by a family that extended far beyond bloodlines or battlefields. Omega rushed over to them, her eyes shining with excitement and love as she wrapped her arms around both of them in a tight hug.

As Hunter, Omega, and Beka stood on the cliffside, enjoying a moment of tranquility, Tech, Wrecker, and Crosshair observed them from below on the beach while working on their fishing gear.

"Glad you could visit," Wrecker remarked, glancing over at Tech with a grin.

Tech nodded, a smile playing on his lips. "Thought I could use some time for myself, plus do a few tweaks to Crosshair's hand," he replied, casting a glance towards Crosshair, who chuckled in response.

All three of them turned their attention upward, their curiosity piqued by the animated exchange happening on the cliffside.

Hunter's face lit up with delight as he lifted Beka into his arms, spinning her around in a joyful embrace. Meanwhile, Tech, Wrecker, and Crosshair exchanged curious glances, wondering about the commotion up above.

"What's Beka saying?" Wrecker asked, his brows furrowing in confusion as he tried to make out their conversation from the distance.

"I think she said..." Tech started, his words trailing off as he strained to hear Beka's voice above the sound of the wind.

Omega's excited voice rang out. "There's going to be a baby!" she exclaimed, her joy echoing across the cliffs.

"She's pregnant," Tech responded, his voice carrying a mix of surprise and realization.

Wrecker's eyes widened in astonishment, while Crosshair's expression remained stoic, though a hint of intrigue flickered in his gaze.

"Pregnant?" Wrecker exclaimed, his voice booming like an echo.

Crosshair simply nodded, a small smirk tugging at the corner of his lips as he watched the scene unfold below.

The three friends exchanged astonished looks, their expressions reflecting a mixture of excitement and disbelief at the unexpected news. As they watched Hunter and Beka celebrate their growing family, they knew that their lives were about to change in the most wonderful way possible.

When the baby was born, Beka and Hunter named him "Jafan," Beka announced with a smile.

Hunter leaned down to kiss Beka's forehead, his eyes brimming with love and pride as he gazed at his newborn son. With gentle hands, he cradled Jafan in his arms, marveling at the tiny bundle of joy that had entered their lives, "Jafan Hardt." Hunter smiled.

The baby, oblivious to the significance of the moment, gazed up at his father with wide eyes, a tiny smile gracing his lips in response to Hunter's tender touch.

The members of the Bad Batch gathered around, their faces filled with happiness and excitement as they welcomed the newest addition to their family. Echo clapped Hunter on the back, a grin spreading across his face, while Wrecker let out a booming laugh of joy while Omega was telling them to be quiet.

Beka, exhausted but radiant with happiness, watched as Hunter held their son, her heart overflowing with love for her little family. In that moment, surrounded by love and surrounded by their friends, she knew that their journey together started its next chapter.

A few years went by, filled with love, laughter, and countless adventures. Hunter took on the role of mentor, teaching young Jafan to trust his senses as he began to exhibit signs of being Force-sensitive. Meanwhile, Beka continued to train Lon, Isaac, Omega and Jafan, passing on her knowledge and wisdom to them.

One day, as the sun dipped low on the horizon, Hunter and Beka stood together on the balcony, watching as Omega, Jafan, Batcher, and Wrecker playing joyfully on the beach below.

"Thank you," Hunter said, turning to Beka with a soft smile.

Beka raised an eyebrow, her eyes twinkling with amusement. "Thank you? For what?" she chuckled, genuinely puzzled.

"For giving me a great life," Hunter replied, his gaze filled with love and gratitude.

Beka's heart swelled with warmth as she looked into Hunter's eyes. "You're welcome," she said, her voice filled with tenderness.

The two shared a tender kiss, as they stood together, hand in hand, they knew that no matter what the future held, they would face it together, united in their love and their commitment to each other.

4 notes · View notes

bittybug-sunflower-blog · 1 year ago

Text

Chapter summary: The teams have their biggest battle on Tantiss

Warning: imprisonment/death/blood/amputation

Word count: 9525

Rating: 18+

Extra: alternate universe story

…..

Chapter 19

Arriving in the orbit of Tantiss, the team faced immediate peril as enemy fire gunned down their ship. Forced into a harrowing escape, they relied on propelling down with lines to reach the planet's surface. Seneca's steady hands at the controls were crucial, ensuring the ship remained stable long enough for the team to execute their escape.

Seneca's voice rose above the din, strained with urgency. "I can't keep her steady!" She shouted over the cacophony of blaster fire and alarms.

Wrecker's authoritative tone cut through the tension. "Get ready to jump!" he commanded.

Rampart's dissent echoed in the cramped confines of the ship. "Absolutely not!" he protested, his defiance tinged with apprehension.

But Beka's response brooked no argument, her voice firm and unwavering. "You either jump down or die here!" she snapped, her resolve unyielding in the face of danger.

As they all leaped with their lines attached, Tech encountered a sudden malfunction with his, causing it to snag and unravel with alarming speed. With a yelp of surprise, he found himself hurtling towards the ground below, his descent far more perilous than anticipated. Jetto propelled himself forward with his jetpack, swiftly maneuvering towards Tech's plummeting form. But just as he reached out to grab his friend, the telltale sputter of his jetpack's fuel supply running low filled the air. Their collision was inevitable, and the two tumbled uncontrollably down the steep incline of a nearby hill, their bodies battered and bruised by the rough terrain.

"Ah, my ankle!" Tech cried out in pain as they finally came to a stop at the bottom of the hill, his voice filled with anguish.

Concern etched on his face, Jetto quickly assessed the situation. "Is it broken?" he asked, his voice laced with worry.

Tech grimaced, trying to assess the damage. "Yes, probably by one point six" he began, his words trailing off as he winced in pain.

"A simple 'yes' will do, come on," Jetto interrupted gently, moving to help his friend up and offering support as Tech leaned heavily on him, his arm slung around Jetto's neck for stability.

"We must have gotten separated when we fell," Tech deduced, his mind already working to piece together their next steps amidst the chaos of their crash landing.

"I know, we better start finding them," Jetto suggested, his gaze scanning their surroundings for any signs of their comrades amidst the chaos.

Tech nodded, his expression grim. "They might find us," he pointed out, the weight of the situation settling heavily upon him as he considered the possibility of encountering enemy forces while they searched for their missing teammates.

Meanwhile, Jazzori, Wrecker, and Gruno fell near one another, their descent interrupted by the tumultuous chaos of their crash landing. As they plummeted towards the unforgiving terrain below, Jazzori's eyes widened in alarm, her heart racing with fear. A sudden jolt rocked their bodies as they made impact with the ground, the force of the landing knocking the wind out of them. Jazzori's vision blurred as she struggled to regain her bearings, the world spinning around her in disorienting swirls. With a groan of pain, she attempted to push herself up, only to collapse back onto the ground, her limbs heavy and unresponsive. Wrecker and Gruno rushed to her side, their voices a distant murmur in her ears as they called out to her, their concern evident in their frantic gestures. But try as she might, Jazzori could not muster the strength to respond, her body succumbing to the darkness as unconsciousness claimed her.

"Jazzori?" Gruno panicked as he scooped up the unconscious Jazzori, his hands trembling with concern.

"Is she okay?" Wrecker inquired, his voice laced with worry as he hovered nearby, his gaze fixed on Jazzori's still form.

With a relieved sigh, Gruno checked for signs of life, his hand gently resting on Jazzori's chest. "She's breathing," he reassured, his voice steady despite the tension in the air.

Inside the base, Echo, now disguised as a trooper, moved stealthily through the corridors, his senses on high alert. Suddenly, he heard footsteps approaching and tensed, ready for confrontation. To his surprise, it was Dr. Karr who stood before him.

"Echo?" Dr. Karr's voice was filled with uncertainty.

Echo's hand instinctively went to his blaster, but he hesitated. "How do you know who I am?"

"Omega speaks highly of you," Dr. Karr replied, her tone earnest. "And I want to help."

"Why?" Echo's suspicion lingered, his grip tightening on his weapon.

"Because I realized I was wrong," Dr. Karr admitted, her gaze sincere. "The Empire's true intentions... they're not what I thought they were. I can't stand by and let them continue."

Only a few distances away, Seneca's urgent voice pierced through the haze of Crosshair's confusion, jolting him awake from his dazed state. "Crosshair... Crosshair!" Seneca shook him gently but firmly, her eyes wide with concern as she tried to rouse him from his slumber.

Blinking groggily, Crosshair struggled to make sense of his surroundings. "Uh, what happened?" he mumbled, his head pounding with each word.

"We got separated. Come on, we better start walking before we are found," Seneca said, her tone brisk and determined as she helped Crosshair to his feet, her strong grip offering support.

Leaned on Seneca for stability, Crosshair's mind raced with questions, but for now, all that mattered was following Seneca's lead as they navigated the treacherous terrain, their survival dependent on their ability to stay one step ahead of their pursuers.

Meanwhile, amidst the frustration, Rampart's voice rang out in a crescendo of anger, his words laced with frustration and fear. "I could have died!" Rampart's yell echoed through the tumult, his frustration boiling over as he grappled with the gravity of their situation

"Unfortunately, you didn't," Hunter groaned inwardly, his voice tinged with weariness as he struggled to keep his emotions in check. His ears caught the faint sounds of distress, and his gaze snapped towards Beka, who was struggling to rise from the ground. "Beka!" Hunter's voice cut through the din, filled with concern as he raced to her side, his heart pounding with a mixture of fear and relief at the sight of her.

"I'm fine," Beka assured, her voice steady despite the pain that etched her features, her determination unwavering even in the face of adversity.

With a sense of urgency, Hunter reached out to help her stand, his hands gentle yet firm as he offered his support, his concern evident in the furrow of his brow and the tightness of his grip.

Sudden rustling in the underbrush nearby sent a jolt of adrenaline coursing through Hunter's veins, his instincts snapping into action. With practiced precision, he swiftly drew his blasters, his hands steady. Beside him, Beka mirrored his movements, her weapons gleaming in the light. Twin blue lightsabers hummed to life in her grasp, casting an ethereal glow. As the rustling grew closer, Hunter and Beka stood side by side, their weapons at the ready, their senses alert for any sign of danger.

As tension hung heavy in the air, Wrecker's voice broke through the stillness like a beacon of hope. "It's us," he declared, his hands raised in surrender as he emerged, his expression a mixture of relief and concern.

Upon hearing Wrecker's voice, Beka's heart leaped in her chest, her panic momentarily quelled by the sight of Jazzori. With a sense of urgency, she rushed towards Gruno, her eyes scanning his form for any signs of injury. "Jazzori," Beka's voice trembled with emotion as she reached Gruno's side, her concern evident in every line of her face.

Gruno's response was swift and reassuring, his voice steady. "She's breathing but unconscious," he explained, his words a balm to Beka's frayed nerves.

Relief flooded through Beka as she took in Gruno's words, her attention shifting to the others who had gathered nearby. "Anyone else hurt?" she inquired, her gaze sweeping over the group, her concern extending to each member of their ragtag team.

As if summoned by her words, Tech and Jetto appeared, their presence a welcoming sight. "Uh, I am," Tech admitted, his voice tinged with pain as he gingerly tested his injured ankle, Jetto helping him stand.

With the group now reunited, Crosshair and Seneca emerged, their arrival marking the final piece of the puzzle. "Well, we're a few men down," Crosshair remarked, his tone grim as he surveyed the group, his gaze lingering on those who bore the scars of their harrowing ordeal.

Then a deafening roar of a Dryax pierced the air, panic erupted from Rampart. With wide-eyed stares, the team watched as the monstrous creature lumbered into view. Without a moment to spare, legs started pumping, they fled from the creature's path. Wrecker's instincts kicked in, with a fierce determination burning in his eyes, he charged forward, his muscles coiled with pent-up energy as he prepared to confront the monstrous creature head-on. He launched himself at the towering beast. But as he collided with the creature, a sickening crunch filled the air, followed by the sound of tearing metal as Wrecker's armor bore the brunt of the impact. As Wrecker stumbled backed into a tree, his body battered and bruised from the encounter. His comrades rushed to his side, with concern as they assessed the extent of his injuries.

Meanwhile, as Valree relentlessly searched for the missing children, her senses heightened to their fullest extent, she stumbled upon a startling discovery—the Zillo beast clone. "What... How is this possible?" Valree gasped, her disbelief palpable as she confronted the unbelievable sight before her. With the increased number of troopers and blaring alarms signaling the presence of intruders, Valree steeled herself for the impending battle ahead.

With the dryax hot on their heels, there was no time for hesitation. Frantically searching for cover, they dove behind rocks and trees, seeking refuge from the relentless pursuit of their monstrous adversary. As they huddled together in their makeshift hiding spot, fear and uncertainty hung thick in the air. With their weapons rendered useless for fear of attracting the attention of nearby troopers, they were left defenseless against the looming threat that lurked just beyond their hiding place. The tense silence, they knew that they needed to come up with a new strategy—and fast. With a thunderous roar, the dryax turned its attention to the nearby stormtroopers, who were searching for the intruders. This gave the team a moment to regroup. As they quickly collected their bearings, they scanned their surroundings for their comrades and plotting their next move. Determination burned bright within the team as they prepared to face whatever challenges lay ahead.

"Hunter, what's the plan?" Jetto's voice was tinged with uncertainty as he turned to their leader, seeking guidance in the midst of uncertainty.

Hunter's admission of uncertainty sent a ripple of unease through the group, his usual confidence momentarily faltering. "I... I don't know," Hunter admitted.

"Great, just great!" Rampart's frustration boiled over, his words dripping with bitterness as he struggled to come to terms with their predicament.

Seneca's sneer only added fuel to the fire, her skepticism clear as she cast a critical eye. "Like you have a plan," Seneca sneered.

"Well, if you didn't take stupid measures, we wouldn't be in this predicament," Rampart argued.

But it was Crosshair's cutting remark that struck a nerve, "Hunter should have left you in that crash instead then," his words a sharp reminder of the stakes they faced.

Beka's voice rose above the fray, her tone firm and commanding as she laid out a plan of action. "Enough, everyone," she said angrily. "You see that smoke? That's where we need to go," Beka declared, her eyes fixed on the distant horizon. "I sensed life over there. If we're lucky, we'll find Echo, Sprig, and Valree."

Hunter's smirk through his helmet spoke volumes. In that moment, he knew that whatever plan she laid out. "What's the plan, General?" He asked saluting.

Deep within the confines of the Tantiss vault, Omega huddled together with her fellow prisoners, their faces etched with a mixture of fear and determination as they discussed their daring escape plan.

"Are you sure?" one of the children ventured cautiously, their voice tinged with doubt.

"Yes, I'm sure," Omega replied, her tone unwavering despite the uncertainty that lingered in the air. "I've been trained for this, and now we need to get into position."

They set their plan into motion. Lon stepped forward, engaging a nearby Tantiss medical droid in conversation. "It's broken," Lon announced, feigning frustration as he gestured towards the malfunctioning device.

The droid responded in its monotone voice, "That is not in my programming to repair it."

Seizing the opportunity, Omega sprang into action, moving stealthily behind the distracted droid. With a swift and precise motion, she plunged a screwdriver into its processor, effectively immobilizing it. As the droid faltered and sputtered to a halt, Omega and her comrades swiftly moved it out of sight, their hearts racing with the thrill of their daring escape plan unfolding before their eyes.

Another doctor, Dr. Scalder, noticed the absence of the medical droid from her observation station above. Concern etched across her face, she swiftly descended from the observation deck, determined to uncover the source of the disturbance. Inside her alcove, Omega worked quickly to reprogram the droid, her fingers flying over the controls with practiced precision. Just as Scalder arrived, she turned to one of the children and inquired, "Where are the other children?"

Omega, Isaac, and two other children emerged with the medical droid in tow, their expressions carefully neutral as they faced Scalder. "We were with the droid," one of the children claimed, their voice tinged with fearfulness.

Scalder's suspicion only deepened at the unscheduled scan, her gaze piercing as she demanded answers, "Where were you really?"

When Omega stepped forward to support the child's claim, stating firmly, "We were with the droid," Scalder's frustration boiled over.

"Dr. Karr has been too lenient with you inmates," she chided, her voice laced with authority. "Return to your alcoves." Intent on delivering punishment, she moved forward, only to be swiftly incapacitated by the very droid she sought to control, injected with a sedative that sent her into unconsciousness.

With Scalder subdued, Omega wasted no time in taking charge, her voice ringing out with authority as she issued orders to the reprogrammed medical droid. "Guard the door to the vault," she commanded, her eyes darting to the youngest child in their midst. "Prepare a sling for the youngest."

As the children sprang into action, climbing through the dumbwaiter system behind Omega's cell that she carved out a passage way, a sense of determination settled over them. Omega led the way through the shaft, her movements purposeful as she navigated the maze-like passages. Emerging into a large enclosure housing the Zillo beast clone. Omega approached the controls with a steely resolve. However, the tension was palpable as the youngest child began to cry, their fear threatening to betray their presence.

The cries of the youngest child pierced the air, catching the attention of the medical assistant and nearby stormtroopers. Sensing the urgency of the situation, Omega sprang into action, swiftly pulling a lever to initiate the draining of the water in the tank below. As the water level receded, chaos erupted within the facility. Meanwhile, stormtroopers discovered the escaped children behind the wall, moving in to detain them. However, their efforts were abruptly halted by the sudden emergence of the Zillo beast. Despite the activation of containment protocols, the creature's relentless onslaught overwhelmed the facility's defenses, rendering even the powerful sonic generator ineffective against its might. Two troopers still tried to grab the children, only to be swiftly incapacitated by a sudden surge of electricity. Valree, armed with her trusty daggers, appeared just in time to turn the tide of battle in favor of the children.

"Valree!" Omega exclaimed, relief flooding her features as she embraced her rescuer.

"Hey, kid, been trying to get you out for a while," Valree grinned, returning the hug. Her gaze shifted to the other children, recognizing their shared plight.

"They announced that intruders were here," Omega inquired anxiously, her concern for her brothers evident, "Are they, my brothers?"

"I think it's everyone. Come on, kids," Valree replied, her voice firm with determination as she led them towards freedom. With urgency pulsing through their veins, Valree led the children through the shaft, their steps quick and determined.

Inside the vault, Karr and Echo discovered an injured Dr. Scalder being escorted out by Clone commandos and stormtroopers. A tremor shook the vault, signaling the Zillo beast's rampage in the containment level.

"Prepare the shutdown procedures for the generator," Hemlock commanded, her tone firm and authoritative. "And deploy a division to secure the transport hangar immediately. We cannot afford any lapses in security."

"Zillo beast is out," Dr. Karr informed Echo urgently.

"The what?" Echo's confusion was evident.

"A clone of the Zillo beast, and it's been released."

Echo's keen insight led him to deduce Omega's involvement in releasing the Zillo beast. "Omega's handiwork," he remarked, recognizing her strategic cunning in splitting the enemy forces.

"How do you know?" Dr. Karr inquired, her curiosity piqued.

"Because it's something I would do," Echo replied confidently, as Sprig beeping nervously.

Echo, Dr. Karr, and Sprig hurriedly made their way to rendezvous with the children, their minds focused on the task ahead.

Outside, the team observed the monstrous creature making its escape.

"That's either Echo's or Omega's doing," Hunter speculated.

"My bet is on Omega," Crosshair added with a hint of certainty.

"I don't even want to know who," Gruno remarked, his tone laced with apprehension.

As the Dryax relentlessly pursued the team, chaos ensued when Rampart found himself separated from the group. Desperately trying to evade the creature, he was suddenly caught in a crossfire as troopers opened fire on the monstrous beast. In a moment of vulnerability, Rampart was apprehended by a squad of troopers, their blasters trained on him as he stood surrounded. Despite his bravado, Rampart realized he was at the mercy of the empire.

"Rampart got captured," Beka relayed with a tone of urgency.

"And we're out of med patches," Crosshair groaned, voicing their dwindling resources.

"Okay, we have three men down..." Beka began to assess the situation.

"No, I can still fight!" Wrecker insisted, his determination shining through despite his injuries.

"Wrecker," Hunter interjected, attempting to reason with him.

"No, I need to help Omega," Wrecker protested loudly, his loyalty to their cause unwavering.

"Wrecker, Hunter, Crosshair, Seneca, and I will be on the frontlines. Gruno and Jetto once we get on base, see if you can find a ship for Jazzori and Tech," Beka outlined their strategy with decisive authority, assigning roles to each member of the team in their desperate bid for survival.

The team raced towards Tantiss base, their hearts pounding with a mixture of anticipation and dread. As they approached the imposing structure, a deafening explosion ripped through the air, sending shockwaves reverberating through the ground beneath their feet. The force of the blast knocked them off their feet, scattering them in all directions amidst billowing clouds of smoke and debris. Dazed and disoriented, they struggled to regain their bearings. Hunter quickly rose to his feet, his senses on high alert as he scanned the surroundings for any sign of danger. Beka and the others soon followed suit, their training kicking in as they assessed the situation and prepared to regroup.

"Is everyone okay?" Seneca asked, her voice strained as she coughed, struggling to catch her breath amidst the smoke and debris.

"Far from it," Crosshair replied grimly, his eyes narrowing as he surveyed their surroundings.

The team found themselves confronted by a group of armed troopers, their armor marked with the distinctive insignia of Clone X troopers TK stormtroopers, and Inquisitors. The ruined science hangar, once a hub of innovation and discovery, was now a scene of devastation, littered with burning wreckage and twisted metal.

Outnumbered and outgunned, Beka wasted no time in issuing orders. "Gruno, Jetto, take Jazzoir and Tech and find a ship now!" she commanded, her voice cutting through the chaos with authority.

Gruno and Jetto nodded in acknowledgment, immediately springing into action to assist their injured comrades. With Jazzoir and Tech in tow, they quickly retreated from the battle.

"Beka..." Hunter started, his voice heavy with emotion as he pulled off his helmet. "Just know if we... if I don't make it out alive, I want you to know that I love..."

Before Hunter could finish, Beka silenced him by pressing her lips against his, the brief but passionate kiss conveying more than words ever could. As they parted, she looked into his eyes with determination, her resolve unwavering.

"I love you too, and we'll make it" she whispered softly, her voice filled with reassurance. With a determined nod, she ignited her two lightsabers, ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead. Hunter smiled as he placed his helmet back on his head.

As the troopers and the inquisitors advanced, Beka and Seneca sprang into action, their lightsabers igniting with a vibrant hum. The air crackled with energy as they met the enemy head-on, their movements fluid and precise.

Beka, with her blue lightsabers blazing, spun and twirled through the fray, deflecting blaster bolts with expert precision. With each swing of her sabers, she struck down troopers with calculated strikes, never faltering in her resolve. Beside her, Seneca moved as her emerald lightsaber danced through the air, carving through the enemy ranks with ease. With each swing, she dispatched troopers with a lethal efficiency, her movements a blur of speed and skill. The Bad Batch fought alongside them, their unique talents adding an extra layer of chaos to the battle. Hunter, Crosshair, and Wrecker moved as one, their teamwork seamless and precise.

The team found themselves overpowered and overwhelmed by the sheer force of the enemy onslaught.

"Fall back!" Crosshair shouted over the din of blaster fire, his voice tinged with urgency as he signaled for his team to retreat.

Amidst the chaos, Crosshair managed to take down an Imperial pilot with a well-aimed shot, causing his vehicle to crash and adding to the chaos of the battlefield. But as the team attempted to regroup, disaster struck.

"You two, go find Omega. I'll hold them off," Crosshair ordered, his voice resolute despite the chaos surrounding them.

Hunter shook his head, determination etched into every line of his face. "You're not doing Plan 99," he insisted firmly, refusing to leave his comrade behind.

With a silent nod of understanding, the two warriors exchanged a brief glance before turning back to face their enemies, their blasters blazing as they fought tooth and nail to push back the encroaching tide of adversaries.

But amidst the chaos of the firefight, explosions rocked the hangar, sending debris flying in all directions. Caught in the midst of the blast, Hunter was thrown under rubble.

"Hunter!" Wrecker bellowed in alarm as he and Crosshair were ambushed by two of the Clone X troopers, their blaster fire raining down upon them with deadly accuracy. Hunter, trapped beneath loose wreckage.

Meanwhile, Seneca and Beka found themselves facing off against two formidable opponents - Inquisitors, their crimson lightsabers a stark contrast to the chaos around them. Despite their valiant efforts, the overwhelming barrage of blaster fire and the relentless assault of the Inquisitors proved too much to handle. They valiantly battled against their adversaries, their lightsabers clashed against the crimson blades of the Inquisitors. Despite their skill and determination, they found themselves outnumbered and outmatched. With a swift motion, the Inquisitors disarmed them, their lightsabers taken away by their now captors.

Desperation filled the air as Crosshair was thrown back against a pillar. He struggled against the grip of a Clone X trooper, his fingers straining to reach for his blaster. But before he could make a move, he was held down by the trooper's food, holding vibroblade, a sinister smile curling his lips. "You should be more careful with your shooting hand," the trooper taunted, his voice laced with malice as he pressed the blade closer.

As the rain cascaded down over Tantiss Base, Tech, Jetto, and Gruno navigated the corridors with cautious determination, seeking both refuge and a means of escape from the relentless storm and the looming threat of Imperial forces. With each step, the echoes of blaster fire and distant explosions grew louder. Tech's broken ankle slowed their progress, his grimace hidden behind his visor as he gritted his teeth against the pain. Pausing at the entrance to the hangar bay, Tech scanned the area with a practiced eye, assessing the situation and weighing their options. The hangar lay before them, a maze of shadows and looming starships, with the distant sound of patrols echoing through the cavernous space. With a nod of determination, Tech pointed towards a row of shuttles, his voice hushed but urgent. "We need to get to one of those ships," he whispered, his gaze flickering between his companions.

Jetto nodded in silent agreement, his blaster rifle held at the ready as he scanned their surroundings for any signs of danger. Gruno adjusted his hold on Jazzori, his expression a mixture of concern and resolve as he kept a protective watch over their unconscious ally. With careful steps, they ventured into the hangar, their movements deliberate as they sought to avoid detection. As they neared their target, their progress was suddenly interrupted by the sound of approaching footsteps, prompting Tech to gesture for them to take cover behind a stack of cargo crates. Holding their breath, they watched as a pair of stormtroopers passed by, their attention elsewhere as they patrolled the perimeter. With the coast clear, Tech quickly accessed the control panel of the nearest shuttle, his fingers flying across the interface with practiced efficiency. The ship hummed to life, its engines thrumming with newfound energy as Gruno gently laid Jazzori inside, his movements careful yet swift. With the shuttle prepared for departure, Tech and Jetto readied themselves to board, their eyes scanning the hangar for any sign of trouble. Gruno cast a protective glance at Jazzori, silently urging her to awaken and join them in their escape. As the ramp closed behind them, sealing them inside the relative safety of the shuttle, their journey was far from over. With their comrades still unaccounted for and the dangers of Tantiss Base looming large, they knew that their mission was far from over. With determination burning bright in their hearts, they set their sights on finding their allies and emerging victorious against the forces of darkness that threatened them at every turn.

As Valree and the kids found themselves cornered by three stormtroopers, she swiftly drew her daggers, ready to fend off any threat. Her stance was firm, and her eyes glinted with determination as she prepared to protect the children at any cost. But before the troopers could make a move, Echo, concealed among them, swiftly took action, eliminating the threat with precision.

With the immediate danger averted, Omega rushed forward, her relief palpable as she embraced Echo. "Echo!" she beamed, her eyes sparkling with gratitude.

"Hey kiddo," Echo greeted Omega with a warm hug. "Dr. Karr, where's the nearest transport?"

"In bay four," Dr. Karr replied promptly.

Echo nodded, maintaining his calm demeanor. "Sprig, go with Dr. Karr to get the kids to safety," he instructed, his voice steady and reassuring.

Omega's curiosity was piqued by Echo's use of the unfamiliar alias. "Whose Sprig?" she inquired, her brow furrowing as she glanced between Echo and Valree for an explanation.

Valree exchanged a knowing glance with Echo before turning her attention to the small droid that had emerged behind Echo's leg. "So, that's his name," Valree remarked, acknowledging the droid with a nod.

"But where is everyone else?" Omega inquired anxiously, her concern for her brothers evident.

"They're probably still in their cells," Dr. Karr interjected, her voice calm but urgent.

Valree, her gaze steady and determined, addressed the group. "Get the kids to safety," she ordered, her tone leaving no room for argument.

Omega hesitated, torn between her desire to find her brothers and the need to ensure the safety of the younger children. Valree exchanged a meaningful glance with Echo, silently communicating their shared understanding of Omega's dilemma. With a decisive nod from Valree, Omega made her decision, her determination resolute as she prepared to follow Echo and Valree's lead. As they head back into Tantiss Base, Echo asks Omega if she is ready.

As Beka and Seneca were held down by the cold grip of force cuffs and chains, their hearts sank as they watched their teammates endure unspeakable torture at the hands of their captors.

Unable to intervene, Beka and Seneca felt a sense of helplessness wash over them, their minds racing with thoughts of escape and rescue. Every scream of pain, every anguished cry only fueled their determination to break free from their bonds and put an end to the Empire's reign of terror.

Despite the odds stacked against them, Beka's eyes blazed with a fierce determination, her jaw set in a steely resolve. Seneca's gaze burned with a fiery intensity as she silently vowed to stand strong against their oppressors, refusing to let fear or despair weaken their spirits.

As they endured the harrowing ordeal of watching their comrades suffer, Beka and Seneca found strength in each other's unwavering courage, knowing that as long as they stood together, there was hope for a brighter future beyond the shadows of Tantiss Base.

"Your resistance is futile," one of the Inquisitors sneered, his voice dripping with malice as he held Beka's lightsaber aloft. "You cannot hope to stand against the might of the Empire."

As Seneca's jaw clenched with determination, she locked eyes with her captor, her defiance unyielding in the face of oppression. "We will never bow to the likes of you," she declared boldly, her voice resonating with unwavering resolve. But before she could finish her sentence, a sudden jolt of agony surged through her body as a taser stick made contact, sending searing pain coursing through her veins. Beka, chained beside her, let out a pained scream as the electric shock wracked their bodies, causing smoke to rise from their singed flesh. Despite the excruciating pain, Seneca gritted her teeth, refusing to give her captors the satisfaction of seeing her broken.

Across from them, Wrecker found himself subjected to brutal torture at the hands of his captors. Bound and helpless, he gritted his teeth against the pain of electroshock containment device, as he endured the torment inflicted upon him. Dr. Hemlock oversaw the interrogation of Hunter, subjecting him to electroshock torture as well. As the currents surged through his body, Hunter remained defiant, his gaze unwavering despite the agony he endured.

"You won't break up," Hunter spat, his voice filled with defiance as he stared down his tormentor.

Hemlock's lips curled into a sinister smile as she surveyed her captive. "You underestimate the power of the Empire," he taunted, his voice cold and calculating. "You will be reprogrammed into loyal servants of the Emperor, whether you like it or not." Crosshair lay fastened to an operating table, his body restrained as Hemlock prepared to subject him to her twisted experiments. With a menacing glint in her eye, she explained her plans to reprogram them into Clone X operatives, his words dripping with cruelty and malice.

"You may resist now, but soon you will see the truth of our cause," one of the Inquisitors declared, his voice laced with arrogance as he gazed down at Beka and Seneca. "The Emperor's will cannot be denied."

Seneca's eyes blazed with defiance as she met the Inquisitor's gaze. "We will never submit to tyranny," she repeated her vow, her voice ringing out with unwavering determination.

Beka's jaw clenched with resolve as she echoed her comrade's sentiment. "Never," she said, her voice filled with defiance as she stared down her captors.

As the operation on of the ongoing torture to commence, an Imperial officer informs Hemlock that he has received a transmission. "Commander, we've received a transmission from Governor Tarkin," he announced, his voice tinged with urgency.

Hemlock's eyes narrowed with interest as he listened to the officer's report. "What does Tarkin want?" he demanded, his tone betraying a hint of irritation at the interruption.

Entering the detention block, Echo, Valree, and Omega take out the stormtrooper sentries in a gunfight. Omega uses the datapad to free all of the prisoners including Clone troopers, Nala Se, and Rampart. They hand the prisoners guns. Omega deftly manipulated the datapad, her fingers flying across the interface as she bypassed security protocols and unlocked the cell doors. With a hiss of releasing locks, the prisoners emerged, their expressions a mix of relief and determination. "Take these," Omega urged, handing out blasters to the newly liberated prisoners. Omega is delighted to see Nala Se.

As Nala Se stepped forward, her gaze met Omega's with a mix of gratitude and determination. "Thank you," she said, her voice filled with emotion as she accepted the offered weapon.

Meanwhile, Echo engaged in conversation with one of the clones, his brow furrowed with concern as he listened intently to the clone's report. Omega approached him, her expression grim as she delivered her own update. "Echo, the Bad Batch aren't here," she informed him, her tone urgent as she conveyed the gravity of the situation.

The clone nodded in understanding, his eyes narrowing with determination. "Hemlock probably took them to the training room for reconditioning," he speculated, his voice grim as he considered the fate that awaited their comrades.

"Forget them we need to run." Rampart proposes escaping.

Echo turned to face the assembled clone prisoners, his expression resolute as he addressed them. "We need your help to find our friends," he stated, his voice carrying a sense of urgency. "Together, we stand a better chance of rescuing them and putting an end to Hemlock's tyranny."

The clones exchanged determined glances, a silent understanding passing between them. One of them stepped forward, nodding in agreement. "We're with you," he declared, his tone firm with conviction.

Echo offered a grateful nod, his resolve strengthened by their willingness to join the fight. "Thank you," he said, his voice tinged with appreciation. "Let's move quickly. Time is of the essence." They set out to locate and rescue their captured comrades,

"They might be in the training room." One of the clone prisoners explained.

Omega stepped forward, her eyes ablaze with determination. "I know where the training room is," she announced, her voice filled with resolve. "Follow me." With a determined nod, she led the way, her steps purposeful as she guided the group towards their next destination.

"Two of you, help evacuate the wounded prisoners," Echo commanded, his voice steady and authoritative. "The rest of you, follow me. We're triggering an alert in another wing to divide the Imperial forces." With swift efficiency, the clones sprang into action, carrying out Echo's orders as they worked together to disrupt the enemy's plans.

Valree flashed a confident smirk as she twirled her daggers with practiced precision. "Strap in, boys," she remarked.

Omega approached Nala Se, her expression filled with concern and determination. "Nala Se?" she inquired, her voice tinged with urgency.

Nala Se met Omega's gaze with a determined look of her own. "I'm going to destroy the data in my lab," she explained firmly. "We can't let the Empire get their hands on my research."

Omega nodded, understanding the gravity of the situation. "Here," she said, handing Nala Se a detonator bomb.

Nala Se turned to carry out her plan, her steps purposeful as she made her way towards her lab. Rampart, noticing her determination, stepped aside from the main body of clones and followed her, his expression resolute.

Inside the confines of the shuttle, Tech, Gruno, and Jetto were locked in a tense silence as they hurtled through the atmosphere, the roar of Imperial gunships still ringing in their ears. As the shuttle rattled from the impact of enemy fire, Jazzori's eyes snapped open, her senses suddenly alert as adrenaline surged through her veins, propelling her into action alongside her companions.

"What did I miss?" Jazzori inquired, blinking as she tried to make sense of her surroundings.

"Quite a bit," Jetto replied with a wry grin, his eyes reflecting the intensity of the ongoing battle outside the shuttle's viewport.

"You were out for a bit," Gruno replied, concern etched on his face as he glanced over at Jazzori.

Tech's fingers danced across the control panel, his expertise evident as he navigated the vessel through the chaotic airspace. Gruno kept a watchful eye on their surroundings, using the ship's blaster rifle to fire at the enemy. Jetto manned the turret, scanning the skies for any signs of pursuing enemy ships.

Suddenly, alarms blared throughout the cockpit, signaling an incoming threat. Tech's hands flew across the controls as he evaded a barrage of enemy fire, the shuttle rocking violently from the impact.

"We've got incoming!" Jetto shouted from the turret, his voice tense with urgency.

"I see them!" Tech exclaimed, his eyes fixed on the approaching Imperial gunships. With a steely resolve, Tech skillfully maneuvered the shuttle through a series of evasive maneuvers, deftly dodging enemy fire. The team held on tightly, bracing themselves against the turbulence.

Rampart trailed Nala Se as she made her way to her former laboratory, his steps silent as he picked up a fallen soldier's blaster. Entering the laboratory, Nala Se swiftly installed her datapad, activating the lab's systems. As she consulted the computer, Rampart confronted her, his blaster raised, demanding to know about Project Necromancer and its significance to the Emperor.

"What secrets are you hiding, Doctor?" Rampart's voice was laced with urgency and suspicion.

Nala Se remained composed, her expression unreadable as she replied, "You wouldn't understand its implications."

Rampart's grip tightened on his blaster, his tone growing more insistent. "I demand answers, Doctor. What are you hiding?"

Nala Se's fingers hovered over her detonator, a flicker of determination in her eyes as she prepared to act. "Some secrets are best left buried," she responded cryptically, her thumb pressing down on the detonator's trigger in secret.

Using the pneumatic system, Omega quickly relayed the situation to Echo and Valree via comlink. "Hunter, Wrecker, Crosshair, Beka, and Seneca are in the training room," she informed them urgently, her voice tinged with determination. Spotting a lone sentry ahead, Omega assessed the situation. "I can free them if we create a big distraction," she suggested, her mind already formulating a plan.

Echo nodded in agreement, his voice steady as he addressed the group. "Let's move," he commanded, leading the way as they advanced towards the vault's entrance.

As they reached the part of the vault housing the Clone X assassins, Echo and the liberated clones found themselves engaged in a fierce firefight with the troopers guarding the area. Blaster bolts flew in every direction, the chaos of battle engulfing them. Meanwhile, Omega and Valree seized the opportunity to slip past the distracted guard and infiltrate the training room. Accessing a nearby computer terminal, she swiftly began the process of freeing her brothers from captivity.

"Get your brothers, I'll get Seneca and Beka free," Valree whispered to Omega, her tone filled with determination.

Omega nodded in agreement, a silent acknowledgment of their shared mission. With a resolute nod, they split up, each focused on their respective tasks as they worked to free their allies from captivity. As the chaos erupted below, the inquisitors turned their attention toward the commotion, momentarily distracted by the sounds of battle echoing through the corridors. Taking advantage of the diversion, Valree swiftly moved to Beka and Seneca's side, her daggers at the ready. With deft precision, she sliced through the force cuffs binding them, freeing them from their chains. With their hands now liberated, Beka and Seneca called upon the Force, summoning their lightsabers back to their grasp from the hands of the inquisitors.

"Valree, help the clones below," Beka instructed, her voice firm with determination as she prepared to join the fray.

With a nod, Valree leaped into action, her daggers gleaming in the dim light of the chamber. With lightning speed, she hurled her daggers at the approaching enemies, each strike finding its mark with deadly accuracy. With every throw, the daggers returned to her hands as if guided by an unseen force, allowing her to unleash a relentless assault on their adversaries.

In a tense standoff, Beka and Seneca stood poised, their lightsabers ignited in a brilliant display of power. Across from them, the inquisitors mirrored their stance, their own crimson blades casting an ominous glow in the dimly lit chamber.

Omega worked feverishly to free her brothers from their confined prisons. With each tap on the keypad, she could feel time slipping away. Suddenly, Wrecker stirred from his loosened restraints, his muscles flexing as he attempted to break free. But before Omega could celebrate their small victory, her movements caught the attention of a nearby clone sentry. Reacting swiftly, Omega fired her blaster, the stun rounds ricocheting off the trooper's armor with little effect. In an instant, the Clone X trooper had her in his sights, his grip tightening around his blaster as he moved to capture her.

Dr. Hemlock and CX-2 trooper also known as Scorch entered the room, "Ah, Omega, always the spirited one," Dr. Hemlock remarked with a cold smile, his voice laced with malice as he surveyed the chaos around him. "But you see, resistance is futile. Your loyalty to your brothers only serves to hasten your demise." Hemlock's voice cut through the tension, his words a chilling reminder of their dire situation. "Ah, Omega, always the spirited one," Dr. Hemlock remarked with a cold smile, his voice laced with malice as he surveyed the chaos around him. "But you see, resistance is futile. Your loyalty to your brothers only serves to hasten your demise." With a flick of his wrist, Hemlock unleashed a gas into the vault, its noxious fumes enveloping the room and incapacitating several of the liberated clones. As Omega struggled against her captor, she knew their chances of escape were dwindling with each passing moment.

Back in the laboratory, Rampart reveals his plans to use the secrets of Project Necromancer as a bargaining chip to regain favor with the Empire. Rampart smirked triumphantly, his gaze fixed on Nala Se. "You see, Doctor, your precious research will serve a greater purpose under my command," he declared, his voice dripping with arrogance.

Nala Se met his gaze with defiance, her tone resolute. "My research does not belong to you or the Empire," she retorted firmly. With a swift motion, Rampart raised his blaster and fired, the shot striking Nala Se and sending her collapsing to the ground. As she fell, Nala Se's hand released the activated detonator, which clattered to the floor at Rampart's feet. His moment of shock was short-lived as the detonator exploded, engulfing him in a fiery blast and obliterating the databanks, ensuring that Se's research would die with h Nala Se counters that her research does not belong to him nor the Empire. Rampart states that it is no longer hers and shoots her. As Nala Se collapses, she drops the activated detonator, which lands at Rampart's feet. His brief surprise is cut short when the detonator explodes, killing him and destroying the databanks, allowing Nala Se's research to die with her.

As the chaos erupted around them, Echo and Valree found themselves locked in a fierce battle with the blade-wielding CX trooper. Despite their skill and determination, they were soon overpowered by the relentless assault of their adversary. Valree's daggers clashed against the trooper's vibroblade, the sound of metal meeting metal echoing through the vault. With a swift and precise strike, the trooper managed to disarm Valree, leaving her vulnerable to his next attack. Echo, seeing his ally in danger, leapt forward to intervene, but before he could reach her, he was caught off guard by a sudden strike from the trooper. The trooper's vibroblade pierced through Echo's defenses, sending him staggering backward, wounded and vulnerable. As Echo and Valree fought desperately to fend off their assailant, their injuries began to take their toll. Blood seeped from their wounds, staining the floor of the vault as they struggled to maintain their footing.

In the training room, Hemlock's confidence swelled as he surveyed the battered and bruised rogue clones, his triumph seeming assured. However, Scorch's report shattered his illusion of victory, casting uncertainty over their plans.

"You've failed, Hemlock. Your precious data is gone," Omega countered defiantly, her words striking a chord of doubt in Hemlock's mind.

Unfazed, Hemlock asserted his control, stating, "I still have you," to which Omega retorted, "And I still have my brothers."

With a roar, Wrecker broke free of his restraints, unleashing chaos as he hurled a chunk of machinery at their adversaries. As the chaos unfolded, Hunter and Crosshair stirred, their restraints loosening as the gas dispersed. Meanwhile, Echo and Valree rallied their comrades, preparing for the impending confrontation.

As the inquisitors charged at Seneca and Beka, the two Jedi unleashed the power of the Force, driving their adversaries down into the depths of the training room below. Hemlock, desperate to maintain control, tightened his grip on Omega, ensuring her captivity. With a swift and decisive move, Wrecker charged at the trooper, his powerful onslaught creating a distraction that allowed Echo, Valree, and their allies to engage the enemy in a fierce battle.

Hunter, still reeling from his torture, was jolted back to awareness by Crosshair's urgent warning about the impending threat of the CX-2 trooper preparing to shoot. Reacting with lightning reflexes, Hunter kicked his assailant's blaster, causing the shot to miss its mark. With adrenaline coursing through his veins, he seized a nearby taser spear, driving it with precision into CX-2 and effectively neutralizing the threat. Meanwhile, despite his injuries and only having one hand, Crosshair gritted his teeth against the pain and determination surged through him as he staggered to his feet, reaching for the nearest weapon within his grasp.

As the inquisitors rose to their feet, their crimson blades casting glowed in the dimly lit chamber, Seneca and Beka stood ready for the impending battle. Despite the daunting odds, their resolve remained unshaken, their determination burning bright.

"Inquistor come!" Hemlock with a commanding tone, who promptly fell into step behind him, ready to carry out their orders without question.

"Go save Omega, I got this guy," Seneca declared, her voice steady and determined as she locked eyes with her second adversary.

Beka nodded, a confident smirk playing across her lips, "Seneca... Play dirty." As she joined forces with Crosshair and Hunter, their combined strength bolstering their chances against the enemy.

With a nod of acknowledgment, Seneca braced herself for the coming clash, her lightsaber ignited and poised for combat. As the inquisitor advanced, she prepared to unleash her full arsenal of skills. The inquisitor advanced with lethal intent, Seneca stood her ground, her lightsaber poised for battle. With each clash of their sabers, the air crackled with the intensity of their confrontation. Seneca fought with skill and determination, her movements fluid and precise as she countered every strike. With a swift and calculated maneuver, Seneca disarmed her adversary, sending their lightsaber clattering to the ground. Seizing the opportunity, she pressed her advantage, driving her own blade forward with unyielding force. The inquisitor stumbled backward, their defenses faltering under Seneca's relentless assault. In a final, decisive blow, Seneca delivered the finishing strike, her lightsaber piercing through the inquisitor's defenses and extinguishing their life force. As the inquisitor fell, defeated, Seneca stood tall, her gaze unwavering as she declared, "Don't kriff with me or my sons."

As Beka, Crosshair, and Hunter made their way closer to Omega, they were suddenly face to face with their formidable foes.

"Kill them," Hemlock ordered, his voice echoing through the chamber, spurring the inquisitor into action.

The inquisitor, his red lightsaber ignited, stood before them, a formidable obstacle in their path. Beka stepped forward, her determination unwavering as she ignited her two blue blades, ready to face the inquisitor head-on.

"Go get Omega, this one is mine," Beka hissed, her voice edged with determination.

"Beka," began Hunter, his concern evident.

"Hunter, don't argue with me," Beka snapped, her eyes flashing with resolve. She locked gazes with Hunter, conveying her determination. "Go!"

Hunter nodded, understanding the urgency of the situation. With a determined stride, he and Crosshair rushed after Omega, leaving Beka to face the inquisitor alone.

As Hunter and Crosshair emerged into the pouring rain, their eyes locked onto Omega, handcuffed to her assailant, being forced across a long walkway by Hemlock. With determination etched on their faces, they ascended the steps of Tantiss Base, each step bringing them closer to their comrade in need. Meanwhile, inside the base, Echo and Valree grappled with the vibro-blade wielding CX trooper, a fierce struggle unfolding between them. Wrecker, ever the stalwart ally, intervened with a well-aimed shot, bringing down their adversary.

With the threat neutralized, Echo turned to Wrecker, concern etched on his features. "Where's Omega?" he asked, his voice heavy with worry.

Exhausted from the intense combat and his own wounds, Wrecker slumped to the ground, catching his breath. "I... I don't know," he admitted, his voice strained.

As Echo tended to Wrecker, Valree swiftly moved to their side, her daggers at the ready. "We need to find her," she declared, her tone firm and resolute.

"Hunter, Beka, and Crosshair are already after her," Seneca said as she joined the three from her recent fight.

"Echo, Valree, Wrecker, anyone?" Tech's voice crackled through the comms, breaking the tense silence.

"Tech?" Echo responded, relief evident in his tone.

"We have a ship meet us at these coordinates," Tech ordered, his voice steady and determined.

Outside, Hemlock's plan unfolded as he uses a comlink to summon the operative's starship. The ship descended ominously from the rainy skies, a symbol of their impending escape. However, Hunter and Crosshair were quick to react, their blasters aimed at the ship's engines. With precision and determination, they fired, sending the ship hurtling into the jungle below. But their victory was short-lived as Scorch, the last remaining threat, turned to stall them. Before he could make a move, his blaster was shot out of his hands. Panic flashed across his face as he realized he was outmatched. In a swift moment, he was dispatched, his form disappearing over the railing.

"Don't come any closer or we will go over." Hemlock held Omega at gunpoint, threatening to go over the edge of the bridge with her.

Hunter, noticing Omega's surgical tool, instructed Crosshair, "Shoot the magnetic binders," Hunter commanded Crosshair.

"I... I can't, they're too close to..." Crosshair began.

"Just wait, trust Omega, she knows what she's doing," Hunter reassured.

With a quick jab, Omega stabbed Hemlock's thigh, causing him to recoil in pain and raise his arm along with the binders. Seizing the opportunity, Crosshair shot the binders, freeing Omega. As she fled, Hunter and Crosshair unleashed a barrage of blaster fire on Hemlock, sending him plummeting into the jungle below.

Before Omega could reach her brothers, the door burst open, and they watched in horror as Beka was sent flying through the air. She landed near the railing of the bridge, clutching her side in pain. The inquisitor swiftly positioned themselves between Omega and Beka, a formidable barrier standing in their way. In the chaos, Beka dropped one of her lightsabers, which the inquisitor promptly kicked out of her reach.

"This is where you die, Jedi," the inquisitor sneered, dropping a detonator onto the bridge with a cruel laugh.

"Omega, run!" Beka's voice echoed with urgency as she charged at the inquisitor. Just as the detonator exploded, the bridge began to shatter, sending debris cascading into the abyss below. Omega found herself, but in a moment of desperation, Beka summoned the Force, guiding her for Hunter and Crosshair to catch her just in time, preventing her from plummeting into the void.

As the rain poured down in torrents, Beka engaged in a fierce duel with the inquisitor with her remaining lightsaber, their lightsabers clashing in a dazzling display of skill and determination. With each strike and parry, Beka fought with all her might, her resolve unwavering even in the face of overwhelming odds. However, despite her best efforts, she soon found herself outmatched, her defenses faltering under the relentless assault of her adversary. With a swift and decisive move, the inquisitor delivered a powerful blow that sent Beka crashing to the ground, her lightsaber tumbling from her grasp. As she struggled to regain her footing, the inquisitor loomed over her, pressing one foot down on her chest with an iron grip while the other on her hand that was gripping her lightsaber. Beka now pinned on the rain-soaked pavement below.

With a swift and cruel motion, the inquisitor drove their lightsaber into Beka's left shoulder, eliciting a sharp cry of agony from her lips. Gripped by searing pain, Beka clenched her teeth, her face contorted in anguish as she struggled against the excruciating torment coursing through her body.

The inquisitor loomed over her, their gaze cold and indifferent as they taunted her with cruel words. "You are the weakest Jedi I have ever defeated," they sneered, their voice dripping with disdain and contempt.

"Beka!" Hunter's voice rang out, filled with concern and urgency as he and Crosshair unleashed a barrage of blaster fire at the inquisitor. However, their efforts seemed futile as the inquisitor skillfully deflected the shots with their lightsaber, their movements calculated and precise. Despite their relentless assault, the inquisitor remained unfazed, their focus unwavering as they continued to press their advantage against the injured Jedi.

"Foolish clones!" The inquisitor sneered, their attention momentarily diverted by Hunter and Crosshair's futile attempts to harm them. Seizing the opportunity, Beka summoned her lightsaber back to her hand with a twitch and a swift motion.

With a surge of determination, Beka used her free hand to push the inquisitor off of her with the force, summoning all her strength. With both of her blue lightsabers now ignited, she lunged forward, her movements swift and precise. As she clashed blades with the inquisitor, determination burned in her eyes. "You think I'm weak?" Beka's voice rang out, filled with conviction. "I've been holding back because I sensed your pain, but now I see it's nothing but hatred." With each strike, she pushed harder, her resolve unwavering as she continued her relentless barrage. With a swift movement, Beka cut off the inquisitor's hand that held their red lightsaber, her blue blades slicing through with precision.

"This... This is not the Jedi way!" the inquisitor exclaimed in anguish, their voice filled with disbelief.

"The Jedi way is to defend the innocent and stand against tyranny. Sometimes, that means making tough decisions to protect others." Beka declared firmly. All eyes watched as a blue lightsaber pierced through of the inquisitor's neck, causing them to stumble back. "Don't ever come near me or my family ever again," she gritted her teeth, her determination unwavering. With a final decisive move, Beka swiftly sliced off the inquisitor's head. Their body stumbled, then fell off the bridge, disappearing into the darkness below.

As Beka panted, her shoulder throbbing with pain, she summoned her strength for one final leap over the gap on the bridge. Landing on the other side, she looked at Omega and then at the two clones before her. With a weary sigh, she collapsed to her knees from exhaustion. Hunter, Crosshair, and Omega rushed to Beka's side, concern etched on their faces. Omega hugged Beka tightly, gratitude and relief evident in her embrace. Beka returned the hug with equal warmth, tears of relief streaming down her face at the reunion with the young girl she had come to care for deeply. Hunter gently lifted Beka into his arms. As a shuttle approached, Tech and Seneca guided it towards them.

Sometime later, as Tarkin's Star Destroyer looms over the planet, Tarkin himself leads an Imperial detachment, flanked by his loyal shock troopers, towards the battered remains of Tantiss Base. Captain Bragg delivers a report to Tarkin, detailing the extensive damage inflicted upon the base and the loss of life, including that of Hemlock and many troopers.

"Is there any trace of the project data?" Tarkin's voice cut through the tense air, his gaze fixed on Captain Bragg.

Bragg's response was solemn, "No, sir. The databanks were completely destroyed."

Tarkin's frustration was palpable as he processed the news. "Hemlock's incompetence has cost us dearly," he muttered, his tone laced with disappointment. "Shut down the facility immediately. We'll redirect our efforts to Project Stardust

5 notes · View notes

bittybug-sunflower-blog · 1 year ago

Text

Chapter summary: Hunter's team, including Rampart, infiltrates an Imperial station to get Tantiss coordinates. Amidst tension, they disable security and board a science vessel bound for Tantiss. Despite Rampart's objections, they proceed, hitching a ride to Tantiss and leaving the Imperial station behind.

Warning: imprisonment

Word count: 2885

Rating: 18+

Extra: alternate universe story

…..

Chapter 18

As the team briefed on the planet Bora Vio, Rampart made it well known he wasn't happy.

"Why are we even on this blasted planet? Couldn't we just have that pirate take us somewhere else?" Rampart said, his frustration evident in his voice.

"I can put him to sleep," Beka suggested, offering a solution to their predicament.

"Unfortunately, we need him to talk," Hunter grumbled, acknowledging the necessity of their current course of action.

"What are we waiting for?!" Rampart spouted, his impatience growing by the second.

"I can sit on you if you don't stop complaining," Gruno stared down at the little man, his tone carrying a hint of annoyance at Rampart's constant complaints.

"He... he wouldn't dare," Rampart said, his voice trembling with a mixture of fear and defiance.

"Keep complaining; I want him to squash your head," Crosshair said, his tone dripping with hopeful satisfaction.

"I second that," Jetto added, nodding in agreement with Crosshair's sentiment.

"Enough, all of you!" Hunter yelled, his authoritative voice cutting through the tension in the room.

"Hunter, I know that you're worried about Omega, but you aren't the only one who is worried right now," Beka said, pointing at Seneca, who was holding her sides as she looked out into the distance, her concern palpable.

"I've had about enough of your childish antics!" Rampart yelled at the team, his frustration reaching a boiling point.

"That's it! I will send you back to that Imperial labor camp if you don't shut up!" Hunter ordered, his patience wearing thin.

"You need me, remember?" Rampart said, trying to assert his importance to the team.

"Beka should have scrambled your mind until it was nothing but gel," Seneca sneered, her disdain for Rampart evident in her voice as she looked back at him.

"We'll be free from you once we get the coordinates for Tantiss. After that, we don't care what happens to you," Hunter said, his determination clear.

"Who or what are we even waiting for?" Rampart asked, his curiosity piqued as he sought answers amidst the chaos.

The sound of a shuttle approaching gave him his answer. A Rho-class transport shuttle, to be exact. Its ominous presence loomed over them, a stark reminder of the Empire's relentless pursuit. Rampart's jaw tightened with resolve as he prepared for the inevitable confrontation, knowing that their window of opportunity was rapidly closing. The bay doors opened to reveal the sleek vessel within.

"Echo!" Jetto smiled. "Nice ship."

"Thanks, had to steal it, so sorry it's not fancy," Echo explained, with a hint of apology in his voice, acknowledging the necessity of their actions.

"I could have bought us a nice ship," Jazzori added, a touch of regret evident in his tone.

"We needed to not be traced, Jazzori," Jetto said, emphasizing the importance of discretion.

"And a stolen one won't draw attention?" Crosshair added, raising a valid point.

"Technically yes, but considering short notice, we do need to move fast," Tech added, offering a practical perspective.

"Everything we need will be onboard," Echo said, instilling confidence in the team. Everyone started boarding the ship. Echo put a hand on Hunter to stop him for a second. "Can we actually trust Rampart?"

Hunter looked at Rampart, then looked at Beka, who returned his gaze with a silent reassurance. Her face said nothing, but her eyes conveyed a message, "Trust yourself."

"No, but we need him," Hunter said firmly, acknowledging the uncomfortable truth.

Echo sighed, a weight of resignation settling upon him. As they all boarded and took their seats, Seneca, a natural pilot, sat beside Echo.

"Uh, that's usually where I..." began Tech, interrupted by Seneca's outburst.

"My kids have been taken, we're taking in a total chizk here, do you really want to test me right now, Tech?!" Seneca yelled, her frustration boiling over.

"Carry on, Commander," Tech said with Sprig, hiding behind his legs.

"Start talking, now," Wrecker said, his tone leaving no room for argument, as Jetto and Gruno stood behind him, ready to enforce his command if necessary.

"I don't know where Tantiss is; Hemlock kept it classified," Rampart said sheepishly, his reluctance evident in his demeanor.

"But?" Beka said, her gaze piercing as she stood over Rampart menacingly, demanding answers.

"You can get the coordinates from Imperial Station 003. There they will be transmitted the information to your ship," Rampart said in a cowardly manner, shifting uncomfortably under Beka's scrutiny.

"I know Imperial Station 003 exists, but he better be telling the truth about the information," Echo said, his skepticism evident in his tone.

"I looked into his mind; he's telling the truth," Beka confirmed, her Jedi abilities providing clarity amidst the deception.

"This is why I'm having headaches?! You Jedi can't understand the words 'personal intrusive'?" Rampart complained, frustration evident in his voice as he attempted to deflect blame.

"We could find a ship that's going to Tantiss," Jazzori suggested, offering an alternative course of action.

"We would need clearance codes," Crosshair added, highlighting a potential obstacle.

"I got that covered," Echo said confidently.

"They change them every rotation," Rampart remarked.

"This Imperial station, it orbits Coruscant?" Jetto asked, seeking clarification on their mission parameters.

"Yes, that means we have to be fast and stealthy," Hunter confirmed, his tone leaving no room for doubt.

Jetto turned around and started trying to reach Valree, but there was nothing but static, adding another layer of uncertainty to their already precarious situation.

Meanwhile, on Tantiss, Valree started snooping around the base, her movements cautious as she sought any possible way to reach Omega and the boys, her determination driving her forward despite the risks. Valree crouched behind a stack of crates, her heart pounding in her chest as she surveyed the chaos unfolding around her. The Tantiss base was overrun with stormtroopers, their white armor a stark contrast against the darkened corridors. She needed to get in contact with her team, but every attempt was met with interference or the risk of being discovered. As she cautiously made her way through the labyrinthine passages of the base, Valree kept her senses sharp, her keen eyes scanning for any sign of danger. She knew she couldn't afford to be caught by the Empire's forces. Ducking into a maintenance alcove, Valree retrieved her comlink, fingers trembling slightly as she attempted to establish a connection. Static greeted her efforts, frustration building with each failed attempt. The something seemed to disrupt the signal, making communication nearly impossible. With a frustrated sigh, Valree pocketed her comlink and pressed on, determined to find a solution.

Back on the ship, Hunter and Crosshair meticulously went over the plan three times with Rampart, ensuring every detail was understood and accounted for.

"You will be impersonating an Imperial officer; we will go in as clone guards," Hunter explained, his voice steady and commanding.

Echo tossed Rampart an Imperial uniform, prompting a reaction from the disgruntled former ViceAdmiral.

"It says captain on it!" Rampart exclaimed, his frustration evident.

"So?" Echo retorted, his tone unyielding.

"I was a Vice Admiral."

"You've been demoted."

"I hate clones."

"We're exiting hyperspace," Seneca called from the cockpit, interrupting the exchange and signaling their imminent arrival.

Jetto had just finished stripping the designs and colors off Crosshair, Hunter, and his armor, leaving them black and bare, a necessary measure to blend in seamlessly with their surroundings. "Best I could do," Jetto sighed, resigning himself to the limitations of their current situation as he replaced his helmet.

As the shuttle approached Imperial Station 003, Rampart reluctantly donned a Captain's uniform while the clones disguised themselves as Imperial commandos, their preparations complete as they braced for the challenges ahead.

"We need a landing clearance," Technician requested their identification, initiating the next phase of their mission.

Echo responded, "We are transport shuttle Alpha-44," transmitting their landing codes with practiced precision.

"You are all clear to land," the technician confirmed, granting them clearance to Docking Bay 5-02, a crucial step towards their objective. After terminating communications, Hunter issued a stark reminder, emphasizing the need for swift action in the face of impending scrutiny.

"Will I be released after this?" Rampart demanded an assurance, seeking reassurance amidst the uncertainty of their alliance.

"You will have to trust us," Crosshair responded, his words carrying the weight of their collective resolve.

"Be careful," Wrecker cautioned, his concern for his comrades evident in his gruff voice.

"Tech, Wrecker, keep the comms open. Beka and Seneca, be on watch out. Gruno and Jazzori, be a distraction if needed," Hunter instructed, assigning roles with meticulous attention to detail. Then, he turned to Sprig, acknowledging the droid's importance in their mission.

"You, little guy, we might need your help," Hunter said, recognizing Sprig's unique capabilities.

Sprig looked at Beka, seeking confirmation in her unwavering gaze, before beeping in affirmations of doubt, "I need you trust him. He is someone I trust with my life, and I trust to keep safe." Beka said. With a final word of encouragement from Beka, the droid followed Hunter. "Hunter." Beka called. Hunter turned to Beka, "Be careful."

Hunter nodded before the bay doors closed, a silent acknowledgment of his feelings towards Beka.

"I should be out there tearing these guys limb from limb!" Seneca groaned, her frustration bubbling to the surface as she longed to take direct action.

"Seneca, I understand you're angry, but don't let your anger cloud you; we need a clear head right now," Beka said, her voice calm and steady, offering guidance and support in the face of Seneca's righteous fury.

Outside, a bearded Imperial officer confronted the group, his gaze sharp as he scrutinized their presence. "You there!" he barked, his voice commanding attention. "Your shuttle is not on the docking manifest for today. What division do you belong to?"

Rampart stepped forward, his demeanor oozing with false confidence. "These soldiers are from my division," he asserted, his tone authoritative. "Our orders are classified. If you doubt me, check with Governor Wilhuff Tarkin."

The Lieutenant hesitated, clearly unsure, but ultimately backed down, offering a begrudging apology, "Sorry sir." As they walked out of sight.

Rampart smirked triumphantly. "I missed this," he muttered under his breath before leading the Bad Batch and Jetto inside. In a dimly lit corridor, the group navigated past several TK stormtroopers, their presence a reminder of the Empire's iron grip. They also passed by an MSE series mouse droid and another droid, their movements seemingly inconspicuous amidst the bustling activity. Approaching the control room, guarded by two stoic stormtroopers, Rampart sprang into action, his words laced with thinly veiled threats. "Report to the barracks for further orders," he commanded, his tone brooking no argument. "Violating Article 15 of Imperial Standing Order 10 is not something you want to risk."

The five made it to the control room. Rampart wasted no time, his request for the station's manifest met with suspicion by an Imperial weapons technician. Sensing the tension escalating, Hunter intervened swiftly, stunning the technician with precision. Echo wasted no time, utilizing his cybernetic scomp link to access the computer, his fingers dancing across the interface with practiced efficiency. Jetto kept watch for more troopers if they were to head their way.

Meanwhile, back at the hangar, the Lieutenant approached Wrecker and Tech, his demeanor wary as he questioned an inconsistency in the shuttle's manifest. Wrecker, ever the tactician, led him inside the shuttle's cargo hold, his actions swift as he incapacitated the Lieutenant, ensuring their infiltration remained undetected. Though a few more troopers approached, Beka and Seneca incapacitated them using the force.

While Echo and Sprig accessed the computer, Wrecker updated the clones about the Imperial lieutenant via comlink, "Uh we kind drawn some attention." His voice crisp and clear amidst the static of the transmission.

"Hang in there, Wrecker, we almost got it." Echo said.

"Jazzori is distracting them but she can only do so much." Tech explained.

"And so, as you see why I'm on this station is because I was assigned to see what equipment needs the proper funds." Jazzori said as she tried to divert the guards away from the shuttle.

"We're losing time." Beka panicked.

Echo's fingers flew across the keyboard as he processed the information, his focus unwavering despite the mounting pressure. "Got it," Echo confirmed, his voice steady as he relayed his findings to the team.

Hunter's brow furrowed in thought as he considered their next move. "We need those coordinates," he stated firmly, his determination evident.

Echo glanced up from the computer, his expression thoughtful. "There's a science vessel docked in Bay 8, scheduled to depart for Tantiss soon," he reported, his tone tinged with uncertainty.

Crosshair interjected, his skepticism palpable. "That means we won't be able to pull the coordinates once it launches," he pointed out, his voice laced with frustration.

Rampart shrugged nonchalantly. "I don't take an interest in such technical details," he admitted, his indifference clear.

Hunter's gaze hardened as he formulated a plan. "We board the science vessel," he declared, his voice resolute. "Echo, you disable the proximity sensors once you're aboard. We'll hitch a ride to Tantiss."

Rampart protested, "Are you mad?" His objections falling on deaf ears as Hunter silenced any dissent.

"Plans change," Crosshair remarked bluntly, his tone leaving no room for argument.

"I hate to barer of bad news, but we got imperials and troopers heading in our direction." Jetto warned holding up his blaster riffle.

"Let's go, everyone move, move." Hunter ordered.

Back at Tantiss Base, the children played among one another, their laughter echoing faintly through the corridors. Isaac stood guard, a protective presence as he shielded Lon from the probing eyes of the doctors who came in to do bloodwork on them. Meanwhile, Omega moved among the group, offering words of comfort and reassurance to the frightened children, her gentle touch a balm to their troubled spirits. In the midst of uncertainty and fear, they found solace in each other's company, united by a bond forged in adversity.

At the Imperial space station, Echo infiltrated the Imperial science vessel's hangar, his movements calculated and precise as he slipped past the stormtroopers boarding the ship. Every step was measured, every shadow a potential hiding spot as he navigated the bustling hangar with silent determination. Suddenly, he was startled by Sprig's presence, the droid appearing seemingly out of nowhere. "What are you doing here? You need to be with Hunter," Echo whispered urgently, his voice barely audible over the din of activity. Sprig beeped in embarrassment, its spherical frame quivering slightly. "Just stay close," Echo ordered, his tone firm yet reassuring as he gestured for the droid to follow him. In the midst of the chaos, they had to rely on stealth and cunning to achieve their objectives, their every move shrouded in secrecy as they worked to outmaneuver the Empire's watchful gaze. Inside the science vessel, Lieutenant Novitz ordered his crew to initiate the launch sequence, the hum of machinery filling the air as they prepared for departure.

Back on their shuttle, Hunter, Crosshair, Jetto, and Rampart prepared for the next phase of their mission, their resolve unwavering as they awaited Echo's signal.

"Where's Sprig?" Beka asked, her concern evident in her voice.

Jetto looked around, scanning the cramped confines of the shuttle. "He must be with Echo," he replied.

"We have to get him," Beka insisted, her determination unwavering.

"He's with Echo, and we have little time at the moment," Crosshair interjected, his tone firm as he emphasized the urgency of their situation.

"Jazzori." Jetto called. Jazzori excused herself from the guards and made it back onto the ship.

Just then, Echo's voice crackled over the comms, cutting through the tension like a knife. His tone was urgent, his instructions clear. "Disabling the proximity sensors," he explained, his words a call to action that spurred the team into motion. With their mission hanging in the balance, there was no time to waste as they prepared to execute their daring plan. As the stolen shuttle tailed the science vessel, the tension reached its peak.

The crew of the science vessel alerts their captain to abnormal droid activity detected in the rear of the ship. As the team and Rampart anxiously await Echo's signal to disable the proximity sensors, Echo swiftly incapacitates a stormtrooper who ventures to investigate the suspicious activity. With the path momentarily cleared, Echo signals to the team, granting approval to proceed with their plan.

As the team strapped in, Rampart expressed, "Abort the mission."

Hunter on the other hand, remained resolute in his determination to press forward. As Crosshair and Wrecker restrain Rampart, Seneca and Tech assumes control of the situation, taking the helm of the shuttle. Echo swiftly disables the proximity sensors, buying precious time for the other clones to attach the shuttle to the science vessel's hull before it makes the jump into hyperspace. With Echo's signal, Seneca seized control, her hands steady as she guided their shuttle into position.

"Abort the mission." Rampart broke from his Wrecker and Crosshair, demanding they listen to him.

"Negative." Hunter replied.

With a final burst of speed, the shuttle attached itself to the science vessel, their journey to Tantiss set in motion as they jumped into hyperspace, leaving behind the Imperial space station in their wake.

3 notes · View notes

bittybug-sunflower-blog · 1 year ago

Text

Chapter summary: Senator Organa meets with Seneca, Beka, and their team to commend their achievements and reveals that a Jedi named Caleb Dume has been captured by the Hutts on Nar Shaddaa. Determined to rescue him, the team participates in a high-stakes pod race with Caleb as the prize.

Warning: slavery/trafficking

Word count: 4012

Rating: 18+

Extra: alternate universe story

…..

Chapter 14

"Senator Organa," Seneca said, bowing respectfully. Beka mirrored the gesture, standing poised beside Seneca.

"Please, no need for formalities," Organa replied warmly, his eyes crinkling with a smile as he approached Seneca, clasping her hand in his own. "Quite an impressive race."

"Thank you, Senator," Seneca responded, her expression brightening with pride at the acknowledgment of her achievement.

As they exchanged pleasantries, the atmosphere seemed to soften, the tension of the moment momentarily lifted by the genuine camaraderie between them. It was a rare moment of respite amidst the tumult of their current circumstances.

Organa nodded, his expression thoughtful as he turned to Tech. "Your skills are commendable, Tech?" he remarked, his tone carrying genuine appreciation. "It's not often we see such talent like that, minus your little explosion." He jeered just a bit. He extended his hand to the goggled-eyed man, a gesture of respect and admiration for Tech's remarkable abilities.

"Thank you, Senator Organa," Tech replied returning the handshake, his voice tinged with a hint of pride. "It's an honor to have my efforts recognized."

Senator Organa then turned to Beka, his arms outstretched as he hugged his former friend. "Grateful to see you alive, my friend," he said, his voice filled with genuine relief and affection.

Beka returned the embrace, feeling a surge of gratitude for his warmth and support. emotion. "You as well, Senator," Beka said, returning the embrace with genuine warmth. As they held each other for a moment, a sense of relief washed over them both, grateful for the opportunity to reconnect amidst the chaos of their current circumstances.

"I hate to jump into this," Organa began, his voice tinged with urgency as he glanced between Seneca and Beka. "I must speak with Jazzori on an urgent matter. Seneca, Beka, this involves you as well."

Seneca and Beka exchanged a quick glance, their expressions reflecting a mix of curiosity and concern. "Of course, Senator," Seneca replied, her tone resolute as she gestured for Organa to follow.

As the three made their way to Jazzori, the urgency in their steps seemed to mirror the gravity of the situation at hand. Meanwhile, the rest of the team remained puzzled, exchanging questioning glances amongst themselves as they watched their companions depart. Walking into Shep's office, the atmosphere shifted, the air heavy with anticipation as they awaited Organa's explanation. The room seemed to shrink with the weight of the impending revelation, casting a sense of unease over the gathered group.

"Forgive us for the intrusion, Mayor," Organa apologized, his tone respectful as he addressed Shep.

"Senator Organa, please, no intrusion. How can I help you?" Shep replied, his demeanor calm yet attentive.

"With no disrespect, I just need to borrow Jazzori for a few moments," Organa explained, his voice tinged with urgency as he glanced towards Jazzori.

Jazzori immediately got up, a furrow forming between her brows as she followed the three outside the office. "Senator Organa, what's wrong?" she asked, her concern palpable in her voice.

"A Jedi has been spotted in outer rim territory, Nar Shaddaa," Organa explained. Beka and Seneca's eyes widened. "Caleb Dume, he contacted me before being captured by one of the Hutts and sold."

"Sold? Sold to who?" Seneca's voice carried a note of concern as she sought clarification.

"I'm not too sure," Organa admitted, his tone tinged with uncertainty, reflecting the gravity of the situation.

Seneca, Beka, and Jazzori exchanged knowing glances, their silent communication reflecting their shared determination to assist in whatever way they could. "How do we help?" Beka voiced their collective sentiment, her tone brimming with readiness.

Organa nodded, his expression grave yet determined, as he handed them a holopad. "Everything is on here," he explained, the weight of the information evident in his words.

The four of them looked at one another, their heads bent over the holopad as they absorbed the details of the urgent matter at hand. With each passing moment, their resolve strengthened, their commitment to the mission unwavering.

As the team began preparing to depart, Hunter sauntered up to Beka with a playful grin. "Feels like every time we have a moment, it gets interrupted," he teased lightly, his eyes dancing with mischief.

"You look like you're about to head out too," Beka replied, returning his smile with a hint of warmth.

"Rex needs our help on Tatooine," Hunter explained, his tone serious despite the playful banter.

"Beka, we're ready!" Jetto's voice echoed from the hangar, punctuating the urgency of their mission.

"May the Force be with you," Beka murmured, planting a quick kiss on Hunter's cheek before striding purposefully towards her ship.

As the ship soared into hyperspace, Hunter couldn't shake the warmth that spread through him at Beka's gesture, a feeling of connection.

"You two should just get together already," Echo's voice chimed in, breaking the momentary silence with a hint of amusement.

"Yeah," Wrecker added with a playful grin, punctuating his comment with mimicked kissing noises.

Hunter rolled his eyes good-naturedly as he boarded the Marauder, the teasing banter of his teammates serving as a lighthearted distraction from the gravity of their mission.

"Why don't you and Beka get together?" Omega's voice piped up, her curiosity mirroring that of their counterparts on the other team.

Meanwhile, Valree voiced a similar sentiment, her tone tinged with genuine interest. "Seriously, why don't you?" she queried.

"I sense he's scared," Beka shrugged, her response tinged with a hint of uncertainty.

The scene continued to shift back and forth between the two teams, their conversations weaving a tapestry of camaraderie and shared experiences.

"No, seriously, why?" Echo pressed, his curiosity piqued by the dynamics between Hunter and Beka.

"It's complicated," Hunter replied, his tone reflective as he grappled with the complexities of their relationship.

"All relationships are complicated; this is no different," Jazzori interjected, her words carrying a note of wisdom born from experience.

"Is it because you're scared to be vulnerable?" Tech added, his tone thoughtful as he considered the complexities of their relationship dynamics.

"Maybe?" Beka responded, her expression tinged with a hint of confusion, her gaze flickering uncertainly between her teammates.

"I think it's because you've both been in war," Valree chimed in, her observation reflecting a keen understanding of the toll that their past experiences had taken on them.

"War didn't really have anything to do with it," Hunter interjected, his tone firm as he sought to dispel any misconceptions about the root of their hesitations.

"Maybe due to her Jedi code?" Omega suggested, her voice tinged with curiosity as she considered the potential influence of Beka's upbringing on her actions.

"I know what it is," Seneca smirked, her eyes twinkling with mischief as she prepared to reveal her insight.

"What is it then?" Beka retorted, her curiosity piqued by Seneca's confident demeanor.

"You're scared another dangerous mission will make her leave again," Tech responded, his words cutting through the air with a clarity that left no room for argument.

"You're scared you're going to hurt him again," Seneca added, her tone gentle yet firm as she addressed Beka directly, her words carrying the weight of truth.

Both Hunter and Beka exchanged a knowing glance to their teams, their expressions softening as they recognized the validity of Tech and Seneca's assessment. In that moment, it became clear that their fears were rooted in a shared desire to protect each other from further pain and uncertainty.

With a silent understanding passing between them, Hunter and Beka looked down, their hearts heavy with the realization that their hesitations had been laid bare. But amidst the vulnerability of that moment, there was also a sense of relief in the knowledge that their fears had been acknowledged and understood.

"Beka, I've known all my life. You must stop punishing yourself," Seneca said, her voice firm yet compassionate, as she addressed her friend with unwavering sincerity.

"Hunter, she's been through war like we have. If anything, she values our lives more because of all the stuff we've all endured," Echo chimed in, his words carrying a sense of understanding born from shared experiences.

"Look, when we get back to Pabu, you two will talk it out," Gruno smirked, his tone laced with a hint of playful encouragement.

"Talk it out," Crosshair added, his words concise yet laden with meaning, as he echoed Gruno's sentiment with a knowing look.

Both Hunter and Beka let out a big sigh, their shoulders slumping slightly under the weight of the unresolved tension between them. But amidst the exhaustion of their internal struggles, there was also a glimmer of hope in the prospect of finally addressing the issues that had long plagued their relationship.

As Seneca's team landed on Nar Shaddaa, the first thing Jazzori made everyone do was change into fancy clothing, her insistence on proper attire reflecting the importance of their upcoming engagement.

"This is a gala," Jazzori explained, her tone matter of fact as she ushered her team into a world of opulence and extravagance.

"Why doesn't Seneca have to change?" Jetto asked, his curiosity piqued by the exception made for their pilot.

"Pilots are already in uniform," Seneca smirked, her confidence evident as she embraced her role with characteristic ease.

As they all entered the gala, they stared in disbelief at the high rise of luxury everything, their senses overwhelmed by the grandeur of their surroundings.

"Keep your heads down; I'll do the talking," Jazzori instructed, her voice commanding as she assumed control of the situation with practiced ease.

"Is she always like this?" Jetto whispered to Seneca, his awe evident in his tone as he observed Jazzori's commanding presence.

"This is her on her good days," Seneca smirked, her admiration for her leader evident in her words as she followed Jazzori's lead with unwavering trust.

"Hello, Kodo, Linor, good to see you two again," Jazzori greeted, her voice carrying a note of familiarity as she approached the two Gran with confidence and poise.

"Jazzori, how lovely to see you," Kodo said, his voice smooth as he leaned in to kiss her cheek, his gesture laden with familiarity and charm.

"Who are they?" Jetto whispered to Seneca, his curiosity piqued by the interaction unfolding before them.

"Kodo and Linor Baize, wealthy businessmen and brothers," Seneca whispered back, her tone tinged with a hint of reverence as she provided context for Jetto's query, her stance poised and respectful.

"Are you going to introduce us to your friends here?" Linor inquired, his tone casual yet expectant as he glanced towards Jazzori.

"Forgive me, Linor, this is Jetto, Rebekath, Valree, and you remember my pilot Seneca and my bodyguard Gruno," Jazzori introduced, her voice carrying a note of familiarity as she gestured towards each member of her team in turn, her demeanor confident and assured.

"Lovely for you all to be here; please, enjoy the gala," Linor replied, his words accompanied by a gracious smile as he welcomed them into the lavish surroundings.

"Jazzori, did you hear we have a big race today? Did Seneca sign up for this one?" Linor continued, his tone laced with intrigue as he broached the topic of the upcoming event.

"I don't believe she has. What's the prize for this one?" Jazzori inquired, her interest piqued by the mention of the race and its potential rewards.

Linor leaned in, his smirk evident as he revealed the coveted prize. "A Jedi," he whispered, his words carrying a hint of excitement and intrigue.

Beka, listening in, perked up her ears at the mention of a Jedi, her curiosity immediately sparked by the revelation.

"You don't say," Jazzori replied, her tone tinged with amusement as she played along with Linor's revelation.

"Yes, he was captured on Sereno not too long ago," Linor continued, his smirk widening as he divulged further details about the captive Jedi.

"Well, having a Jedi in my wake will surely cause the Empire to come for everyone here," Jazzori remarked, her tone tinged with faux concern as she contemplated the implications of possessing such an asset.

"Well, my dear, that's the thing. The Empire gave him to us, wants to know what breaks a Jedi," Linor smiled, his tone laced with a hint of satisfaction as he revealed the true stakes of the race.

"Well, I have to get my pilot in this race. Seneca, go get ready for this race; we're winning ourselves a new servant," Jazzori declared, her determination evident in her tone as she issued the directive to her team.

Linor excused himself, leaving the team to grapple with the implications of his revelation.

"How can you talk like that and be associated with these people?" Valree asked, her disgust palpable as she addressed Jazzori directly.

"Trust me, Val, I don't like it either. Play the part, you get the information you need," Jazzori sighed, her response tinged with resignation as she acknowledged the moral complexities of their situation.

"Can you win this one? I sense they'll play dirty," Beka asked Seneca, her concern evident in her voice as she sought reassurance from her teammate.

"They always play dirty, but I play dirtier," Seneca smirked, her confidence radiating as she spoke with a hint of mischief in her voice. With a glint of determination in her eye, she prepared to enter the race with a strategic edge, ready to outmaneuver her opponents and emerge victorious, no matter the odds stacked against her.

As they all sat on the bleachers, they stared at the racers, their eyes fixated on the high-speed spectacle unfolding before them.

"Pod racing?" Valree asked, her voice tinged with disbelief as she observed the daring maneuvers of the racers below.

"Unfortunately," Jazzori murmured, her tone laced with a hint of resignation as she contemplated the inherent dangers of the sport, her gaze lingering on the track with a mixture of caution and concern.

As the announcer introduced the racers, they also introduced the "prize": a young Caleb Dume, his appearance disheveled, his clothes torn and dirt-covered, a stark testament to the hardships he had endured. His gaunt frame and weary expression spoke volumes, painting a poignant picture of a soul in desperate need of liberation from captivity. As the crowd murmured in disbelief at the sight before them, a palpable sense of empathy filled the air, igniting a collective determination to see justice served and freedom restored to the captive Jedi.

"What if Seneca loses?" Jetto whispered, his voice tinged with concern as he contemplated the potential consequences of defeat.

"She won't," Jazzori smiled confidently, her assurance unwavering as she voiced her belief in Seneca's abilities. But then, her expression shifted as she surveyed the competition with a discerning gaze. "If she does, breakout," Jazzori whispered, her tone low and determined, hinting at a contingency plan in case of unforeseen circumstances.

"You, okay?" Gruno asked Beka, his concern evident in his voice as he reached out to offer support to his teammate amidst the tension of the race.

"I'm usually the one in front of the audience, not in it," Beka said, her voice carrying a hint of vulnerability as she acknowledged the unfamiliarity of her current situation.

Gruno patted her shoulder reassuringly, his gesture offering silent encouragement and support to Beka as she grappled with her discomfort. His touch was a silent reassurance, a reminder that she was not alone in facing the challenges ahead.

As the racers roared off the starting line, the air crackled with energy and excitement, the deafening roar of engines filling the arena with an electrifying buzz. The pod racers jostled for position, their sleek vehicles maneuvering through the treacherous twists and turns of the track with breathtaking speed and precision. Amidst the chaos, the other racers wasted no time in resorting to underhanded tactics, their maneuvers bordering on reckless as they attempted to sabotage their competitors at every turn. From sudden swerves to calculated collisions, the race quickly descended into a chaotic spectacle of high-stakes competition. At the same time, Seneca remained unfazed, her focus razor-sharp as she navigated the hazardous course with skill and determination. With each passing moment, she pushed her pod to its limits, her movements fluid and precise as she expertly dodged obstacles and outmaneuvered her rivals with calculated precision.

As the race neared its end, the tension reached a fever pitch, the crowd holding its breath as Seneca surged ahead, her pod blazing a trail of fiery determination in her wake. With adrenaline coursing through her veins, she pushed herself to the brink, her face a mask of fierce determination as she fought tooth and nail for victory. And then, in a blur of motion, Seneca crossed the finish line, her pod soaring triumphantly into the lead as the crowd erupted into thunderous applause. Cheers and cries of celebration filled the air, the jubilant chorus a testament to Seneca's unparalleled skill and courage in the face of adversity. In that moment of victory, Seneca stood tall, her chest heaving with exertion as she basked in the glory of her hard-won triumph. She watched with a sense of pride swelling in her chest as her teammates jumped up and down, their cheers of joy echoing throughout the arena. Their elation was palpable, their faces alight with excitement and admiration for their victorious comrade.

As they were collecting their "prize," Seneca's team basked in the glow of their recent victory, their hearts still racing with the adrenaline of the race.

"That was easy," Jetto said, his voice tinged with a hint of disbelief as he marveled at their success.

But their moment of triumph was interrupted as Linor and Koda, the wealthy businessmen and brothers, stopped by their ship. Their presence cast a shadow over the jubilant atmosphere, their expressions unreadable as they approached the team with an air of cautious curiosity. Seneca exchanged a wary glance with her teammates, sensing that their encounter with the Gran brothers was far from over. With a subtle nod, she signaled for her team to remain vigilant, their senses heightened as they prepared for whatever might come next.

"Congrats, Jazzori," Koda smirked, his tone laced with a hint of begrudging admiration.

"Thank you, gentlemen. Hate to fast and run, but I do have a political party to attend too," Jazzori said with a gracious smile, her tone betraying none of the tension that simmered beneath the surface.

"Well, since you did cheat us, how about compensating by giving us that other little Jedi you're harboring?" Linor said, his voice laced with a hint of menace as he brandished the blaster in his hand.

"You just couldn't keep quiet," Gruno frowned at Jetto, his disappointment evident in his voice.

Seneca felt a surge of apprehension ripple through the group at Linor's words, her instincts urging her to remain calm and composed in the face of the escalating situation. With a quick glance at her teammates, she silently urged them to stay vigilant, their eyes locked on the Gran brothers as they awaited Jazzori's response.

"Linor," Jazzori began, her voice steady despite the tension that hung heavy in the air, "I understand your frustration, but I assure you, there has been no cheating on our part."

"We still want a form of compensation," Linor demanded, his voice edged with determination as he aimed his blaster squarely at Jazzori.

"Oh yes, that one right there," Kodo interjected, his grip tightening on the blaster as he directed it towards Beka, his eyes flashing with a dangerous glint.

Beka's muscles tensed as she met Kodo's gaze with a steely determination, her hand hovering near her lightsaber as she prepared for whatever might come next. Beside her, the rest of the team stood poised and alert, ready to spring into action at a moment's notice.

"Now, gentlemen," began Jazzori, her voice firm and commanding as she intervened, her gaze unwavering as she addressed Linor and Kodo.

"How could you not know she's a wanted criminal, Jazzori? You are standing with us in class," Kodo retorted, his tone accusatory as he leveled the blaster towards Beka.

"No, she stands with what's right," Valree interjected, her voice cutting through the tension as she stealthily approached from behind Kodo, her movements calculated and precise. With a deft flick of her wrist, she produced a gleaming dagger, catching Kodo off guard as she pressed the cold blade against his throat with a steely resolve.

The air crackled with electricity as the standoff unfolded, each member of the team poised on the edge of action, as they awaited the next move. The rest of the team stood ready; their expressions set in a mask of determination as they prepared to defend their own. Jazzori's expression remained unreadable as she surveyed the scene before her, her mind racing as she calculated their next steps. With a subtle nod to Valree, she silently signaled her approval, trusting in her teammate's instincts to diffuse the situation with a swift and decisive action.

"We will shoot," Linor declared, his voice edged with menace as he aimed his blaster directly at Valree.

"Try it," Jetto countered, his own blaster steady in his grip as he squared off against Linor, his gaze unwavering and resolute.

"I possess weaponry of greater magnitude than yours," Jazzori declared, her confidence evident in her tone as she flashed a self-assured smile. "You even entertain the thought of revealing the identities aboard my vessel, I could divulge the mishandling of funds to your chairman, despite the knowledge that said funds were forfeited in a deal with the Pykes," Jazzori pressed on, her words infused with an authoritative aura that left no room for rebuttal.

Linor and Koda exchanged uneasy glances before finally raising their hands in surrender, their expressions resigned as they conceded defeat in the face of Jazzori's unwavering resolve.

"You're bluffing!" Linor retorted, his tone defiant as he locked eyes with Jazzori.

"Am I?" Jazzori smirked, her confidence unwavering.

The two brothers exchanged uncertain glances before finally backing down. "We won't say a word," Koda conceded, his voice tinged with relief.

"Good, and if you do, I'm sure the Pykes and the Senator of Crait won't be pleased with either of you about their money and their spice," Jazzori warned, her tone carrying a hint of menace. "Valree, they aren't worth a dull blade; come now."

Valree smirked, her satisfaction evident, before releasing Koda from her grasp. As the ship lifted off, the team exchanged impressed glances, particularly impressed by Jazzori's quick thinking.

"Are you sure they won't squeal?" Valree inquired, her eyebrows raised in skepticism.

"What's scarier than the Empire? Being in debt to the Pykes," Jazzori replied with a smirk, her confidence unwavering as she contemplated the consequences of crossing such powerful entities.

"Caleb?" Beka asked softly as she carefully removed the Force cuffs from him.

"Master Rebekath," Caleb began, his voice full of weariness but filled with gratitude.

"Save your strength," Beka advised, her tone gentle as she helped him sit more comfortably.

"Where are we headed to?" Gruno inquired, his concern evident in his voice.

"Alderaan," Seneca replied, her eyes focused on the path ahead.

As they journeyed towards Alderaan, Senator Organa wasted no time in providing Caleb with much-needed medical care and nourishment.

"Will he be alright?" Jazzori inquired, her concern mirrored by the rest of the team.

"Yes, we have some people that can help start him a new life," Organa reassured them, his voice carrying a sense of hope for Caleb's future.

As Jazzori delved into the details, Beka's attention was abruptly diverted when a distress call crackled through the ship's intercom.

"Hello? Seneca? Jazzori? Jetto? Anyone?" came a frantic voice.

"Omega?" Beka responded urgently, her heart pounding with apprehension.

"We need help on Jabba's Palace... hey, let go!" Omega's voice was fraught with desperation and struggle.

"Omega? Omega?!" Beka called out desperately, but the signal abruptly went dead. With a surge of adrenaline, Beka bolted out of the ship, her voice echoing through the hangar as she shouted, "The Bad Batch is in trouble!"

2 notes · View notes

bittybug-sunflower-blog · 1 year ago

Text

Chapter summary: Hunter's team and Beka meets up with the other team on Kashyyyk. They find the team’s damaged ship and learn Trandoshans were involved, triggering Valree's traumatic memories. In battle, Beka saves Omega, Gruno defeats Boba Fett, and Tech heals Jetto using Boba's blood. Jazzori removes the bounty on Jetto.

Warning: trafficking/slavery

Word count: 4129

Rating: 18+

Extra: alternate universe story

…..

Chapter 12

"Alright, men, we're meeting Jazzori and the others on Kashyyyk," Hunter explained, his voice resonating with authority as he stood in the center of the dimly lit hangar. Beka stood nearby, her expression unreadable as she observed the conversation unfold. The air was charged with anticipation, each member of the team preparing mentally for the mission ahead.

"Uh, question," Wrecker interjected, his deep voice breaking the silence in the hangar. He raised his hand in a gesture of curiosity, his brow furrowing with genuine concern. "Why is the General coming? I thought you wanted her to take it easy." His words hung in the air, prompting a moment of contemplation among the team members gathered around.

"Umm," Hunter hesitated, his gaze shifting momentarily as he considered his response. The weight of Wrecker's question lingered in the air, prompting Hunter to carefully choose his words before speaking again.

"You used the Jedi mind trick, didn't you?" Echo asked quietly, his tone betraying a hint of curiosity.

"It's called the mind touch, and shockingly no," Beka replied with a smirk, her voice carrying a hint of amusement. "I told him I either can go with you guys, or I take a ship. Either way, I'm still going to Kashyyyk." Her confident demeanor conveyed a sense of determination, assuring the team that she was committed to the mission regardless of the circumstances.

"You have him wrapped around your little finger," Echo whispered, a mischievous smirk playing at the corners of his lips. Beka elbowed him softly, a gesture of playful banter.

"Approaching Kashyyyk," Tech announced, his voice echoing through the cockpit of the Marauder. The hum of the ship's engines filled the air as they neared their destination, the dense forests of Kashyyyk coming into view through the viewport. With precision and skill, Tech guided the ship toward a landing zone.

As the Marauder landed with a soft thud, the team quickly disembarked from the ship, their boots crunching on the forest floor of Kashyyyk. Hunter swiftly caught up with Seneca, their footsteps falling in sync as they exchanged nods of acknowledgment. Meanwhile, Jazzori took it upon herself to entertain Omega, her playful banter eliciting a smile from the young girl. As they surveyed the area, their attention was drawn to the sight of the damaged ship belonging to the other team.

"What happened?" Hunter inquired; his voice tinged with concern as he surveyed the wreckage of the other team's ship. He awaited an explanation for the damage before them.

"Shot down," Seneca replied simply, her tone carrying a weight of solemnity that mirrored the severity of the situation.

Meanwhile, Valree appeared distracted, her focus seemingly elsewhere despite the conversation unfolding around her. The tension in the air was palpable as the team processed the implications of the damaged ship and awaited further details.

"I sense great trouble in you," Beka said, her voice cutting through the silence as she settled beside Valree on the uneven rocks. The suddenness of Beka's voice startled Valree, causing her to shift slightly in surprise.

"Gah, don't do that," Valree exclaimed, playfully punching Beka, though the momentary levity was short-lived.

"What's wrong?" Beka inquired, her concern evident in her tone.

"Trandoshans," Valree replied with a single word, her voice carrying a weight of unease.

"Oh," Beka responded, understanding dawning upon her.

"While we were setting up camp, they came and attacked us. Not much of a fight, though," Valree elaborated, her voice tinged with resignation.

"How are you doing, though?" Beka asked, her hand resting reassuringly on Valree's back.

"Keep thinking about them," Valree sighed, her posture slumping as she laid her head on her knees.

Beka nodded in understanding. "You want to talk about it?"

"No, not yet at least," Valree sighed, her reluctance evident.

Beka gave a supportive nod. "I'm going to help set up the trap." With a determined resolve, she rose from her seat, ready to act in the face of adversity.

Valree nodded silently, her gaze fixed on the ground as she grappled with the lingering memories and emotions stirred by the recent encounter with the Trandoshans. The simple gesture conveyed her acknowledgment of Beka's offer of support, even as she wrestled with her own inner turmoil.

"What's wrong with her?" Crosshair queried as Beka joined the group, his sharp gaze narrowing with curiosity.

"Trandoshans," Beka responded solemnly, her voice tinged with a mixture of empathy and indignation. Crosshair and the rest of the team exchanged confused glances, prompting Beka to offer a brief explanation. "When Valree was young, Trandoshans burned down her home and took her away. She was used for hunting. Their sick game of chase and catch. She was only a kid." As the gravity of Valree's past unfolded, both the Bad Batch and the team looked mortified, realizing the depth of trauma their teammate had endured.

"Will she be, okay?" Jetto inquired, his concern evident in his voice as he glanced towards Valree.

"She just needs some time for herself," Beka reassured, her tone calm and steady. "But we need to go over the plan."

"Jazzori put a 'bounty' on me," Jetto explained with a smirk, his expression shifting slightly. " Five hundred thousand credits." His words carried a hint of amusement, hinting at the complexities of their current predicament.

Echo glanced at Hunter, a wry smile tugging at the corners of his lips. "Why couldn't I be worth that much?" he quipped, his tone laced with a touch of humor and self-deprecation. Reminder of their time on Pantora.

Hunter chuckled softly, acknowledging Echo's remark with a shake of his head. "Guess you'll just have to settle for being invaluable to us," he replied with a grin, a sense of camaraderie evident in his words.

"From what Valree says, I can specifically ask for Boba Fett, and what I'm 'paying' he won't resist," Jazzori explained, her tone reflecting a mix of caution and determination.

"So how do we catch him?" Hunter asked, his eyes narrowing in thought as he considered their options.

"Ambush," Seneca replied, a confident smile gracing her features as she outlined the strategy. Her words carried a sense of assurance, instilling a renewed sense of purpose in the team as they prepared to face their formidable adversary.

As they camped through the night, Jazzori and Valree found themselves in a rare moment of respite, away from the chaos of battle and the demands of their mission. With the crackling fire casting a warm glow around them, they settled into a quiet conversation, their words carrying a sense of camaraderie and mutual understanding.

"What made you decide to be a bounty hunter?" Jazzori asked, her tone curious as she regarded Valree with interest.

"I was tired of being the hunted," Valree sighed, her voice carrying a hint of weariness from years of evading danger. With practiced ease, she twirled her dagger before sending it flying towards a nearby tree, where it embedded itself with perfect accuracy. With a quick motion of her hand, the dagger returned to her grasp, a testament to her skill and agility.

"Fascinating, how does it return to you like that?" Jazzori inquired, her fascination evident as she watched Valree effortlessly manipulate the dagger.

"Electromagnetics in my gloves and in my daggers," Valree explained with a smile, her tone casual yet confident. "What about you?"

"What about me?" Jazzori echoed, her curiosity piqued by Valree's question.

"You can afford such luxurious things and still not be selfish about it?" Valree asked, her gaze probing as she sought to understand Jazzori's motivations.

Jazzori chuckled softly, her eyes reflecting a mixture of fondness and reminiscence as she shared her story with Valree. "My father used to be the chairman for Pantora, but he started making bad investments and knew the wrong people to piss off," she began, her voice tinged with a hint of sadness. "When he was forced to step down, I had just finished graduating. I took the money we had and started making better investments, giving what I could to my people who needed it the most. I saw the people at their best and worst, but they are still people."

"We have a lot in common, you and I," Valree remarked, a sense of kinship blooming between them.

"I was telling that to Beka, the way you look after her," Jazzori continued, her admiration for Valree evident in her words.

"I had a little sister, before she..." Valree's voice trailed off briefly, her thoughts drifting to memories of the past. "Beka just reminds me of her. She was performing for Jabba, but being a famous singer also means cause for trouble. Finis, Beka's manager, hired me as extra security that night. Of course, there was an attack, but it was mostly on Jabba. The place was about to collapse on me, but I saw it. Saw Beka use the force to guide the debris away."

"Jedi know how to help even when they aren't trying," Jazzori chuckled softly, a sense of admiration evident in her tone.

"Be honest, will this plan work?" Valree queried, her gaze steady as she focused on Jazzori.

"We can only hope it does," Jazzori replied, her voice tinged with determination.

The two species smiled, a new friendship blossoming between them as they shared a moment of mutual understanding and respect.

"Funny how we make friends," Beka remarked from a distance, her voice carrying a note of amusement.

"We're Jedi; we make friends when we're not trying," Seneca laughed, joining in the lighthearted exchange.

As dawn broke through, casting a golden hue over the lush landscape of Kashyyyk, the teams sprang into action, each member executing their assigned tasks with precision and determination. With the faint chirping of native creatures serving as a backdrop, they moved swiftly and silently, their movements synchronized as they worked towards a common goal. In the early light of day, hope mingled with resolve, driving them forward as they faced the challenges that lay ahead with unwavering resolve.

"I have no doubt Boba Fett will not come alone," Tech pointed out, his analytical mind assessing the situation with a keen eye for detail.

"That's why you guys are here," Gruno explained, his tone resolute as he affirmed the team's crucial role in the mission. The gravity of their task hung in the air, each member understanding the importance of their presence as they prepared to confront the formidable opponent ahead.

As the sound of hoverpods approached, reverberating through the dense foliage of Kashyyyk, the team sprang into action with practiced efficiency. The urgency of the moment spurred them into motion, each member assuming their designated roles with unwavering resolve. With swift and precise movements, the Bad Batch swiftly apprehended and subdued their reptilian adversaries, their expertise in combat evident as they navigated the chaos with ease. Crosshair's sniper rifle echoed through the forest, some shots finding its mark with deadly accuracy as he picked off targets from a distance. Unfortunately, due to his shaking hand, someone didn't hit. Echo and Hunter moved in tandem, their blasters firing in rapid succession as they intercepted hoverpods attempting to breach their defenses. Meanwhile, Tech and Seneca worked feverishly to prepare the molecule stabilizer, their hands flying over the intricate machinery as they sought to ensure its readiness for deployment. Amidst the flurry of action, Gruno and Wrecker emerged as formidable forces, their sheer strength and ferocity unmatched as they engaged the enemy in close combat. With each powerful swing of their arms, reptilian assailants were sent sprawling, their attempts to breach the team's defenses thwarted at every turn. It wasn't long before Boba Fett arrived, his imposing figure casting a shadow over the battlefield as he descended upon the scene with calculated precision. Despite the team's valiant efforts to hold their ground, the sudden appearance of their formidable adversary caught them off guard, their defenses momentarily faltering in the face of his relentless advance.

As Jazzori focused her efforts on keeping Omega safe, her attention divided between protecting the young girl and coordinating the team's defenses, she found herself unprepared for the swift and ruthless assault that ensued. With lightning speed, one of the Trandoshans launched a surprise attack, catching Jazzori off guard and incapacitating her with a powerful blow. In the chaos that followed, Omega was seized by her assailant, her small form engulfed in the grasp of the enemy as they made a hasty retreat. The team watched in horror as their worst fears unfolded before their eyes, their comrade incapacitated, and their young charge taken captive in the blink of an eye. With Boba Fett looming ominously in the background, the stakes of the mission had never been higher, and the team knew that they would need to act swiftly and decisively if they were to have any hope of rescuing Omega and thwarting their adversary's plans.

"Hunter, help!" Omega's cry pierced the air, her voice filled with desperation as she reached out to her comrades for aid. The team's hearts clenched with worry as they witnessed Omega being lifted into the air, her small form held captive by unseen forces. In the distance, a medium-sized ship loomed ominously, its presence serving as a stark reminder of the imminent danger that threatened their mission.

Beka's keen eyes scanned the surroundings, her mind racing as she searched for a solution to the unfolding crisis. As she spotted pillars and a mountainside in the distance, a plan began to form in her mind. With a determined resolve, she ignited her blue lightsaber, its radiant blade casting a flickering glow in the dim light of Kashyyyk's forest. Sensing the urgency of the situation, the team rallied around Beka, their expressions set with determination as they prepared to act. "Valree, Jetto, when I say now, you know what to do. Wrecker, I need you to throw me to that mountain," Beka ordered, her voice steady and resolute as she issued her commands.

"What?!" Wrecker exclaimed; his confusion evident as he processed Beka's unexpected request. The sheer audacity of her plan left him momentarily stunned, his mind struggling to comprehend the gravity of the situation. But Beka's determination brooked no opposition, and she met Wrecker's incredulous gaze with unwavering resolve. With a firm nod, she reinforced her command, her eyes flashing with a fierce intensity that left no room for doubt. The team watched in anticipation, their hearts pounding with adrenaline as they prepared to execute Beka's daring plan. In the face of overwhelming odds, they knew that they would need to trust in each other and act swiftly if they were to have any hope of rescuing Omega and turning the tide of the battle in their favor. "Now, Wrecker!" Beka's voice rang out, her command echoing through the chaos as she prepared to execute her daring plan. Without hesitation, Wrecker obeyed, his massive arms scooping up Beka before propelling her into the air with a powerful throw.

"She's not going to make it to the mountainside!" Echo warned, his voice filled with urgency.

However, with a grace born of Jedi training, Beka soared through the air, her agile form navigating the terrain with precision and skill. As she leaped from pillar to pillar like a nimble acrobat, Beka's audacious maneuver unfold before everyone. With each bound, she drew closer to the mountainside, her determination driving her forward as she closed in on her target. With a final, monumental leap, Beka ignited her lightsaber, its brilliant blade slicing through the air with a sizzling hum. In one swift motion, she cleaved through the Trandoshan's hand, severing his grip on Omega and sending him tumbling to the forest floor below. With lightning-fast reflexes, Beka dove to catch the young girl, her arms wrapping protectively around Omega as they plummeted towards the ground. At Beka's command, Jetto and Valree sprang into action. Valree holding onto Jetto as they flew closer to the ship. They started unleashing a barrage of explosives and daggers upon the Trandoshans' ship. Their coordinated assault rained down upon the enemy with deadly accuracy. With a deft twist of her body, Beka used her lightsaber to carve a path into the mountainside, slowing their descent and ensuring a safe landing for herself and Omega. With a flurry of flips and jumps, she touched down on the forest floor, her eyes immediately turning to the young girl in her arms. "Omega, are you okay?" Beka asked, her voice filled with concern as she assessed the girl's condition.

Omega clung to Beka tightly, her small frame trembling with fear and relief. With a gentle hand, Beka passed Omega into the waiting arms of Hunter, her gaze never wavering from the young girl as she ensured her safety amidst the chaos of battle.

As Jazzori regained consciousness, her eyes fluttered open to find Echo at her side, offering a steady hand to help her rise. With his support, she slowly regained her footing, the world around her coming back into focus as she shook off the disorientation of her brief incapacitation. Meanwhile, as Jetto and Valree touched down on the forest floor, their arrival coincided with a sudden explosion above them. The ship that had hovered menacingly in the sky erupted into a shower of fiery debris, scattering wreckage across the battlefield in a chaotic display of destruction. Amidst the chaos, a lone Trandoshan emerged, his reptilian features contorted in rage as he aimed his weapon at the group below. Quick as lightning, Jetto reacted, his blaster erupting in a burst of energy as he fired upon the would-be assailant. The shot found its mark, striking the Trandoshan in the shoulder and causing him to stumble back with a roar of pain. As the Trandoshan faltered and fell on its back, Valree approached him, her eyes widening in recognition as memories of their past encounter flooded her mind. With a sense of determination burning in her gaze, she confronted the reptilian adversary, her stance firm and unwavering despite the tumultuous circumstances. In that moment, the echoes of her past collided with the present, intertwining her journey of survival and resilience with the present battle unfolding before her. With a steady hand, she prepared to face her former tormentor head-on, drawing strength from the scars of her past as she stood ready to defend herself and her comrades against the relentless forces of the enemy.

"You," Valree murmured, her voice low and filled with a quiet intensity that sent a shiver down the Trandoshan's spine.

The Trandoshan met Valree's gaze, his reptilian eyes widening with a flicker of fear as he recognized the determination burning within her. "How did you escape?" he hissed, each word slithering from his mouth like a venomous serpent.

"Like this," Valree replied, her voice cold and resolute as she retrieved a dagger from her thigh-belt and hurled it towards her assailant with deadly precision. The blade found its mark, embedding itself in the Trandoshan's flesh with a sickening thud. "I am not your prey anymore," she said with purpose, her dagger returning to her hand.

"Retreat!" The Trandoshans yelled, their voices filled with panic as they scrambled to escape the overwhelming force of the team's counterattack.

"Get back here, you filthy lizards!" Boba Fett's roar echoed through the clearing; his frustration palpable as he watched his allies falter in the face of defeat.

As the dust settled on the battlefield, Gruno found himself face to face with Boba Fett, the notorious bounty hunter who had caused so much trouble for their team. With a steely gaze, Boba Fett glared at Gruno. Gruno squared his shoulders, his muscles tense with anticipation as he readied himself for the confrontation. With a swift movement, he lunged forward, his fists flying as he unleashed a flurry of punches towards Boba Fett. As Boba Fett tried to use his blaster on Gruno, Gruno knocked it out on his hands. The bounty hunter fought back with ferocity, his blows landing with precision as he sought to gain the upper hand. But Gruno was relentless, his determination unwavering as he pressed forward with unwavering resolve. With each strike, he wore down Boba Fett's defenses. With a decisive blow, Gruno delivered the finishing strike, sending Boba Fett crashing to the ground with a resounding thud. As the dust settled, Gruno stood victorious, his chest heaving with exertion as he surveyed the scene before him. Gruno stood over the subdued bounty hunter, his grip firm as he prevented Boba Fett from joining the chaotic retreat. "Well, this was fun," Gruno remarked, his tone laced with amusement as he held their adversary at bay.

Few Hours Later....

Jazzori, meanwhile, busied herself with her datapad, her fingers flying over the screen as she made a few taps. "I took the bounty off your head, Jetto," she announced, her voice calm and composed despite the chaos that had just unfolded.

"It was fake?!" Boba Fett's incredulous shout cut through the air; his disbelief evident as he processed the revelation.

"Yeah, Boba, it's over," Jetto sighed wearily, his voice tinged with exhaustion as he coughed up blood, the toll of battle evident on his battered form.

"How's your heart?" Hunter asked, his gaze softening with worry.

"I feel fine," Beka admitted, relieved as her heart condition seemed to subside, and she adjusted to the synthetic parts with a newfound sense of strength.

Tech took a sample of Boba's blood, his hands moving with practiced precision as he mixed it into the molecule stabilizer. "Are you ready?" he asked Jetto, his tone gentle yet determined. In response, Jetto nodded, "Yes." His expression a mixture of anticipation and apprehension.

With a quick pinch of the needle, Jetto felt a wave of relief wash over him as the molecule stabilizer went to work, its healing properties coursing through his veins and soothing his battered body. Though the internal pain faded away, his eyes remained clouded with the weight of his experiences.

"How do you feel?" Tech inquired, his voice tinged with concern as he monitored Jetto's vital signs.

"I feel alive," Jetto replied, a smile spreading across his face as he felt the renewed vitality coursing through him.

"Your vital signs are showing great progress and repairing the damaged cells," Tech confirmed, a note of satisfaction in his voice as he observed the positive results of his efforts.

A collective sense of relief washed over the group as they witnessed Jetto's recovery, their smiles reflecting the shared sense of camaraderie that had sustained them through the trials of battle. As they boarded the Marauder, Jetto turned to face Boba Fett, his gaze unwavering as he tossed a knife towards their defeated adversary. "I won't leave you here to die, but this is the best I'll do for you," he declared, his voice firm yet tinged with a hint of mercy. "If you ever come after me and my family again, I'll have Gruno sit on you next time, got it?"

Boba remained silent; his expression inscrutable as he absorbed Jetto's words. With a resigned sigh, Jetto turned away, donning his helmet as he prepared to leave their adversary behind. On the Marauder, Valree stood at the viewport, her gaze fixed on the vast expanse of space beyond. Lost in thought, she contemplated the events that had unfolded, her mind a whirlwind of emotions as she processed the intensity of the battle and the bonds that had been forged in its wake.

"Valree?" Omega's voice broke through Valree's thoughts, pulling her attention back to the present.

The bounty hunter looked down at the young girl, offering her a reassuring smile. "Hey, kid," she greeted warmly.

"Are you okay?" Omega's concern was evident in her voice.

"I'm actually doing great, kid," Valree replied, her smile growing wider. "Why don't you talk to Jetto, see how he's doing?"

Omega nodded in agreement before turning to walk away, her footsteps echoing softly in the quietude of the ship.

"You doing, okay?" Seneca's voice drew Valree's attention, accompanied by Beka not far behind.

"Better," Valree replied, a genuine smile gracing her lips as she felt the warmth of their concern.

"How did you escape all those years ago?" Beka's question brought forth memories that Valree had long buried.

"I wasn't alone in that jungle; a young Jedi helped me that day," Valree explained, her voice tinged with gratitude as she recalled the pivotal moment of her past.

"Who was it?" Beka inquired, her curiosity piqued by Valree's revelation.

"Someone by the name of Ashoka Tano," Valree replied with a smirk, the name carrying a weight of significance that resonated with both Jedi.

The two Jedi exchanged a meaningful glance before turning their attention back to Valree, smiling.

4 notes · View notes

bittybug-sunflower-blog · 1 year ago

Text

Chapter summary: Beka's night is interrupted when Batcher, their lurca hound, gives birth to seven puppies. Later, Beka rescues Biala's sons from a flooding cave but gets trapped. Hunter saves her, they argue about her health, and he admits he cares for her. The Bad Batch then gets an urgent call from Jazzori.

Warning: injury

Word count: 3721

Rating: 18+

Extra: alternate universe story

…..

Chapter 11

Beka reclined against a weathered boulder, her gaze fixed upon the vast expanse of the night sky. The twinkling stars above seemed to dance in harmony, casting a soft, ethereal glow upon the tranquil scene below. The rhythmic lullaby of distant waves crashing against the shore provided a soothing backdrop to Beka's contemplation, luring her into a state of serene reverie. But her peaceful solitude was abruptly shattered by Omega's urgent cry, jolting Beka back to the present moment. Startled, she turned towards Omega, whose voice carried a note of frantic panic that pierced through the stillness of the night.

"Beka," the name echoed in the night air, a plea for help intertwined with the frantic urgency of Omega's voice. Beka's heart skipped a beat at the sound, her concern deepening as she focused her attention on Omega.

"Omega, what's wrong?" Beka's voice was laced with concern as she rose to her feet, her eyes scanning Omega's face for any sign of distress.

"Something is wrong with Batcher!" Omega's words tumbled out in a rush, her breaths coming in short, uneven gasps.

"Batcher?" Beka's brow furrowed with worry as she followed Omega's gaze, her eyes falling upon the form of a lurca hound lying nearby. Batcher, their loyal companion and trusted friend, lay on her side, her breaths labored and shallow. Crosshair knelt beside her, his hand gently rubbing her head in a gesture of comfort and concern.

"What's wrong with her?" Omega's voice trembled with apprehension, her eyes brimming with worry as she looked to Beka for answers.

Beka approached Batcher with gentle determination, her movements deliberate as she knelt beside the hound. With a soft touch, she placed her hand on Batcher's side, her connection to the Force guiding her senses as she sought to understand the source of the hound's distress. As Beka delved deeper into her Force connection, she felt a reassuring pulse of many lives emanating from within Batcher. The sensation washed over her, confirming her initial intuition that there was no imminent danger threatening the hound's well-being.

"Nothing is wrong," Beka reassured Omega and Crosshair, her voice steady and calm despite the lingering concern etched on their faces. "But I do need both of you to get me some blankets and warm water," she added, her attention already shifting to the practical steps needed to ensure Batcher's comfort and recovery.

"Why?" Crosshair's voice held a note of confusion as he looked to Beka for clarification.

"She's having babies," Beka's smile widened, her eyes sparkling with a mixture of excitement and warmth.

"Babies?" Omega's gasp of astonishment echoed through the night air, her eyes widening in wonder at the unexpected news. The realization of Batcher's impending motherhood seemed to fill the atmosphere with a sense of joyful anticipation, uniting them in a shared moment of awe and delight.

Omega and Crosshair exchanged a meaningful glance, their shared astonishment giving way to a sense of determination as they understood the gravity of the situation. Without a word, they sprang into action, each eager to assist Beka in whatever way they could. Meanwhile, Beka wasted no time, rolling up her sleeves in readiness for the task ahead. With a nod of approval, she watched as Omega and Crosshair swiftly gathered the necessary supplies, their movements synchronized in a silent display of teamwork. As the night wore on, the atmosphere around them hummed with a sense of purpose and anticipation. By the time the other members of the Bad Batch returned from their night fishing trip, dawn was already upon them. Wiping her hands with a rag, Beka descended the stairs to greet her comrades, a satisfied smile playing on her lips as she prepared to share the news of Batcher's new arrivals. Beka had already been fully immersed in her duties for hours. With a quick gesture, she signaled to them to keep their voices down, mindful not to disturb the delicate peace that had settled over the scene. The team ascended the stairs, their footsteps muffled. As they reached the upper level, they were greeted by the sight of Omega and Crosshair, their forms slumped in peaceful sleep, the exhaustion of the night's events evident on their faces. Nearby, Batcher lay contentedly, her gentle whimpers accompanied by the soft suckling sounds of her seven newborns. Outside, Hunter found Beka standing at the edge of the balcony, her gaze fixed on the horizon where the first light of dawn was beginning to break through the darkness.

"The view never gets old," Beka remarked, her voice carrying a hint of nostalgia as she soaked in the tranquil beauty of the scene before her.

"Long night?" Hunter inquired; his tone filled with understanding as he joined Beka at the shoreline.

"Very. She had seven. All healthy babies," Beka replied, a proud smile gracing her features. "I don't think I've ever seen Crosshair this concerned over something."

Hunter nodded in acknowledgment, his expression reflecting both relief and admiration for Beka's resilience in the face of adversity. "Tech said your heart should be adjusting to the cybernetics. You should be able to fight again, but please take it easy," he urged, his concern for her well-being evident in his words.

"To be honest, Hunter, I don't want to fight again," Beka confessed, her voice tinged with a sense of weariness born from years of conflict and struggle. "I will do it if I must, but I just want to leave everything I was behind me. Being a Jedi, being a performer, I just want to leave it behind."

"And do what?" Hunter inquired, his gaze searching hers for a glimpse of her hopes and dreams for the future.

"That's the thing, I don't know," Beka admitted.

Before they could delve further into their conversation, a frantic voice called out to them, drawing their attention back to the present moment. Beka turned to see Biala approaching, her expression filled with urgency and concern. "Someone help?!" Biala cried out.

"Biala, what is it?" Beka's voice was sharp with concern. She leaped off the balcony and approached the distraught mother.

"My sons, they were playing in one of the caves! The tides! They are trapped!" Biala's words spilled out in a frantic rush, her hands trembling as she recounted the harrowing ordeal.

Beka's hearts clenched at the urgency of the situation, her instincts kicking into high gear as she sprang into action without hesitation. With a determined speed, she raced after Biala, her senses sharp and focused as Hunter rallied the rest of the team to follow. They arrived at the mouth of a narrow cave, the sound of rushing water echoing ominously within its confines. The water level was rising rapidly, filling the cave with each passing moment and threatening to engulf everything in its path.

"Lon?! Isaac!?" Beka's voice rang out in the darkness, her tone laced with urgency as she called out for the trapped boys.

"Help! We can't get out, the tide is too strong!" came the desperate cries of a young boy, the sound echoing off the walls of the cave.

Beka turned to the Bad Batch, her eyes locking onto Tech with a sense of purpose. "Tech, do you have your grappling hook?" she asked, her voice steady despite the mounting tension in the air. Tech nodded, reaching for the tool at his side and presenting it to Beka without hesitation. With practiced ease, Beka took hold of the grappling hook, her fingers moving swiftly as she secured the rope around her waist in preparation for the dangerous task ahead. "I'm going in for the boys," Beka declared, her voice firm and resolute. "When I tug twice, retract the grappling rope."

"Let me go in," Hunter pleaded, his hand reaching out to stop Beka.

"I have a better chance of getting them out," Beka asserted, her gaze unwavering as she met Hunter's concerned eyes. Without waiting for further argument, she surged forward, determination lending her steps a sense of urgency. Before Hunter could voice another word of protest, Beka was already darting into the mouth of the cave, her form disappearing into the darkness. The waves surged around her, rising to her chest as she pressed on, undeterred by the relentless force of the water. With each step, Beka's senses expanded, reaching out through the Force to seek out the trapped children. Her hearts pounded in her chest, a steady rhythm that matched the ebb and flow of the tide as she navigated the treacherous waters. "Lon? Isaac?" Beka's voice echoed through the cavernous space, a beacon of hope cutting through the darkness. Her words reverberated off the walls of the cave, mingling with the sound of rushing water as she called out to the frightened boys.

"Over here," came the relief-laden response of the young voices, guiding Beka through the murky depths of the cave.

She swam towards the sound, her strokes propelled by a fierce determination to reach the trapped boys. As she drew closer, she spotted them clinging desperately to a rock, their faces etched with fear and uncertainty.

"Are you two, okay?" Beka's voice cut through the chaos, her concern evident as she reached out to assess their condition.

"We're sorry. We didn't realize how fast the water would fill up," Lon's words came out in a rush, his voice trembling with guilt and fear.

"It's okay," Beka reassured them, her tone gentle yet firm. "Let's just focus on getting out of here." With steady hands, Beka began to secure the grappling rope around the boys, her movements precise and methodical despite the urgency of the situation. As she worked, she could feel the tension in the air easing, replaced by a sense of cautious optimism as they prepared to face the challenge ahead. "Deep breaths," she ordered, her tone firm yet reassuring, as she prepared to lead them to safety.

With two firm tugs on the rope, Beka signaled to Tech to begin retracting it. The trio moved through the water with a sense of purpose, their movements synchronized as they navigated the turbulent currents.

But just as they seemed to be making progress, disaster struck. The rope suddenly jerked to a halt, the force of the motion throwing Beka and the boys off balance. Panic surged through Beka's veins as she realized that the rope had become tangled under a heavy rock, trapping them in place.

"Something is wrong," Tech's voice cut through the darkness, his tone tinged with concern as he assessed the situation. The weight of the rock pressing down on the tangled rope threatened to pull them further into the depths, their escape now hanging in the balance.

With the weight of desperation bearing down upon her, Beka strained against the entangled rope, her muscles burning with exertion as she fought to free herself and the boys from their watery prison. But despite her efforts, the stubborn rock refused to yield, its grip tightening with each passing moment.

In a split-second decision born of sheer instinct, Beka reached for her lightsaber, its familiar weight a comforting presence at her side. Without hesitation, she ignited the blade, its brilliant blue glow casting a flickering light across the murky depths of the cave. With a swift, decisive motion, she sliced through the rope, severing it cleanly and freeing the boys from their watery confines. As the piece of rope that trapped the two boys fell away, the boys shot through the water like arrows, propelled by the force of their sudden release. Gasping for air, they emerged from the depths, their chests heaving as they coughed and sputtered, their bodies wracked with the strain of their ordeal. Biala's mind soared with relief as she rushed forward to embrace her sons, pulling them close in a fierce hug as tears of gratitude streamed down her cheeks.

"Where's Beka?" Hunter's voice cut through the chaos, his eyes scanning the darkened waters for any sign of her.

"She's trapped," Lon coughed out, his voice strained with exhaustion as he struggled to catch his breath.

Without a moment's hesitation, Hunter sprang into action, his movements swift and purposeful as he seized the rope that had once bound the boys. With a powerful surge of determination, he plunged into the water, his senses honed to a razor-sharp edge as he sought out Beka's presence amidst the churning currents. Through sheer force of will, Hunter found her, her weakened form struggling against the relentless pull of the tide. With every ounce of strength he possessed, he seized hold of her and tugged on the rope, his muscles straining with the effort as he fought to bring her to safety. But the current was relentless, its grip unyielding as it threatened to drag them both further into the depths. Hunter tugged the rope firmly twice signaling out to his comrades for aid, their combined strength proving to be their only hope of escape from the watery abyss. With a mighty heave, the Bad Batch pulled, their efforts fueled by a fierce determination to rescue their friends from the clutches of the sea. And at last, after what felt like an eternity of struggle, they emerged from the cave, battered and bruised but alive. Once they emerged from the cave's entrance, Beka and Hunter coughed out water, the salty liquid burning their throats as they struggled to catch their breath. Beka collapsed onto the sandy shore, her chest heaving with exhaustion as she gasped for air, her body trembling with the aftereffects of their ordeal.

"Are you alright?" Hunter's voice cut through the haze of pain and fatigue, his concern evident as he knelt beside Beka, his hand reaching out to steady her trembling form.

"The boys?!" Beka's words came out in a choked whisper, her voice hoarse with exertion as she fought to make sense of their surroundings amidst the fog of exhaustion.

"They're okay," Hunter assured her, his voice filled with relief as he glanced over at the two boys, who stood nearby, their faces pale but unharmed by their brush with danger.

With Hunter's help, Beka managed to sit up, her body still trembling with residual shock as she struggled to regain her composure.

"Thank you, thank you," Biala's voice broke through the stillness, her eyes brimming with tears of gratitude as she rushed forward to embrace Beka.

"Of course," Beka smiled weakly, her voice barely above a whisper as she returned the embrace, her strength waning with each passing moment.

But before the moment of relief could fully settle in, Biala's expression darkened with a mixture of anger and concern as she turned her attention to her sons. "What were you boys thinking!" she exclaimed, her voice laced with frustration as she admonished them for their reckless behavior.

"We're sorry. We wanted to find hidden treasure, and well, we lost track of when the water was coming in," Lon explained, his voice filled with remorse as he glanced down at the sand, unable to meet his mother's gaze.

"You two will be punished for this, but I am so glad you are safe. Beka saved your life. You need to thank her," Biala admonished, her tone softened by a genuine sense of gratitude towards their rescuer.

"Thank you," Lon and Isaac chorused, their voices filled with sincerity as they approached Beka, their expressions contrite as they offered their thanks.

"You're welcome," Beka smiled warmly, her exhaustion momentarily forgotten as she reached out to ruffle their hair affectionately.

But as the adrenaline of their rescue began to ebb away, Beka's strength waned, her vision swimming as darkness encroached upon her consciousness. With a soft sigh, she slumped forward, her body falling limp in Hunter's arms as unconsciousness claimed her once more. With a sense of urgency, Hunter scooped up Beka in his arms, cradling her limp form against his chest with a tenderness born of deep concern. Ignoring the protests of his aching muscles, he turned on his heels and began to make his way back to the medical bay, his strides purposeful as he navigated the sandy shore with steady determination. Beka's weight felt light against him, her breathing shallow and uneven as she remained unconscious in his embrace. Hunter's heart clenched with worry at the sight of her pale face, her features drawn with exhaustion and strain from their harrowing ordeal. As he hurried through the hallways of the medical bay, Hunter's mind raced with a flurry of thoughts and fears. He couldn't shake the image of Beka's limp body from his mind, the memory of her collapse on the beach haunting him with its stark reminder of her vulnerability. His only focus to get Beka the help she needed as swiftly as possible.

Few Hours Later...

Beka's eyelids fluttered open, her surroundings slowly coming into focus as she found herself lying in her own bed. A heavy sigh escaped her lips as she tried to shake off the remnants of her exhaustion, her mind still reeling from the events of the day.

"You have to stop scaring me like this," Hunter's voice cut through the silence, his tone laced with a mixture of relief and frustration as he stood by her bedside, his eyes fixed on her with unwavering concern. Beka remained silent, her gaze fixed on a point somewhere in the distance as she turned her head away from Hunter, her emotions too tumultuous to put into words. "So now we're not going to talk," Hunter remarked, the frustration evident in his voice as he struggled to make sense of Beka's reticence.

"I didn't need you to save me," Beka finally spoke, her voice barely above a whisper as she broke the tense silence between them.

"From what I was seeing, yes I did," Hunter countered, his tone firm as he refused to back down. "You could have died. You're putting too much strain on your heart."

The weight of Hunter's words hung heavy in the air; the truth of his statement impossible to deny. Beka knew he was right, knew that she had pushed herself too far in her determination to save the trapped boys. However, she did not want people to view her as weak or a coward like she viewed herself now.

"I can handle it," Beka retorted, her voice edged with defiance as she pushed back against Hunter's concern. "You said I could."

"No, you can't, not yet at least," Hunter insisted, his tone firm as he refused to let her dismiss the gravity of her situation. "Tech may say you're getting better, but you still have to take it easy."

"You're doing the same thing every time I get hurt in battle," Beka countered, her frustration boiling over as she rose to her feet, her eyes flashing with determination. "I'm well capable of taking care of myself."

"I can't keep seeing you getting hurt!" Hunter's voice cracked with emotion, his concern for Beka's well-being laid bare for all to see.

"We've been through worse!" Beka's words rang out with conviction, her memories of past battles lending her strength as she sought to reassure Hunter of her resilience. "We survived worse; this is no different than when I was a general and you a soldier."

As the weight of their shared history hung heavy in the air between them, Beka and Hunter stood locked in a silent battle of wills, each grappling with their own fears and insecurities.

"I'm still a soldier, and soldiers protect their own," Hunter reiterated, his voice soft yet resolute as he sought to impress upon Beka the depth of his commitment to her well-being.

"I can protect myself!" Beka insisted, her words tinged with a hint of frustration as she pushed back against Hunter's concern.

"I know you can," Hunter conceded, his gaze locking with hers in a silent plea for understanding, "but when the time comes when you can't, what then?" The weight of Hunter's words hung heavy in the air, their implications echoing through the space between them as they grappled with the uncertainty of the future. For Beka, the thought of relinquishing control, of relying on others for her safety, was a daunting prospect. But as she met Hunter's unwavering gaze, she couldn't help but feel a bit guilty.

"Why do you care so much if I get hurt or not?" Beka's voice was laced with a mixture of confusion and disbelief as she searched Hunter's eyes for an answer.

"Because I love... care about you," Hunter corrected himself, his words hesitant yet sincere as he struggled to articulate the depth of his feelings. "And seeing you get hurt, hurts me."

Beka's breath caught in her throat, her hearts pounding in her chest as she processed Hunter's confession. For a moment, the weight of his words hung heavy in the air between them, their implications too profound to be ignored.

"Oh," Beka whispered, her voice barely above a whisper as she struggled to find the right words to express the tumult of emotions swirling inside her.

Meanwhile, outside the door, the Bad Batch stood in hushed silence, their ears trained on the conversation unfolding within. With bated breath, they listened intently, their curiosity piqued by the unexpected turn of events.

"Well, I'd say that was productive," Tech remarked, breaking the tension with a wry smile.

The rest of the Bad Batch stared at him, their expressions a mix of amusement and curiosity.

"Why are they fighting?" Omega's voice was tinged with confusion as she glanced around at her comrades.

"Lovers' spat," Crosshair interjected with a chuckle, his eyes twinkling with mischief as he offered his interpretation of the situation.

Wrecker joined in with a hearty laugh, his booming voice echoing through the room. "Ha, that's nothing; these two would go full screaming matches when one of them gets hurt."

As the laughter subsided, Echo's attention was drawn to the radio-like voice emanating from his comm link. "Hello, Bad Batch? Come in, Bad Batch," it said.

"Jazzori?" Echo responded, his voice tinged with curiosity.

"We're going to need your help," Jazzori's voice crackled over the line, cutting through the lighthearted banter with a note of urgency.

The Bad Batch exchanged glances, their expressions turning serious as they prepared to face whatever challenge lay ahead.

2 notes · View notes