Summary: After the death of your master you begin to question the dark side and just who keeps appearing in your dreams…
“My name?” You glanced towards him beneath your hood, “You don’t need to know my name.”
“That’s alright.” He said and you could hear him shuffling about his shop, “I’ll just call you Angel.”
His eyes widened slightly in embarrassment a flush of pink overcame his cheeks. You didn’t notice the way his embarrassment didn’t quite reach his eyes, “If that is okay?” He continued and you turned to watch him make his way around his bar.
You wouldn’t hold his gaze though, still hiding your face behind your hood. That didn’t stop the warmth from also crossing your cheeks. It was better than revealing your name you suppose, but it still came as a shock to you, “I… I suppose.” You mumbled.
“Would you like something to drink? I’ve got a few teas, spatchka, and some good old fashion water. We will be here a while after all.” He chuckled to himself as he reached for what you assumed was an herbal tea, the color as blue as your kyber crystal.
You tugged on the frayed string of your robe sleeve nervously, “I…”
“Don’t be afraid.” His voice was smooth and gentle, luring you closer to him, “I don’t bite.”
He held up an empty glass in your direction before setting it on the bar next to his own. Your body seemed to follow his silent request against your will as you.
You took your place on a stool across from him, glad to be off of your feet. The lack of rest made your head hurt and your wit not as sharp. Still you stayed vigilant to the man currently pouring you both a drink.
“You never said your name.” You mentioned quietly.
“That I haven’t.” He hummed, but he didn’t give you his name. He wouldn’t… Not without something in return at least, “I’ll tell you what.” He gave you a cheeky look, “I’ll give you my name when you remove that hood of yours. That sounds like a fair deal.”
Your brows furrowed, “Why do you need to see my face?” You didn’t believe your face to be important to look at, least of all to a stranger.
“No one truly knows a person hiding behind a mask right?” He placed a cup of blue liquid in front of you, “Besides, I would love to know what the girl who laughed at my joke looks like.”
You blushed lightly at the way his voice dropped an octave, once again lulling you to do what he wishes. You supposed he was right in a way… It was only fair after all.
That didn’t stop the way your heart seemed to beat rapidly in your chest as you carefully pulled back your hood. You looked up at him, taking in the way his eyes seemed to shine back with the same curiosity as your own did.
You don’t know why you secretly hoped for his satisfaction in the way that you looked. This feeling was something that was not taught to you as a youngling. This feeling was supposed to be shunned.
His curious expression and soft smile turned into an innocent side grin, “Hi.” That lightness that he had in his voice when he spoke to Osha was now directed towards you and it made your stomach flutter.
“Hello.” You spoke softly as the two of you continued to take each other in.
It felt strange, almost like a pull through the force connected you both. The feeling was faint, but you had an inkling that this would only grow with time.
He looked kind of not a bit nervous. There was something about him though that you couldn’t quite place… At least not yet.
“Qimir.” He introduced himself, an awe to his voice.
“Nice to meet you Qimir.” You replied, a small smile placed on your face.
“Here.” He raised his glass to clink against yours.
You were hesitant to pick up your glass and eyed it warily. He could see this and was quick to reassure you of its non threatening nature.
“I didn’t poison it.” He took his own glass and took a sip, “See?”
You reached out and took your cup and he playfully clinked his glass against yours before the two of you drank.
“Thank you.” You smiled softly.
It seemed with each smile you gave him, no matter how small, he became more and more enamored with you.
“Polite and noble. How very Jedi of you.” Qimir teased.
You laughed lightly and Qimir silently wished to bottle up that laugh forever. If there was a way… A small sliver of hope that you could become his acolyte. He desired it more than his power, more than the overwhelming distance and emptiness he felt with his own padawan Mae.
“I haven’t felt much like a Jedi lately.” You admitted without thinking, as if you were compelled to tell him every thought and feeling you held.
Your eyes widened at your slip up, “Sorry. Ah please forget I said that.”
“Why would I want to forget?” He was curious now as he leaned against the bar, “I have no love or hate towards the Jedi.”
You glanced at the trinkets that were lying around on his table. It looked as if he had been tinkering with something before you and your team arrived. You wondered what else he was good at.
“I shouldn’t say.” You answered, keeping your gaze from him.
He wanted to change that. He leaned against the bar, ducking his head down to peer up at you with a smile, “Think of me as some lowly runner who you happen to be guarding.”
You couldn’t help the giggle that slipped past your lips and Qimir deemed that as a victory.
“But that’s what we are doing.” You said as your giggles gently died down once again.
“Then it should be easy.” He gave you a warm smile that had your heart beating just bit too fast.
“Do you… Do you ever wonder if the path everyone has laid out for you is the one you’re supposed to be on?” You confessed the thought that has been plaguing you recently.
“All the time actually.” He leans against the counter, “But isn’t that the part of being alive? Not knowing what your path is?”
“Not for a Jedi… Your path is made for you. It is hard to find peace when so much is expected from you.” You glanced at your hands, “My master told me once that the key to peace is a balance between your heart and your mind.”
“Your master sounds very wise.” He nodded, keeping your small piece of wisdom safely hidden in the depths of his mind.
“She was.” You said solemnly.
“She is not…” His voice trailed off, unsure of what to say.
“She is no longer with us, no.” You spoke softly.
He wasn’t sure if he should ask how it happened. You can see that from the look of uncertainty painted across his face. So you spoke up, giving him a brief detail of the events that haunt your nightmares every night.
“She was killed by a beast while trying to protect me.” You explained.
“I’m sorry…” He apologized, “Who is your master now?” He wondered instead.
“Master Sol will be continuing my training until I become a Jedi Knight.” You said as you took another sip of your drink.
“A Jedi knight?” His brows furrowed in confusion, “Sorry, I’m not too familiar with Jedis.”
“Ah yes, sorry.” You blushed and quickly began to explain, “A Jedi knight is a title you get after your training as a padawan. I will become a Jedi knight as soon as Master Sol focuses his attention towards the rest of my training.”
“He is not training you?” His brows furrowed as he watched the way your lip turned downward just ever so slightly, “I thought you said he is your new master?”
“Ah he is not training me currently, but it isn’t his fault. Sol took me on when he already had a padawan. I am grateful for his sacrifice.” You looked at your drink a small frown placed on your lips. You missed your master dearly and you especially missed the focus and care that she showed you since you became her padawan.
“He has a commitment to his padawan Jecki.” You explained softly, “And now that his former padawan Osha is back, there doesn’t seem to be much room for me and my problems.” You swirled the liquid in your glass, “But it’s okay. I don’t mind. I don’t expect much from my training now.”
“You should.” His words had you looking up at him, “You would be very powerful if someone gave you the right amount of attention.” His voice was gentle and soothing.
The way he sounded genuinely concerned reminded you of your former master. You looked up at him, “Thank you.”
“I’m no Jedi, but I wouldn’t mind having someone like you under my wing.” He admitted with a small grin, “If you don’t mind being a smuggler that is.”
You found his grin endearing as you relaxed back in your seat, thankful to be pulled away from your thoughts, “I’ll stick to being a Jedi, but thank you for the offer.” You chuckled lightly.
Neither of you realized how late it was until Yord was beeping you over the comms. It had your shoulders tensing as he spoke, “She’s here. Get ready.” Yord stated.
You found yourself not wanting to go, but you found yourself standing up from your seat, “I have to go.” You almost sighed.
“Or you could stay?” He wondered, “Surely they have enough Jedi to handle Mae.”
“I…” You thought about it and you almost found yourself saying yes.
“Please?” He placed his right hand over yours.
You felt the warmth spread through your core at the soft gaze that he seemed to reserve for you.
You wanted to say yes. Terribly so and that frightened you the way that you would throw away your mission just to spend a few more moments with a stranger.
You took a step back, shaking your head no, “I’m sorry, they need me. I can’t fail them.”
“I understand.” He nodded as he stepped around the counter. You didn’t notice what he was holding in his hand as he approached you, “Well I wish you the best and I hope that we could meet again someday.”
You smiled softly and nodded, “I hope so as well.”
“Here.” He held his hand out towards you. Your curious eyes widened slightly at the necklace in the palm of his hand. It was a silver chain with a small red crystal dangling from it.
“I couldn’t possibly—” You went to refuse, but he shook his head.
“A parting gift and something to remember me and your possible life as a smuggler.” He grinned as he told his joke.
You took the necklace and clasped it around your neck. You hid it under your robe as you returned his smile, “Thank you.”
“Don’t worry about it.” He responded.
You put your hood back over your head to try and hide the way your cheeks were hearing up. Now you really didn’t want to leave, but you knew Sol would be comming you instead of Joe’s if you didn’t find them soon. You began your trek to the door, your steps feeling heavier than usual.
“I was right you know!” Qimir called out before the door opened.
You stopped to look back at him confused, “About what?” You wondered.
“About you being an angel.”
You scurried out the door with your heart racing a mile a minute.
Ratings: Angst | Fluff | Strangers to Friends | Friends to Lovers | Abuse | Violence | Questioning the Jedi order | Slowburn
Summary: You have been by his side since the beginning… This is your story.
The best down on your form in the training arena located outside. Hundreds of flowers decorated around the outside arena making it serene despite the structure and rigorous exercises you had to go through, but you believed that each test made you stronger and you would become a noble Jedi like your master.
“Fix your form padawan.” Your master pointed at the wrong position of your right foot.
“Apologies master.” You swiftly fixed your form hoping that you appeased her.
It seemed to work as Master Elysande gave you an appreciative nod, “Well done. Now I want you to concentrate on the way the branch moves on the tree in front of you. Mimic this movement until your energy matches…”
You listened intently to your master, her black hair braided to fall behind her pointed ears. As you nodded your head you caught movement toward the right of your vision and it was at that moment Qimir walked by, following ardently behind his master, Master Balaam.
His hair fell delicately around his face despite the other padawan’s cutting theirs short to make it easier for training. His padawan braid reach just past his shoulder however, his beads reminding you of the ocean. He kept his gaze on the dark grey robe his master wore, walking swiftly behind him. The small action allowed you to admire him silently from afar. To say that you had a small crush on the boy was an understatement, but you did notice one important detail about him.
Qimir was always… Quiet.
You noticed that he tended to keep to himself. He never made a face or spoke against his master. You however were quiet the opposite. You were loud and spirited. You had a million questions, ones that only a few that your master would indulge in. Master Elysande choose you because of your active imagination and bright look about the galaxy. She would say it gave you a footing over the other padawan’s when it came to the force because of how strong your connection was to life around you.
You were quite friendly, but when it came to Qimir… Well you felt as if your words were stuck in your throat and you couldn’t push yourself to speak. He didn’t speak to you either and it would always end with you watching him wordlessly.
Other padawan’s such as your friend Gerel speculated that he was mute. You didn’t think she could possibly be right. Ifa just thought that Qimir was strange agreeing with the others. You however were curious about the tall silent boy. You wanted to learn more about him, speak with him and perhaps be friends. You thought that you both would make the perfect pair however, with your daydream you didn’t expect his eyes to lock onto yours. Suddenly your cheeks began to burn and you knew it wasn’t just from the heat.
“Padawan.” Master Elysande called out to you again for the third time, “Focus.”
You cleared your throat hoping that your cheeks would cool down as you turned your attention back to your master.
“Sorry master.” You muttered quickly though secretly you were counting down the minutes until you saw him again.
It seemed that the force was on your side
“We will begin this new year with something that is a little different from our traditional training. Each of you will be partnering up with one another to improve your connection to the force as well as your combat skills. This partnership will carry on as you become Jedi’s.” Master Aarati explained, “It is up to you to choose your partner wisely so that you may become knowledgeable in the force.”
You were excited for the revelation as you twiddled your fingers under your robes. This was the perfect moment to talk to Qimir without being too pushy. You thought as you looked around.
“Do you want to—“ Ifa began, but you couldn’t let Ifa finish what they were going to say.
“I’m really sorry but I already have a partner in mind.” You spoke quickly, “Maybe next time!” You called back to your friend as you dove into the crowd. You had a mission and you had your nerves at least for now.
You couldn’t mess this up. You wouldn’t be able to live with yourself if you did.
Your master also thought you were a bit dramatic in your training as well.
You weaved around padawan’s trying to pick their own partners as you spotted a mop of dark raven hair. Please don’t have a partner… Please don’t have a partner… You thought as you finally broke past the hive of padawan’s.
There he stood, looking a bit out of place beside his master. He had his hands clasped behind his back and his gaze looked indifferent as you approached him.
“Master Balaam.” You greeted his master first with a bow before turning your attention to Qimir, “Qimir…” You took a breath, “Would you like to be my partner for this trial?”
You waited with a bated breath as his eyes roamed your figure. You knew you didn’t have anything special or unique about you like some of the other padawan’s, but you were content in being normal. He however… Was not.
“No.”
That was the first word he ever said to you… No.
The rejection made you feel embarrassed and singled out as you stood there awkwardly.
“No?” You wanted to be sure, “Are you sure you don’t—“
“I am always certain in what I say.” He replied.
“Oh…” Your voice trailed off.
His master didn’t seem to make the situation any lighter as he stared silently through your soul. Your master however could sense the growing unease inside of you and gracefully took her place by your side once more.
“Is there a problem?” She directed her question to Master Balaam.
“She is too frail to train with my padawan. Qimir needs someone who can match his strength with the force.” Master Balaam answered indifferently as if this conversation was wasting his time.
“I see.” Elysande nodded and you had to refrain from laughing at the way she was trying intently not to roll her eyes, “But before you judge the strength of my padawan by her looks alone. How about we allow our padawan’s to duel. A test of sorts should do the trick in proving you wrong.”
At that you couldn’t help but snort. The reaction received a gentle nudge from your master to quiet you down.
“She won’t last.” Master Balaam said.
“We’ll see about that.” Your master motioned for you to follow her, “Follow us.” She spoke and you were quick to grace her side.
“That is the boy you were distracted by is it not?” Elysande asked softly. She held no disgust or disappointment in her tone, only a light curiosity that allowed you to open up to her more freely.
You nodded speaking quietly, “He is… Different from the others.”
“Different is not always a good thing. Difference can lead you astray from the path.” Your master passed on wisdom.
“I understand master.” You nodded your head.
You found yourself underneath the only plum tree in your temple. You were facing against Qimir who seemed tense under the watchful gaze of his master.
“This should be quick.” Master Balaam commented and crossed his arms.
Those sharp words had you grinding your teeth as a determined expression took over your usual soft features. You would not be bested by those who think less of you. You readied yourself, holding your lightsaber in first position.
Qimir ignited his lightsaber, holding it in a familiar stance. He didn’t seem tense anymore as if he was in his element. You could see that he liked the feel of power from the way his fingers opened and closed around his blue lightsaber.
Your green one flickered against your eyes and you counted down silently at the same time as your master.
“Begin.” Master Elysande said.
You charged Qimir with speed, ready to take him down with the new move you learned, but he sensed your plan and diverted it with a single step. You stumbled towards the tree and you would have face planted against it too if it weren’t for Qimir pulling you back by your right arm.
“Account for your opponents steps. Focus on their movements and not just your own.” He said softly.
You looked up at him before nodded your head and taking a step back, “Okay.”
You returned to your starting spot with a new frame of mind. It was something your master picked up immediately as she watched you take your time to attack Qimir instead of just rushing in.
“They complement one another.” Master Elysande commented as you told Qimir to be more aggressive when using the force, “This new training technique may be affective for the future of Jedi.”
“I don’t think it is a good thing.” Said Master Balaam motioned to you and Qimir with his head, “This trial for a new training technique could form attachments amongst the padawan.”
Master Elysande remained quiet in thought wondering if what Master Balaam was explaining could come true.
You continued to spar alongside Qimir. However, you were no match for his quick and precise movements. It was clear that he was being trained relentlessly by his master to become the perfect Jedi. In the end as he pinned you to the ground. Qimir stood over you with his lightsaber pointed at your neck.
“Well done.” Your master nodded her head in approval and you smiled despite losing.
Master Balaam however said nothing as Qimir looked at him. You could see the way his shoulders slumped only slightly and you could only imagine how dejected he must feel. That is why you brought his attention back to you and tried to cheer him up.
“Good fight.” You took a deep breath. It was quite a work out and exhaustion overtook you.
He turned off his lightsaber and clipped it back onto his belt, “It was.” He said as he stuck his hand out towards you.
You took it gratefully and allowed him to pull you up, “So does this mean that you will have me as your partner?”
“Y—” Qimir didn’t get a chance to give his answer before Master Balaam tugged him back by his robe.
“No.” Master Balaam stated as he stepped in front of him, “You’ve only proven to me how reckless you are young padawan.”
“She has only proven to be a good match for Qimir.” Master Elysande intervened, “They can hone their skills by working together.” She clasped her hands over her stomach, “I believe that their differences can bring the best out of each other.”
“Or the worst.” Master Balaam waved his hand dismissively, “Come padawan. Let us go.”
Qimir glanced at you with a sad look in his eyes before following his master’s order. You looked to your master with wide and expressive eyes that showed how upset you were at not being paired with Qimir.
“Wait.” Master Elysande called out to Balaam, “Let’s us see what the council thinks.”
You never knew how much you appreciated your master until that very moment.
You stood behind your master as she explained to the council the benefits of pairing both you and Qimir together.
“We decided on this trial for a reason. I believe these two will be a successful case by the time they become Jedi knights.” Master Elysande explained.
“It is a foolish dream driven by a desire to put your padawan ahead. She is not as skilled as Qimir and never will be. I do not see any reason why they should continue to train together.” Master Balaam countered.
You peaked over at Qimir as the council murmured about what they should do about this predicament. Qimir didn’t show any emotion on his face. He looked calm as his hands were clasped behind his back. He didn’t show the childlike personality that the two of you should have at your age.
He won’t look over at me either. He must know that I am staring at him. You thought, a small disappointed frown on your face as you focused your attention back on your master. You wanted to joke with him, perhaps make him laugh at the audacity that his master had.
“We incline to agree with Master Elysande.” Master Charvik finally announced.
Master Faheem whose eyes shine of the brightest ocean and skin the color of turquoise to accent her gills also chimed in, “I have had a vision through the force as well. I believe that the force has called the two together for a reason… One I do not understand, but a reason that will create a strong bond within the force.”
“I agree with your wisdom Master Faheem.” Master Charvin said, the cloth wrapped around his hands slightly unraveled as he motioned for the meeting to come to an end.
Relief filled your lungs as you breathed out. You were nervous about what Master Faheem saw in her vision, but excited to continue your training with Qimir. You only hoped that he felt the same way… You just wanted to become as strong as he was. To understand his way of the force.
“Then it is settled.” Master Balaam’s jaw was clenched, but he didn’t show any other signs of anger, “Qimir will continue his training alongside Master Elysande’s padawan. Let us hope that your vision is not wrong Master Faheem.” A thin frown graced his lips as a sour tone overtook his tone.
The council paid no mind to Master Balaam’s dismay over the matter and did what they did best, hide their feelings.
“Thank you for your thoughts and decision on this subject.” Master Elysande nodded her head towards the Jedi council before turning to leave the room. You fell into step with her as the two of you left, you with a pep in your step as you walked.
As you and your master internally commended your victory, you made a silent vow to bake master Elysande the best batch of muffins she had ever tasted in thanks to her. In your promise you turned your head to find Master Balaam and Qimir walk past the both of you.
You didn’t expect anything from them so it came as a surprise when you felt a tiny scroll of paper being slipped into your small hand. Qimir didn’t speak of it as he continued to follow his master who was swiftly trying to get past you.
Your heart raced as you waited until you were in the safety of your room to unroll the piece of paper. It was then that you knew even as young as you were that he was going to be apart of your life forever. Your very first crush created just from a few words scrawled on a piece of paper.
Ratings: Angst | Fluff | Strangers to Lovers | Friends to Lovers | Abuse | Violence | Questioning the Jedi order | Slowburn
Summary: You have been by his side since the beginning… This is your story.
If you could use one word to describe Qimir… It would be ardent. He was ardent in everything that he did. Passionate to the fault of the universe caving in on his achievements. He was ardent in the force… Ardent in his training… And ardently in love with you.
He put the word love to shame, going beyond the definition and excelling just as he excelled in everything else he did… Well of course walking. You couldn’t understand how someone so poised could trip over air without a moments notice, but you loved him anyways.
You always will.
You would die for the man that you stood side by side with since the very beginning. Since the day he decided to leave the Jedi order.
You ardently followed him then to.
“And where would you go?” You asked Qimir.
The two of you sat under your favorite plum tree. The fruit was out of season and so no flowers bloomed, but that didn’t deter you. It was still your favorite spot and with time it became Qimir’s favorite spot as well.
You were both young and naive then. You believe that the Jedi taking you from your home had been a good thing… A noble thing. You wouldn’t have been able to meet Qimir if the Jedi order hadn’t taken you and so you forgave them. You believed that you were here to serve a greater purpose. Qimir believed that as well, but time had a way of shedding light on things that wished to be kept in the shadows.
The order began to leave you stumbling with questions and doubts that you couldn’t control. Even your master couldn’t sway the growing thoughts and you grew from a youngling to a padawan… Everything had been going well. Your training improved and you spent your free time following Qimir around.
It was then that you slowly began to find the bruises that Qimir so desperately tried to hide. He always began questioning the way of the force and the path of the Jedi, but unlike your master who valued knowledge, Qimir’s master valued violence.
You remember that day clearly. You remember the blood dripping down his brow and the burnt slack across his back. You remember the way he bit his lip to stop from crying out.
You remember using the force to throw his master against that faithful plum tree.
“I’m leaving.” Qimir slowly stood to his feet.
No one told either of you how cruel the Jedi were.
“I’m coming with you.” It wasn’t even a thought to you.
“You can’t. You have your master. You have your path.” He tried to convince you to stay. Even as two teenagers, you both wanted what was best for one another.
You looked at him wondering what you could do to convince him that you would not stay here without him. It was then that you decided and in one swift moment, you took your padawan braid and cut it off with your lightsaber. You handed your old life to him, the braid in his bloody hand.
“You are my path.” Your tone left no room for question.
He took your hand in his bloodied one and neither of you looked back as the two of you ran from the life you could have taken.
Qimir knew then that he would never let you go and anyone who would take you away from him would face a death even far more menacing than the dark side of the force.
don’t you have something like this? i think this person copied you 😭
Oh… Oh wow I didn’t realize this. I’ve never had someone copy from my fanfics before so I’m not exactly sure what to do or how to go about this? I suppose I should be flattered that someone took inspiration from Little Flower, it’s one of my favorite stories that I have written for Qimir’s character and I’m happy that it’s been getting so much attention.
I appreciate you letting me know and thank you. I hope that this fanfic writer will find their own inspiration for Qimir’s character and create a really amazing story.
Ratings: Angst | Slight fluff | Mentions of nudity | He doesn’t realize what he has until it’s gone
Summary: Qimir chooses his padawan over you, going back on his promise and leaving you with one choice… To leave.
For the longest time, it has always been you and him. The two of you against the entire galaxy, searching for a place to belong. Long nights spent tangled up in sheets and days spent traveling the galaxy. It felt nice not to feel so lonely anymore, to belong to someone and have a purpose.
Until he wanted more.
“You want a pupil?” You sat up in bed, the cool air circling from the cave entrance caressing your skin.
He sat up as well, his hand circling around your waist as he pulled you closer to him, “I want to pass my knowledge onto someone else…” His thumb brushed against your side, “I want an acolyte.” He leaned in to press kisses on your neck.
“Then why not just get me pregnant?”
He grinned, breathing a content chuckle against your skin, “You would like that wouldn’t you?”
“I wouldn’t mind it.” The thought of a child, a mix of both you and Qimir, running around excited you.
He pulled back to look you in the eyes, “I promise, once my work is done and I have an acolyte to carry out my will. You and I can finally live without constantly hiding and we can have all the children we could want.”
“Promise?”
“Promise my flower.”
That was two years ago before he found… Mae. You believed in his words, kept his identity a secret, and stood by faithfully as he spent all of his time training her.
He said that he didn’t want to risk your life, that was why your love would remain a secret. You could understand his reasoning and you complied as you always did.
Sometimes he would leave you on the unknown planet you both made your home…
You decided long ago to call the planet Apricty because no matter how cold it felt, your love kept it warm. But that warmth slowly began to fade with each passing month he spent away from you. It was always the same line.
“I thought that maybe we could take a tripe to Naboo?”
“I can’t my flower, but I promise soon.”
“Today is our anniversary. I wanted to make something special for us for dinner. When will you be home?”
“I can’t my flower, but I promise soon we will celebrate.”
“Can I come with you this time? I feel…” alone…
“I can’t take you with me my flower, but I promise soon.”
You spent most of your time walking along the beach, collecting shells and taking in the scenery of the waves crashing against the rocks. Today was no different as you sat on the edge of the beach, dipping your toes into the freezing water.
You were bored and lonely and you just, “I miss him.” You admitted quietly to no one. You’ve found yourself talking to the force lately. You weren’t like Qimir, you had no strong connection and you couldn’t wield the force, but you felt close to it as the force reminded you of Qi.
“I miss waking up to him humming as he cooked breakfast… I miss his jokes and that lopsided grin of his… I miss cooking dinner for him and running my hands through his hair… I miss our adventures… I… I miss…” You didn’t realize you were crying until you felt tear drops hit your hands, “I miss him.” You sobbed.
You were concerned and you were scared for him that his ambitions would take him to where you couldn’t follow.
You were cutting potatoes to put in a stew, humming a song that Qimir used to sing to you. It gave you some sense of humanity staying here alone for the past couple of months. Your tears had long since dried from earlier today and your only plan was to eat dinner and go to bed.
“Your voice is just as beautiful as I remember my flower.” You heard him speak behind you and you froze wondering if you were imagining him again.
“Qi…” You whispered his name as you turned to find him standing there, a small smile on his face.
Your eyes tear up as you stood and rushed towards him. He engulfed you in his arms and you felt like you could finally breathe again.
“It’s been so long.” You cried into his shirt.
“I know, I’m sorry my flower.” He whispered into your hair as he caressed your body.
You pulled back to look him over, “Are you alright? Are you hurt?” You notice the tired look on his face, “What happened?”
“Jedi.” He muttered as he pressed his forehead against yours, “I took care of them.”
You breathed in his scent as closed your eyes… You were happy that he was back and you once again felt safe in his arms… That is until you heard a noise emanating from your room.
“What was that?” You wondered as you pulled away from him.
“My flower, there’s something I need to tell you about.” He said.
There was nothing in his expression that would allow anyone to know what he was thinking… But you weren’t just anyone.
“What is it?” A frown crossed your lips as you could see the guilt in his eyes.
“I brought Osha here.” He muttered knowing he could not lie to you.
“Osha?” Your brows furrowed, “Your acolyte’s sister? Why?”
“Mae betrayed me. I believe Osha is the acolyte I need.”
You pushed him away, your joy of him returning morphing into frustration, “You brought her here?”
“I had no other choice.” He pressed.
“You always have a choice.” You turned away from him. It was ironic how now you wanted space from him.
He took a step towards you wrapping his arms around your waist, “She was hurt, please. I wouldn’t have brought her here if I didn’t have a choice.”
You sighed and closed your eyes, “Alright.” You whispered quietly.
He turned you around and pressed a kiss to your lips, “Thank you my flower. You have always supported me and I love you for that.”
“Of course.” You brushed your nose against his, “I love you.”
You spent your evening tending to the girl’s wound, something you never dreamed of doing, but here you are. You were happy though that at least Qimir was back and hopefully now you can go with him places.
Or so you thought.
You both stood outside of the cave as he told you, “For my plan to work, you can’t tell her that we are together.”
“What do you mean?” You questioned him, “What does our love have anything to do with her as your new acolyte?”
“She needs to see that to truly be powerful she cannot have any attachment to her old life.” He explained, “Trust me on this, please.” He asked once again.
“Who…” You frowned softly, a sad look in your gaze, “Who would you have me be?”
“You’ll be my smuggler, just for a little while.” He placed his hands on your arms, “I swear that it won’t be for long. Just until she accepts who she is.”
“Okay…” You whispered unsure.
Why do you always say yes to him? Why can’t you just tell him that this hurts you more than slicing your own skin? Then being left alone. It felt as if he didn’t want to belong to you anymore…
“Who are you?” Osha asked behind you from where you were making lunch.
“No one important.” You spoke softly, “How is your wound?”
“It’s… Better… Thank you.” She spoke unsure.
“I did what I could with what I had.” You motioned to a bag, “There are some clothes and things for you in there. They are mine, but I’m sure they’ll fit.”
I could hear her make her way over to the bag and open it to inspect the items, “Why are you helping me?” She wondered.
“Because he asked.” You stated as you added more vegetables to the curry, “And because I’m not a bad person.”
You heard her pick up the bag and carry it to the back room to change.
“Qi is outside.” You told her, “I’ll come fetch you both for lunch when it’s ready.”
You hoped that you didn’t seem too mean or awkward as you brushed off your pants. At least the curry turned out good. You thought as you slipped on your shoes and one of Qimir’s coat that you stole. His scent was still there but faded from how many times you’ve worn it while he was away.
“You are not going to give that back are you?” He chuckled.
“You are leaving me for months. The least you can do is leave me this. I may forget you after all.” You teased though you were silently hurting, you didn’t let him know.
He pulled you in for a deep kiss, “I won’t be gone long. Once I find an acolyte everything will be perfect.”
But everything was perfect… At least to you.
You hummed softly as you left the cave, some seeds in your pocket to feed the cute little creatures that live alongside you. The walk felt nice as you finally had somewhere to go to without mindlessly wandering around until your feet felt numb. You wondered if Qi would like to go see the small garden you had been meticulously been cultivating since he left. It wasn’t perfect, but it was yours.
Besides you always told him you wanted a garden and now you have one that you made all on your own.
“A garden hm?” He smiled softly down at you.
“Yes! I would like a big one with the most beautiful and exotic fruits, vegetables, and flowers that we have ever seen!” You explained happily to him as he spun you around in your little home, “Then I can make us the most delicious meals.”
“I see, I guess I will have to get started on building you one then.” He smiled.
He never did build you that garden; but it made you feel proud that you built one yourself. It wasn’t grand and it didn’t have the most beautiful fruits, vegetables, or flowers in the galaxy, but it was enough. It made you content in your lonely state. You continued on your path, knowing exactly where he would be. It was your favorite spot after all, a little cove that was perfect for taking a swim or just relaxing. You remember all of the fond memories the two of you had there when the only thought in mind was your shared future. You thought it was enough… You hoped it was.
You could hear two voices and you sighed silently knowing you would have to put up an act. You had secretly hoped that Osha would try to escape or get lost and you could spend some much needed time with Qimir, but you suppose that the force was not on your side this time.
“If you’re not going to join me then I would like to get dressed.” You heard Qimir say and the odd choice of words made a sick feeling settle in the pit of your stomach.
You turned around the corner of a giant boulder when before you made you step back in shock. There your lover was standing bare in front of a girl who was only supposed to be his padawan.
What was this…?
You didn’t understand as you watched him get dressed. He didn’t try to hide himself or make her turn away. He didn’t…
You turned away and wrapped your arms around yourself, silently leaving the two to their private conversation. There were many emotions and thoughts consuming your mind as you trekked back to your little home.
How long has that been going on? Was he that way with Mae as well? Was I just a placeholder until he found someone better? Why? Why? Why?
Your sadness grew into anger as the realization settled in you like a seed of doubt. He… Didn’t love me anymore. I wonder if he ever did? You thought.
You waited in your home, a place that you have worked hard to make it a warm and welcoming place for the both of you. You could hear them talking as they approached, could see them as Qimir twisted his way inside her mind as he did yours all those years ago. Watched as he grabbed her arm so gently that you wanted to cry. You wanted to look away as she pinned him to the cave entrance and he let her, the lightsaber so close to his neck you wondered if she would actually do it… You wondered if you wanted her to.
He set his claim over her with soothing words and a gentle touch and you knew… He didn’t want you. He didn’t even want a padawan.
He wanted an equal.
You couldn’t give him that, not with your small connection to the force. You weren’t like him. You never would be.
Your heart broke in that moment and nothing saved you from the sorrow that consumed you. All you wanted was a family… He was your family. He was everything to you and you… You weren’t as nearly important to him.
“At least three.” You lied in bed, curled up in his arms.
“Four kids?” He chuckled as he drew circles across your skin, “Why not make it four? Make it even.”
“Four?” You hummed in thought, “Do you think you can handle that many kids?”
“I handle you just fine, how hard can it be?” He teased.
You mockingly gasped in shock before rolling over on top of him, “You’ll see just how hard I am to handle.”
“Oh I’m counting on it.” He grinned, placing his hands on your hips.
You leaned down to press your forehead against his, “You’ll miss me when I’m gone Qi.”
“I’ll never let you go.” He stated sincerely, “Nothing will ever keep me from you, my flower.”
“I’ll keep you to that.” You kissed him.
It seemed that shattered piece of the force reminded him that you were there. He could feel that string of yours begin to fray and when his eyes met yours he knew that there was no way to bring you back.
It was early the next morning and you watched the tide begin to recede as you waited to board your ship, one that was smaller than Qimir’s, but still fast.
“Flower.”
“Please, spare me indignity.” You whispered.
“I can explain.”
You could see the hurt hidden behind his soft gaze, a pleading act that you knew too well. It was a look that he only gave when he had been caught doing something he shouldn’t have been doing.
You continued to look at him with tears in your eyes, “I don’t need you to explain anything to me. I’m not connected to the force like you, but I know you do the very core of my being and I know… I know Qimir.”
“That’s not—” He stepped towards you, but you held a hand up to stop him.
“I want to be loved only by you and… You swore that it would just be the two of us. You used to say you couldn’t bear to be without me… You used to run to see me… I want to be close to you and you still keep me at arms length. You think I’m naive, but I see more than what you want me to see.” You took a breath as you tried to keep your composer without breaking down.
You searched his eyes for the love he once held for you and you wanted to cry because you couldn’t find it anymore.
“You have my heart Qimir, you always have. My love for you is as warm as the sun, but I cannot continue to shine upon something that prefers the darkness.” You confessed, your heart barely keeping it together. You wanted to run back in his arms and forget everything that happened, but that would only leave you right where you are now… Alone.
“What are you saying?” His voice cracked and he felt a gnawing feeling crawl up his chest and towards his heart.
“I can no longer follow you on the path that you are taking, not when your heart no longer belongs to me so please… Give me some decency and let me leave you.” You pleaded not knowing how much your heart could take.
“I can’t.” He shook his head and his voice became desperate, “Please don’t leave me. I can’t bear to loose you. Not you.”
“Then tell her to go.” You looked in the direction of where Mae was watching at the entrance of your home… Your life… Your safe space.
“I…” He looked torn as he tried to decide and that hurt you all the more… He had to think about choosing you and… “I can’t.” He finally responded.
He couldn’t even choose you.
You nodded to yourself at his choice, silently confirming your decision to leave. It was best for you no matter how much pain you were currently in.
“No one will ever be able to truly see you the way I do… You were my apricity.” You turned and began to walk to your ship, “Goodbye Qimir.”
Osha took his place by his side and he suddenly felt a feeling of emptiness, no longer did he feel a purpose nor did he wish for anything except for his beloved flower.
“You won’t kill her?” Osha asked as she watched as your ship took off.
Rating: Angst | Acts like he’s not obsessed but he is | Light fluff
Summary: You were devoted, but no matter how hard you try, you never seem to be enough.
The fight was brutal. Each swing of a lightsaber had casted the dark night into colorful arrays of blue, yellow, green, and red.
“Master!” You yelled as you quickly stepped in front of him to take the graze of the green lightsaber that was aimed at him. Your side burned with pain, but that didn’t stop you from protecting your master.
“Go!” He used the force to push you out of the fight, “Find her!” Your master ordered you as you pushed back another Jedi by using the force.
You quickly fled the fight, knowing that he could handle himself. You focused on your task to find Mae… The person you considered a friend since she came into your life. Yet she still betrayed you… Your master… She…
She abandoned you.
That anger surged you forward as you spotted her trying to run into the dense forest.
“You were my friend!” You screamed with rage, using the force to knock down a tree in her path.
There was guilt heavy in her gaze as she looked back, but she didn’t stop in her effort to flee. She only jumped over the tree and continued on her path.
She didn’t try to explain to you why she chose to betray you and your master. She just ran from you.
Before you could follow her into the jungle, a young girl tackled you to the ground. You cried out in rage at the one who dared to stop you from confronting your friend. You struggled beneath the girl until you were able to find your footing just before she could cuff you.
You pushed who, throwing her off of you by using the force. You didn’t care that her back hit against one of the boulders, you could only hope that would stop her from attacking… Of course you were wrong. It seemed like you were wrong about a lot of things lately.
You quickly got to your feet and ignited your blue lightsaber just as she ignited hers. It was clear that she was surprised to see a lightsaber in your hands.
“Leave us alone.” You gave her a warning before protecting what was yours.
“Who did you take that from?” She spat with a righteous glare.
An uneasy feeling grew in your chest as your tears blurred the anger in your eyes, “Myself.” With a cry you rushed at the Jedi, anger filling your heart.
Saber clashed against saber as you evaded her every attack. It was clear that with each passing minute, Mae was getting farther away and your master… You dreaded the disappointment he would show you the moment you return to him empty handed… If you return.
You rolled away from the girl, using the force to push her back, but she got the best of you as you tried to get up. She used the force to send you tumbling back to the ground, your lightsaber being thrown from your hand in the fall.
With all her might ran towards you with her blade raised. Your heart stopped and you watched your life flash before your eyes, waiting for the moment her lightsaber would meet your chest but… That moment never came. It wouldn’t.
Not while he was around.
He would never allow you to die.
Not by anyone’s hands but his.
His movement was swift and fluid, gracefully done with a force of strength that had the girl scrambling to get her footing. But she was a fair fight, using two lightsabers to face your master.
They fought against one another with conviction and speed to the side that they were fighting for, but you could tell that he was running out of time. You could see it in the way the he kept glancing in the direction that Mae ran in.
You wanted to make him proud, make it easier for his mission and so you used the force to send a pillow of sand in the young Jedi’s face. It took less than a second before your master was swooping you up into his arms and leaping over the tree without any struggle.
“Where?” He demanded as he ran faster into the woods.
You closed your eyes and felt through the force. The strong attachment that you had to the force impressed your master, something that he only told you through the hum behind his mask. You tracked Mae with ease and open your eyes to tell him, “Forward. Then left.”
He slowed down and set you on the ground, “Keep up.”
“Wait! Master…” You spoke hesitantly before he could start running again.
“What is it dove?” He held his lightsaber ready to ignite it from any danger that could be heading towards us.
“Maybe we should leave while we still can?” You voiced your concerns, “She chose her side. She doesn’t want to follow this path anymore. How can we help someone who doesn’t want to be helped? We could just—ah”Before you could finish your throat was suddenly constricted by an unknown force.
He tilted his head down, a dark tint to his voice as he pulled you closer to him with the flick of his wrist and suddenly he was choking you with his bare hand, “I will have my acolyte and nothing can keep me from that.”
You struggled against his grip, “I am your padawan too.” You tried to gasp for breath.
“And you are never going to amount to anything more than that.” His words were harsh as he let go of you. You gasped for breath as he turned his back on you, “Let’s go.”
You nodded your head, a dull ache in your chest as you followed behind him.
It wasn’t too long after that you found her, his red lightsaber just missing her head by an inch. Your throat still felt sore but you had nothing to say as you stood behind your master. Your gaze felt tired, betrayed by the two people you trusted most.
Mae was quick to beg for her life, “Please forgive me master, I was weak.”
“You’ve always been weak.” He stated and you thought he would kill her or at least hurt her for her betrayal, but instead his saber sliced through her cuffs.
It made your heart ache in a form of jealousy as you took a step back to distance yourself. You felt an odd rift forming that you didn’t know how to mend.
As he lifted his light saber again, he was pulled back by Master Sol, the same master Mae was meant to kill. Who you sure was his padawan had appeared as well, the two targeting your master in two versus one battle.
Your mind was torn on helping the master who thought you to be too weak to be his acolyte or helping the girl who betrayed your trust.
Instead you chose yourself and the only other person you thought could care about you.
“Mae.” You called out her name as she attempted to flee.
“What is it?” She wondered with a confused look in her gaze.
“Did… Did Qimir bring you here?” You asked her softly despite the battle a few feet away.
“He did… I tied him up not too far from here. About ten clicks west.” Her brows furrowed even more, “Why?”
He must have a ship to get off of this planet. You thought. He could help you right? If your master didn’t want you then why were you here?
You didn’t answer her as the fight suddenly entered your direction and it was time for you and Mae to flee. Your footsteps carried you into the forest, the sound of lightsabers clashing echoed off the trees. Your master didn’t try to find you, intent on getting to Mae instead.
So you kept running with one thought in mind… Ten clicks west and he can take you far away from this place.
You were a few feet away before it felt like you couldn’t move. It was like the force tugged you back to him no matter how far you tried to run. “I can’t…” You whispered painfully out to the string that tugged you back to him, “Please.”
The feeling didn’t stop and you regretted glancing back because it only sealed your fate to him. With a frustrated cry you turned around and ran back sliding behind him just in time to block Sol’s lightsaber from connecting with his back.
“You protect him with a blue lightsaber… Why?” Sol asked in between the blows that were shared.
Because I never embraced the dark side, only him. You thought with a frown as you stared down at the color of your light saber. It mocked you, letting everyone see how you could never be his acolyte… How you could never be anything more to him than just a lovesick fool.
“I will protect him.” Always. You grit your teeth as you lunged at him again and again. Your movements were quick and delicate as you gracefully moved around Sol as if you were in a dance.
“You could be so much more than his puppet.” Master Sol tried to convince you, but it only made you angrier, “Cut your string to him.”
“I’m more than a puppet to my master! He cares for me!” You were almost yelling at him, tears of frustration filling your eyes. He is mine. I am his. He promised. You reminded yourself weakly.
“Then why would he take someone else under his wing? A master only has one padawan.” Master Sol said, “He replaced you because he could not see your potential.”
His words had you fault wrong enough for him to make his final move. You grunted as he shoved you onto the ground with the strength of his force.
“He…” Your voice broke as it trailed off into a pitiful whimper.
“He doesn’t protect you.” Sol spoke softly, “Stop fighting for him and come with me. You would make a great Jedi.”
“Do not twist her mind with useless words.” You master spoke.
It was then that Sol witnessed the fatal three stabs that were given to the padawan as your master came out victorious once again.
You craned your neck to see your master only now realizing that his helmet had be torn off from his head.
“Her allegiance to me is stronger than your former padawan.” His voice was clear, not filtered by his mask.
“Qimir…” You whispered his name just as Sol spoke.
“Jecki…” The anguish in Sol’s voice was clear as he mourned his padawan.
“Was that its name?” Qimir had asked, a cold tone to his voice. He didn’t particularly care as she was not his mission.
No, his mission voiced his name as well, “Qimir?”
“Hi.” He smiled at her with his usual bright tone that had you turning flush each time you saw him.
You thought maybe there could be something between the light conversation and jokes shared, but… You clenched your fists. Of course, it would always be her.
In only a blink of an eye Mae was in his grasp being choked while Sol’s lightsaber was directed at your neck.
“Directing your lightsaber towards an unarmed person isn’t very Jedi of you.” Qimir mused.
“Let her go.” Sol demanded, his threat was perfectly clear.
Qimir thought about it before answering, “Ah… I don’t think so.”
“She is no longer your acolyte.” Master Sol mentioned, “She has been trying to flee from your grasp, that should be answer enough.”
“She doesn’t have a choice in her life.” Qimir’s gaze darker as he looked towards Sol, “Not after she betrayed me.”
“You already have a padawan. Take her and leave Mae alone.” Sol suggested.
It made your stomach twist in knots. Was what Master Sol told me before just a lie then? A trick to throw me off guard? Your gaze darkened as you realized. He didn’t care for my wellbeing either.
“She is too soft… Too… What did you say? Too much like a Jedi to be the pupil I need. She wouldn’t make a good acolyte.” Qimir clicked his tongue at the word, but he smiled as he spoke lightly, “But she is loyal. The shining light to my darkness.” His gaze flickered towards yours, a possessive glint to them, “Aren’t you little dove?”
Your gaze fell away from his. You were tired of all the endless games. Of being used and taken advantage of by men who would toss you aside to get to their true prize... I want to go home. You thought as you stared as the small cuts on your hands.
“Why risk discovery? Why not run?” Sol questioned.
“Well…” Qimir pressed the blunt end of his lightsaber harder against Mae’s head, “I did wear a mask.”
“What do you want?” Sol wasn’t here to play any of Qimir’s games, not this time.
“Freedom.” Qimir shoved Mae to her knees painfully, “The freedom to wield my power the way I like. How I choose without having to answer to Jedi like you.” He explained.
“I want a pupil… An acolyte.” He pressed before shoving his lightsaber once again against the side of Mae’s head, “But this one went back on our deal.”
Qimir clicked his tongue with a sigh, “She exposed me. So, now I have to kill every singly last one of you…” He looked directly at Sol, “I don’t make the rules. The Jedi do. And the Jedi say I can’t exist.” It was then his gaze glanced down towards your direction, “They see my face, they all die.”
Your heart beat loudly in your chest at his words. Did that mean you as well? Would he kill you because you were too weak to be his pupil? Because you finally saw his face?
The silence was defeating, but Qimir was quick to fill the void, “Aw look at you two. Right back where you started.” He chuckled, “I should say the same about us, little dove.”
Sol pushed the light saber an inch closer to your neck. The betrayel in your eyes at both men held a thousand words that Sol would carry in his chest as he made a threat to take your life.
“I am giving you a choice. Your dove or your former acolyte.” Sol demanded.
Qimir’s gaze darkened, “Killing my dove would only destroy the Jedi code you hold so dear.” He bared his teeth.
“If it stops you… I will do what I must.” Sol pressed the lightsaber closer to your neck.
“I don’t need her. Do what you want.” He clicked his tongue and looked away from your rejected form, pitiful on the forest floor, “I came here for one thing anyways.”
Tears trailed down your face when he didn’t choose you. The rejection hurt more than the blinding heat settled near you. Of course he would choose you. Of course he would choose the girl currently frozen in his grip.
“Are you sure?” Master Sol asked one more time.
It was then that you could feel the heat of the lightsaber scorching your skin. The heat became almost unbearable as you were held in place, forbidden to move. A dark red mark appeared on your bare neck, causing you to cry out in pain.
“Fuck— Stop!” Qimir pushed Mae to the ground a stepped towards Sol with a dangerous glint in his eyes.
“Hurt her and I promise I will tear you limb from limb.” Qimir ignited his lightsaber, the red glaring against his skin menacingly, “And I always keep my promise.”
It was in that moment that his helmet began to shake and you saw a yellow beam of light ignite behind him, “Behind you!” You yelled at Qimir and he quickly sprung into action.
He faced the Jedi knight Yord with quick movements, unfazed as he grinned at his impeding victory.
“You?” Yord asked in utter disbelief. You could see the shock on his face at Qimir’s reveal.
“Me.” Qimir grinned before spinning him around and snapping his neck, tossing him to the side without any strain.
Mae fled without a second thought towards the gruesome action and you were able to roll away from Master Sol. You got up and held your ground as you watched Qimir and Sol look at one another. With an angered cry Sol charged at your master and the adrenaline of today surged towards you as you went to your master’s aid.
However, you didn’t see Osha in the forest and the feeling of electricity suddenly shot through you causing you to hit your head against one of the trees. The last thing you remembered was Qimir yelling your name before you blacked out.
It was the feeling of a steady rocking movement that brought you out of your sleep. The familiar hum of masters— Qimir’s ship left you feeling at ease as you pulled yourself out of your daze.
“Good. You’re awake.” Qimir’s voice was clear as he walked towards your bunk, “Thought I lost you there for a sec.”
“Would you even care if you did?” You muttered. It was a slip of the tongue from the pounding in your head, but you felt good saying it all the same.
“You are in my ship are you not?” He answered plainly as he placed a glass of water beside you.
You watched as he grabbed a lock of your hair and admired it between his fingertips, “I should kill you, you know? You’ve seen my face, you know who I am.” He hummed, “But I know you wouldn’t hurt me. We’re connected.”
Tears sprung to your eyes, “Why do you keep me?”
“Isn’t that obvious?” He stood in your doorway glancing back at you with a half grin.
Summary: After the death of your master you begin to question the dark side and just who keeps appearing in your dreams…
The ringing in your head only grew as you opened your eyes. Your vision was blurry, but you knew that you were hanging from something… You drained your neck up to realize that it was a tree. You were stripped bare from your robes and something dropped slowly down your forehead past your nose… Blood.
“Master?” Your voice cracked as you called out to her.
The air felt thick and the smell of blood grew stronger, but you could hear her to your right.
“You must whisper, my padawan.” She whispered in the same predicament you were in, “It is hunting.”
“What is?” You whispered confused, hurt, and you knew you had a concussion, “What is going on?”
“They betrayed us and now they are offering us to the beast they fear from this jungle. It has already taken the other. We must remain vigilant and strong as we find a way out of us.”
You looked around, the moonlight brightening the forest floor just enough to see all of the blood and bones scattered everywhere.
Hours had passed as you both struggled to get out of your bindings without falling to the ground. You realized quickly that the tribe you were trying to help had drugged you heavily making it even harder to escape.
With the luck of the force, your master unblinded herself and swung over to one of the large branches on your tree.
“Stay still.” She requested as she began to untie your bindings, “Once you are free we will make a run towards the north river. Our shop is just across the river.”
“Okay.” You whispered as you began to feel the rope loosen.
“Almost…” Master Runh went to untie the rope. You were almost free… Almost.
It was so quick that you could barely see it grab your master between its large jaws and drag her down to the forest floor. Her screams echoed throughout the night as she yelled over and over…
“Run!”
Tears streamed down your face as you watched her get torn apart. Struggling to free the last not so you could help her… Save her… You needed to save her. You were so close.
“Master!” You cried out as her final breath left her body and through your tears you saw something or was it someone standing beside the beast over your dead master just watching you…
You jolted awake in your room with a startled gasp. It took you a moment for your brain to let you know that you were safe and it was only a dream, but but the wetness on your cheeks had let you know that you had been crying.
You quickly wiped your tears and went to the fresher to compose yourself. It had been a couple hours since you have been in hyper drive and you knew you would arrive to the next planet soon.
That means you had a bit of time to talk about your dream to Master Sol… Maybe he would have an answer for the mysterious figure.
“Master Sol.” You drew his attention away from the map he was looking at from where he sat at a table.
His tired eyes were now trained on you, a calm look on his face as he greeted you with a smile. He was an ever present and diligent master and you silently thought of how lucky Jecki was.
You have been missing master Runh dearly these days. She was a great master, someone that you could count on for anything. She was wise, and strong, and brave too… She aided and guided you as you grew up, leading you down the path of the Jedi. You were grateful to her for everything she has done for you. You believed in what it meant to be a Jedi.
Until she was killed a few months ago.
It wasn’t her fault, the two of you were betrayed and sold out by the tribe you were trying to help… It shook you to your core, leaving you with nightmares and sleepless nights. You could still hear her screams, see her body be torn to shreds by that horrible beast… A beast you barely ran away from with your life.
You remember it’s sharp claws digging into your right side, leaving you with a painful reminder of that night.
That was when the urges of darkness started to rise. A growing pain that settled in the pit of your stomach and rose to your throat almost like a scream. Your calm temper had grown shorter these days and with no other master willing to take you in during your last few months of training as you were too old and they were looking for someone with a more pliable mind.
You remember scoffing as you stood in the council room, an annoyed look suddenly spreading across your face. Not one free master would take you in so you could pass your trials. You almost threw a chair at the weak minded fools.
That was until you were placed in the care of Master Sol. He had graciously stepped up and offered to take you under his wing along with his current padawan. Master Runh was a dear friend of his and he refused to let her padawan be casted out.
“Yes?” He asked.
“My anger towards what happened to my master…” Your voice lowered into almost a whisper, “I feel as though it is getting worse.”
His gaze turned concerned as he lowered his voice, “I know what have you experience has been painful, but rage will only lead to the dark side. It was not your fault young padawan and I know that you will overcome this tragedy with great strength.”
“Thank you master, but my dreams…” You shivered as you remember them so vividly, “It’s always the same every night, but last night was different… It felt as if my master was warning me of someone.” You whispered, “There was…” A dark figure standing above my masters body.
My explanation was cut short as his former padawan butted into the conversation, “We’re nearly there. I was hoping you and I could talk before we go find Master Torbin?” Osha asked master Sol.
A torn look spread across his face as he tried to choose who he wants to help more… The sinking feeling in your gut at him looking back at Osha sealed your fate.
He started to say, “Maybe we could…” continue this another time.
It was the same thing you heard before and you raised your hand to stop him, “It’s alright. I should probably go get ready anyways.” You stood up from your seat and Osha quickly took your place.
“Another time.” He said again, an urgency in his voice.
You didn’t spare him another glance as you walked away, “Sure.” You knew you wouldn’t talk about it again.
You thought back to the figure in your dream as you followed after the group. Yord fell into step with you as he kept a watchful eye out.
“Your lost in thought.” He mentioned which seemed to work in snapping you out of your daze.
“I’m just worried for master Torbin.” You lied and a part of you hated the feeling, but you felt that it was necessary to keep the figure to yourself for now. At least until you can find out more about it.
“Mae has already killed Master Indara.” You continued, “Who knows what she is capable of.”
“The Jedi do not judge someone we do not know.” He said and his words twisted a not in your heart, “But I am confident that we will get to him in time.” He glanced at you, “There is no need to worry.”
His confidence made you cringe. How could I not worry when there was a Jedi killing assassin on the loose? Is no one here concerned? You thought.
It was safe to say that Jord’s plan to confront the mystery man was stupid.
“Or we skip that and she just talks to him.” Jecki said, “If he’s Mae’s accomplice, we can send her in. She can talk to him and we can record and monitor the conversation that way we have a lead on Mae plus we also get a confession from him. Seems like the most logical way.”
“That sounds like the better option out of the two.” You agreed.
“I’m in.” Mae nodded her head as she stepped forward.
“We will follow your plan padawan. It’s a good one.” Master Sol agreed.
That was all that was needed to spring into action on our mission. You watched as Osha stepped into the shop.
“Hello there.” You could hear her say over comms.
“Oh… Hello.” His voice sounded… Chipper. It seemed that he was happy to see her. Maybe he and Mae do know each other on a deeper level?
“Hi…” Osha’s voice trailed off as she seemed unsure of what to say.
“Hi?” His tone now held confusion to it.
“Come on Osha.” You muttered praying to the force with words of encouragement.
He continued sounding concerned, “You alright? You’re back so early?”
“I wanted to see you…”
“See me? Oh?” His light chuckle sent a pleasant chill you didn’t know the exact reason for, “Mae… Are you okay? Did the poison work?”
“That’s it.” Jecki looked up from the comms ready to go, “That’s all we need.”
“Pull her out.” Yord stated taking out his lightsaber.
You also made motion to grab your lightsaber, ready to head into the shop and confront the mysterious man before Sol put his arm out to stop you.
“Wait!” Master Sol’s sharp word had you, Yord, and Jecki all freeze in place. The four of you paid closer attention to the comm.
“You’re acting so strange…” The man spoke through the comms. There was a pause, as if he was assessing something about Osha, “Wait.”
Please don’t figure out she’s not Mae… You thought with worry.
“You killed Torbin without the poison.” He assessed with a light tone to his voice, “He will be so pleased.”
That seemed to be all Master Sol needed to hear as he said, “Go.” And pushed his group towards the man and Osha.
He was different than you expected him to be. A good way perhaps… He was easy on the eyes for a smuggler or was he a dealer? You weren’t sure. What you did know was how quick he was to sell out Mae.
You stayed partially hidden behind Jord. Your hood was up and your hand remained on your lightsaber as the stranger continued to explain himself.
“Wait wait…” He stumbled over his words as he tried to explain, “That isn’t my thing. This is her. I didn’t know what she was going to do with that stuff.”
“If you cooperate. We will consider letting you go with a warning.” Master Sol walked around him, assessing if he was a threat.
The man clasped his hands together, “Okay! Thank you! Thank you sir, ah… Please don’t do the memory wipe thing or whatever it is you guys do.” He held his hands up in surrender as he followed Master Sol’s movements.
You studied his movements, they were graceful compared to the nervous way he spoke.
“What is your relationship to Mae?” Was the first question Master Sol asked.
“I’m just her supplier.” He explained quickly walking around the room and using his hands as he spoke, “Yeah, I started out gun running for the hits and now I supply people like her with what they need. For the right price.”
He seemed to calm but too fidgety at the same time as if it were almost forced…
“Well maybe you could supply us with the truth.” Jord’s voice was stern and left no room for debate.
You hid further behind his stance as the man turned around. Not ready to reveal that you have been studying him intently to see if he was telling the truth or stalling for time…
“Who is he?” Master Sol asked.
The man gave him a confused look, “Ah… I? I thought he was with you?” He asked pointing back at Jord.
You couldn’t help the small laugh that escaped past your lips, but quickly stifled it as his amused gaze tried to find your behind Jord’s frame.
Master Sol didn’t find it funny as he continued, “Does Mae have a master? Is someone training her?”
“Listen I have no idea what’s going on with that girl.” He stepped towards Master Sol, “All I know… Is that she wants revenge on four Jedi.”
The room fell silent as a grave realization settled… Four Jedi was stationed on Osha and Mae’s planet and Master Sol was one of them…
His eyes widened as an idea sparked, “If you want to get to her, she’ll be back here tonight. I’m holding some things for her.”
“Jord. Secure the perimeter. Keep an eye out for Mae.” Master Sol ordered, “Jecki get to the ship. Mae, you are coming with me and…”
Your heart beat quickly in your chest as Master Sol looked in your direction, “You will stay here and make sure that he does not try to escape.”
“But—“ Your pleas were left unanswered as he gave you a look. You bit your tongue and nodded, “Yes master.”
“Good. Let us go.” Master Sol stated, “Mae will be here soon.”
You watched with a knot in your stomach as your group left. How could they just leave me here alone with a stranger? You thought as you clenched and unclenched your right fist to try and keep your nerves at bay.
You tried to take a calming breath. You are a Jedi. You can guard an unarmed man. He couldn’t hurt you. This will go smoothly without any problem… You squeezed your eyes shut as the screams of your master rang through your ears.
You were alone then too… You but your biotin lip, grateful that your hood hid your face as you stared longingly at the door. You didn’t want to be left alone with a stranger… You couldn’t handle it, not again. Your breathing began to pick up, something that the stranger noticed immediately.
“So…” He spoke in an airy tone in an attempt to lighten the mood and get your mind off of whatever you were thinking about, “Who might you be Angel?”
Rating: Fluff | Kissing | Light grinding | A pillow is thrown
Summary: You are the padawan to a masked man you had no name of. You have been by his side for years, training and mastering the arts of what he refers to as the dark side of the force. However, with Mae entering your life as his new favorite, you are beginning to question whether you belong there anymore. Something that you run to your closet fiend to talk about. Who knew confessing to Qimir about your trouble would bring a life changing moment.
“I’m not strong enough for him.” That was the first thing you said to Qirmir as you entered his shop. Borrowed shop? You didn’t care.
The defeat in your tone was enough to alert him of your dismay.
“That’s it. I’m officially useless to him. He doesn’t need me.” You blurted out all of your frustrations to the only person you have ever been able to call a friend, “All he cares about is his new acolyte Mae.”
You were both stationed here with Mae as she completed the next part of her trial which was to kill Master Torbin… Without a weapon.
“What makes you say that?” Qimir popped his head up from behind his counter.
“He’s been making me run these needless errands lately that literally anyone else in the galaxy can do.” You set a bag of powdered gold leaves onto the counter, “This took me an entire day to find and when I go back to the spot I left him, he was gone! Gone! Didn’t tell me where either.” You said frustratingly, “So I figured you might know what to do with this.”
Qimir took the bag and peered inside, a please look on his face as he hummed, “Actually I do. It’s the leaves I need to make a poison Mae requested.”
“Of course it is.” You rolled your eyes at the mention of her name.
Mae seemed to be taking the eyes of your master and Qimir lately. Something that made your eyes turn green with the overpowering feeling of jealousy… Of being abandoned.
“Look, I love Mae and she has become very dear to me, but… I was here first.” You felt like a child for saying that, “I know that sounds selfish, but it feels like he just tossed me aside for a better version.” You looked up at Qimir showing him the hurt and betrayal in your eyes before looking away to try and suppress your feelings, “And maybe… Maybe she is better than me… Maybe I should just take my loss and go.” You spoke in a near whisper, your throat tightening at the thought.
“No!” The way he quickly voiced his answer had you looking up at him waiting for him to continue, “You are strong with the force and an extremely skilled assassin.” He shook his head, “You don’t have to leave.”
You sighed and moved past him and the counter, “But what if he wants me to leave Qi? You don’t understand. It’s like he doesn’t even see me or the power I possess. All he ever says to me is that I’m not ready to become his acolyte and that I need to help Mae ascend yet…” You slumped into the cot that he called a bed with a huff, “I’m older than she is! I’ve been with him longer might I add. I’ve never questioned him, I’ve followed him loyally and this is what I am granted with? To be a baby sitter?”
“One useful skill may come out of that job.” He noted and you missed the blush in his face at whatever he was thinking about…
“And what might that be?” You muttered tiredly as you stared up at the ceiling contemplating your life and how you could just be better.
“You would make a good mother?” Qimir shrugged his shoulders as he tried to had the small smirk on his lips.
You launched one of the pillows on the bed the moment those words left his mouth. It was going straight for his head to which he surprisingly dodged with ease, but that didn’t stop the surprised look appear on his face as he raised his hands in surrender.
“Not funny.” You grumbled and crossed your arms, turning to face the wall with a pout.
“Okay okay. I’m sorry.” Qimir said as he walked over to where you were. When you didn’t turn to face him, he decided to take a seat on the edge of the bed beside you. There was a thoughtful look on his face before he spoke again, “Maybe… Maybe he is looking out for you.”
That got your attention. You sat up, your shoulders brushing against his as you peered up at him with confusion, “What do you mean?”
A nervous blush creeped up his face as you leaned closer to him, “Well I mean… I…” He trailed off nervously, “I just mean that maybe you just might be more important to him than you realize. He could be looking after you to take on a more important role.”
“What’s more important than being his acolyte?” You huffed in confusion as you look towards your fiddling hands, “I remember what he said to me all those years ago when we first met. He promised he would make me a powerful force weirder and that I would stand by his side as his acolyte and now… Now I’m starting to question if he really meant it.”
Qimir’s hand found yours and gave it a comforting squeeze, “He meant it and… You are powerful. Just as you are brave and unlawfully kind.” He assured and it was your turn to blush.
It seemed like he always knew what to say to you in ways that made your heart flutter and your cheeks burn, “Qi…” You breathed out as you glanced at his lips.
He was quick to copy your movements leaning in closer to you as he did so, “Maybe he sees too much good in you to turn you into something your not.” He whispered, his breath caressing your skin.
“You seem to know a lot about what he may think.” You whispered, suddenly lost in his darkening gaze, “Why is that?”
“What can I say? I’m good at reading people.” He smirked slightly as he looked down at your lips again, “I’m also extremely possessive over what I care about. Knowing him means knowing you.”
“Okay…” You hummed accepting his answer, “Alright then mister possessive, what am I thinking about right now?” You mused, a mischievous glint sparkling in your eyes.
It was something the Qimir couldn’t get enough of. It was your playfulness towards him that was like a breath of fresh air against the darkness he was met with daily.
“I would say…” His speech was slow as he traced your face with his eyes, “That you really want to kiss me.” He teased lowly. There was a small grin on his face in knowing that he was right.
He was always right.
“Do I now?” You didn’t try to deny it as you leaned in closer to him, “And you? What do you want to do?”
A low noise emanated from his throat, almost like a pleading sound as his lips brushed against yours, “I want to kiss you...” He said in a way that made your heart yearn for him.
“Then what are you waiting for? Kiss me.” You breathed out, your heart racing wildly in excitement.
That was all he needed to hear as he leaned down to press his lips against yours. Your eyes fluttered closed at the soft sensation in the way that he kissed you. It was delicate and gentle as if he was afraid to push you too far, but the way your arms circled around his neck, pulling him closer to you, was all he needed to know.
He felt like light between your fingertips as you ran your hands through his hair and he was gentle with his movements in guiding you back against the bed. “Beautiful…” He breathed out, fitting himself snugly between your legs.
“Qi…” You breathed his name against his lips, arching your back as he tugged your bottom lips between his teeth. He held himself back, letting go of your lip to really look at you. You couldn’t help but look at him with awe as he gazed at you with so much love and devotion shining in his eyes.
“You are just… Breathtaking.” He admired you with every part of his being, “Utterly breathtaking…” He seemed mesmerized as his right hand traced along your curves.
You blushed, a small smile playing on your lips as you looked away from him embarrassed by his loving words, “Who knew you were such a flatterer.”
He chuckled lowly as he leaned back down to kiss your lips. All too quickly he left and began leaving a trail of kisses down to your neck. You couldn’t help your eyes fluttering closed at the feeling.
“You deserve to be flattered.” He continued losing himself in everything that was you. He rocked himself against you as he held back the urge to devour you entirely. He wanted too so desperately now that he knew you were his, body, soul, and mind. He would never let you go, not now… Not until his last dying breath. “You deserve the galaxy, my little flower.” He muttered softly against your skin.
You have much to learn little flower.
You moaned lightly at the pleasure he filled you with almost kissing his last words, but you heard them. Your mind took a moment to register the deeper meaning behind his endearment, but when you did your eyes opened in realization. It was him. Qimir was him. No one knew about that little nickname except for…
“Master?” You whispered running your fingers through his hair in a gentle manner, but your heart beat widely in your chest as he stopped kissing you.
“Hm…” He hummed a small smirk gracing his lips as he breathed against your neck, “You finally figured it out.”
You placed your right hand on his cheek and gentle lifted his head to face you, “He’s you?” You said in awe as you pieced together every moment up until now, “You’re him?”
“I am.” He searched your eyes for any fear or resistance, but his shoulders relaxed as he saw none.
“So… That is why you were never around when he— I mean when you were training me? Because you were already there.” Your brows furrowed, “Does Mae know?” A small pang filled your chest at the possibility of her knowing your masters identity before you.
He shook his head, “No.”
The pang quickly left, filling your chest with relief as you let out a small sigh, “So… That’s how you were so sure about how he was feeling because that’s what you truly felt…” A blush filled your cheeks at the kind words he said to you earlier.
However, you realized something else as well. He was the one who kept you from becoming his acolyte. You gasped as you smacked his chest causing him to groan and you would have cared for the old Qimir if you didn’t already know how strong he truly was as your master.
“Why won’t you make me your acolyte?” You huffed slightly embarrassed now that you know you spilled your guts to him, “This entire time I have told you how I felt. I am devoted only to you master so why will you not let me become your acolyte?”
“I thought you would have figured that out by now.” He chuckled shaking his head.
Your brows furrowed in confusion, “What do you mean? That is why you train me, it is why you let me stay with you, is it not?”
Strands of his hair fell into his eyes from the way he shook his head. You couldn’t help, but reach up to brush them away, something that had his heart flutter and his lips curl up into a soft smile. He leaned into your touch, his eyes closed as he spoke softly, “I don’t want you to become my acolyte anymore because I couldn’t bear the thought of something ever happening to you.” His gaze darkened, “I would burn the galaxy before that ever happens.”
You smiled softly and brushed away the creases from his brow, “I know.”
“I want you to be mine.” He nuzzled his nose into your wrist before placing a gentle kiss upon in, “I want you to be my equal… Not as someone who does my bidding, not as my padawan or my acolyte, but someone who stands by me.”
“I want you my little flower because you are everything I wish the world to be.” He finished, a soft look in his eyes.
Love swelled up in your chest at the confession he conveyed so deeply to you. His love sealed your fate to him as you leaned up towards him. You brushed your lips against his, the both of you conveying your strong emotions to one another with the look of your eyes.
“You have my heart Qimir and I will stand by your side, always.” You agreed softly.
It was a promise that the two of you would keep without any doubt. He was yours and you were his until the end of time.
“We’re almost there.” Tech’s voice rang out through the otherwise silent cockpit as he exited hyperspace.
Hunter glanced up from sharpening his knife and took in the view of the large planet. The world seemed flush with life as mountains rose and trees filled the land. You wouldn’t think that this world would have a secret lab conducting unlawful experiments with kidnapped clone troopers… Clearly the perfect choice for the empire to set up such a dangerous operation.
“We will have approximately three minutes when I land to get inside without being detected by security.” Tech stated once again.
“Got it.” Hunter put the storm trooper helmet on that Rex obtained for them.
He already didn’t like the way the suit fit him or how it was a lot less mobile then the uniform he used to wear when he was fighting for the republic… How times have changed.
“Wrecker, make sure you get the ship somewhere inconspicuous and wait for our signal… And it all else fails… Do what you do best.” Tech stated.
He then motioned for Wrecker to take the controls as soon as he landed the ship near one of the secret entrances to the mountain.
“Let’s go.” Hunter stated.
Echo and Tech followed behind him, each wearing an identical storm trooper outfit to Hunter’s. They remained quiet and vigilant as they entered the mountain and made their way up one of the ventilation shafts.
When Echo peaked his head out and saw that the coast was clear, they exited the vent and began pretending as if they belonged there.
The three stayed clear of any suspicious personnel that could blow their cover as they made their way to the level that they were keeping clone troopers.
“Up ahead and to the right.” Tech voice spoke through their personal comms.
They entered the room and was met by rows of multiple clone troopers being held against their will.
“He should be in one of these cells.” Echo said as they began their search.
Each cell was met by another familiar face, but none with the signature crosshair tattoo and permanent scowl.
…
“Can I come with you? Please? I can’t just sit here waiting a moment longer. I’ll go crazy.” Omega pleaded with Phee as she was boarding her ship.
“I know, but your brothers insisted that you stay here and I didn’t expect an urgent call from Sid. It should only take half a day tops and I’ll be back for dinner alright?” Phee tried to say.
“See! You said it yourself. Only half a day tops which means I should be able to go with you!” Omega begged and the look in her big eyes that quickly made Phee fold.
With a sigh, Phee motioned for the young girl to follow her, “Alright, but you have to listen to everything I say. Promise?”
Omega nodded eagerly as she strapped herself in the copilots seat, “Promise.”
“And I expect to get one of those smoothies that you and Wrecker have been making.” Phee said with a small grin.
Omega crossed her heart, “As soon as we get back I promise to make you one.”
…
“Do you think he might be on another level? Did we miss something?” Hunter asked as he looked into another cell.
Each cell they past left an empty feeling in each of their hearts. One, that their clone brethren were locked up and two, because their brother was nowhere to be found. The image of what has become of their brothers in arms have left a permanent scar in their minds.
Tech shook his head, “Negative. All clones have been stationed here in this cell block.”
“But he’s not just any type of clone.” Hunter shook his head, “They could have transferred him somewhere else.”
“I highly doubt that. He has to be here. There is no other place where he could be.” Tech urged as they moved forward.
“I’m going to check the layout and see if there’s a turn up ahead.” Tech looked at his data pad following behind Echo and Hunter.
“Let’s not give up just yet. We’ll keep searching until we find him.” Echo said with certainty laced in his voice.
…
“What did Sid say that she needs to talk about anyways?” Omega wondered as she swung her legs.
“Don’t know.” Phee shrugged, keeping her eyes on the stars while she flew her ship, “She just said that it was important. Maybe if we’re lucky enough, it’ll be another treasure hunt.”
“Oo!” Omega’s eyes lit up, “We haven’t gone in one of those in a while! That would be fun and I’m sure my mo-” Omega suddenly stopped swinging her feet as her happy expression fell realizing she caught herself forgetting again.
“I lost my mom when I was young too.” Phee mentioned when the silence grew heavy, “She was an amazing women. The best treasure hunter in the entire galaxy and one day… Something went wrong and I never saw her again.” Phee spoke gently, “It’s the memories that you have that counts so don’t be sad. Be proud.”
Omega nodded, “I just… I feel that she’s still here with us somehow.”
“I feel like that about my mom too.” Phee said.
Omega fell back into her seat, leaning her head against the headrest, “She would have liked a treasure hunt.”
Phee smiled softly, “I’m sure she would have.”
…
They were cutting it close as their pace quickened with each turn. They knew that it was only a matter of time before storm troopers will be poking their heads around the corner and figuring out they weren’t actually one of them.
This whole mission was dangerous and yet none of them would turn back. Not if it meant saving their brother.
“There!” Echo quickly pointed towards one of the last few cells.
Hunter let out a breath of relief as the three of them ran up to the cell.
There they found Crosshair, barely moving on the ground with bruises swelling over his skin. It looked like he had been through hell…
What happened to him? Hunter thought as Tech quickly got to work on disarming the cell shield.
“None of the others look as bad as he does.” Echo mentioned what Hunter was just thinking, “They wouldn’t have done this to just any clone… There must have been a reason…”
Hunter and Tech both nodded in agreement.
“Maybe because of Omega?” Hunter questioned.
“That is highly plausible. The cell should be open… Now.” Tech stated and suddenly the shield vanished.
Hunter and Tech quickly made their way to help their brother up as Echo stood guard.
“Crosshair.” Tech gently shook his brothers arm and doing a quick scan to check his vitals.
To that touch, Crosshair reached up and held his brother’s arm in his own death grip.
“Don’t touch her.” Crosshair growled before he fell unconscious again.
“Her?” Tech furrowed his brows underneath the helmet, “Crosshair, who are you talking about?”
“What does he mean by her?” Echo asked as he glanced towards the three in the cell.
“I don’t know, but we have to go. We’ll ask him later.” Hunter shook his head before helping Tech lift their brother in their arms.
“Echo, we need to get to a database. Rex requested we obtain all information about Project Light.” Hunter ordered and as quickly as he was trained to do, Echo tracked down where they needed to be.
“You need… Go…” Crosshair was once again fading in and out of consciousness as he muttered each word, “In… Trouble…”
“We’ll go soon, brother.” Hunter tried to console his brother as they entered a room filled with computer systems, “Just hold on a bit longer.”
Echo quickly inserted himself into the data base and began searching for the proper file that he needed.
Suddenly they were sealed shut inside the room as red lights and a loud alarm started blaring throughout the base.
“I think they suspect we are here.” Tech stated as a matter of fact.
Echo, Tech, and Hunter took off their helmets.
Hunter sighed, “Didn’t notice.”
Hunter looked to Echo with urgency, “Echo where are we at with those files?”
“Almost there.” Echo muttered without looking away from the screen, “You just need to buy me some time.”
…
“Come on. Up out of your seat little copilot.” Phee patted Omega’s shoulder as soon as she landed the ship.
The two were off the ramp and heading towards Sid’s bar without a worry in their mind, save for the boys of course. They both only wished that they would come back safe and sound with Crosshair.
“Oddly quiet tonight.” Phee remarked as she noticed the streets were pretty bare, unlike what she was used to seeing.
“I’m going to head to Sol and grab some cakes for my brothers if that’s okay?” Omega asked.
Phee nodded her head, not seeing the harm in it, “Sure thing. Grab me a snack while your at it too. Something fruity.” Phee smiled as she pulled out some credits and handed them to the girl.
Omega nodded her head and took off, leaving Phee to continue the rest of the way to Sid’s.
“Hey Sid!” Phee called out the the older woman as soon as she stepped into the bar.
It only occurred to her then that the place was empty also and a unwanted feeling began to make its way through her chest, sending pulses to her brain that told her to run.
“I’m sorry, but I need to know where the kid is Phee.” Sid appeared from her office, followed by two storm troopers, a short man in a coat and…
“You…” Phee’s eyes widened at the sight in front of her.
The cloaked woman’s body was covered by a black coat with a hood to conceal her face.
Phee held her breath as she waited for the mysterious form to reveal themselves. Slowly, the figure pulled the hood down with a metal arm to reveal a face that confirmed Phee’s gut feeling.
Phee breathed out in disbelief and happiness, “You’re alive.”
It was the man in the coat that spoke next.
“My name is Dr. Hemlock. Sid here told us all about you and how much you love treasure.” He threw a bag onto a nearby bar table and the remnants inside revealed jewels that she has never even seen before, “I know you are a smart woman and you don’t want to be caught up in this mess so be a dear and tell us where Omega is.”
Phee glanced at the bag intently. She slowly looked at the Jedi who had a glazed look over her eyes as if she wasn’t even present.
“What did you do to her?” Phee glared at the doctor.
“Don’t mind your friend, she wouldn’t even remember you even if you tried to tell her.” Hemlock waved his arm and without a second thought, the General ignited her lightsaber.
“Now. I am pretty sure I have made us a fair trade here.” Hemlock said and this time his voice was far from kind, “Tell me where the girl is.”
…
Hunter could hear footsteps quickly approaching them. He placed the rest of Crosshair’s weight to Tech before he smashed the key code to enter the room.
“That should buy us some time, but not a lot.” Hunter stated, but with a less than confident look as the banging continued outside of the door.
“Hunter…” Echo’s voice was oddly quiet as he stared at the screen in front of him.
“What?” Hunter turned to look in Echo’s direction.
He didn’t like the way that Echo looked up as if he had just seen a ghost.
“What is it?” Hunter repeated, his voice snipped as he waited for Echo to give him an answer.
“It’s.. It’s the general…” Echo took a pause to collect himself, “She’s still alive.”
…
Omega felt herself slow her run as she reached the Sol cafe. The lights had been shattered inside, leaving the cafe as dark as the street outside.
“Omega?” A familiar voice called out to her.
She hasn’t heard it in quite a while, but the waiter poked his head out from behind a booth with wide blue eyes, “What are you doing here?” Indul asked.
Omega rushed to him, wincing as she saw the deep gash that scarred his right leg.
“Are you alright? What happened to you?” She asked as she looked around at the destroyed restaurant.
“I don’t know who they are… There was one one… Black robe, they wore a hood and wielded a lightsaber. They killed Jun.” He pointed shakily to the kitchen.
He looked up panicked and scared, “They came in here looking for you Omega… You need to run. Get away as far from here as you can.” He struggled to talk through the steering pain, but the urgency was president in his voice.
Her hands hovered over his wound, not sure of what to do, “I can find Phee and she can help you.” Omega said as she stood.
“I don’t need any help.” Indul shook his head with a sigh, “But you can’t go out there by yourself.” Indul struggled to stand, “I’ll go with you.”
Omega immediately shook her head and gently sat him back down, “I’ll be fine, you need to stay still.”
“Mary is grabbing some medical supplies for my leg.” Indul assured as he placed his hand on top of hers, “Go… And may the force be with you.”
…
“Tick tok.” Dr. Hemlock spoke in a bored tone as he glanced at his watch.
“I won’t.” Phee shook her head as she took a step back and crossed her arms, “I don’t know how many pirates you’ve come across, but I ain’t one of them.”
Hemlock sighed, “I really hoped that you would have been more easily suaded like your dear friend Sid here, but I suppose it can never be that easy twice, can it?” Hemlock motioned to his new toy, “Kill her and find the girl.”
The Jedi stepped forward, a murderous look in her gaze as she lifted her lightsaber.
Phee raised her hands up, “You don’t have to do this. Please.” She said as she took a few steps back, the jedi matching with a step of her own.
Suddenly the doors to the cantina swung open and two cans of smoke rolled through the doors.
“Hurry!” Omega shouted to Phee who took no time in following the young girl out the door.
The two bolted down the street as they headed straight for their ship.
“How did they find us?” Omega asked.
“Sid sold you out kid!” Phee said as they ran.
“What? No. That can’t be!” Omega yelled shocked.
“We’ll talk about it later, this way!” Phee yelled as they took a right.
They were almost to their ship when suddenly large rubble and stone broke from a building, sealing their path shut. As they turned they could see the glowing purple from a lightsaber.
“Who is that?” Omega asked as she squinted at the cloaked figure.
“It’s…” Before Phee could answer, Omega was falling to the ground in a heavy sleep.
As Phee looked up in shock, she watched her old friend wave her hand and in a second she was out like a light.
…
“What do you mean?” Hunter’s voice was cold.
He could quiet literally hear his heart beat loudly in his eardrums blocking out the banging on the locked door as he stared at the screen that showed the very being he couldn’t live without.
He could see her face, void of any emotion as she stared at whoever had taken the photo. Her scanner showed active on the screen with the word successful project written in the top right corner of her file. His mind was racing with confusion as he tried to piece together what could have happened to her during these last few months…
The pain she must have endured. That thought alone sent a knife through his heart.
“She must have been alive when… They took her.” Echo muttered as he glanced at his brother’s reaction, “She must be who Crosshair was trying to protect…”
“Alive?” Tech echoed the word as Crosshair leaned into his side. He kept a tight grip on his brother to keep him balanced, but that didn’t stop the lump that formed in his throat, “She was alive and I left her.”
Hunter’s fury laced in his bones as he ripped the frame piece from piece. His voice roared through the sealed room as he ripped through everything he could find. Echo, Tech and Crosshair stood against one of the walls as they watched Hunter mentally loose himself. They listened to the sound of the shields disappearing in the next room, letting them know that Hunter had just inadvertently released the clones being held hostage.
“We left her.” Hunter’s voice was barely a whisper.
He headed straight to the sealed door that now opened up to the stormtroopers on the other side. Each swift movement, each yell gave way to a storm trooper falling to the ground until Hunter stood above them remaining victorious and blinded by rage.
His brothers slowed stepped to the entrance of the room, watching their brother with concern.
Hunter stood there, unmoving as each clone warily stepped out of their cells.
“Burn this place to the ground.” Venom laced his voice and fire filled his eyes as the sirens blared and the battle cries of his brethren rang out through the halls.
“We’re bringing her home.” Was Hunter’s final words as he grabbed his blaster and led his brother’s back to the Marauder.
Just hold out for me a little longer mesh’la, I’m coming for you.
Hunter stood in the doorway of his home, looking at his brother with tired eyes.
“I thought you were coming to see us. To check up on Omega and here you are trying to put us back into a fight?” Hunter crossed his arms.
“It’s not just another fight Hunter. This is Crosshair we’re talking about.” Echo urged as he took a step forward.
“I don’t want to hear it.” The soldier muttered as he slammed the door shut to his home.
It was odd calling a place other than the marauder a home, but the residents of Pabu were kind enough to give him and his brothers separate homes.
Wrecker had a comfortable home close to the sea and it wasn’t too long that Tech moved in with Phee. Hunter and Omega had their home towards the top of the mountain, an easy lookout of the sky and sea.
It was a comfortable home for the most part with two rooms, two bathrooms, a kitchen, a dining room and living area. It was odd having this much space to themselves, but they found comfort in it.
At least until Echo showed up to ruin his peace and quiet.
“Just listen to me!” Echo spoke loudly as he banged once against the shut door, “You can’t shut yourself out forever, brother. Trust me, it won’t do you any good. Please. Just come out and let’s talk about her. It’ll help you move on.”
Don’t get him wrong, he was overjoyed to see his brother alive and well after many months apart… He expressed that emotion… On the inside.
On the outside however… He looked like a shell of the soldier he used to be. His face showing nothing more then a grim frown even behind the closed door.
“Just go…” Hunter’s voice teetered on the edge of a sob and yell as his forehead was pressed against the door beside his fist.
“No.” Echo shook his head as he sighed, “She wouldn’t have liked this. She would have cried at seeing what you have become.”
Hunter didn’t respond, but his heart clenched at Echo’s words because it was true…
I know.
…
I could feels the swells from needle holes burning my skin as I laid against the cool stone ground. It was the only mercy I had since waking up three months ago.
I could barely recall the events that have taken place without flinching. Images of doctors, needles, and the glowing lights flashed before my eyes in a blur. The only thing that kept me comfort was my family.
One of which was trapped in the cell across from me.
“Hey.” His voice was gravelly, the sarcastic tone barely there.
I groaned, the only he would get from me right now. I could still feel the bruising grip from the storm troopers who threw me in here only minutes ago. I groaned as I rolled over to face him, the room spinning as I did so.
“You need to stay focused.” Crosshair stated from his cell across from mine.
I didn’t open my eyes to answer him, it hurt too much.
“General.”
I remember passing out and it wasn’t until the sound of a screeching metal tray slide towards me that I blinked my eyes open. I looked at the food, the same thing that I had yesterday. There was a good helping on there. Of course they was, they had to keep their Guinea pigs healthy in some way.
“General.” Crosshair called out to me once he noticed me start to move.
My throat was too soar from screaming earlier in that damn chair… But none the less, I tried to answer him, “I don’t feel like myself…” I barely said above whispered as I sat up and leaned against the wall, “I can’t remember things… I can’t remember your name.”
“Crosshair.” He reminded her again.
“Of course you won’t feel like yourself.” Crosshair scoffed, “They’re doing to you what they did us clones… Erasing and reprogrammingyou to follow orders.” Crosshair sighed, “You can’t give in. You’re stronger than us you know. Do what you have to, to keep yourself from drowning.”
I slowly dragged the tray towards me and placed it on my lap. I picked at my food as I waited for him to continue.
“You need to get out of here.” I whispered, “I don’t know what will happen if I completely forget…”
“I won’t leave you.” I could feel Crosshair’s glare as he said that, “I won’t leave my family again.”
I knew there was no point in arguing with the brooding sniper. Instead I let out a soft sigh.
“I’m glad you’re alive Cross.” I looked up towards him, forcing him to understand the words I wanted to say, “We forgive you. I remember that.” I stated firmly, “We never… Never hated you.”
He stared at me before glancing away, his lips curling into a grim frown, “I’m sure Hunter does.”
My breath hitched at the sound of his name. The person whose face was only a blurry sight in my mind, but I remember the feelings I have for him. That yearning just to be near him… I could feel him through the force, just barely… My connection to the force was nothing, but a thin strand of string now. I couldn’t even call out to him if I tried.
I shook my thoughts as I tried to stay focused, “What do you mean by that?”
“You’re here because of me… Because I sent out that message.” He closed his hand into a fist to keep himself from punching his cell wall, “He’d kill me if he found out you were in this state.”
“I doubt that.” I looked at my metal hand, an unsettling feeling filled my gut.
Was this how… I furrowed my brows as I forgot his name. He was a friend, that I know. Was this how that clone trooper felt when he first obtained his prosthetics? I wondered. I knew deep down I would get used to the new feeling, but it still felt like a part of me was gone…
“Besides, if he hates anyone, it would be me.” I said as I focused back on the conversation, “I said I’d come back and now… He thinks I’m dead. Omega thinks I’m dead...”
Force above I missed that bubbly girl so much. She hasn’t left my memory and I hoped that it would remain that way. I wondered if she was doing well without me? I hope so…
“He doesn’t hate you. He never could.” Crosshair shook his head, “Not even if you held a knife to his throat and threatened to kill him.”
I looked back towards him wondering what he meant behind those words.
“Then he doesn’t hate you either and I don’t want to here anymore of how he could because they’re all lies, got it?” I stated and in any other instance I would try to sound menacing, but my voice was hoarse and scratchy.
Crosshair couldn’t help the tiny smirk as he scoffed, “Yes General.”
…
“He’s been like that for months.” Wrecker huffed as he took a big bite out of his cooked fish.
Wrecker along with Echo, Tech, Phee, and Omega sat outside Tech and Phee’s home to have a small family dinner.
Echo sighed, “I was afraid you would say that.”
“She was very important to him…” Tech sighed.
“She was important to all of us.” Wrecker clenched his fist, a mixture of pain and regret painted across his face.
No one could tell if the expressive one of the group wanted to punch something or hold himself back from crying… Maybe it was a mixture of both. After a moment he seemed to collect himself as the soldier he was trained to be.
“Tech said that you know where Crosshair is?” Tech spoke up, trying to steer his brother’s fallen expression to something more hopeful and it did.
Wrecker’s expression immediately brightened as he looked across the table to Echo.
“You know where he is?” Wrecker asked quite loudly.
Echo nodded as he placed his holo pad on the table, “I do. After what happened a few months ago…” Echo refrained from mentioning the General’s death as he continued, “Rex and I went on a rescue mission to export a clone squad out of the empires control. When we arrived they were ambushed and taken by this man here.”
A holo figure appeared on screen of a man none of them have ever seen before.
“Dr. Royce Hemlock. A scientist and in charge of leading the Imperial Cloning Program. He has been behind the disappearances of clone troopers, including Crosshair.” Echo explained.
“Then what are we waiting for? Let’s go get him!” Omega said as she stood to her feet.
“Yeah! I agree with the kid!” Wrecker shouted, his mouth full.
“He doesn’t deserve to be trapped there.” Omega pressed.
“In this case, I agree with Omega and Wrecker.” Tech stated, “There is a high percent chance of rescuing him now that we have solid information.”
“We only have limited time before Crosshair is… Decommissioned.” Echo frowned, “Rex and I located him here in Mount Tantiss.” He pointed towards the cell blocks deep within the mountain, “This is where they are holding him and other clone troopers.”
“It’ll be easy to get through if you get those fancy storm trooper suits.” Phee commented as she looked through the security records, “The only thing would be getting out or if they find you out.”
“Echo can get us some right?” Omega looked to her brother.
“I’ve already discussed that with Rex. I’ll be meeting him in a couple days in Coruscant to get them.” Echo explained, “He says he found out more information about the scientist that could be detrimental.”
“I’m coming with you.” Omega stated immediately.
“No. You’re not.” A deep voice stated behind her.
“Hunter.” Tech acknowledge him.
“Why not?” Omega turned to face him with the sternest expression that she could make.
“Because it’s too dangerous.” He explained as he stepped towards the table.
“How is this anymore dangerous then what we’ve done before?” Omega said frustratingly.
“Because it is.” Hunter grunted, his face stern.
“This isn’t fair!” Omega pushed her chair aside as she stepped up to her brother, “You’ve changed! The old Hunter would have jumped at a chance to save his family! What happened to you?!” Omega pushed at his chest.
He didn’t answer, instead his eyes found his way to the sea once more.
“Tell me!” Omega pushed again.
“Omega maybe you should…” Echo tried to defuse the situation before Hunter ultimately blew up.
“No! I want him to tell me! So tell me! Why won’t you save our brother?” Omega pushed him again with an exasperated huff.
“Because he’s the reason she’s gone!” Hunter yelled.
Omega took a step back with the abrupt shock of it all.
And suddenly, it was like all of his words spilled over and into the sea, “If we never would have gone to that place then she’d be alive right now! Here with us. In fact if he would have just came with us after Kamino, then none of this would have happened! She’d be alive, eating this food, and looking out at the sea.” Hunter fell to his knees.
He placed his hands over his face. Not to cry… But to hide from them, from the planet, from everything. It brought him back to the moment spent at the pond, with just him, Omega, and her… Oh how he wished they could all be back there right now.
“She loved the sea.” He whispered brokenly.
“She loved your spirit.” Phee spoke up through the heartbreaking silence, “She loved your leadership and your protectiveness over your family. Any woman could see it in her eyes with the way she would look at you.”
“We would never want you to lose apart of yourself, brother.” Tech stated.
Echo stood up from his chair, gently leading Omega took take a seat. He then knelt before his brother and carefully removed his hands from his face.
“It is not your fault.” He spoke softly.
“I should have been there.” Hunter stated quickly, “I could have-”
“No.” Echo shook his head, “I know where those thoughts lead you and it is a dark path. I’ve lost a lot of my brothers… Almost my entire unit… My best friend…” Echo closed his eyes.
Echo remembered Fives before he took a breath and focused his gaze back on Hunter, “So trust me when I say this, it is not your fault and you did the best that you could in that situation. No matter if you had the fastest ship, you wouldn’t have gotten there in time. You need to accept the fact that she did what she did to save a member of our family. Do not take her death in vain…”
“We can help Crosshair come home.” Omega spoke softly.
Echo and Hunter both stood up.
“I’m sorry for my outburst.” Hunter looked at Omega with sad eyes.
“It’s okay.” She confirmed with nod of her head, “I understand.”
Hunter looked around at his family. They weren’t perfect, far from it… But they were right… He watched as his family looked at him with hopeful eyes. We are stronger together. All of us.
“We’ll go get him.” Hunter confirmed and his family erupted in cheers.
Tech quickly took over the conversation of Crosshair’s escape as he pointed at a few engine rooms and systems.
While Tech discussed the best way to avoid detection, Echo gently placed his hand on Hunter’s shoulder, “Live to fight another day, brother.”
Hunter nodded solemnly, “Live to fight another day.”
The time it took to arrive at Coruscant was quicker than they expected.
Echo, Hunter, Tech, Wrecker, and Omega all emerged from the ship as soon as they landed in Coruscant’s underground. It was the same garage as last time, discreet and under the nose of the empire. A perfect place for clones on the run now adays.
“Didn’t think you guys were going to make it.” Rex joked as he emerged from the back of the garage.
“Quick witted as ever Captain.” Hunter greeted the old captain, “Nice to see you’re still here.”
“Same to all of you.” Rex nodded.
Rex motioned for the group to follow him to a table with some boxes set up in the back.
“These were hard to get, but my men did what they could.” Rex said.
Wrecker and Omega immediately rummaged through the boxes, pulling out the helmets first.
“How many did you acquire?” Tech asked.
“We acquired three. Of course Omega won’t be involved in the mission and Wrecker is too big for a standardized suit. It’ll be up to you, Hunter, and Echo.”
“Awww come on! I wanted to blow things up!” Wrecker made a fuss as he tossed the helmet back into the bin.
“In all due time brother.” Tech stated, “Just because you can’t infiltrarte the base doesn’t mean you can’t wait on the ship with some explosives on hand.”
“Alright!” Wrecker fist pumped the air.
“And what about me?” Omega asked.
“You’ll be with Phee for this, kid.” Hunter said.
“What?!” Omega began to make a fuss, “He’s my brother too!”
“Omega, you’ll help us more by staying safe.” Echo stepped in as he placed a hand on the young girls shoulder.
“Hunter.” Rex motioned for him to follow.
Rex led hunter a little ways away from the group and towards the edge of the garage. Hunter watched as ships came and went on different platforms as he waited for Rex to speak.
Everything now a-days was quite different from how it used to be. Hunter thought as he watched exchanges be made and cargo be shipped. He never thought for a moment that his life would turn out like this. He always assumed he’d die in a great battle in the war…
“I found out some intel last night that you need to know.” Rex voice was suddenly serious as he spoke in a low tone.
Hunter’s brows furrowed at Rex’s sudden change, “About?”
“The doctor your going after… An informant of mine said he has been working on something dangerous. I couldn’t get a lot of information on it, but it’s called Project Light.” Rex explained.
“What does that have to do with us?” Hunter cross his arms over his chest.
“Hunter, it is said that they’ve been doing testing on any Jedi they can get their hands on… Their reprogramming them like they did to us during Order…” Rex couldn’t bring himself to say the word, “Imagine what will happen to the galaxy if they gather an entire troop of them.” Rex stated.
Hunter took in the severity of the situation and he nodded, “I understand… What do you need me to do?”
“There should be some files or data about what they’re planning to do with the Jedi once they successfully complete the experiment. I need you to find those documents.” Rex said.
“Alright.” Hunter agreed.
“Thank you.” Rex nodded.
That shouldn’t be too hard.
…
“Seems like we’ve gotten everything we can from you given your intricate… DNA.” Dr. Hemlock gaze held a spark to it that made me shrink further back into the cell wall, “Your new life is almost complete General and I believe it’s time for something more… Invigorating.”
I was a general?
I couldn’t keep my eyes on him for long as my gaze kept flicking back to Crosshair and the three storm troopers in his cell. A wire was wrapped around his throat, held by one of the troopers as he awaited his order.
“Please don’t do this.” I pleaded and when my gaze found Crosshair’s again, I saw the stern glare of his eyes.
He clearly expressed his emotion of me pleading with a simple frown on his lips.
Don’t beg. I could hear his thought clearly in my mind.
“Your pleas fall empty little Jedi.” He simply stated as the shield on my cell disappeared, “I already told you what would happen besides…”
I watched him step back to allow two storm troopers to enter my cell.
“You’re beginning to become my new favorite project.” He grinned, “Only a few more tests before your mind will have a clean slate. A fresh start for you, I suppose.”
I don’t want a fresh start… I want back what was taken from me.
“Hm… Maybe now you can feel like you truly fit in among your clone friends.” He motioned to Crosshair.
“No.” I stated and used what little energy I had to send the storm troopers in my cell forcefully against two walls, holding them in place, “I won’t succumb to your control.”
He glared disappointingly at my attempts to flee, “Do you not remember what happened last time you fought back?”
Fleeting memories of Crosshair enduring a shock wave of torture filled my eyes and before I knew it, with just a snap of his fingers, the string around Crosshair’s neck tightened.
“Stop!” I yelled as I heard Crosshair’s gasps for air, “He has nothing to do with this!”
“I told you I would use him to keep you in line… Now obey.” His tone turned dark and I already knew he didn’t care whether Crosshair would die, but I cared… I knew he was family and I couldn’t live with myself if the others knew I was the cause of his death.
I carefully put the soldiers down, listening to their gasps of breath as I stared at the doctor towering above me.
“You don’t know what you’re doing.” I spoke seriously, “I will remember.”
“Oh little Jedi, but you won’t. Now follow.” He stated as he turned and once again I found myself following after the cold doctor.
