#morehowzerfics

[masterjedilenawrites]

Ready Or Not

Howzer x fem!S/O | 1.9k words

Content: blind dates, bad first impressions, Howzer has some thoughts and feels to work through, maybe some demi vibes?, no real fluff but I think it's sweet in its own way

Prompt: I came across this concept of a "Meet Ugly" and thought it'd be interesting to explore. Used this scenario: Getting set up on a blind date and not having the best reaction when they first see each other.

Part of Operation #MoreHowzerFics

He did not have time for this.

Maybe the rest of the galaxy had been duped into thinking the war was over, but Howzer knew better. There was still a fight to be had, and a more dire one at that. A fight for his brothers. Their fates were hanging in the balance... and here he was, sitting at some cafe on Pabu waiting for a date.

He wasn't even sure how it had happened. Rex had insisted there was a reason soldiers took R&R, and even though they technically weren't soldiers anymore they should still try to relax every once in a while. Fireball had taken to saying "you need to get laid" every time Howzer was in an even slightly bad mood. Greer was always going on about how they needed to think of the future, find a dream worth fighting for, like a home or a family. And Gregor was weirdly interested in figuring out what everyone's "type" was; everywhere they went he'd point someone out and gauge their reactions.

All of that somehow had culminated in setting Howzer up on a blind date the second they touched down on Pabu. As if he had time for such things. As if he cared about such things.

And yet... here he was. Wearing his armor and a frown, but he'd still shown up. If he wasn't so busy cursing his brothers in his mind, he could have analyzed why he was here. Or whether he maybe secretly did care about such things.

His leg bounced and his narrowed eyes stared unfeeling out at the planet's glistening waters. He glanced down at his watch every few minutes, growing more upset at how the time passed without this supposedly "cute" date of his showing up. A memory of Echo whispered in the back of his mind, saying something about "Pabu time", how people here didn't need to move with the same urgency he was used to, but he didn't listen to it.

A few people passed by and gave him pleasant smiles. Some entered the patio and gave warm hugs to neighbors they recognized. An elderly couple went up to the counter, leisurely reading the menu as if they had never dined here before. One girl confidently strolled in, at first acting like she knew where she was going, and then halting in the middle of the tables and looking about in confusion. She then tried to cover and got in line to order, as if that had been her plan, even though Howzer had seen the whole thing and knew she had probably absentmindedly gone to the wrong place.

He fought back the urge to roll his eyes at these people. He wasn't really annoyed at them. If anything, he envied their peace. They didn't have family enslaved by the Empire. They didn't have uncertain futures. They were allowed to wander and smile and act a little silly. It's what he would want for his brothers once they were freed. No, he was annoyed because they weren't free. This peace was not theirs. But here he was, sitting in a cafe overlooking a beautiful view and waiting for a date as if he had earned it. How in the galaxy had he let Rex and the others convince him to do this?

Just when he started to entertain the idea of bailing, the girl from earlier caught his eye. She had made it up to the counter now and the worker was pointing over in his direction. Howzer subconsciously shifted, his back straightening and his hand settling on his thigh next to his blaster holster. Usually he'd pretend not to have noticed, let any potential threats think they were catching him unawares while all along he had the upper hand. But here, he decided to send a different message. I am aware, I see you staring, try to mess with me.

The girl followed the path that the worker had pointed her in, right to Howzer. She didn't look like a spy or some other kind of threat, but these days, who really knew. Especially when she seemed determined to appear pleasant and confident, despite the nervous gulp Howzer clocked from across the patio, not to mention the little display of carelessness he had seen from her earlier.

"Hi there," she said when she came within a few feet of his table.

She gave out a breathy laugh and Howzer frowned, waiting to see what she wanted from him.

"Um," she gulped again, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear. Another nervous tell. What was she hiding? "I uh... Phee told me to meet someone here. For a... a date?"

Howzer's eyes widened in realization. Kriff.

"Sorry, I didn't mean to walk right past you," the girl continued to fill in the silence. "I guess I wasn't expecting, um..."

She trialed off as she realized how the thought was sounding out loud, and then quickly tried to save face by hurrying over to the seat opposite him and pulling it out. But Howzer wasn't going to let her off the hook that easy.

"Weren't expecting... what?" he asked once she sat down. He eased his hand away from his blaster but kept his posture upright. She may not be a threat but he wasn't exactly comfortable.

She exhaled quickly with a sheepish smile. "Well, a clone."

Howzer's eyes returned to their narrowed state, sizing up this girl he found himself sitting across from. She interpreted the silence as offense and immediately started babbling.

"I mean, not that there's anything wrong with that. It's... it's just... You know, you've all just recently started coming here... I mean, I guess I shouldn't be surprised... Of course Phee would set me up with someone I don't know, I know practically every other guy here, and there's a reason I'm not with any of them... And she's been working with clones more recently... But like, I know only a few of you are sticking around for good, so I guess that's why it didn't occur to me that..."

Howzer wasn't sure when he had started zoning out. He felt bad, but also couldn't help it. He didn't have much time for this date to begin with, and certainly no time to listen to a stranger ramble without getting to any sort of point. He was a soldier; he valued conciseness. Whatever suppressed little hope he had that maybe this date wouldn't be so bad after all, maybe he finally would find a romantic connection with someone, dissipated into the saltwater breeze. 

He sat forward and the girl stopped spewing her thoughts, eagerly awaiting him to interject and contribute.

"Look, you seem like a nice girl," he lied. He honestly didn't really have an opinion about her one way or the other. He'd been hit on plenty of times back on Ryloth but had never felt anything by it, other than occasional annoyance when it interrupted his duties. "But it seems like we both have some disappoints over this arrangement. Why don't we cut our losses now, get some time back in our days, and part on good terms?"

Now it was her turn to frown.

"You... you're disappointed?"

Howzer was already scooting his chair back to stand. "It's nothing personal against you," he tried to reassure, though even he could hear how impolite it sounded. He hated that he was in such a situation. He should have never come in the first place.

He gave her a formal nod, almost like a salute, and then strode through the patio gate and down quiet, cobbled streets back toward the town square. Each step felt heavier and heavier and he did whatever he could to ignore the guilt twisting in his chest, even trying to look at his surroundings and focus on taking in the architecture and flora and beauty. It was a hollow focus, but he was determined to keep walking, believing he'd soon forget about this awkward encounter and the rude behavior he'd displayed, and things would go back to normal... as normal as they could be in a war.

But then a voice started to cut through to him from behind.

"Sir? Sir!"

He turned in confusion to see the girl jogging toward him. She pulled up a few feet from him, only slightly out of breath.

"Sorry. Um, I don't know your name. Or your rank."

"My rank doesn't matter anymore," he said, immediately regretting how defensive it sounded. He really was a mess today, wasn't he.

"Sure it does," she said with a small smile. "It was an accomplishment, something you should always be proud of."

Without realizing, the tenseness in his shoulders started to loosen. He took in a deep breath and said the first normal thing all day. "My name's Howzer. Captain Howzer."

Her smile grew just a bit more. "It's nice to meet you, Captain Howzer. And... I'm sorry if I came across rude or annoying before. I understand if you don't find me attractive, but I really don't want that to be your impression of me. I really wasn't disappointed to find out you were my date. In fact, I'm disappointed I didn't actually get to have you as a date. But, like I said... it's okay if you're not interested."

Howzer's heart was twisting again. She was a nice girl. Sweet, thoughtful. Still used too many words, but he supposed he didn't use enough sometimes. As far as attraction, he wasn't entirely sure he knew what that felt like, but those bright eyes and soft smile weren't so bad to look at.

"It's not that I'm not interested," he started to say slowly, but then realized he wasn't sure how to finish the thought.

The girl stepped closer. "You're just not ready?"

"Honestly, I don't know if I ever will be ready." He gave a sheepish shrug, though he was starting to feel better. He appreciated that she was helping him sort through these confusing feelings. Her eyes were closer, swimming with the reflection of the sky and what he believed to be genuine care. Before he knew it, he was elaborating. "I mean, do I like the idea of sitting down for coffee with someone and getting to know them? Of course. But to what end? I don't know what the future holds. I don't know if I can be a good friend, let alone... something else."

She nodded in understanding but still offered a different perspective. "To be fair, no one really knows what the future holds. And relationships come in all different forms. There's no one way to be a good friend. Or a good something else."

Howzer's eyes slipped away from hers, pulled toward the glistening sea in the backdrop behind her. He mulled over her words as he watched the waves, nothing but tiny little ripples from this distance. It reminded him of some of the paintings he saw back on Ryloth. He'd always been impressed with artists who could make small details seem real. They were only small strokes on a canvass but they captured a whole entire feeling.

He shook himself, not sure why he was thinking about such a thing right now. The girl was still watching him with a small but knowing smile. She stepped back and returned the nod he'd given her back at the cafe.

"I'm really glad to have met you, Captain. I wish you all the best."

She turned and started walking back the way she'd came. Howzer let her get a few steps before finally calling out.

"Wait. I didn't get your name."

She paused and smiled at him over her shoulder.

"Hope."

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[thecoffeelorian]

Chapter Title: Loosening Knots

Word Count: 2,489

Brief Description: Captain Howzer x Female Reader, Captain Howzer x Chandrilan Reader (Singular Love Interest). In the midst of all the wedding planning, two mysterious guests are at your door one day...

AO3: Link Here (Must Log In)

Extra Notes: The white braid divider in this chapter was created by @v6que. Also, for those brave enough to read this chapter to the very end...you're going to get a little surprise in return for your concentration. :D

Previous Chapter: Revealed Truths

Chapter Masterlist: Link Here

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@hellfiresky @feral-ferrule @the-rain-on-kamino and anybody else on the lookout for more Howzer fics.

Nine rotations remain until all of the celebrations begin. Nine days of preparation for you and your family, after which come three rotations of a ceremonial dinner where half the district will be invited; a traditional hike up a holy mountain followed by another ceremonial lunch; and finally, the big day where you lose your second braid almost two weeks exactly after losing your first.

According to the teachings of Raiyen, one of the hallowed Elders of the Fourteenth District, this path leading from the betrothal to the wedding ceremony is meant to mark your journey from childhood to adulthood, never mind being a great source of personal joy for you.

Unfortunately, as you were more or less ignored by almost everyone until three rotations ago...all you can feel right now is annoyance.

“So...what’s this Captain Howzer like?”

Annoyance at your immediate neighborhood, annoyance at the reporters who showed off your betrothal announcement as soon as it fell into their hands—oh, but most of all?

“Not now, Bri. I have to finish making this thing.”

“Yes now, Katie! What’s he li-iiiiiike?”

You’ve never felt more annoyed in your whole life than how you’re feeling at your own veil right now.

Like any other bride-to-be who’s unable to purchase her own, you’ve begun knitting the first several rows purely on your own time. At least in the photo below the directions, it’s meant to come together in a neat, triangular arrangement with just a bit of needlework to bind it all up in a grand finish.

“Well, I know he’s a very good listener, all right...otherwise, he wouldn’t have been able to deal with talking to me in the first place.”

“Ooh, a conversationalist? Interestiiiing!”

Unfortunately for you…all the rows you’ve tried your best with are all crooked, since almost every time, you either didn’t think to count the amount of rows; your yarn-overs were performed in the wrong sections; or worst of all, you lost your concentration entirely and had to start over at least twice.

Not exactly the spot you want to be in, especially considering your days at home have officially been numbered.

“And he doesn’t seem to like pitch and catch very much,” you mutter in frustration, still a bit annoyed at yourself for your failure to grasp this veil’s directions. “Apparently, me throwing a side table at him wasn’t the best way to welcome him to our house—oh, dank ferrik!”

As if to add insult to injury, though? One of the two old wooden knitting needles that you had been using up until this point suddenly decides to break in half, thus ending your grand attempt at fiber arts long before you could hope to get started.

Clearly, somebody up there must be annoyed with you, because they've decided to sabotage all of your efforts, starting today.

“Oh...that is unfortunate.”

“You’re telling me.”

Frowning at what’s left of your knitting, you just barely manage to pull the stitches further toward the unbroken end of the faulty needle, and so save all of them from being dropped by accident.

“Well, this is gonna set everything back a few days...think I should go put some credits down for a domestic droid, and hope for the best?”

“Actually, I might have a better idea in mind...”

You look up just in time to see your sister brandishing a newer looking needle, one that you can only hope might be the same size as your fallen one.

“...How about a switch?”

“Hey, hold on a second. Don’t you need that one for your own sash?”

“I can finish that one in a day, Katie. Don’t you think this is more important?”

And, lucky for you, she’s surprisingly willing to share. Willing enough to start transferring your stitches over, even, and making it look a lot less difficult in the process.

“All right…”

You suppose that’s got to be a lot better than squabbling at each other nonstop, though, so instead of fussing or fighting, you’re careful to turn on your family’s holo-screen just in time to catch the morning news.

Just a little distraction to calm yourself down, perhaps, or at least until you can go back to figuring out your next move with this knitting thing.

“…And now, an important update to an ongoing story from yesterday. The first of many survivors from the Venator accident on an unnamed moon, an Arc Trooper known as Jesse, has just been released from Republic care and is expected to make a full recovery…”

A series of images is shown upon the screen in succession, beginning with the scene of a massive smoking wreckage; the disoriented forms of several members of the 501st; a massive rescue operation involving Troopers and medical droids alike; and finally, one particular Trooper with a Republic symbol tattoo upon his face. You’re not sure if it’s just the one photo giving you this impression, or if this particular clone always looks this disgruntled as a matter of habit, because this news broadcast doesn’t seem to want to offer anything else by way of visual records.

“…He will soon be leaving for a more quiet location out of the public eye, and is said to be meeting his commanding officer, Captain Rex, as well as an associate known by the name ‘Ashla’, as he waits for his fellow Troopers to join him…”

Nevertheless, if this is one of the many former soldiers of the Republic that you’ll end up meeting in person, you quickly make the mental note to assume absolutely nothing about him until you see him.

“That Trooper’s either extremely lucky, or slightly cursed.”

Briana makes this quiet observation as she hands the transferred knitting back to you, her eyes just about glued to the screen. She doesn't know yet about Captain Rex's new assignment for Howzer, and neither have you told her a single thing about her future brother-in-law's role in this curious plot. Would she make the same judgment about your Captain as she’s done with Jesse, and merely write him off as some kind of danger magnet? Or, if she knew the full truth up front and wasn’t shocked by the whole arrangement...would she go so far as to offer her own assistance in this matter?

“Who knows, Bri…? After all that they’ve been through, maybe it’s a little bit of both.”

Judging from the information Howzer's already given you, and all about how certain people shouldn’t be given any reasons to interfere in this mission...perhaps it's best that you keep her in the dark for some time yet.

After all, as you once heard from a Republic broadcast during the war, what the galaxy doesn’t know can’t hurt it.

Eight days left and counting, and it’s sinking into your mind a bit more that you’ll have to begin figuring out which of your belongings you’re going to take with you when you leave, and which of your things will end up going to Briana after you’re gone. This, of course, is standard procedure for any Chandrilan woman who’s recently lost her left braid, and in the case of one or more younger sisters, ease the next transition process within the household.

Trouble is, as you’re unable to concentrate on choosing anything today...you decide instead to buck tradition just a little, and instead start catching up on any and all holonet messages you’ve missed since your meetings with Captain Howzer.

“Hey, Katie, it’s me! Your bestest friend in the whole galaxy, alive and in person...though you’re strangely not on this planet. Anyways...comm me back as soon as you get this, we’ve got a lot of talking to do. Take care!”

This means an instant chat room invite sent out to Verta Goring, one of exactly two friends you’d stayed close to during the war; the first of your friend group to make it to Naboo; and, as of now, she’s the very first person on the outside that you decide to get in touch with.

I’m here, Katie. Tell me everything that’s happened, good and bad alike.

If I did, Ver, I’m not sure you’d believe me!

You mean this sentence as something lighthearted rather than horrific, for your husband-to-be has given you no reason whatsoever to be wary of himself or his intentions.

At this same time, as Verta is currently studying to be a lawyer with an emphasis on domestic disputes, she wastes no time in digging a little bit deeper into things.

How so? Is everything all right at home?

I’m not getting into any fights with people, if that’s what you’re worried about.

There’s a small pause of a few seconds as Verta types out her next response, then:

Okay...so your father didn’t pressure you into this at all? Do I have this statement correct?

You do. It’s more like I was brought around slowly, and with no furniture broken on my end.

I think the courts would have understood even if you had, Kate.

Maybe it’s not the courts we need in this case, Ver. Maybe there’s someone far from home who needs us more than any Republic official, so we have to go through with this ceremony in order to start looking for them.

Another pause, and then Verta has this to say in the comment box:

All right, Kate...please pardon my bluntness, but are you sure you know what you’re doing?

I don’t think I would have been trusted with certain things if I didn’t.

Would you be sure to tell me if something bad was happening over there? Or would you just keep everything to yourself as usual, and end up letting it wreck your temper?

There’s a rotten word or two that you’d love to throw in Verta’s direction now, some well-placed insults to counteract her scathing reminder of all of your bad habits—yet, as there’s still so much planning left to accomplish and she’s also received the added blessing of not picking any fights with you...perhaps it’s a better idea for you both if you don’t let your anger show once more.

If the worst should happen, you’ll be the first person I call. Sound good?

There’s a minute or two of silence between you, the symbol of someone typing as the only indicator that Verta’s still there at all—then, when you believe this conversation to be over and yourself abruptly cut off out of spite, that’s precisely when she surprises you.

Of course, Kate. Helping people in need is kinda supposed to be my job now.

Thanks, Ver. I’m hoping it won’t come to this at all, but I’ll know where to turn to if it does.

Seven days and counting as of today, yet it’s only now that the panic is at last upon you. There’s still alterations to be made to an old light blue gown of yours so that it’s ready for the ceremony; seating arrangements to be fixed so that no political fights break out at the reception; a dinner menu to be decided in order to avoid allergies and other dining issues; and a veritable laundry list of other unfinished tasks both within and without your family’s gates.

In other words, it’s going to be a miracle if you don’t end up cracking underneath all of the stress, never mind the continuous flurry of comm messages and other forms of dialogue needed to make sure these celebrations go off without a hitch.

Ah, Mom...however did you manage when it was your turn to leave home?

Somewhere in all of the chaos, however, when you’re pacing the hallway and nervously awaiting two visitors from the bridal shop to aid you in fixing up your gown...who should come to your front door instead but a small stranger in a large hat?

“Er…good morning, madam! Is the master of the house available?”

Correction…two small strangers in large hats, one of which has a voice that is suspiciously switching from a male soprano to an alto at the oddest possible time. There’s also something a tiny bit familiar about this pair, though you can’t really put it something into words just yet.

“That would depend on who’s looking for him,” you reply, barely suppressing a laugh. “May I ask your names?”

“Er…”

The second Large Hat whispers quickly into the ear of the first Large Hat, after which you’re doing your best not to crack a smile at his answer:

“…Tell him that Professor Cran and Professor Blin have arrived for Briana’s lessons…please?”

“Professors Cran and Blin…whatever you say, gentlemen. Do come in.”

No sooner have you admitted them inside than Briana starts sneaking down the staircase, her gaze turning behind her now and again as she’s listening good and hard to guarantee that Dad never spots her. Orinna’s conveniently out of the house as well, having gone to post a holomessage to some relatives back on Ryloth.

“Hey DAD! I think some of Bri’s new teachers just arrived!”

“Very well...feel free to send them up!”

As for you…well, you might be willing to play along for now, but not without a few guardrails in place.

“All right, you…”

This is the thought you keep in mind as you step in between her and ‘Professor Blin’, taking hold of her right sleeve before she does anything punishable.

“…If we’re going to do this your way, Briana Minola, I had better be allowed to join you as a chaperone.”

“What for?” Her usual pride is a little through the roof today, something that won’t exactly do either of you any good.

“You’re betrothed to Howzer anyway, why can’t I enjoy myself now?”

“Because both your braids are still untouched, silly. That’s why.”

She pulls away in a huff, but not before staring dejectedly at the ground and shoving her hands into her pockets. Good. If she ever has the hope of going out there without any troubles following close behind, she’ll want to toe the line a bit longer back here.

“Good girl! Are we doing music first, or Huttese?”

“Music,” Briana mumbles, blushing ever so slightly in the direction of “Professor Blin”, who manages to lock eyes with her before they both look away.

“I—I still have to memorize a few chords for later this week.”

Might this be that Admiral’s son you caught sight of a few days ago, but had no time to interact with because of your attempted escape? Or is this the Senator’s son instead, and are any attempts to court your sister about to get tied up with a few awkward political discussions?

“Say no more, then—if it’s quadjitar practice next, I’m joining you.”

Whoever the lucky boy is, though, he’s not going to get away with anything foolish under your watch…or, for that matter, neither will Briana.

“Fine…but no breaking the instruments this time!”

“It’s a deal, sis. Feel free to lead the way.”

[a/n: Bonus for you all--This is what I imagine the wedding dress to look like when all is finished, and yes, I drew and colored in everything with my own two hands here. Hope you like it as much as I do! <3]

[eclec-tech]

🎵 Clone x Reader Song Fic Exchange 🎶

For @ladysongmaster (This was my first time ever writing for Howzer!) 🤞🏼

@cloneficgiftexchange Pairing: Howzer x Reader Words: 3.7K+

"I knew she always worked late on the third Taungsday of the month and told her I would bring by dinner on the next one so we would each have some company while we suffered through our reports. That was going to be the night I finally asked if she wanted to spend some time with me outside our official duties. But I guess the Force had other ideas,” he trailed off sadly. “What happened?” Howzer’s wistful smile disappeared entirely. “That was the night I tried to rally my men to stop hurting the people of Ryloth and got us all arrested.”

[emperor-palpaminty]

I know that the specific request wasn't for Howzer and reader, but I really thought our blastiest of bajas deserved some funny stuff. He's had a lot happen to him. Yikes.

Anyways Howzer is shit with pickup lines ok. Tw for mentions of alcohol and being at a bar.

@masterjedilenawrites organized this, thank you! It's a quickie, but fun, I think.

Extroverted as he was, the club or bar wasn't really a scene Howzer partook in super often. He would go with a large group of friends or if he was particularly bored. Tonight was the latter.

Ryloth was great, and when he was shipped back to Coruscant he missed it, the people, his platoon. Unfortunately his rank required the occasional travel back to HQ for reports and other unsavory administrative activities.

So here he was. Nursing a nonalcoholic beverage in a bar, thinking of his brothers (the ones not in the bar, at least), and ignoring the absolutely awful music.

His eyes drifted to the bartender, who was good-looking. Well, maybe...

"Hey." He grinned, raising the cup, which still had a little drink in it. "Howzer- bout another one?"

The bartender smiled and turned, picking up another cup and going to refill it. Howzer fought off an internal groan and the urge to put his head down on the counter. Of course that wouldn't work. No one here on this stupid planet even knew his name.

He hated administrative visits. He was done with them. Well- he wanted to be done with them. This job was perfect, or would be, if he could remove the pesky stupid performative stuff.

Sitting with Cham was far more causal and relaxing than being guided stiffly through the halls of high ranking security buildings. It was menial. Dreary. Boring.

The cup slid in front of him. He sat up, straighter, and looked at it. "This isn't the same thing."

The bar tender shrugged, a smile tugging at the corner of their lips. "It's on the house. May as well, right?" They smiled at him, brows raising. "Howzer?"

Howzer's mood flipped. He smiled and raised his glass to the bar tender, then abandoned his cold glass for the newer, more refreshing drink. Maybe he needed to hang out in weird clone bars more often. And just maybe, he hadn't lost his touch.

[masterjedilenawrites]

Soo sweet! Poor Howzer. I love that you explored that sad, almost haunted part of him a bit. “I…I feel like I’m missing pieces, of myself” 😭 I’m glad you gave him a person to help him through that and finally find some rest! 🤗

Missing pieces find me (Captain Howzer x F!Reader)

Gif by @nobie

for Operation #MoreHowzerFics

Words: 791

Howzer hadn’t slept well in a long time. He wasn’t sure he’d ever gotten a full nights rest since the war ended. In the past it hadn’t seemed to bother him, but now working in the Clone underground. He wondered, if maybe something wasn’t quite right with that. He realized at some point he couldn’t focus on the Data pad in front of him, His vison was hazy and he felt off. He blinks a few times, looks up and pinched the bridge of his nose.

“Howzer? You alright there?” Rex raised an eyebrow at him from across the room.

“I…I think so…it’s just a headache.” Howzer tried to brush it off. Rex wasn’t at all convinced. He walks over to him and takes the Data pad from his 

“Vod… you need some rest…go.” Howzer can tell by the tone of Rex that he isn’t asking, he’s telling. Howzer sighed dramatically before standing up.

“Whatever you say captain.” Howzer replied with an abundance of sass in his voice. Rex rolled his eyes and waved him off. Howzer made his way to the makeshift Barracks. He passed by the medbay on his way and he stopped for a minute. His immediate reaction is to search the room for her. The medic who had caught his eye the moment they had met the first time. They had formed a close friendship that developed into more but they hadn’t really put a definition on it. He found her talking to one of the other medics over a box of supplies. He waited patiently to be noticed, not wanting to take her attention from the task at hand. He wasn’t waiting long before she noticed him and made her way over to him. She gave him a kind smile.

“Captain, can I help you with something?” She asked.

“Uh, yeah I’ve been…feeling kinda off…Rex sent me off to get some rest…” He rubs the back of his neck as he looked at her. It was hard to stay professional with her.

“and why aren’t you?” she asked with a cheeky smile knowing full well why he stopped by.

“I…I wanted to see you.” He admitted shyly. She smiled knowingly.

“I could probably get away for a short time, if you need some company…” She looked over her shoulder. “I think the others can make it on their own for an hour or so.”

“I’ll take whatever I can get.” Howzer said with a laugh. They both walked to the barracks, fingers grazing each other occasionally as they walked side by side. Howzer felt, increasingly nervous, and incredibly inadequate. Once they finally arrived in the barracks, Howzer started to take off his armor, leaving him in just his blacks. As he does this she sits down on his bunk and watched with a smile on her face. He turns to look at her, his face slightly flushed as he noticed her watching.

“Like what you see?” he asked with a raised eyebrow.

“Yes…But that’s not why we’re here.” She laughs. She pats the bunk beside her and he gives a shrug and a chuckle as he lays in the bunk. She lays next to him, running her fingers gently though his hair, her touch was comforting. But as much as he tried to sleep, he couldn’t. It was nearly painful. His face contorted with pain, and she gently traced her fingers over his face. “Talk to me Howzer. What’s going on?”

“I can’t sleep, and it hurts…I don’t know…” He hesitated, He definitely wasn’t used to talk about his problems. But she made him feel safe, like he could tell her anything. “I…I feel like I’m missing pieces, of myself. Of normalcy. I don’t know what I’m doing, if I’m doing anything. I’m trying to figure out what my purpose is in all this.” He says quietly. Her gaze softened, and she gently holds his face in her hands.

“It’s okay to feel like that, you have spent your whole life, with one purpose, to fight a war. The war is over, and there’s a learning process. You are, missing pieces, every one of you. You’re finding a way to feel whole again without the republic, without so many of your brothers. It will take time.” She says these things softly and lovingly as she runs her thumbs across his cheeks and gazes into his eyes.  “But I’ll be here, for every step. Alright?”

“I…thank you.” Howzer sighs. Wrapping his arms around her waist and pulling her in close, burying his face in the crook of her neck. He felt…for just a moment, that he was whole, she made him feel that way. And finally, for the first time in a long time. He fell asleep.

~

Masterlist

Taglist: @masterjedilenawrites @silvernight-m @queerponcho @boredzillenial

[thecoffeelorian]

Chapter Title: Into The Circle

Word Count: 1,913 words.

Brief Description: Captain Howzer x Female Reader, Captain Howzer x Chandrilan Reader (Singular Love Interest).

It's time.

AO3: Link Here (Must Log In)

Extra Notes: Thank you all for your patience with me, and sorry again that this had to be postponed somewhat. I hope the wait was worth it, though. <3

Also, the white braid divider in this chapter was created by @v6que.

Chapter Masterlist: Link Here

The No-Pressure Tag List:

@tazmbc1, @gun-roswell, @crosshairs-dumb-pimp-gf, @hellfiresky, @vrycurious

@atticusblackwolf and anyone else still willing to put up with my prattle. ^^;

The next rotation feels a little like a waking dream to you, if only because you begin it in a slight mental fog.

You manage to finish almost all of your breakfast that morning, then go from room to room to reassure yourself that everything is prepared enough for the afternoon.

You're also able to help with the final arrangements in the dining room, carefully marking each place with either an “M” or a “V” according to the dietary needs of your guests.

And third, you’re granted a solid hour to yourself to wash up, rinse down, dry off, and moisturize in that exact order before you're expected to get dressed. During this period of time, you’re not yet so stressed enough as to wish you had gotten on that ship to Naboo after all, for any worries you had experienced before today were minimal as well as fleeting.

It's not until you’ve slipped on a light robe that you hear drumming in the distance, and shortly after, the rhythmic tinkling of bells downstairs begins to echo the cadence from outside.

Howzer!

Howzer is coming once again to your family’s house, leaving behind his shared quarters with Commander Miles and meaning to go through with the impending ceremony. This leads you to rush straight to your bedroom before you waste any more time, pushing open the door to find Briana, Orinna, and Aunt Ceelia already waiting for you.

“Right on time...”

Ceelia frowns just a little as she guides you to the chair beside your desk, upon which sits a mirror large enough to mistake it for a vanity. Based on her somewhat reluctant expression, she’s most likely wishing that you had accepted her offer of a ride offworld, even if you didn’t end up going back to Ghorman with her.

As for you, you’d love nothing more at this point than to make your hands stop shaking.

“It's all right, Y/N, you can do zis. We've got you...”

It's here that you let them take the lead, if only to stop the trembling within your body and the panicking within your mind.

Thankfully, none of these three women fare badly in your eyes.

Orinna must have already volunteered to do your hair, for you can smell the faint, flowery scent of hair gel as she begins styling it into something that doesn't hang around your face or cover up your eyes by accident. Good thing that you had chosen a simple updo hairstyle for this occasion, for it should end up giving you a sophisticated look without having to keep you in the stylist chair for hours at a time.

That’s one headache out of the way.

Briana does something similar with your makeup, as your foundation remains a neutral tone and everything that comes after it doesn't stray too far into flashy territory. As you're able to study yourself in the nearest mirror beforehand, you see that just the right amount of light brown and rosy tones are used to pull your look together.

Another headache gone.

And if that’s not enough to get you to calm down, Aunt Ceelia certainly goes above and beyond by turning on some soft music, a sure remedy to get you thinking about something else besides the rituals you’re about to take part in.

Three headaches warded off, and may the Elders bless the warders.

Once their respective work is done and all three women aid you in putting on your gown, it’s only then that you find your eyes misting up against your will.

You’re really going to leave this time.

The ceremony is now mere minutes away, your throat feels as though it's got a lump so large that you’re no longer able to speak, and on top of everything else, there’s no more time for you to say goodbye.

You won’t get to take one last trip to your mother’s favorite coffee shop, because there’s no room to be late for the ceremony.

You won’t be able to check in on any more of your old classmates, because you’re feeling far too nervous to call.

And with just how fast everything else has been progressing, well...chances are you might not even get to give Briana one last hug before the rituals begin.

“Y/N’s weeping already,” Aunt Ceelia mutters, her hands going into her pockets to fumble about for a tissue. “Maybe we should go to Julian, and demand he call off this karking circus.”

“What, and shame both zese young people? They are under enough stress as it is! Here…”

Orinna produces the needed tissue from within her own sleeve, after which you’re able to dry your eyes.

“…Now Y/N, is zere anything important that you still need? Another tissue? One minute to breathe? Quick nip of wine?”

You can only shake your head to all three of these questions, because currently, you’re far too anxious to reply. All those movies you watched growing up where the bride makes one last speech to her family look so false to you now, if only because all the directors of such things were men.

Rather, you can only glance over at Briana in a pleading manner, and hope that Somebody understands your message.

“Ah, is zat what you need? You are worried for your sister?”

Thank goodness that Orinna is still so attentive to your body language, for even though you’re on your way out of the house, Briana’s got quite a ways to go before she can do the same.

“Don’t worry,” Aunt Ceelia joins in, giving both your hands a gentle squeeze. “Both of us can keep watch over her, be it inside or outside of the home. What do you think of that?”

You find your voice just in time to murmur your assent, and with it, even Briana’s looking a little less tense than before.

“Well, there ya go,” she tells you, giving you a quick pat on the shoulder. “I’ll be well looked after back here, and twice as much if Luco comes again…that’s okay, right?”

Luco.

So this fake Professor finally has a name, and not a moment too soon. You were getting a little tired with calling him ‘Blin’ all the time, like he was some kind of pancake.

“I sure hope so, Bri.”

“Good. Now, let’s all take a breather, and then head out there.”

“Veena de matariya.” A maiden is waiting.

So goes your introduction to get this ritual underway, Orinna leading you into the garden while your chosen Peermaidens circle around you with their lamps. Your gaze takes in the crowd at first, a dozen or so members of your extended family on both sides, and for an instant, you wonder what in the galaxy they’re thinking about you now.

Then, once you catch sight of Captain Howzer waiting for you, looking nothing short of irresistible in his pale blue and white robes...only then do your memories take you back to your school days, your classmates reading passages about the Wedding Rites out loud while you await your turn to speak.

“ ‘The Youngest Daughter approaches in silence, her eyes lowered in submission, her sandals blackened from the raiders’ flames, her hands stained with her own blood. She must have dug her own nails into her palms as she watched from the highest room of the tower, for even at this distance, there’s no mistaking the green lamps of the Rakata.

Nevertheless, her time has now come…’ ”

There are no doors to open here in order to let you in, yet there are still people in attendance to lay the ceremonial branch before you. This is accomplished by Captain Rex and Gobi Glie together, after which they all move once around you and Howzer in formation, stopping only when Father’s able to turn and face you.

However, in spite of the way he does his best to catch your eye, your focus is solely upon Howzer.

“ ‘As the Youngest Daughter steps barefoot over the branch, both Mothers and both Fathers circle once around her and the Youngest Son, the Daughter’s Father withdrawing a knife from beneath his robes as they all watch the sky…’ ”

“Serin mal sal taneema?” Do you see your future?

“Ka se mal si miyatamee.” I see it before me…with or without your permission.

Howzer certainly has eyes only for you as well, for he doesn’t think twice about beckoning you to his side.

“Gri ma tamee.” Join my circle.

He certainly will not have to ask you twice.

“ ‘And yet, despite his own fears of what had not come to pass, the Youngest Son still calls the Youngest Daughter forward, thus fulfilling his promise to his Elder Brother who had been himself slain…’ ”

The drum sounds out a rhythm, the bells follow close behind, and as you walk three more steps to enter the sacred space, it’s here that you and Howzer walk out a circle of your own, you facing ever to the right while Howzer faces toward the left.

Once the two of you stop directly at the center, your father, Orinna, Captain Rex, and Gobi Glie all take a large step closer in order to form the protective ring around you, then circle around you a second time until Dad reaches the place where your Captain stands.

“…‘Once more do both families circle around the young couple, their eyes upon the betrothed while their focus remains on the horizon. The Daughter’s Mother waits for the smell of smoke, the Son’s Father waits for the sound of rumbling hooves, the Son’s Mother waits for the taste of ash, and the Daughter’s Father waits for the feeling of emergency…’ ”

The drums continue to beat as you and Howzer stand still as statues, staring deeply into the other’s eyes until you see Howzer mouth these words to you.

Almost done. Hang in zere.

“…‘All four kept their protective circle firm around the Son and Daughter, who, even though they had not met until three days beforehand, still looked upon each other with growing favor regardless…’ ”

Everyone else’s movements ultimately cease when Dad carries the ceremonial dagger to Howzer’s place, it being both a harsh reminder of conflicts past and the tool meant to symbolically sever your ties to your own time as a Daughter. When you were a lot younger, you had once gone so far as to giggle to your friends that maybe, some of those grooms had done other things with the dagger besides try to cut their brides’ second braid off.

As you’re an adult here and now, though, your own story will be anything but a joke for little girls to tell amongst themselves.

“…‘ ”I will not return this knife,” said the Youngest Son, its blade glinting ever so slightly within his grasp.

”Do with it as you wish,” said the Daughter’s Father, though it is also said by some that the Daughter’s Mother cried out in her anguish here…’ ”

“Tanai ma na ke fra.”

“Tave ama ke drono dama.”

This means that, even though you’re closing your eyes solely out of habit and feeling your own stomach lurch...not once do you feel anything sharp pressed against your skin.

Instead, there’s the slight pull against your second braid as it’s cut from the rest of your hair, a few seconds of silence as Howzer presses a kiss against your forehead...then the entire garden erupts in applause.

[thecoffeelorian]

Chapter Title: Backlash

Word Count: 1,359.

Brief Description: Brief Description: Captain Howzer x Female Reader, Captain Howzer x Chandrilan Reader (Singular Love Interest). A reaction to betrayal, a threat of arrest, and a test of the potential bridegroom's intentions all converge at the Minola residence...

AO3: Link Here

Extra Notes: This sat in my Notes for upwards of 3 months before I dropped it in here...man, I'm slow and I suck at updates. Anyways, I hope people are still interested in this, as sporadic as I've been after all this time.

Previous Chapter: The Proposal

Chapter Masterlist: Link Here

The No-Pressure Tag List:

@crosshairs-dumb-pimp-gf @cloneflo99 @vrycurious @gun-roswell @padawancat97

@littlefeatherr @yeehawhijack @knightprincess @masterjedilenawrites @skellymom and anybody else on the lookout for more Howzer fics.

“What. The kriff.”

Whatever happy bubble you might have been trapped in before has now popped…and with it, you’re not sure if you can feel anything else but betrayal.

“So this is why you came. Dear old Dad cried you a river, Briana joined in, and I’m the one who got put up for sale...”

Betrayal from whoever might have ratted you out at home, betrayal from yourself simply for agreeing to come back…oh, but most of all, betrayal from him.

“Now that’s not exactly true—“

“—It’s true enough to me.”

What right did he have, exactly, to sell you out like this?

“I should have known you’d just become Dad’s doormat in the end.”

Was it just some social side effect of the Republic treating his people like factory made machines, or had this been his idea all along?

“More like your own welcome mat, if you will accept me.”

“Don’t get cute with me, Captain. I don’t ‘accept’ anything!”

Either way, it doesn’t look as though “dear old Dad” is all that celebratory any more, because you’ve just succeeded in wiping that shit-eating grin right off his face.

“N-Now Katie, this-this is hardly the time for—”

“—Don’t. Call me. ‘Katie’.”

He’s looking somewhat scared of you this time, in fact, so much so that you start to get a little thrill out of it.

“I’m not your ‘Katie’, I’m not his ‘Katie’, and I’m definitely not going to—”

“—Y/N, please!”

Orinna, by contrast, is giving you the Look. The one you used to get as a kid when she caught you running too fast in the hallway, or else chasing Briana one time too many around the formal dish ware cabinet.

She’s not too keen on watching you do something dangerous today, especially not if she can help it.

“Zis is not ze time to begin a second war, all right? Ze Troopers and ze Separatists ‘ave all laid down zheir arms. Why can you not do ze same?”

“Rebels are meant to fight, and so am I.”

“Mothers are meant to worry, and so am I!”

“Whatever for?”

“Because I do not want ze authorities arresting you! Think upon zat!”

Her dark eyes are glaring into yours at this point, a sure sign that you’ve officially crossed one line too many with her. You’ve never really seen her this angry before, true—but given that this is such a rarity from her, it’s certainly making you think twice before going any further.

In fact…even though you’re still pretty pissed off at Dad and Howzer together, you’re also not thinking twice about raising your hands in surrender. You’ve messed with her head enough for one day, maybe, so perhaps now is the proper moment to back off and stand down.

“…All right. Fine. I’ll do that.”

“I certainly ‘ope so. Capitaine?”

She motions Howzer forward with one hand, but not without both of her lekku moving rather closely into the sign for “May spice salt your wounds”. Obviously, she won’t be that eager to deal with any more of your issues today.

“Feel free to escort Miss Minola inside, for I do not doubt zat you will ‘ave much to discuss.”

“So I am told…”

As for the good Captain, on the other hand, he’s decided to hang back until you were most likely to calm down and knuckle under. So far, he may have the calming down part of you already proposed and seconded.

“…Still, Y/N, if you will allow me to continue—”

“—Any Trooper will, if he doesn’t bore me first—”

“—You may not find me so boring as other men, for I ‘ad a few interesting teachers back on Kamino.”

“Why, what’s Kamino?”

“An oceanic planet.”

“If that is so, then feel free to go back. I’m sure they’re dying to see you.”

“So I am told. Come! We can go zere together!”

Howzer offers his arm to you, a sure mark of gentlemanly manners if this was any other meeting between you that your father didn’t preordain. Under normal circumstances, you might have happily considered this Captain as your escort back inside the manse.

Out here, however, you’re merely gathering your hands behind your back, one eyebrow raised in silent interrogation, and literally everyone—be they ranging from the scolding Orinna in front of you to Brainy Bri watching it all from her upstairs window—are now holding their collective breaths in anticipation for your next reaction.

“Oh? What makes you think I’m joining you?”

“I…don’t yet see a reason why you could not, Miss Minola.”

“Maybe I’d prefer to sit outside for a while.”

“Very well. I will be sure to join you.”

Howzer makes a small performance of lowering himself onto one of the two front benches; then patting the place beside him in hopes of having you as a partner. You certainly would have joined him willingly if it had been up to you alone, because then you would have had a modicum of freedom to do with as you wished.

Unfortunately, no thanks to Dad pushing this match as the main road to freeing up Briana…you’re instead eyeing one of the side tables, wondering if you should make your own show of sitting there instead…or worse.

“Actually…I think I’ve changed my mind, ‘Capitaine’. Perhaps I’ll go inside.”

“What, and miss the view of zis fine day?”

“Maybe it’s too bright a view for my sensitive eyes.”

“Very well, then…let me see you walk, if we cannot sit together.”

“Walk? Whatever for?”

“So I’ll know who to look for when the big day comes.”

“Oh? What makes you think I won’t be running out the door instead?”

“Please, Y/N, I am as good a gentleman as any other…”

They’re all watching you now, Orinna, Dad, Briana from the window and whomever else inside the house who have decided to stop work and peek at the proceedings. Apparently, you’ve gone from Little Miss Nobody to the talk of the entire household in a few short hours, beginning with your ill-fated disappearance.

“…That. I’ll. Try.”

However, now that the side table is within your reach and you’re more or less finished with being the pawn to your sister’s knight…it’s that single piece of wood that you’re not hesitating to use as your next weapon, because in a matter of seconds, you’re sending it flying at Howzer’s head, your only mission being to drive him off your property with or without the black eye that he may so richly deserve—

“Whoops.”

—And then, with about as much advance warning as you gave him, which at this point is pretty much none—he catches that piece of furniture in midair, executes a near-perfect twirl, and finally sends the table flying back to you, after which you’ve very little choice other than to catch it before it crashes.

“Oof!”

This you barely accomplish with all the grace of someone who never played any sports, for the impact alone all but knocks you onto your back while Howzer remains upright and unbruised. For what might be the first time ever, you’re left in a confused silence while the sting of catching a hard object with your bare hands wears off, because only then might you be able to get back onto your feet again with no further interruptions.

In the meantime, though…everyone’s looking on in a stunned silence, not knowing whether or not to panic as they wait to see what you do next. Judging from their past experiences, either you're going to run off in a huff, or else fall into an even bigger rage and throw another piece of furniture. Perhaps anything of the worst nature can happen from your end, as it's more or less the huge bad habit that you've let yourself fall into over time.

And yet...even as how Howzer's watching you cautiously, still figuring out whether or not he should protect himself and get out of here while he still can...that's when you end up surprising yourself as well as everyone else.

"Nice aim, Captain Howzer."

[To be continued in Chapter 6, "Revealed Truths".

Please like, comment, and reblog if you liked this chapter; and I'll see you in the next update! TYSM!]

[masterjedilenawrites]

Operation: Give That Clone More Fics!

🩵 Howzer edition 🩵

After a quick tie-breaker poll, Captain Baja Blast has been voted as the character in need of more fics! For anyone interested, here are some ways you can contribute to helping build up Howzer's fic library:

Write a new fic! Short or long; reader insert or 3rd person; fluff or smut; AU or canon compliant... No rules, just show Howzer some love with however many words you feel like

Write a continuation of an old fic! Already wrote something for Howzer in the past? Dig it up and add an extra something to it... a new chapter, a prequel scene, a rewrite from another POV, etc

Write him into a current story! For those who like a little challenge, take a current WIP and see if you can find a way to include Howzer in the next part (even if it's only an alternate scene)

Help out a writer! If you're not a writer yourself, or don't have the time/capacity/interest to work on this initiative, send some prompts or ideas to a writer friend instead

Whatever you write, tag with #MoreHowzerFics and/or @ me... In addition to writing a fic of my own, I'll compile a list of any new Howzer fics for interested readers to reference.

No firm deadline on this, but I will put up another poll soon and have a new clone winner the following week. (Not sure on the timing of these, is 1-2 weeks between polls okay??) Continue to shower Howzer with love as often as you can in the future!

Tagging @winniethewife who said they were interested in writing.

Alright friends, you have your mission orders... now go give that clone more fics! 🩵

[thecoffeelorian]

Chapter Title: Revealed Truths

Word Count: 2,564

Brief Description: Captain Howzer x Female Reader, Captain Howzer x Chandrilan Reader (Singular Love Interest). An unexpected engagement takes place to everyone's surprise, but not without its own mystery to solve...

AO3: Link Here

Extra Notes: If anybody's wondering why I'm invading the Star Wars Celebration tag...it's because I'm a sad little nerd with no ability to travel overseas, and I wanted to reach a few more Howzer fans in the process of updating this old story. Hope that's okay! 💖

Previous Chapter: Backlash

Chapter Masterlist: Link Here

The No-Pressure Tag List:

@crosshairs-dumb-pimp-gf @cloneflo99 @vrycurious @gun-roswell @padawancat97

@littlefeatherr @yeehawhijack @knightprincess @masterjedilenawrites @skellymom 

@orangez3st @ci-avmovies14 @523rdrebel and anybody else on the lookout for more Howzer fics.

“Nice aim, Captain Howzer.”

Your hands sting for no more than a few seconds after your surprise catch, yet once the force of that little table wears off, you find yourself putting it back where you had originally found it.

“My thanks, Miss Minola,” the Captain replies in return, eyeing you with a cautious curiosity. “One of the many skills I learned upon Kamino.”

“Perhaps you can teach me a few later?”

“If you wish it.”

You allow yourself a few seconds to inhale, exhale, and then offer your hand up to Howzer as your own attempt to establish a truce. It’s probably a long shot to even consider such things at this point, especially after blowing him off so many times and almost to the point of violence—and yet.

As you’re just a little bit sure that it’s preferable to staying on the ground, perhaps you're set upon trying it anyway.

Thankfully, be it for your own good or else for the comfort of those around you, he accepts…and the next thing you know, you’re back upon your feet with Orinna rushing forward to check on you.

“My goodness, Y/N, are you all right? What in the stars were you zinking, bothering the good Capitaine like that?”

“Not much at all, I'm afraid,” you manage with a nervous laugh, a little too aware of all the eyes upon you. Briana may have walked away from her window at this point, but she'll still have a good story to tell the other servants, never mind all of her traditionally minded friends...so, at least she'll be keeping an eye upon you.

“Well, let us not stay out 'ere any further. Remember, zere is still very much for you two to discuss, so please. Come with me.”

You’re still going to avoid your father for a while, of course, as his idea about your inevitable ‘marriage’ wasn’t exactly yours as well. Whatever he’s attempting to explain away as you follow Howzer and Orinna goes in through your left ear and exits through your right, and may do so for some time yet.

This doesn’t stop you, though, from being escorted into his study for what your culture calls “The Meeting of The Matched”, an introduction of the potential couple that would normally include both sets of parents, normally take place when both people involved have both reached their teens, and nearly always results in a wedding. As one of your parents is out of the picture and Howzer has none to speak of, however—well, your own “Meeting” is going to be just a little bit different.

“ ‘Ere we are, my dears! Would you like any refreshments while you are—er, finalizing zings?”

“Do you have any caf?” Howzer answers after thinking it through for a moment.

“It’s been a few days since I left Ryloth, so I’m afraid I’m missing its local fare.”

“One pinch of ginger and cinnamon coming up, then,” Orinna answers, the traces of a smile briefly crossing her face. “And for the lady?”

“I’ll have the same, but with a chocolate roll if we still have any.”

You may not have made it onto the next ship headed for Naboo, but nevertheless, your attempted escape has still managed to wake up your appetite.

“I will see what I can do, Y/N.”

Such a good thing it is, then, that Orinna has never been the sort of caregiver that sends children to bed on empty stomachs, bad behavior or not. That’s one thing that’s never changed about her, even with the change in your family’s fortunes, and you’re forever glad of it.

What she does do, though, is give you a scolding finger against any more disappearances, lest you reach the point of not even her having a chance to come to your rescue.

“When I return, I had better still find you sitting ‘ere. Understand?”

“Don’t worry,” you reassure her, though not without a slight tinge of anxiety. “I’ve got no more reasons to run.”

This seems to be enough for her liking, for she’s slipping out the door not long afterward, a tiny spring in her step. Neither your family nor any other servants seem to be within eavesdropping distance, for they’ve either decided to busy themselves in other parts of the house or else make themselves scarce for the time being. There are also, reportedly, no scheduled visits from anyone associated with Dad’s business, a welcome fact that guarantees no prying eyes from the outside.

As a result, you and Captain Howzer have been granted a moment alone to get better acquainted with each other, as this is most likely the final step before you finalize any and all plans you’re thinking up together.

Given that your own engagement is close to inevitable at this point, it stands to reason that perhaps learning to hold a full conversation is the very least you can do.

“So, Captain Howzer…”

“So, Miss Minola?”

“You never did tell me whether or not my father paid you to come here.”

“That is because no such arrangement was made.”

He’s gone and raised his eyebrows in disbelief at your conspiracy theory, a thing that could either disprove your claim entirely or merely throw enough cold water upon it so that you don’t pursue it any further. It’s a little difficult to figure out which possibility could be true here, especially with this man.

“All right, but…what did really bring you here? I mean—that thing about me having to marry before Briana happened just a few rotations ago. How did you hear about it so fast?”

“You can thank Commander Miles for that one, Miss Minola. He hears a great many things.”

“Oh, really? So…your friend just comms you one day, you get word of two girls entering the marriage market, and suddenly you’re just fine with binding yourself to somebody you don’t know?”

You watch this Captain closely as he falls silent, seeming to try and hear if anyone else is coming along to check upon you both. That’s the impression you get, anyways, for you’re only a little bit sure of what he might think of you.

Once the moment passes, however, that’s when the awkwardness of this whole situation follows close behind.

“Actually, Miss Minola...it is a bit more than that.”

“Oh? What is?”

In response, Howzer leans forward, his voice dropping to a whisper as he’s about to finally reveal something big:

“I need to find a missing brother.”

“You what?”

Then again, now that he’s revealed this little fact to you, suddenly you admit to yourself that your imagination may have ran itself a bit too wild before this moment. In fact, your voice is becoming a whisper as well, even if only because you’re feeling a bit more connected to this Trooper than you did before. Granted, the two of you are pretty much still strangers here, but then again...would just any stranger right off the street trust you with something this important?

“It’s true. His name’s Nax, and he’s been gone since the end of the Battle of Umbara—but none of the Kaminoans cared enough to tell any of us whether he was alive or dead.”

“You mean the other Troopers?”

“I do. Captain Rex of the 501st especially needs news of him, as they’re in the same battalion.”

You make note of him speaking of this Nax in the present tense, and quickly bury the urge to let out any sniffles. Of course he’s not going to speak of this one as though he’s already dead—that wouldn’t do anything but defeat the search ages before it could begin. You know this, because you have a slight feeling you would do the same for Briana if your situations were reversed.

“Okay, so this means…”

“It means, if zis match between us goes through, we ‘ave a chance of better funding for our search. Maybe some extra ships on the side, too, if our benefactor feels generous enough.”

“And if he is still out there, well—you’ll be able to take him home?”

You mean this in a figurative sense, or so you tell yourself as you currently don’t know whether or not homes even exist back on Kamino.

“Anywhere but back to ze longnecks! They will not have him!”

Howzer, however, sees this sentence literally and hates it on the spot. Those ‘longnecks’, as he’s just styled them, don’t sound as though they have a single parental bone in their bodies…let alone anything that remotely resembles a familial bond.

One more thing for you to remember later, especially if it helps keep the both of you from fighting.

“I’m sure they won’t dare,” you answer, certainly not in any mood to trouble him further. “Not when you’re here for him first.”

You weren’t scared, nervous, or so much as surprised by his outburst, since you’re more or less old enough to figure out that he’s upset for a reason. Rather, since you’re sure he’s a lot angrier at the Kaminoans than he seems to be at you, maybe they might actually deserve such sentiment.

After a minute or two of getting himself to relax, though? Simple. Not only does this Captain’s righteous anger die down and get replaced by his usual calm demeanor, but you can also tell that this Captain is more than happy to get your vote of confidence.

“…Yes. Yes, I will ‘elp get him home—to Rex, to Jesse, and all the others who are still alive.”

“That sounds like a plan to me.”

And, in the span of this moment...literally everything changes between you.

You no longer look into the eyes of one Trooper amongst thousands, but into those of a hero in the making.

You’re also no longer being handed off to the first stranger to express an interest in you, but instead given the opportunity to aid in the rescue of an innocent.

And finally, although young ladies such as yourself are expected to contain their emotions during their respective ‘Meetings’...absolutely nothing is stopping you from reaching out to touch Howzer’s face, the thumb of your right hand moving gently along his cheek.

“Does zis mean you will accept my proposal, Miss Minola...?”

“Please, call me Y/N. You might be using it a lot more from now on.”

Exactly one instant later, there’s three knocks upon the closed door in slow succession—and it’s more or less enough to get you jumping a solid inch into the air.

“Y/N? ‘Ow goes it with the Capitaine?”

Orinna!

Orinna’s back!

You're on your feet within seconds, not sure if you should either let her in right away, or else give yourself and Howzer one more moment to prepare.

“Here comes our chaperone, say we’re doing better—”

Howzer’s about to see you and raise you, though, for judging by how he rises to embrace you, he probably doesn’t mind the shock as much as you thought he would.

“Thank you.”

Perhaps he’s been taught merely to not stress out over the tiny details, and rather accept his victories whenever and wherever he can find them. Perhaps you might be wise to start doing the same, for the time in between now and the actual ceremony will feel like nothing less than a whirlwind of activity.

“Anytime, Mister Minola.”

In any case, when you’re both ready to let that door open again, your housekeeper becomes the very first being to hear the good news:

“Orinna, I—I never thought I’d say this, but I think it’s a match!”

Her expression instantly changes from hesitant to jubilant, and with a telltale twist of her lekku, she very nearly throws herself into your waiting arms.

“Truly, Y/N—you would not lie to me? Ah, no more, no more talking, just give me your ‘ands…ah, my girl!”

Your reward comes in the form of one of her warmest hugs, one that’s neither too loose nor too tight, and then the both of you pull away reluctantly so that Howzer might have a turn.

“And you, Capitaine—such a busy morning you’ve had!”

“It will all be worth it, I promise you,” he replies, accepting her hug with a low chuckle. “Now…shall we go call in my new father, and start preparing ze guest list?”

Dad. You almost forgot about him in the thick of things, but since the strangeness of this situation might be wearing off at last—well, you could be convinced to speak to him again, especially since your coffee service has arrived.

Still, there might also be a little price to pay first:

“We can…but only under one condition.”

Howzer’s eyebrows rise a few inches, yet to his credit, he’s also careful to listen before speaking.

“You come over here, and kiss me.”

“Miss Minola! You ‘ave not even been announced yet!”

As excited as Orinna has become, there is, unfortunately, the little rule of near-celibacy before marriage on this planet. In plainer terms, not even an engaged woman can kiss her husband-to-be before all the rites are performed, the contracts signed, and her new status proclaimed to her immediate social circle…for to do otherwise would be considered an impropriety.

“Why not follow ze rules of Ryloth instead?”

This isn’t dissuading Howzer in the slightest, though, for he’s certainly making it a bit more interesting with what you can only term a counteroffer. In fact, if that inviting look of his is anything to go on, he’s probably planning to make your first-ever kiss a memorable one.

“Yes, well—all right, I suppose! Just—just wait until my back is turned, please?”

Orinna doesn’t have to ask twice on this matter, for the moment she turns around to give herself a little deniability, the both of you make your move—yet your very first attempt doesn’t go the way you planned.

“Ow! You bonked me!”

“I did?!”

“Your head just bumped into mine, silly!”

“That’s because I was not prepared!”

“All right, all right...how about this?”

Your second attempt is a lot more successful, for you manage to land one upon that same cheek you previously stroked, with no unshaven beard hair or stray pieces of clothing getting in your way. A few seconds later, you’re immediately rewarded with the taste of peppermint as Howzer’s lips meet yours, a convenient lack of physical accidents helping to not ruin the moment between you.

Only then does Orinna decide to turn back around to see you, and by that particular instant, you’ve gone back to your usual chaste distance.

“You kiss by the book, Captain.”

“Consider that a preview of the wedding day,” Howzer promises you in return. He takes his share of the coffee into custody before raising his cup in your direction, his focus upon you never wavering for a second.

“Shall we toast, then, to our future together?”

Nobody has to strike any further bargains with you today, nor indeed should they need to. This means that, at least in business terms, the negotiations were successful and the plans are on their way to being finalized.

In more plainer terms, however, all that remains is for you two to take your first sips together...and with that, your journey with this good Captain of Ryloth officially begins.

“To the future,” you agree, your cup clinking quietly against his own.

[To Be Continued in Chapter 7, "Loosening Knots".

If you particularly enjoyed this chapter, please like, comment, and/or reblog; if you would also like to be added to the tag list for the next update, please leave a rockstar emoji (👨‍🎤) in either the comments or reblogs so that I'll remember to include you. See you all in the next update!]

[thecoffeelorian]

save the date...

Hello again, everyone who has stuck with me so far!

As I am looking to add another update to my Captain Howzer fanfiction, "Kiss Me, Captain", on May 7, 2025, I've decided to go ahead and reserve the last Wednesday of May for the official wedding chapter for this story at large.

Therefore, if you're getting this post in your notifications, it's because you all showed interest in my previous chapters at some point, sooo. I hope you can be there to read and reblog this chapter if you're still interested in my writing; if not, feel free to ignore this and we can both continue on our journeys through life.

Anywho! Hope you're having a good weekend, and May The Fourth Be With You, Always! <3

--The Coffeelorian--

The No-Pressure Tag List:

@crosshairs-dumb-pimp-gf @cloneflo99 @vrycurious @gun-roswell @padawancat97

@littlefeatherr @yeehawhijack @knightprincess @masterjedilenawrites @skellymom 

@orangez3st @ci-avmovies14 @523rdrebel @the-rain-on-kamino @feral-ferrule

for everyone else: please click here to get added to my taglist! TYSM!

[thecoffeelorian]

Say Yes To The Dress...

//Small Note: I'm using this poll to figure out the most important part of the as yet untitled "Wedding Chapter" for Kiss Me, Captain...so if it's not too much trouble, please like this post ONLY IF you want to be tagged for this particular update.

And now, Troopers and Twi'leks...on to the poll!

Bonus, if you want to read up on the fun:

[masterjedilenawrites]

For the first sentence ask:

"Those are bold words for someone in stabbing range."

Howzer couldn’t help but let a smirk show, pleased with this comeback. However, the newcomer didn’t seem as impressed, merely folding his arms across his chest and continuing to stare.

“Do I look like I’m scared of a fight?”

“Stand down, Howzer,” Rex suddenly appeared with a knowing look. He then turned to the other clone, softening just a bit as he placed a hand on his shoulder. “Welcome back, Wolffe.”

Thanks for the prompt friend! I think I went a little over too lol 🤭

Send me the first sentence and I’ll write the next five (ish).

[masterjedilenawrites]

Thank you to those who answered the call to build up the fic library for our beloved Captain Howzer! Here is the list of fics so far for those interested in reading!

📚 Fic Chapters

Kiss Me, Captain: The Bet by @thecoffeelorian

🍾 One Shots

Ready or Not by @masterjedilenawrites

Missing Pieces Find Me by @winniethewife

🏎 Drabbles/Quickies

"Howzer-bout another one" by @emperor-palpaminty

"Bold words" by @masterjedilenawrites

This post is not the end of the operation; more Howzer fics are still encouraged! Continue to use the #MoreHowzerFics tag, @ my blog, and/or send me a link, and I'll add them to the list (and I'll reblog with any updates for readers following along).

Next poll closed - View the next operation *here*

[thecoffeelorian]

"Kiss Me, Captain": The Masterlist

Synopsis:  When your father declares there will be no marriages for your younger sister until you yourself are wedded first, you assume that’s his way of keeping her single forever.  Little do you know, you just might be about to go on the first real adventure of your life…and, more curiously, you might not be going alone.

Chapter 1: The Challenge // Chapter 2: Interrupted

Chapter 3: The Bet // Chapter 4: The Proposal

Chapter 5: Backlash // Chapter 6: Revealed Truths

Chapter 7: Loosening Knots // Chapter 8: Tightening Grips

Chapter 9: The First Argument // Chapter 10: Into The Circle

FAN ART EXAMPLES:

[thecoffeelorian]

Chapter Title: The Proposal

Word Count: 1,185.

Brief Description: Captain Howzer x Female Reader, Captain Howzer x Chandrilan Reader (Singular Love Interest). As you return home under the watch of Commander Miles, you're expecting nothing less than the worst lecture of your life. However, the same force of nature that stopped your escape isn't quite done with you yet...

AO3: Link Here

Extra Notes: This was sitting in my drafts for a literal forever (maybe 3 months), but now it's here, so...I hope you all enjoy it, because all the good stuff is around the corner! ;)

Previous Chapter: The Bet

Chapter Masterlist: Link Here

The No-Pressure Tag List:

@yoitsjay @gun-roswell @skellymom @masterjedilenaaa @littlefeatherr

@knightprincess @crosshair-lover @yeehawhijack @etod @ci-avmovies14 and anyone else interested in more stories about this Clone Captain!

“Hello…? Is zis thing on?”

“Reading you loud and clear, Captain.  What’s your status?”

“Optimistic.”

The comm between Commander Miles and Captain Howzer—the Trooper that you had the curious luck of meeting in the street not thirty minutes ago—is on full playback now, along with everything you just agreed to do in order to watch it.

And wouldn’t you know it, you’re trying your hardest not to stare too long at that smaller blue version of your Captain.

“I’ve just spoken with the master of ze ‘ouse, and I do believe we’ve come to a sort of, er…agreement.”

Agreement.

Really.

You wonder for a moment about what sort of agreement could ever be made between him and “Daddy”, considering he certainly wasn’t ever that negotiable with you.  Not since he’d found a way to keep both you and Briana single forever, whether either one of you liked it or not.

And if that’s not making you feel awkward enough...then being led back to your home like you’re some kind of escaped prisoner, with or without the vibrocuffs, has certainly put the stomp back into your step. Sure wish I could have made an agreement with him…not that he’ll listen.

In fact, there’s a flush of annoyance rising in your face as the Sergeant escorts you back through the streets of the Eastern District, the area of Chandrila where all of the once-active wartime industries can be found as well as your home territory.  These great producers of weapons, navigation devices, and other equipment will no doubt be shuttering their doors soon, thanks to that double surprise of Palpatine’s tragic accident and the gradual end of the war that followed…and so far, that’s not counting your family’s own business. Not yet.

“Is that so?”

“Yes. He’ll just need a certain lady back under ‘is roof in order to, er… finalize the plans.”

As for yourself, if the building storm within you is any indication of your own future—

“And in return?”

“We recover a lost asset.”

—Then your own smaller war is just beginning, and you start feeling the weight of it as soon as you’re standing back before your own front door, the Commander rapping upon the gilded knocker to get the attention of whomever may be listening.

“One moment…!”

A few parsecs later, that whomever turns out to be your housekeeper, an elder Twi’lek known as Orinna, who just happens to meet you and your escort the moment the door is opened. “Y/N Katherina Minola!” A small feeling of guilt pangs through your body as you take in her change of expression from pain to confusion, you having said what should have been your goodbyes not one hour earlier. “Just what are you doing with zis man?!” 

In fact, she must be properly furious at you for playing her for a fool, sneaking away without any protection, and putting the rest of the household into a panic—and that’s just without you also feeling a little angry at yourself for lying to her.

“…Well, um…it’s like this…” After all, since she gladly stepped in to give you some extra maternal support after the death of your mother, she certainly deserves better treatment than the kind you’re giving.

Nevertheless, the good Commander takes all of this drama in his stride, for he doesn’t think twice about removing his helmet and addressing her directly.

“Apologies, ma’am, but I was just escorting this nice young lady home to meet her future.”

Orinna’s mixed reaction soon turns to one better suggesting curiosity, a thing you can determine by the slight raising of her eyebrows.

“ ‘Er future…?  Whatever do you mean?”

“I believe Commander Miles was referring to me, ma’am.”

It’s not that long before you feel your own eyebrows go up as you hear that all-too-familiar voice speak up from behind her, and with it, the breath goes out of your body.

There he is.

Captain Howzer.

The man you saw in the street, over the comm system, and as soon as Orinna is careful to step aside to give him room…standing right inside your doorway.

“Welcome back, Miss Minola.”

Only this time, now he can also see your face plainly without the guise or protection of any hoods…and, quite unlike the “interested” young men you’ve spoken to before, this time, he’s actually not just speaking at you, but to you.

“I trust zat your journey back ‘ome was not a difficult one?”

Is it any wonder, then, that you feel your legs wobble ever so slightly at the sight of his smile…?  Is it all that mysterious that your heart rate has gone up a few notches solely because of one glance from his direction?  It must not be that surprising for someone with his looks, because he could look perfect standing in a mud puddle, and even worse—he knows it. What a clever, brazen bunch these Troopers must be!

“N…No, Captain,” you hear yourself say, almost whimpering out your reaction.  “I—I had help.”

Commander Miles takes this as his cue to join Howzer upon the steps, each of them gripping the other’s hand in an enthusiastic greeting.

“What d’you think, Cap?  Is she a keeper?”

Howzer looks back at you a second time, and with it, you feel your heart start to beat a little harder.  Does he see that smattering of acne scars left over from your teenage years, or are they no longer visible…?  What about that little scar upon your forehead from where you fell as a toddler?  Would he take both of these things as a part of you and accept them, or turn you away in disgust instead?

“The finest keeper in all of Coruscant!”

Oh, Force help you, he likes you.  Your face must be as hot as a sunrise on Mustafar by now, and you can barely keep yourself steady—and he likes you.   This feeling grows by degrees as he bravely takes your hand and raises it to his lips, thus proving himself to be the officer and gentleman both on this fated morning.

“I thank you for returning to us, Miss Minola.  Will you be staying ‘ere, then…?” In return, you’re just barely in control of yourself in time to start playing the lady, the rest of the people around you almost completely forgotten.

“As long as I’m able, er…Captain…but may I ask, if it’s not too out of the ordinary…why?”

“For the same reason any gentleman of Chandrila would wish to meet a lady.”

He uses this moment to release your hand; then, after withdrawing a few steps, raises both of his own with the palms up in an offering to you.

“Now that I have had ze ‘onor of meeting you face-to-face, I am therefore moved to ask for your hand in marriage.”

For a few blissful seconds, you’re staring into those sweet brown eyes, and finding yourself one breath away from accepting him as your future husband.

Then…you see your father walking out onto the front stoop with a look of wild glee upon his face, and reality strikes.

**********

Parting Thoughts: ...If there is anyone who used to get regular notifications about this story, but suddenly is not...that's because I either didn't get any further reactions from you in my last update, or you missed my poll and interest check from yesterday morning.

So, if there are other readers out there who didn't make the tag list up above, then please PLEASE leave this emoji (👩‍🎤) in the reblogs/reblog tags, because it might be the only way for me to contact you, and I kinda want an accurate count of readers, too!

Thanks for your time, and have a great day!

[thecoffeelorian]

Chapter Title: The Bet

Word Count: 1,542 words.

Brief Description: Captain Howzer x Female Reader, Captain Howzer x Chandrilan Reader (Singular Love Interest). Just when you're one step away from getting onto the ship bound for Naboo...some unseen force of nature finally intervenes, and you then have to make the biggest decision of your life.

AO3: Link Here

Extra Notes: My Clone Trooper OC, Commander Miles, has his first speaking cameo in this story! Hope you all come to love him as much as I do!

Previous Chapter: Interrupted

Chapter Masterlist: Link Here

The No-Pressure Tag List: @skellymom @masterjedilenawrites @littlefeatherr @ceejay3636 @red-plaidedandcladed

@knightprincess @carlixz @zaryashame @amazonian-bae @badbatchjedi

@weirdest-lights @crosshair-lover @clxnewxrs @offspringsdaughter @liliskywalker

@sunshinefanfictioninsp @sunshinesdaydream @nerfpuncher @burningfieldof-clover @angrypaperearthquake-tbbb-main

@techhasmjolnir and anybody else who might want some more Howzer x Reader stories in their lives.

There's a cold chill growing upon the back of your neck as you step out of the line, your focus now trained solely upon this Trooper. Judging from the shape and placement of his pauldron, he's some kind of high command official, like a Captain or a Commander...and as of this moment, he just might be a few steps away from bringing you in for questioning.

“What seems to be the problem, sir?” Especially if, should your fears prove to be correct, your own father has found a way to keep you from leaving.

“Are you the eldest daughter of Julian Minola?” Which, apparently, he seems to have figured out right as you arrived at this spaceport.

“I...am an eldest daughter, Sir. Why do you ask?” In response, his right hand beg­ins to move toward his left wrist, a sure sign that you just might be one comm away from the lecture of your life. “Well, ma’am, I may have just received a message from your father—” “—It’s because of my father that I'm getting on board that ship, Captain...?” “Miles, ma’am. Commander Miles.” You're not about to give up so easily, though. Not when you're standing just a few steps away from literal freedom. “May I ask if you’re, ah...dealing with any trouble at home?” In fact, if you can speak well enough to the Trooper before you...would it perhaps, be a possibility that you end up convincing him to let you go?

“...Of a sort, Commander.”

“And that is?”

“Simple. I’m not staying in a place where I’ll be sold off to the highest bidder.”

At first, you see this Commander’s entire stance go rigid, and for a moment, you can almost swear he’s about to call your father to this very spot himself. Perhaps you might even deserve such a response as well, considering you were literally one sentence away from broaching a very uncomfortable topic of discussion.

There go your hopes of getting away blame-free. On the other hand...even though your supposed ‘place’ is within a gilded cage and his was once within the line of fire, just how different are the two of you at the end of the day? Isn’t it an odd coincidence that the both of you were raised for one purpose and one purpose only, whether or not you try to fight it in the end?

Furthermore, isn’t it a cold hard fact of life that women can die in the delivery room just as easily as men do on the battlefield, especially when the wrong people are left in charge? It certainly appears to be that way sometimes, what with the few but frightening tales about such things that you’ve read on the holonet late at night. Things that could easily happen to you or someone else you know, even if you all do your best to take the necessary precautions first.

Sure, you and your sister didn't come off of some genetic assembly line with countless other girls both ahead and behind you, but in the eyes of Chandrilan society, you’re not the first daughter to be married off and, chances are, you won't be the last for some time yet.

Not as long as there are more people around that cling to the old ways rather than changing or rejecting them.

It’s not that uncommon, either, for younger men on this planet to remarry within a few years of losing their first wives, if indeed ‘the worst’ should happen to them. According to a few old family stories, that was exactly how your father came to exist in the first place, as your paternal grandfather had once been married long before meeting your grandmother. Is it really too much to assume, then, that the both of you are replaceable?

“...Hm... and what about Captain Howzer?” Your line of thought is brought to a halt the moment this good commander chooses his next approach, and an unexpected one at that. “Who...?” ‘Howzer’? Who or what is that, some kind of obscure Trooper code word? “Captain Howzer, ma’am. The one who spoke to you earlier?” —Oh. Oh-h-h. So that was the interesting Trooper you just happened to meet in the middle of your escape. The one who didn’t look at you strangely or start asking you questions about where you were going, but just interacted with you instead like—like you weren’t something to be judged, or bothered by, and for that, you had started having—feelings. Awkward, yes...but still feelings.

You might have once thought that any and all of those awkward feelings had gone the moment that the two of you had gone your separate ways. Indeed, if the two of you were truly meant to never meet again, both you and that Captain might have eventually or gotten your first meeting, and so moved on with your lives. Now that you might, in fact end up speaking to him a second time, though...you feel that old heat rising in your cheeks all over again. “You...know each other?” “We’ve spoken before, all right.” A heat that could either excite you or embarrass you utterly, if it’s not dealt with in the correct manner. “So, then...what did he say about me?” But then again, there’s still your flight. Your one chance to trade Chandrila for Naboo, and it’s evident in the second pinging that you receive from your Comm. Can you really throw it all away now, just for somebody who might lose interest in you soon enough, if not also leave you behind instead? “Only that you were the kindest, sweetest lady he ever had the luck of meeting, and that he hopes you might yet return.” “ ‘Return’...?!” Can you really also run the future risk of some kind of complication when, or even if, whatever's waiting for you back home leads to the next generation of Minolas? “And how, Commander, do I end up explaining a change of heart to the Naboo University faculty? How do I explain it to the Queen?!” Oh, but your voice is getting shrill now, and perhaps also your bad temper right along with it. This wasn’t how things were supposed to end for you. This day wasn't supposed to be so jumbled, so confusing, as to send your mind into a tailspin. What, if anything, are you supposed to do with yourself now...? “Let me put it this way...” As though to answer you, the Commander touches a hand to his helmeted forehead, a single gesture might be a secret sign to remind you to calm down and think. “He’s eager to see you, that much is a given—but at the same time you’re eager to leave. I get that. I'm not going to make your decisions for you, ma’am, and you don’t have to listen to me if you don’t want to—but what if you were able to do both?” “ ‘Both’?” “Yep.” “How do I do both?” “Simple. You go back and listen to what he has to say, try whatever he offers for about a month...then, if it doesn’t work out for you, can go back to your original plan and leave for Naboo at your earliest convenience.” “What...you mean, like a bet?" “More of a trial run, really. That is, unless you’re willing to treat it like one?” “Hmm…” You absentmindedly finger the pouch full of credits hidden beneath your poncho, remembering the amount you'd saved up in secret before your escape. Would it be so wise to toss your money away upon a simple gamble, never mind a man who you don’t exactly know that well?

On the other hand, though...what if he did have a point here after all, and you ended up owing him instead? “...And what if I offered you five hundred credits as a reward, should I decide to stay?” The Commander becomes just a little bit flustered after hearing this, as he demonstrates the same nervous head-rubbing gesture that you’ve seen a handful of other Troopers do whenever they were stressed out or troubled. Clearly, you’ve given him a lot to think about in a short amount of time, if he hasn’t also done the same for you. “Well, I ah...I guess I would have to find a banker willing enough to open an account for me!” Nevertheless, if the possibility exists that Captain isn’t the only Trooper looking for a fresh restart in life, and as long as you yourself dislike the idea of an entire army getting left by the wayside— “Then I think you and I just might have a deal, Commander.” —Then let it be five hundred credits to start Commander Miles upon his way if he’s victorious, and if not, the longed-for flight to Naboo for you. “We may indeed, Miss Minola. Time to make it official.” Either way, the two of you seal the deal with a handshake, the sign of business in action...and then, just as the last of your three notifications comes, the commander finally motions to the pilot that she has full clear­ance to take off. Well, that's the end, perhaps, but only for now. For better or for worse, your one journey may be postponed, all right...but another journey seems to be just beginning, even if you can't exactly be too sure of the outcome just yet.

Maybe this time, though, if you keep a full heart and an open mind...you’ll be better prepared to see it through.