#clone trooper tech x oc

[keravnos-kori]

return to sender - chapter three: best and brightest

ofc x tech (eventual)

word count: 5.1k

rts masterlist // ao3 link

summary: halla has been alone for the past three years. as it turns out, relocating to coruscant and attending a prestigious university hasn’t been as glamorous as she originally expected - but when a new opportunity comes along for her to prove the republic’s injustices committed against clone troopers, she might get more than she bargained for when the power structure suddenly collapses and is replaced by something far more sinister…

a/n:...let's pretend it hasn't been almost three years since i've updated

~~~~~~

“Are we there yet?”

A collective sigh reverberated throughout the cabin. Tech bit his tongue, but couldn’t help his eyes from rolling. “For the eighth time, Wrecker, you’ll know we have reached our destination when we drop out of hyperspace.”

The largest member of the Batch released an irritable groan from his position on the floor, resting his head on the cool durasteel siding that made up the Marauder’s interior.

“Does it always take this long? I never have to pay attention since Crosshair-…” Wrecker trailed off, the circumstances that led them to Saleucami in the first place overtaking his thoughts.

There was a tense silence that spread between the cockpit and main hold, cut through after a moment by the newest member of the crew. “I’m sure it can’t be that much longer!” Omega reassured. The young girl swiveled around in the co-pilot’s seat to face the rest of her companions, feet barely brushing the ground.

Tech glanced up from his datapad to assess the chronometer on the console closest to him. “Your intuition is correct. We are expected to make the drop in approximately one-half standard hour.”

Turning to follow Omega’s gaze, Tech noticed Echo nodding somewhat absently at the communications panel. Hunter continued to pace the length of the ship’s main compartment, fingers twitching near the holster of his vibroblade: a habit only initiated when his patience was wearing thin.

Staying glued to his datapad was the most effective way to keep Tech’s mind occupied in the moment. There was a lot to process from the past few days, and while he was mentally capable of doing so, he was not sure he was prepared to open up emotionally in front of his brothers about his concerns.

This seemed just fine with the others, as they had yet to discuss the implications of Crosshair’s departure either.

Having to leave their brother behind was a difficult decision, to say the least. Though Crosshair began to act strangely on Kaller, the Batch chalked it up to his severe disposition and assumed he was in a sour mood from all the contradictory orders. It wasn’t until their mission in the Onderon sector that things got out of hand.

Disobeying Hunter to his face. Threatening civilians. A total lack of disregard for how they always operated.

All in all, Tech felt as if he’d failed Crosshair, and not just from departing without him.

For not being able to see the warning signs sooner.

They’d always been close. As close as anyone could be to Tech, and vice versa with Crosshair.

Flashes of their days as cadets flashed in Tech’s mind. Everything that they’d gone through together, first as a quartet for the majority of their enhanced lifespans, then with the welcome addition of Echo to their squad. What was it all for if they left each other behind?

Wasn’t that what made them who they were from the very beginning?

Tech inhaled deeply, clearing his thoughts.

Crosshair’s absence wasn’t the only thing troubling him. Nearly 12,400 parsecs away was a civilian he had, for weeks now, kept contact with.

Against Republic regulation.

Tech had his own creative methods of bending the rules, but this went against his training completely.

He accepted her request for academic assistance on a whim. Resisting pursuits of knowledge was not where his strengths lie.

But that wasn’t all…

This civvie, this woman, was in the very heart of Imperial territory from what Tech was able to glean from scattered radio waves. In his last transmission, he was able to relay recent events to her and provide a warning to escape before anything worse happened in her vicinity.

Her.

Halla.

Contact attempts would have to be few and far between them now. He was effectively on the run from his creators and she was subject to increased surveillance in the capital.

The thought was not a pleasant one.

He was confident in his ability to take care of himself despite the circumstances, but she was just a student - albeit a rather intelligent one. Tech knew, though, that intellect and survival skills were nowhere close to being in the same category. The best he could hope for would be that she keeps her head down and book passage to a system not known for its ties with the centralized government; much like his own plan.

Redirecting his attention back towards his screen, Tech’s heel began to bounce beneath the control yoke as he began to brainstorm potential solutions. How could he provide assistance from such a distance away? What good would he be to her if they had no method of communication?

Straightening his back, Tech decided to compose a new message before he had to switch back to piloting manually.

If he was capable of modifying his signal to become untraceable (which he was and did), and he provided instructions to Halla to do the same, would it not be logical to assume their transmissions could resume without external interference?

There was a flurry of typing as Tech did all he could to explain, down to the minutiae, the process of concealing one’s transmission identifier, holonet mask, and localized device positioning mechanism.

Child’s play for him, in the grand scheme of things, but not for an individual with no engineering experience whatsoever and who had once admitted to him that she’d once fallen for a basic malware ploy that resulted in unsavory Neimoidian images to be downloaded on to a University-owned device.

On that note, Tech made an effort to be as thorough with his directions as possible.

Once the list was drawn up and revised for clarity, Tech took a moment to check the chrono once more: T-minus four minutes until the drop. Satisfied with the results of his work, Tech wrote a quick note near the top of the message and addressed it before sending it off.

Clipping the datapad back onto his utility belt, Tech began his routine of sublight prechecks.

If Crosshair couldn’t be helped right now, maybe Halla could.

~~~

Halla was not a morning person.

She did not enjoy drinking caf or planning how she was supposed to be productive that day. Most of all, she hated waking up before noon on a good day. If it weren’t for the bitterness she felt at the news she received yesterday, Halla would still gladly be nestled in bed.

But no. Here she was, bright and early at 08:00 hours, waiting for an audience with her new graduate advisor.

The administrative complex was just as big and expensive as the rest of the buildings across campus, filled with similar indoor-friendly greenery and back-breaking duraplast seating. The newest addition, besides the drab gray and white uniforms milling about, was the massive tapestries emblazoned with the newly minted Imperial cog draped liberally both in and outside all University structures.

Halla imagined they were meant to display “indomitable allegiance to the cause” or something of the like, but the only impression she was left with was how badly the shades of black clashed with the pristine white and emerald interior.

From her position in the foyer, Halla could still hear the protestors on the steps outside only meters away. It was a diverse bunch, much like the former populace of the college, all holding signs and chanting something along the lines of “hey hey, ho ho, racism’s got to go!”

It had been embarrassing to walk past them, entering the building with her loose hair as a partition between herself and the crowd. She would have joined in, and might’ve said as much to them if she weren’t trying to avoid the scrutiny of the security guards holding a barrier in place.

She was a traitor.

Halla’s meeting with the Dean was not exactly on his daily agenda. She had figured his last message counted as an open invitation, leading her to plaster on a cheerful smile at the check-in center and con her way onto the visitor list.

A list. For who exactly?

Besides a few spare personnel milling about, there was a distinct lack of student activity taking place inside. Halla never saw anyone go into the Admin Complex ahead of her, and there was no one else in the lobby to follow her up either.

They’re just wasting your time to establish authority. Be patient.

Patience was never Halla’s strong suit.

Eons (or maybe just another handful of minutes) passed before the receptionist flagged her down and led her to the lift. Riding up to the story hosting the Dean’s Offices, Halla was cast off to the next administrator who directed her to stand outside a room labeled Aurek Suite.

The pneumatic door opened, though no one was standing at the control panel. Instead, a man was sitting behind a barren desk, the high back of his chair rising over his head.

Arlin Sreetus looked to be the poster boy of the imposing aesthetic his employer was implementing across the planet. Perfectly parted hair, piercing blue eyes, and not a speck on his uniform. Neat, clean, manicured down to a level that was almost unsettling to gaze upon.

Halla felt the hair on the back of her neck stand on end.

She wasn’t prepared for when he opened his mouth.

“Miss Ismaren, so nice to finally match a face to its name. Please, come in and sit.” He greeted her from across the room.

Halla had to bite the inside of her mouth to prevent herself from doing something she’d regret. The Dean’s voice was not suited for the body that produced it, much too nasally and broken to fit the façade that went along with his flawless white jacket.

Once she trusted herself to speak again, Halla released the inside of her cheek from between her molars, quickly striding across the office and finding her seat across from the Dean.

How am I supposed to stay angry with this slime when I’m too busy trying to keep myself from laughing?

“Good morning,” Halla greeted, tone as stiff as she could manage.

Sreetus glanced at the terminal in front of him before addressing Halla again.

“I see you’ve received my message,” he said.

“I have,” she responded.

He raised his eyebrows, and Halla had to wonder if he even knew she wasn’t here to be on friendly terms.

"I've reviewed your academic profile," he started. “Impressive credentials you have here… near-perfect grade point, published research commendations, federal volunteer work.” His eyes continued to flit back and forth between her and his screen as he spoke. “Very impressive, indeed.”

“I’m glad you think so,” Halla deadpanned.

The Dean’s nose twitched, barely noticeable but present nonetheless.

“I also noticed while reviewing your file that you have yet to register for your chain code. Every Imperial citizen is required to have one. Is there a reason you don’t?” He asked patronizingly.

Register? Chain codes?

Halla froze for only a half second before she attempted to brush the question off.

“I was planning on getting around to it soon. I’ve been rather busy with my research, as you could imagine.” She said pointedly.

Sreetus leaned back in his chair, blue-and-red rank plaque upon his chest shining under the bright fluorescent lighting. “Ah, yes. Your clone studies. I’m glad you decided to visit today so we can redirect you towards more…productive outlets.”

Halla bristled, “With all due respect,” which is none, “I believe my current track is the most productive use of my time. You can see from my portfolio, I’ve worked in this area for the past few yea-”.

Sreetus spoke up, effectively steamrolling over her protests before she could even elaborate on her position.

“Yes, yes, I’m aware of your past endeavors Miss Ismaren,” he groused. “No need to recount every detail.”

“But, I-”.

“There are better opportunities for you now, Miss Ismaren. I understand you hold special interests, but it is time to leave them in the past. The present is where you need to be, with the rest of us - helping to drive society forward.”

More like helping to send it into an authoritarian backslide.

Her silence prompted him to keep speaking, not that there was much time to pipe up anyway.

“You’re lucky, you know. To have such connections in your life capable of putting your name forward for such an exclusive position.”

If anything in the past twenty-four hours took Halla off guard, that comment was it.

“I’m…not sure what you mean.”

“An in. An assignment within the Imperial Service Corps. - the Security Bureau.” Despite the smug look on his face, Halla got the sense that behind his words lay a twinge of envy. “A personal recommendation from your father.”

No.

That couldn't be right.

“Sorry, you must be mistaken. My father, my biological father - we don’t speak. I haven’t seen him since I was eleven, haven’t heard anything from him directly since the start of the war. And besides, he has nothing to do with Security or whatever Service Corps. you’re talking about. He’s been in the Navy his entire career.”

Sreetus pushed on, “Forgive me then, for assuming you held contact. His surname was never redacted from your official record,” He cleared his throat and began reading off his screen. “Age: twenty-two, birthplace: Coruscant, full legal name: Hal’lazorinda Naimina Sileas Ismaren-Y-”.

Before he had the chance to finish his recitation, Halla found herself cutting him off, “I don’t go by that name. Ever.”

“And yet you use the rest…” He huffed under his breath. “Despite your…strained familial relationship, I am not mistaken. Your father’s honorable service during these past years has earned him his new position within the ISB. The request has been logged and attached to your file.” Reaching into a side drawer, Sreetus pulled out a datapad and set it squarely in front of her, already loaded with a page full of text displayed.

Taking a deep breath, Halla kept her gaze steady on the man in front of her as she reached for the device, only lowering her gaze once it was in her possession. She took a moment to skim through the first paragraph, then scrolled down to the bottom to see her father’s digital signature signing off.

Halla was dumbfounded. Why would he do something like this for her? Why now?

Feeling that she’d seen enough, Halla returned the datapad to the desk in front of her. During her review of the document, her brows had furrowed so deeply that she knew she would have a headache coming on later. All she could think about was her father’s blurry face imposed on the body of the grumpy UC archive officer.

“Now that you understand the full extent of the situation, I must counsel you to follow through with this offer. Not many your age have the chance to pass directly into the Corps. with the minimal training you have. Your only requirement would be to fulfill the Royal Imperial Academy’s junior officer preparation, maybe a basic close combat course once you are stationed. From there, you can climb to any other position you deem worthy.

Given your father’s status and the Emperor’s need for the brightest minds to fulfill his vision, the position has been tailored for you, specifically. Despite the nature of your outdated research,” Halla had to bite back a scathing remark at that comment, “you will be a perfect fit for what has been reserved.”

Halla found her head shaking ever so slightly as he finished his tirade. She had to play this safe to avoid skepticism of her loyalty, but was finding that harder and harder to do the longer this meeting went on.

“While that sounds…promising, I really have no intention of relocating anywhere without knowing where it is. Is this position intended to keep me on Coruscant?”

Sreetus pressed his thin lips together before speaking, “I am not at liberty to say. Given the confidential nature of this assignment, even I am not privy to its location. The ISB would be the organization briefing you, not the University.”

And yet you know so much about everything else…

The air around them was tense as a stare-off commenced across the desk, Halla schooling her features to match his.

He broke first. Halla’s one victory of the day.

“I sense we may be at an impasse right now. Take the day to think of what I’ve said, I will confer with the Bureau Chief and let him know I’ve spoken with you.”

Halla tilted her head and grinned, though she was sure it came off a little more sarcastically than she intended. “No issue.”

Rising from her seat, Halla turned her back on the whiny sycophant and made her way back toward the exit.

“Miss Ismaren.” Halla halted inches from the door, but did not turn around. His voice was the most severe it had been all morning.

“You would do well to learn just how far His Majesty’s power reaches. You will either join and thrive, or you may only get far enough to learn what it means to be against him. Do choose wisely, young lady. Oh, and don’t forget to register for your chain code.”

Halla didn’t remember how she found herself back downstairs, head overtaken by the dense fog of the Dean’s hidden threats.

The streets were mysteriously empty of protestors when Halla left the lobby.

~~~

Date of Transmission: 1,013:04:18

Recipient: Tech

Subject: Re: Comms Assistance

I followed your instructions to the letter, I hope I did everything right. Thought it was funny you bothered to assign me a code name - remind me to ask you about it some other time. Wanted to send a quick message to tell you my line is secure now, though I don’t know for how long now after this morning.

I met with a Uni rep who tried to recruit me into a service corps. Asked about a chain code? Didn’t know if you had any info. Either way, I’m on my way to the port to book passage off-world like you said. Will update you when done.

Stay safe out there,

Zenith

*Transceiver Identification: 02-91-31.cv.modified*

~~~

“What do you mean my credits aren’t valid? They’re galactic standard!”

A tinny response came from behind the transparisteel partition, the attendant droid repeating its earlier message: “Please be advised: your payment method has been declined. We ask that you exchange your outdated currency at the Commerce Bureau and return with the correct tender, along with a valid chain code to access the flight directory. Have a pleasant day!”

“I don’t know what you mean by outdated. Credits are credits!”

The droid’s optical sensors seemed to bore into her. Halla crossed her arms.

“Please be advised: your payment method has been declined. We ask that you exchange your outdated currency at the Commerce Bureau and return with the correct tender, along with a valid chain code to access the flight directory. Have a pleasant day!”

Halla glared up at the booth, scooping her credit chit back with more force than necessary. Pushing away from the service shelf, she couldn’t help but throw a venomous “Go to Hell!” over her shoulder. The droid only called the next person in line to come forward.

Turning on her heel, Halla stalked back to the self-checkout kiosk and punched in her information again.

And again.

And again.

Each time, a blinking red alert popped up with a message similar to that from the service desk.

Invalid Identification. Please see an attendant for assistance. Have a pleasant day!

“Blast it!” No matter the destination, no matter the departure date, all itineraries were locked behind a paywall, accessible only by, you guessed it, the correct tender and a valid chain code.

Before she could make a scene by tearing her hair out in the middle of the Spaceport, Halla stowed her chits and stalked out of the Boarding Registry.

~~~

Looking back on that awful day, Halla didn’t know why she expected it to get any better once she left the port.

Arriving back at her apartment went about the same as it normally would, except for when she stepped off the 19th-floor lift and rounded the corner to find her front door missing.

Or rather, her front door was wide open for the whole building to see inside.

Surging forward, Halla gripped her doorjamb and surveyed the interior.

“Hello? Who’s there?” Her voice shook against her will.

No reply.

With great caution, Halla entered her sitting room.

Silence.

She began to check out every inch of the space, from the floor to the ceiling and everything in between to find anything amiss.

Bewildered, Halla took a step back.

If someone had entered her home, they’d done a lousy job of burglarizing her.

Everything was as it should’ve been. Her plants, her holovids, the art on the walls, all still in their rightful place. Even Boonta was still floating around his tank without a care in the world.

Did the door just…malfunction?

For all the grief it’d given Halla over the years, the entrance’s one redeeming quality was that it was secure. It had never just opened up on its own accord before.

Padding into her bedroom, she continued to look around and take her valuables into account.

That was until she came upon her workspace.

On the ground beneath her desk was a large gap.

A large, empty gap where her holoterminal used to be.

Halla felt the blood drain from her face as her eyes went wide behind her specs.

Kriff.

Fuck!

There’s no way this is happening…

Wheeling around, she began searching every nook and cranny of her apartment for the missing console, even the spots she knew would be too small to fit it.

Halla had everything on that machine. Everything.

Her contacts, her financial information, the full draft of her dissertation.

Her entire life’s research.

Gone. All gone.

Halla stopped looking. She considered her options before going back out into the main hallway. She was sure her neighbors didn’t appreciate the way she was repeatedly punching their buzzers, but she didn’t know what else to do. Half of them didn’t open up and those that did claimed nothing out of the ordinary happened that day when asked if they had any clue what happened.

Dejected, Halla returned to her apartment making sure to enforce another lock if only to create a false sense of safety.

Safety, my ass.

She paced around for about a minute or two, running her hands over her forearms. Two minutes turned into ten.

Then twenty.

Then thirty.

She could only reach one conclusion, as paranoid as it made her come across; the same person - or group - that did this was the same as who she should’ve been reporting the crime to.

This was no petty theft. This had to be intentional.

Recollections began to invade her mind; Sreetus’ ominous warning, the apparent leeriness around her not being a registered citizen, and the Imperial officer she’d seen occupy her terminal in the UC archive.

She’d given no thought about the latter since it happened, but now she couldn’t help but think he was following her digital trail, digging into whatever he could scavenge from her session.

Halla had wiped her search history, but…

Leave it to the security agency to be able to pull it back up.

Letting out a defeated moan, she slapped her palm across her forehead.

Stupid, stupid, stupid!

~

Halla ended up hunkered down in the sitting room for the rest of the night. She felt like a stranger in her own home, vigilant of intruders that might return at any time.

Lying on her sofa, she kept a hand on the go-bag she packed earlier in the evening. The pack included any and all essentials she would need in case a quick getaway was needed: her personal datapad (that still had all the supplemental research she downloaded, thank the Maker), its powerpack, her data and credit chits, and a hygiene bag containing her toothbrush, dental gel, deodorant, hair brush, a travel razor, and other similar items.

Her extra set of glasses, contact pods, and a small medkit she kept stowed under her kitchen sink were also shoved down too. An extra set of boots were folded up at the bottom of the main compartment with as many leggings, tunics, sweaters, camisoles, and underwear as she could roll up laying on top of them. The side pockets were bulging with her filtered water bottle on one side and non-perishable snack foods on the other.

It was hard to prioritize what to leave behind, even in a hypothetical scenario. Halla treasured her possessions: her makeup, her jewelry, her art, and her music collection, not to mention her collection of flimsi-bound books she’d accumulated over the years, uncommon as they were.

In the end, she decided to place only the earrings she’d inherited from her grandmonna in a small pouch and wear the matching pendant around her neck for safekeeping. The music was already downloaded onto her datapad, and most of the art was obviously too large to fit in the pack, sans her sketch diary and a pouch of drawing implements which she included on impulse. After careful deliberation, Halla decided to choose one particular flimsi novel from her shelf to keep with her, due to its objective value as an antique as well as the number of times it’d been read since the initial purchase.

Halla had practiced walking around her apartment with the go-bag strapped to her back, adjusting the order of its contents as needed. Once she was satisfied, she decided to make camp out where she could be the most aware of her surroundings.

Every sudden noise made her flinch as she tossed and turned her head, never shifting from the position on her back as uncomfortable as it was. No amount of breathing exercises or words of affirmation made her feel any more secure.

How do I know I’m not being watched right now?

Time passed slowly in the dark as Halla thought of her odds of escape.

In her mind, she created a chart of pros and cons when it came to registering herself, if only to have the opportunity to get off-planet.

Pro: I’ll have access to credits that work again.

Con: Who knows what they’ll do with the information I give them?

Pro: I’ll be able to book passage out of here.

Con: What if they’re able to track where I go?

Pro: It’ll get everyone who thinks I’m against them off my back.

Con: I am against them.

Pro: It would draw attention away from-

Halla gasped, eyes flying open to stare at the ceiling.

From Tech. It would draw attention away from Tech.

He was on the run right now with the rest of his squad with a little girl in the mix now. If Halla submitted to the registry, the suspicion of her (and them by proxy) would ease up. For the Maker’s sake, she had regular correspondence with him stored on her now-confiscated holoterminal! The last few messages were never uploaded to the main drive, as they only existed on her portable device, but she couldn’t risk their safety for her own selfishness. She was risking potential charges of treason or conspiracy at this point.

If I just go and do it, maybe they won’t feel the need to snoop around more than they already have…

The decision began solidifying in her mind, despite the apprehension of what might come after.

Halla fell into a fitful sleep, fingers still clutched around the strap of the bag that rested below her.

~~~

The local Coruscanti star’s natural light didn’t reach the level Halla’s apartment resided on, so she had to rely on the day cycle atmospheric controls to tell when daybreak was.

Back aching and eyes half open, Halla bathed and dressed while her morning tea was heating up. Travel mug and protein bar in hand, she made her way to the Commerce Bureau before the line could get too long.

Spending more time there than she had anticipated, she emerged hours later with a pit in her stomach, a pouch full of polished silver credits, and a new chaincode embedded in a rather unambiguous ID card.

Soon after she returned home, Halla composed a message from her school address:

Date of Transmission: 1,013:04:19

Recipient: Arlin Sreetus, Dean

Subject: Chain Code Acquisition

Dean Sreetus,

This morning I was able to obtain my chain code, I thought you would have liked to know. I’ve considered the offer you conveyed to me and have chosen to accept. Please inform the appropriate figures in this matter that I am able to begin as soon as is convenient.

Good day,

Halla Ismaren

University of Coruscant

College of Interplanetary Law & Relations

Capital Campus

Halla wanted to feel confident in her decision, but all she felt was numb all over.

Like she had just signed her own death warrant.

She didn’t look at her datapad for the rest of the day.

This is for them.

This is the right thing to do.

~~~

Inbox: (1) Unread

Date of Transmission: 1,013:04:19

Recipient: Zenith

Subject: Chain Codes

Zenith,

I am pleased you found my instructions comprehensible, however, this is not the main issue I wish to address.

I assume you encountered difficulties while at your local spaceport due to not having a chain code in your possession. We also have run into trouble because of this new database. We were able to rectify this issue for ourselves, but I must warn you about the dangers surrounding these identifiers. If you provide me additional time, I will come up with a solution for you to get around these requirements as well.

I do not presume to direct your actions; I can only provide my opinion based on what I have seen during my latest travels.

Under no circumstances should you obtain one of these codes voluntarily. I will be able to elaborate at a later date, all I ask is that in the meantime you take my judgment into account.

-Tech

~~~~~~

taglist (comment/dm to join): @wenalena @envyspinebender @shannon-lynn-21 @kimageddon

[toastyrobos]

Long time no art post…so it’s been a while since I’ve posted any bad batch artwork😅

Art block when it comes to bad batch art has been kicking my butt unfortunately. Not to mention I’ve been busy with commissions and Patreon stuff and personal life stuff. I missed drawing Tech x Onyx (Star Wars OC) so I decided to do a quick sketch of them. Might color it at some point.

I do want to sketch more of these guys, cause the show is my favorite Star Wars show. I’ll try to make time for them.

Speaking of the boys, I’ve been for the last year trying to collect the bad batch black series figures. I got Tech right away for Christmas last year, then Hunter several months later. Echo I found for a decent price on Amazon whereas Crosshair was so hard to find at a decent price. Especially the one in his bad batch colors. Luckily I found one for a somewhat okay price. Wrecker and Omega I ordered off of Hasbro’s website for a good price. Next time if I want a full set, I’ll just buy them right away instead of having to track them down like looking for a needle in a haystack😅😅



[oceansssblue]

Hello, I hope that you are having an amazing day. If requests are still open, I have a funny Star Wars prompt/or/oneshot if you want. You know how in Top Gun, after Maverick flirts with a lady at a bar, only to find out the next day that she is his superior officer. What about a similar situation in the Clone Wars era, in which one of the members of the Bad Batch, or one of the 501st like Fives, flirts with a female Jedi reader (who's probably in her early twenties) at the 79s, not knowing that she is a Jedi General. Only to find out the next day that she is the Jedi General assigned to them for their next mission.

Her appearance in the bar makes her look nothing like a Jedi. She just looks like a civilian until she is in her jedi robes the next day. She doesn't deliberately deceive them or anything. She just wanted to unwind after an undercover mission. She just didn't think bringing up that she is a Jedi was important, she assumed they already knew. The only hint she gave on their "date" night was a happy and playful "see you tomorrow" as they part ways to get to their respective homes/barracks. She is happy to see them the next day.

Cool fun little oneshot! Decided to go with Crosshair, seems more like his thing.

Hope you like it!

Xx,

Sky.

"SEE YOU TOMORROW"

CROSSHAIR/F REDADER 📩💖

WARNINGS: ALCOHOL, FLIRTING&TEASING.

Your muscles still ache after a two year undercover mision in Alcaz. Spending long hours of running and hiding in the capital will do that to anyone; even a Jedi. Your first mision with the Order started years ago; even if you're still young right now. Everyone starts early these days; you went from youngling to padawan and Jedi Knight in just a blink of an eye. The war makes you feel older than what you really are.

It's weird being back in Coruscant. Back in a normal setting were you don't need to constantly be aware of your surroundings –even if it's instinctual, now–; where you're not constantly in danger. Entering 79's, your eyes quickly flickering over the crowd of tipsy clones and the dance floor, a tiny smile makes it up to your face. You feel inmediately relieved, somehow. You don't need to pretend here. You don't need to be a soldier, a Jedi Knight, a General. You don't have responsabilities and lifes dangling from your shoulders. Here, right now, you can just be you, a simple girl in her twenty-two's.

Happy smile still in your face, you make your way towards the bar. You order a sweet drink light on the alcohol side to start with; turning around and taking small sips while you scan the bar distractedly. There's a few eyes on you already. Not because you're necesarily pretty –though you believe yourself to look alright–; but simply necause you're one of the few natives around here, and more so a woman. Clones will always be ever the gentleman, it's ingrained in their discipline, their sense of honor; but they're still men, real humans, and they have urges like everyone else. Like Jedis do, too, no matter what many people think.

You're not really in the mood for sex, though. You're too tired for that; your plan is to spend a few hours drinking and chatting and then return to the Temple. You've got a meeting tomorrow, and you should make sure you get your well deserved, comfortable sleep. You're almost drooling thinking of a bed already, but you'd like to unwind a bit first; even though your body is tired, you feel your mind too active to surrender to dreamland yet. Plus, you need to disconect from your previous mision and adapt to your new situation; to the new changes.

A few troopers that you had the chance to meet before starting your jump around the galaxy to serve to the Jedi and the Republic recognises you, and you quickly find yourself chatting amicably in a booth with them. They're kind, and perfectly respectful; they speak to you as if you were a normal person, though –not a general, not a Jedi–, and you soon fall into a relaxed posture and a lazy smile. None of you speak about war, about their fears and worries; but of hopes and desires, jokes and secret lovers that await for them patiently all over Coruscant. Some look flustered after realising they've confessed such things in front of you; but you just shake your head and smile. You're glad they're finding some happiness wherever they can.

On your third drink in –and probably the last one, judging by your flushed cheeks and the low hum of carefree excitement & arousal spreading inside of you– you feel another stare on you. It's heavy, it's intent so clear it's almost screaming at you; and you listen to your Jedi instincts, eyes slowly flickering around the bar to find it's owner.

You come up with a pair of dark brown eyes. They're the exact same shade of most of the clones in the GAR; and yet, it's stare so much more intense. It could almost cut through you and hit someone on the other side.

You study him curiously in the same way he has been observing you before. Even sitting down in a booth with some other soldiers, you can tell he's taller than most; the shape of his body and muscles long and thin, agile, though still strong. It's impossible not to notice the tattoo around his right eye; it fits him well, really. What surprises you most about him –besides his stare– is his hair, though; a mix of greys so pretty it almost shines under the lights of the 79's.

He's still dressed up on armour, like a lot of other soldiers on the bar. His is black and grey with a few stripes of dark red; a white skull with a "99" underneath it on his right pauldron. It's right then and there when you understand who he is, who they are; and your eyes twinkle in amusement, your smile widening. This is Clone Force 99, the squad that will be under your command. The Council told you they were different, that they had special abilities very useful for battles; but they fail to mention you they were literally, physically different as well.

You understand... Crosshair's –he must be– cautious and curious study then; he might be wanting to find out who exactly their new General is, and how does she behave when she's not on duty like everyone else.

You shoot him a grin and Crosshair's neutral, almost uniterested face turns into a smirk. He arches an eyebrow, and makes a gesture with his head; a welcome for you to join them in their table. You nod and say your goodbyes to the troopers; smiling and shooting one or two more playful comments before making your way across the room, walking confidently to this squad of extraordinary men.

"Hey there, boys" you greet them, deciding for informality in order to not spoil their night of fun from the start. "Care if I join?"

There's various reactions around the table. Crosshair looks amused. Echo and Tech are purely surprised –the later one quickly scanning you almost as if trying to find information about you with just his eyes–; while Hunter looks hesitant. Wrecker is openly excited and happy.

"Yeah, take a sit!" He pushes his brothers to one side, making room for you in the circular booth their sitting in, ignoring the other's quiet, pained grunts.

They all look a little tipsy too.

You chuckle and take the offer, letting down your drink on top of the table and sitting besides Wrecker. Crosshair arches his eyebrow again, still finding amusing how you seem confident enough in a table –a bar– surrounded by men. He likes confidence in a woman, but such levels are a bit more rare.

"Comfortable?" He asks, his voice deep and smooth, almost a lazy drawl, and you grin back at him.

"Very" you answer, emphasising your answer by taking a long sip of your alcohol and laying lazily against the booths backrest.

After holding his stare for a few seconds, you turn your attention back to the rest of the group; scanning them curiously. They do de same with you.

"So, didn't have time to do a change of clothes?" You point out. "Did you come back from a mission today, or is this just an night outfit choice?"

Wrecker laughs, will Echo and Hunter show a tiny smile. Tech is completely serious still, lost in his thoughts without tearing his eyes from you. Crosshair also stares at you.

"We came back from a mission a pair of hours ago, yeah" Hunter finally answers, relaxing slowly. "Thought we should enjoy a bit of freedom before getting back to work tomorrow".

His voice is deep as well; a bit more soft yet raspy.

"Ah" you answer, smiling guiltily. "Got it. Well, I'm not going to cut out your fun, no worries. Feel free to drink and chat as much as you like. Also... This is still a good fit. Beautiful armour, guys".

This time Tech blushes, Echo clears his throat in silence and Wrecker, Hunter, and Crosshair, all smile widely. Ah, yes, you forgot; armours are precious to all Mandalorians, including clones, and you could have very well call them...

"So you think we're hot? That it?" Crosshair drawls, eyes interested.

You laugh shrugging your shoulders. Yeah, well, you might be a little too tipsy. This is definitely your last drink if you want to keep things professional. Force knows if you weren't a Jedi and this weren't your men you'd have had already tried to take one of them home. Huh, it seems you're not as tired as you thought.

"Pretty" you correct him, if only to mock him a bit and play with him.

Crosshair's stare darkens and you can feel his arousal and want calling you through the Force.

You smile down playing with the rim of your glass distractedly, and feeling a sudden wave of shyness. Alcohol is a dangerous thing.

The thought makes you giggle a bit.

••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

The night goes on, and you switch to a non-alcohol drink as promised to yourself. The conversation turns normal and more easy as the clock ticks by; all of them being very interesting, fun people to chat with. Crosshair and Echo are more reserved than the rest; different types of quiet observing and thoughtfullness. You suspect the second one isn't as comfortable with your presence as the rest –while you have no doubt that that wouldn't suppose a problem in battlefield, you know he's an excellent soldier–; while Crosshair... Crosshair's intentions are still quite clear.

He's bold, you have to say. Most troopers wouldn't want to risk being reported for misconduct even if they know most Jedis would just gently shut their intentions down if it were the case. Clones usually don't want to risk it; though it's evident that Crosshair doesn't think you will or plainly, doesn't care.

It doesn't bother you. He's attractive, and it feels good to be desired; you're a Jedi, but you're also just twenty-two, and you can't help it yourself. Still, you're nothing but polite to him, if only a bit of playfullness here and there. You're not going to go to bed with him, not before your oficial meeting; not while you can still resist.

You sigh with a smile.

"Well, boys, it has been a pleasure" you start, standing up and patting Wrecker's shoulder besides you. "But I think I'm gonna go and try to shut an eye. Have your fun without me, see you tomorrow!"

Tech eyes widen slightly, observing your retreating figure while Crosshair makes a move to follow you out of 79's.

Tech grabs his brother's shoulder and pulls him back down, ignoring Crosshair's almost snarl.

"She expressed her desire to go to sleep, Crosshair. Let her be" he opted to say, still not 100% sure of his theory before proving it with a quick search on his datapad.

Crosshair sighed and gulped down the remaining of his drink.

••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

No matter that the Batch had left 79's pretty late in the night, they were all rised and prepared to meet their new General at 0600 puntually. Their faces carried nag under their eyes and various degrees of tiredness; but they weren't being shipped anywhere, so there was no real problem with that. It was just a formal meeting so they could put a face to the name and greet each other; then they'll be left alone to enjoy the rest of their shore-leave day.

"I hope she's nice!" commented Wrecker while they waited up in a line in front of the Marauder.

Hunter hummed.

"I just hope she lets us do our thing" he muttered, clearly not very happy about the new placement.

None of them were particularly enthusiastic; they had never had a personal Jedi General before, and it would be a big change for everyone involved.

"I am confident she will" answered Tech, perhaps the only one holding positive thoughts about it. "I have thoroughly researched our General in the early hours of the morning and she has an impressive record on undercover missions and other side tasks. It seems she is usually sent on unusual requests as well, just like us. In adition, she is fairly easy going. I am positive we would all be able to adapt to each other well".

Right when Wrecker was going to ask with a deep frown etched on his face how did he know she was as "easy-going" as Tech affirmed, a female figure crossed the doors of the hangar walking towards them with wide confident steps.

Wrecker's, Echo's and Hunter's faces stared back in shock; while Tech nodded firmly as if he were explaining something to them, and Crosshair followed the young Jedi's movement full of intrigue and a masked surprise.

"Morning, troopers!" She greeted them, still a few meters away from them.

Her smile was radiant in the greyness of the hangar bay.

Crosshair leaned towards the smartest of his brothers, subtle.

"Punishment for fucking your Jedi General?" he asked in a distracted whispered, eyes never leaving the woman aproaching them.

Tech answered completely unbothered by his antics; posture firm.

"From an informal reprimand to proper decomissioning".

Crosshair smirked.

"I'll risk it".

He arched an eyebrow in amused defiance when she looked straight at him.

THE END.

••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

Taraaa! Here it is love, hope you like it! It was a little fun cheeky thing to write :)

Not checked after finishing writing it cause I have exam tomorrow and still got a few finals left, but I hope I didn't make a lot of mistakes!

Only two more requests left before I jump onto another tbb Mermaid fic. Don't worry, yall, I will reopen requests the future, just let me survive my exams first ;)

Stay tunned!

Xx,

Sky.

Back to masterlist here:

[bring-backup-99]

Before It Gets Too Late

PAIRING: tech x fem reader

SUMMARY: You spend a fun and special day with Tech, starting with a flying lesson that takes an unexpected turn. There’re fluffy times but mostly sexy times. (I’m trying to support and comfort my Tech people during this dark period.)

WORDS COUNT: 1926

RATING + WARNINGS: 18+, very spicy, porn with minimal plot, PiV, rough sex, probably bad flight mechanics

NOTES: This is installment twenty-two of my reverse harem “Bad Choices” smutlet series on Ao3, but I think it’s also a nice stand-alone Tech story. Although it’s written in second person, my heroine has a very established relationship with the Batch.

Everything was going fine until a large flock of flying creatures shot out of the canopy in a wide column directly into the ship’s path. You were too close to simply fly around them, and every other usual option you could think of would leave hundreds of them dead and the ship with possible light damage.

So without a second thought, you killed the thrusters while sending the ship in a tight turn, the nose pointed at the column. A quick tap of the port thruster has you cleared of the animals, with what you hoped were minimal casualties, then you reinitialized the main thrusters and resumed your disrupted flight path.

For a full minute, there was silence to your left. Finally, “It appears that flying lessons were unnecessary.”

“That was never the question,” you hedged. “You asked if I would like you to give me lessons. You didn’t ask if I knew how to fly. I answered honestly.” And this was your third time out.

“But with a glaring omission,” Tech huffs at you.

“Don’t be angry at me. I was very curious as to how you would be as a flight instructor, and I would not have received the same response if you had known.” What you do know is that this is logic he won’t be able to argue with.

He hmphs at you again, but you can tell he’s not really upset.

“That was an interesting maneuver you performed.”

“A modified ‘Tech turn.’ Seemed like the best option for minimizing death and destruction.” You pause for a moment, then you look at him. “It can’t be, right? The ‘Tech turn’…” You trail off as you see the corners of his lips turn up to an actual smile.

“That is not what it is called.”

“I’m going to fuck your so hard as soon as we land.”

“I was contemplating something similar.”

He doesn’t take the controls from you, but you sit quietly for a while.

“I’m not great at mechanics. You could teach me that?” you offer.

“Specifically define ‘not great’,” he asks.

“I definitely couldn’t fully repair this ship, but I am unable to give you a rundown of which systems I am deficient in. That’s the best I can do.”

“That…is acceptable.”

*

Almost as soon as the ship touches down in the tree-lined clearing, you are on each other. He lets you push him back down in his pilot’s chair, straddling him while your lips devour his with kisses. You groan in frustration as you try to divest him of his various layers of clothing, but you’re too eager and your fingers can’t find all the buckles and straps.

Want. Need. They course through you. You need his skin against yours. Finally, he takes pity, gently stops your fumbling, and slowly removes all the items covering his torso, your desperate whimpering doing nothing to hurry him. Then he lifts off your shirt. Your bodies crash together again. He kisses along your neck, down to your breasts, cupping them, licking your nipples. You throw your head back and cry out, your hands stroking over his head and neck; then fingernails scrape down his back, feeling his taut muscles.

“Against the wall,” you groan. Moments later, you’re both naked, and your back is to the one bare metal plate in the cockpit. Tech drops to a knee in front of you, places your leg over his arm, and targets your clit in a focused and aggressive attack.

“Fuck! FUCK!” you scream as, mere minutes later, you come. And then he lifts you, burying himself deep inside you, pounding into you, your pussy still twitching in pleasure.

Every rough, hard thrust is accompanied by his grunts, and you loudly proclaim your satisfaction, your voice echoing through the ship. You want Tech to do this, need him to do this, to take his pleasure from your willing body. He captures your wrists, pinning them above your head with one hand, his other hand gripping your ass, fingers pressed into your flesh, pinching, bruising. He kisses you, mauling your lips, and when he breaks away, you sink your teeth into his shoulder.

He gasps, releasing your wrists, and takes a strong hold of your ass and thighs, angling you for deeper, feral thrusts. Your arms encircle his neck and shoulders. You want him like this, desperate for you, as if no one else could give this to him. An animalistic groan emanates from him as his cock ravages you until finally a full throated cry signals his climax and he holds himself deep inside of you, and you feel his hot cum pump into you.

Neither of you move, the only sounds your gasping breaths as you each try to take in enough air.

“Mmmm,” you finally manage. “That was excellent.” You smile, then lick a drop of sweat from his neck.

“Yes,” he says, a slight gleam in his eye, “Quite satisfactory.”

* You lie in a bunk together, your head on his shoulder, a hand idly stroking his chest.

“Why did you not disclose to me that you did not need flying lessons? Your skill level is clearly quite adequate.”

You suck in your breath. I wanted to spend time with you outside of my bedroom. I wanted to know who you are when we’re not fucking. I wanted to be on this ship with you when you could be focussed on me. I wanted… So many wants, as if you can’t be happy with what you have.

“It’s been a long time since I flew. I wasn’t sure that I didn’t need them…at least as a refresher.” You hesitate. “Are you angry at me?...slightly perturbed?

“I am not. And at least they were not a waste of time.” His fingers run up and down your arm.

“No,” you agree.

Tech looks down at you, watching your hand move along his skin. You have not asked him why he offered to teach you, which is for the best. Tech is worse at articulating his wants than you are.

*

You wake up alone in the bunk. It’s been awhile since the person you’d fallen asleep with wasn’t still beside you. The ship is dark, so it must be night. You get up, the floor cold under your feet, expecting to find Tech in the cockpit.

Instead, a drop-ladder is down from the midship overhead storage space.

“Tech?” You call up.

“Ah, you are awake,” you hear him say. “I was just coming down to collect you. Come up here.”

“Um, I’m naked?” You look around for your clothing and see nothing.

There’s a long pause. “It appears that I am nude as well…I do have blankets.”

You sigh and tentatively climb the ladder, then follow Tech’s voice to a maintenance hatch with another ladder that lets you out onto the ship’s fuselage. He takes your hand and leads you to where he’s laid out a large blanket over the cockpit. You feel awkward even though the warm night air is quite pleasant on your skin.

“What’s this all about?”

Tech helps you down onto the blanket, then points up. “The moons have just set, so we should have quite an excellent view of the Quadrillen meteor shower. I believe you expressed dissatisfaction with your ability to see this from the city.”

You look up and, after a few moments, you watch a meteor blaze across the sky. You hadn’t mentioned that you wanted to watch this to Tech. You and Crosshair had been discussing it. You hadn’t realized Tech was paying attention. You lie next to each other, mostly in silence, watching the light show.

“I must admit, I was skeptical at first, but this is quite a pleasant experience.”

“Skeptical? Why?”

“I have seen many natural phenomena during my travels in space. I did not think that the debris from a comet entering a planet's atmosphere would be particularly visually stimulating in comparison to what I have witnessed. But taken as a whole, this is quite an excellent experience.”

You laugh. “I suppose.” Smiling, you continue to watch as the little streaks fill the night, when suddenly three meteors scorch their way across the sky. You sit up excitedly and point. “That was amazing.” You look down at Tech. He has a slight smile on his face, then he pushes himself up and presses his lips to yours. His arms gather your body to him, one hand stroking in your hair, one at the small of your back. He takes your breath away with his kiss, drawing you down onto him.

This feels insane. Are you really going to fuck on top of the ship under the night sky? Turns out, yes, yes, you are.

You lie on him, enjoying the feel of his hot skin along your body. You kiss for a long time, until you can’t take it anymore, and whisper, “I need you. Please.” He helps you slide onto him, both of you gasping. You whimper; you’re a little sore but the sensation is too sweet. You lean forward, pressed chest to chest, as he pivots his hip to help you fuck him gently.

And when he carefully rolls you both so you can watch over his shoulder as the stars cascade out of the sky, you can’t help but think that this is all a little too ridiculous. He moves above you, long strokes that make your breath catch, and you cry out because sometimes he fits inside you perfectly.

You wrap your legs around him. “Yes, I like that. It feels so good. Just like that, Tech. Mmmm, just like that.”

Stars keep falling as he takes hold of your legs, angling you so his cock can thrust deeper. Your cries sound small as the trees surrounding you consume them.

You move together, one being working toward the same goal. Each stroke sends shivers through you until you feel your body full with warmth as a soft climax overtakes you, not nearly as intense as the one earlier, but somehow more satisfying.

He holds your hands, fingers intertwined, as he watches your face while the orgasm washes over you, drinking in those little noises you make that he so enjoys. He moves carefully as you finish, knowing you must be sore already, wanting you to still find pleasure as he nears his own climax.

And then you start whispering to him, “Come in me, Tech. I need to feel you inside me. I need it. I need you to come for me.” You move under him, insistent, demanding, so he has to surrender to you. He stiffens and gasps, his hot cum emptying in you. You wrap yourself around him as he collapses onto you, finally spent. You watch as the stars continue to fall through the blackness of the sky.

“We shouldn’t fall asleep up here.”

“Yes, that would be unwise.” He gingerly lifts himself off you. You roll and lie on his shoulder, watching the stars fall behind the trees. The air is cooling and you shiver. “Let us go back inside. You can continue watching from the cockpit, if you wish.”

“Tech.” He looks at you, while collecting the blankets. I wanted to spend more time with you, that’s why I lied.

“Thank you for tonight.” This was really special to me. I hope it was to you.

“Yes, this was very enjoyable.” He watches you as you climb down the hatch. I wish to do this again.

* But wait, there’s more:

The rest of the series can be found here.

Warning: It gets kinky

[imabeautifulbutterfly]

A glorious idea has spawned in my brain

Hunter x Criminal!reader where they have a Batman/Catwoman relationship, however this time Omega meets the reader and absolutely adores her so the reader decides to stick around a bit (despite Hunter's protests). During this time, the reader and Omega form a mother/daughter and Hunter secretly loves it and falls for the reader everytime he sees her with Omega

Hello my lovely anon,

Thank you for such a fantastic request. I hope I did your request justice. The setting is Season 1 of Bad Batch, so hopefully you don't mind too much. I wrote with f!Criminal!reader, hope that's okay. Reader has a nickname.

Enjoy.

Also, since this isn't part of the Fic Roulette request, it'll be filed under the One Shots Master List. It's a little longer almost at 2400 words.

Love oo,

Not Ready

Warnings: Slight thieving, Omega in danger, dangling from a tower, banter, angst, fluff, shooting, dangerous driving, I think that's it. If I miss any please let me know.

Part Two

AO3 Link   |   OS & MS Master List |   Main Master List  

“Give it back, and we can just both walk away.”

You twirled the rather large knife in your hand, “Hmmm, no.”

Hunter clenched his fists, “I said, hand it over.”

“And I said no.” You smirked underneath your mask, the only thing visible on your face were your eyes. Eyes so full of cockiness, determination and experience. “I gotta ask though, why so long?” You chuckled, “Compensating for something?” You flipped it back and forth in your hand, twirling it around your palm and the back of your hand. “Has good weight.” You smirked as you arched your brow, “If you know what I mean.”

“I don’t have time for your nonsense!” Hunter looked behind, sensing the Imperial troopers closing in, he let out a sigh, and before you even realized what was happening he tried to stun you. 

Unfortunately, he missed thanks to your ability to sense when danger was imminent. Without even thinking your body back-handspringed away from the blue stun blast. “That was rude.”

“Listen, I need to get to my sister, and I don’t have time to mess around!” Hunter could hear Tech on his comms as he described Omega hanging from the tower. 

“Your sister’s in trouble?” All teasing and flirting died on your lips as soon as you heard that.

“Yes!”

You nodded and tossed the knife back to the chiseled red-bandana wearing man in front of you, “Let me help.”

“No. You’ve helped enough.” His tone full of annoyance and frustration. He grabbed the knife and took off running towards Omega, ignoring the pang of regret from his tone. It wasn’t your fault, you didn’t know he was running to help Omega. Yet, the frustration from having to waste even a minute on you was more than enough to make him worry about Omega’s safety and that’s all that mattered. 

His feet came to a sudden halt when you appeared in front of him with a speeder bike, “Hop on!”

“What?”

“Just … I feel bad, ok! Now shut up, and get on!”

He didn’t delay, jumping on the back of the speeder holding on to your waist tightly as you weaved through traffic.

“Where is she?” You shouted over the noise of the air rushing past your ears. 

Hunter didn’t respond and simply pointed to the person dangling from the tower, as another helmeted person neared her position. 

You sped up the speeder, you’d know Fennec’s helmet anywhere. You weaved and dodged against the oncoming traffic, almost as though you could see where and when the next vehicle was going to be turning or shifting. Your heart nearly dropped as you saw the tiny person slip, driving faster and more dangerous to catch her in time. 

Hunter reached out his hand and grabbed a hold of Omega’s in midair, tossing her onto his lap, pinning her between the two of you. “You okay, back there?” You shouted to make sure everyone was safe as you saw Fennec jump down and commandeer a vehicle of her own chasing after the three of you. 

“We’re fine. Get us out of here!” He shouted as he quickly checked over Omega to make sure she was uninjured and safe. He couldn’t see much from how she was clutching to his chest plate, but it didn’t seem like she was in pain either. 

“You got this?”

“What?” 

“I’m asking if you know how to drive a speeder?”

“Yeah! Why?” He didn’t clue in to what you were preparing to do until you flipped over him and landed on Fennec’s vehicle.

“Hey gorgeous!” You smirked as you looked at her.

“Ugh! Should’ve known you’d be here.” Fennec answered, rolling her eyes as she tried to keep her eyes on her target.

“Wasn’t supposed but I sort of owed him one. Back off.” You stood aiming your blaster into the hood.

“No can do, little Butterfly.”

Force you hated that nickname, somehow it had stuck among the bounty hunters and assassins, simply because you were quick and light on your feet. Dazzling them with your antics and before they even realized you slipped out of their sight, blending into the crowds more often than not. 

“Fennec, I like you, but you need to back off!”

“What’s in it for you?”

“Nothing.”

“I’ll split the reward with you, if you help me capture the little girl.”

You tried to stay balanced as Fennec tilted the vehicle side to side, “You disappoint me, going after a child.”

“Jobs a job, honey.”

You shook your head, “I warned you,” you shot your blaster into her engine, jumping off onto a nearby transport, watching as her engine began to sputter. She jumped to safety standing on the closest terrace she could find, as she watched you and her target move further away. You jumped down, finding your way back to the ground, hoping from one transport to the next. 

Once you touched solid ground, you looked back up to see Fennec turn and walk away. ‘Until next time, gorgeous.’ You mumbled as you headed back to the marketplace, before you even got five feet away, you felt your body jerk forward as tiny hands wrapped around your waist. You looked down to see the blonde girl, the rather striking man had rescued, his sister. 

“Uh… thanks, kid. I think…” you giggled as you pulled her arms away from you. 

“You saved me!” She beamed with a brilliant smile as she looked at you.

“I think your brother did that. I just drove.” You subtly shook your head, subtly moving away from the overwhelming bundle of joy.

“She has a point,” Hunter offered, “if you didn’t show up with a speeder when you did …” you could tell on his face he didn’t want to think about what might’ve happened.

“Listen, Fennec would’ve come up with something. She’s a bounty hunter, but she’s a fairly decent one. Anyway I’m glad you’re safe,” you patted the little girl’s head, “take care of yourself and your brother. Seems like he gets into trouble easily.” You turned to walk away when she gripped your fingers.

“Come with us.” She pleaded looking at you with big eyes that were asking for more than you were prepared to give, or have given to anyone since you could actually remember. It was nice to feel needed, but it was too much. 

Hunter wanted to grab Omega and pull her away from this woman who showed up, and was constantly surprising and making him feel uneasy at every turn. “Omega, we don’t know her circumstances. She’s probably already committed to something else, right?” Hunter narrowed his eyes on the helmeted woman in front of him, not wanting her to take the invitation Omega offered.

You’ve seen that look a thousand times before. It said everything that really mattered, you weren’t welcome, and he wanted you to leave as soon as possible. 

“Don’t worry,” you started keeping your eyes locked on the man standing behind Omega, “your brother is right, I’m … currently … occupied with other matters.” You smiled as you turned your attention to Omega, and kneeled before her, “Omega, right?”

She nodded, not letting your fingers go. 

You smiled and pulled out a collapsable vibroblade, “This is Vala,” you flicked your wrist and opened the vibroblade, “my father gave me this when I was about your age, he told me ‘this galaxy is full of good and bad people. Sometimes the good outweighs the bad, and sometimes there are too many bad, you won’t be able to find a good one. Vala, will always be there to protect you.’” You turned her hand palm-up and placed the vibroblade in her tiny hand. “It will protect you. Ask your brother to train you on how to use it. Never rely on someone else to save you, in this galaxy, sometimes the only person you can count on is yourself. Take care, Omega.” You ruffled her hair one more time, before standing up and walking away without looking back. 

It felt strangely comforting to be wanted, even if it was for a brief second. 

“Wait!” Hunter shouted, causing you to turn around, “We left your speeder that way” he pointed over his shoulder, you couldn’t help laughing.

“Don’t worry about it, handsome, it’s not mine.” You smiled and walked away.

Omega turned to Hunter, a saddened smile on her face, “Why couldn’t she come with us?”

“Omega,” Hunter kneeled, “we don’t know who she is. Whether she can even be trusted? It’s best if she goes her way and we meet up with Wrecker, Echo and Tech.”

“But…”

“Omega, I know you have a good heart, but you’re too trusting. It’s best if we keep a low profile and avoid entangling ourselves with people we don’t know. Come on, we gotta meet back up with the others.”

He guided her back to the hangar trying to avoid the Pantoran police force and the troopers that seemed to be searching for someone. 

Omega kept watching as one Pantoran guard held up a picture to a passerby, it was a picture of you. She pulled on Hunter’s sleeve and pointed to the Pantoran’s datapad. 

“They’re looking for her.”

“We should go…” Hunter tightened his grip on her hand, but she refused to move.

“We have to help her.”

“We don’t know why they’re looking for her. She could be a wanted criminal or a murderer, a thief.”

“Hunter, please. She saved me, it’s the least we can do.”

He looked at the picture and commed Wrecker, “Wrecker, where are you?”

“Just entering the marketplace right now, why?” 

“I need you to take Omega back to the ship, I …” he turned his head to look at Omega, “I have to repay someone who helped us get Omega back.”

Wrecker walked through the crowd faster than the others as people naturally moved out of his way, he stood in front of the both of them, tilting his head. “Who, you helping?”

“Don’t worry about it, just get Omega back to the ship and tell Tech we need to take off the minute I get back. Make sure Echo makes it back to the ship too. We may have to get out of here faster than expected.”

“Copy that” Wrecker picked up Omega and had her sitting on his shoulder as he headed back to the hangar with her. 

Hunter could hear the comm chatter between Wrecker, Tech and Echo. He let out a huff and shook his head, this was just asking for trouble. He ran back, heading the way you were walking. It wasn’t long before he found you sitting at a cafe sipping on something warm. 

“Came back to tell me you love me?” You teased him.

“Came back to tell you, you’re in danger.”

“Shocker.” You didn’t react or flinch, as you kept your eyes locked on the man’s eyes. 

“I need to know, are you a murderer?”

“No.”

“Do you have a bounty on your head with some crime boss or something?”

“No.”

“Then get up” he grabbed your arm and forced you to stand, grabbing your helmet as he pulled you along, running behind him. 

“Wait… hey!” You stopped in your tracks and pulled your arm out of his hold, “Who the hell do you think you are, pulling me like that? You know I have the right …” he put a hand over your mouth and pushed you into a darkened alley, hiding you with his body as a Pantoran patrol passed the two of you.

“They’re searching for you, and not just the police. The Imperial troopers are looking for you too.” He stepped away and handed you your helmet, “Listen, I don’t care what happens to you, but Omega was worried, and I’m not going to disappoint her. You’re warned. So you can either go back out there and try and avoid whatever trouble you got yourself into or…” he let out a sigh regretting the words that were about to come out of his mouth, “You can come with us and we can drop you off somewhere.”

“Us?”

“My brothers, Omega and myself.”

“Why are you helping?”

“Like I said, I don’t want to disappoint Omega. So what’s it going to be?”

You looked at him and then at the increased patrols you hadn’t realized were slowly filling up the streets, they all seemed to be looking for you. You closed your eyes and tapped your helmeted head against the wall, “Alright. I’ll trust you. Lead the way.”

He stepped closer to you, “I’m taking a chance on you, you put any of us in danger, and you and I are going to go another round, understood?”

You narrowed your eyes at him, “Fine. What do I call you anyway? Because I don’t think ‘stuck up jackass’ would work.”

“It’s Hunter, and what do I call you? Because I don’t think ‘crazy tooka’ works.”

You smirked as you looked at him, “You can just call me Butterfly. Hunter.”

“Fine. Now let’s go. Butterfly.”

“You know I’m not as bad as you think.”

“And hell is just a sauna, shut up and follow me.”

As much as you tried to fight the urge to smile, you couldn’t help but enjoy the banter you two had. You also couldn’t help but examine his physique as you followed behind him, moving around the crowd, ducking and avoiding capture until you made it to his ship. 

Omega ran to you and hugged you again, “I knew he’d find you, come on. Let me show you inside.” 

She gripped your hand and dragged you along. You weren’t looking for family, but … as you moved closer to the ship, there was a strange sense of belonging that came from meeting the rest of her brothers. For the first time in a long time, you felt at home. 

Hunter watched you and the way Omega gripped your hand, as you introduced yourself to Wrecker, Tech and Echo. He had to admit, you were attractive, when he saw you without your helmet, he almost felt his tongue getting all tied up. Not to mention, the outfit you wore also drew attention to your physique which didn’t help. He didn’t know why but he had a feeling this could either be a really horrible idea, or it would be a very pleasant surprise. 

Next

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Tag list:

@liadamerondjarin @badbatch-simp24@spicymcnuggies@lady-ren @firstofficerwiggles @darkangel4121 @discofern @kavecika @monako-jinn-stories @ladykatakuri @avathebestx @theroguesully @furyhellfire66 @carodealmeida @ciramaris @sprout-fics @twinkofthedink @dindjarin-mandalorian @ulchabhangorm @tortor-mcgee @vodika-vibes @clonethirstingisreal

[echojedis]

I've posted the first drawing before but these two belong together- some juntech hospital angst @wrenkenstein

[lightspringrain]

Happy 4th of July! I will be back with Chapter 3 on Tuesday the 9th. In the meantime, please enjoy these armor sheets for CX-2 and CX-8. Ofc Tech has all the pockets on his armor. Fun fact: I fused Death Trooper armor with CX Trooper armor as call forward/back. Hope you like.

[talesfrommedinastation]

Happy Tech Tuesday!

This is the first piece of post-Far Past the Ring Tech and Sjael art that I commissioned back in May. Done, once again, by the incomparable @matthewyeetz on Twitter.

Tech’s rocking his sweet Transport Union uniform, Sjael’s in her work dress with her beloved vanilla orchid, and most importantly, they look like they stepped out of a Disney movie.

Oh, and Tech isn’t shorter: Sjael is 6’4, right at Tech’s height. Shes a Belter and taller than humans born on planets with natural gravity.

Gotta throw the tags for those who haven’t seen it yet: @eyecandyeoz @sued134 @rocicrew @techs-stitches @ilikemymendarkandfictional @anxiouspineapple99 @amalthiaph @freesia-writes @littlefeatherr @vivaislenska @vimse @blitzink @marymunchkiin @merkitty49 @megmca

[skellymom]

"Vagabonds" Chapter 22

"THE TEMPEST"

Ongoing fanfic Hunter x Reader/Fem Reader/OC

Hunter meets a smuggler Nomaadi Star Woman with a powerful force sensitive teen who changes the trajectory of CF-99's lives...as they ALL try to escape from The Empire together.

To read Chapter 21 - "AMARANTHINE"

https://www.tumblr.com/skellymom/762676548240277504/vagabonds-chapter-21?source=share

Word Count: 1.6 K

Background: What is Mad's fate? Can Hunter, Tech, LOVE, Tiggy, and newcomer Jeb escape the CX Trooper? Has LOVE's Force Powers gone too far???

MORE ACTION IN THIS CHAPTER!

For anyone new to this series: "LOVE" is the nonbinary/genderfluid neurodivergent/nonverbal Force sensitive kid of the main OC of this series named Mad. Mad is an older single mother, close to almost 50 years of age (not many older female protaganists in stories, so I decided to make one.)

Warning: SW Canon violence, blood, dog mauling human (defensive move for the doggo), swearing, angst, tragedy. Disclaimer: I wrote this chapter WELL BEFORE the mudslides and flooding in the south occurred. Hopefully this plot device is not offensive.

(Credit: Cool dividers by @4ngelic-Wh1spers, @plum98 @strangergraphics-archive Pinterest: You're Stuck With Me Skyguy, Mandry Club, )

Read to the music:

Tech attempted to comm Hunter. 

No answer. 

He heard and FELT an explosion. 

Tiggy screamed loudly, causing Tech to jump out of his skin.  She immediately ran for the open hatch.  Tech leapt catching her by the collar. 

“DAAB, TIGGY!  STAY!  STOP!!!”  No command helped as she dragged him across the Marauder’s floor. 

She sensed something was VERY WRONG.  Tech managed to engage his remote access closing the gangplank via arm link, then bearhugged Tiggy with both arms.  Her strength, even for a now medium sized canine, surprised him. 

Tiggy screamed and struggled violently as Tech wrapped his long gangly legs around her to prevent getting loose.  Committed dog that she was to her people, she never bit him, but alligator rolled growling. 

When the gangplank closed, Tech let go launching himself into the pilot seat starting up the Marauder’s engines.   

Tiggy continually threw herself at the closed gangplank. 

Over the noise of the Marauder’s engines Tech heard the strong rumble of thunder.  A fat raindrop splattered across the ship's windscreen. 

Taphao Kaew’s weather patterns SHOULD’NT support rain in THIS season...

The Marauder took off from the forest floor. 

LOVE caterwauled over Mad’s body.   

Hunter sensed a HUGE electromagnetic front forming quickly above them.  The sky ROILED as dark clouds blotted out the sun.  He leaned down over Mad and attempted to pick up her bloody body.  It was difficult to tell her status through the thousands of cuts she sustained from shrapnel during the blast. 

Though unconscious Mad was STILL breathing. 

LOVE started to cry HUGE wet tears.  They ran down their cheeks... 

The sky opened and a DELUGE of rain fell. 

Jeb appeared next to Hunter.  “The HELL this storm come from???   

“Blame it on us.” Hunter remarked as he eyed LOVE. 

Rain fell upon Mad’s body, washing the blood away temporarily.  He leaned across to shield her and drew his weapon.  Jeb drew his as well.  Both stood their ground...waiting. 

A blaster bolt rang through the smoke.  LOVE blocked it one handed. 

The CX Trooper stepped out into full view, leveling his rifle at LOVE, Hunter, and Jeb. 

He spoke in a hauntingly distorted voice “The clone, force sensitive, AND Jedi asset.  How convenient.” 

“I WON’T go willingly” Hunter growled.  “Won’t let you take ANYONE else, either.” 

“It’s not YOU I’m after.” CX sneered through his helmet. 

Hunter’s eyes widened.  This Trooper KNEW who he was...and about Omega too. 

Good thing she was safe on the Beldame. 

“Hand HER over and I’ll go easy on your squad.” CX nodded in Mad’s direction.  “That one too.” Nodding to LOVE. 

LOVE’S head slowly rose up to face the CX Trooper.  Eyes no longer yellow green...but bright CRIMSON RED! 

Hunter’s long hair slowly rose up and strained to stand on end.  His bandana held most of it back.  He could FEEL an electrical charge building. 

“LOVE...DON’T do it.”  Hunter tried his darndest to keep calm. 

They weren’t listening.  NOTHING was getting through.  His skin TINGLED! 

OH...SHIT!”  Hunter grabbed Jeb dragging him to the ground, then threw his own body over the boy and Mad. 

LOVE struggled to speak...”Nnnn...nnn...naaAAAHHHH!”  Then SCREAMED “NNN...NOOOO!!!” Face flushed as red as their eyes.

A bolt of lightning made explosive contact next to the CX Trooper.  He flew back with several trees falling and igniting into flames. 

LOVE, unhinged screamed outwardly over and over and over and over.  ALL of the fear, anger, and sadness emanated outward VIOLENTLY! 

More lightening strikes.   

Hunter heard the distant sounds of people SCREAMING...unsure if in fear...or injury... 

The rain picked up threefold, wind WAILING through the trees! 

Taphao Kaew’s soil couldn’t handle the sudden volume of water raining down.  The ground underneath gave way.  Hunter grabbed Mad with one hand and, LOVE with the other, then attempted to catch Jeb with both legs around his midsection.   

They splashed into a torrent of watery mud with a wickedly strong current.  It pulled them all downhill as a huge swath of earth cleaved away from the forest.  The water swallowed trees, land speeders, pushing parked ships up against the Rebel Base...collapsing the outer wall.  Then flowed around the building further downhill. 

Their group were pulled downhill towards the clearing...and the mess of trees, equipment, ships, assorted flotsam and jetsam.   

Hunter knew they would all be crushed in the wreckage or swallowed up in the mud. 

LOVE laid back, watery mud coursing around them.  The grey sky rained down into their eyes blurring everything in sight.  Mind clouded and FULL of anger.  Hate burning hot while the waters around them couldn’t cool their volatile emotions. 

“LOVE!  SNAP OUT OF IT!!!” attempting to get to them.  “WE NEED YOU!” Muddy water washed over Hunter’s helmet, silencing his pleas.  Luckily it was sealed tight to prevent leakage. 

A dark shadow blotted out the rain, as they slipped quickly down the ravine.  LOVE’S vision cleared as Tech brought the Marauder above them. 

The best he could do was drop rappelling lines to Hunter and hope he could reach them.  Tech opened Marauder’s bottom hatch...fully realizing Tiggy might jump out of the ship.  Tiggy was beyond listening and Tech needed both hands on the controls.   

He opened the doors and hoped for the best. 

Tiggy scrabbled across the deck flooring, sliding straight to the open space.  Tech grit his teeth. 

Miraculously she held onto the edge of the hatch, barking down into the gloom for all she was worth. 

The roar of the engines reached into LOVE’S ears.  Beneath that...barking.  LOVE realized Tiggy was on board the Marauder!  SOMEHOW she had managed to get aboard with LOVE unable to detect her presence. 

To LOVE’S faraway brain, it seems Tiggy was barking in Basic Standard... 

“BARK, BARK, BARK...WAKE UP!  WAKE UP!  WAKE UP!!!” 

LOVE’S eye widened, their head snapped up to see... 

...Hunter’s fist firmly gripping the front of LOVE’s tunic, his other arm disappeared under the water... 

...a long, wet shock of silver hair bobbed and flowed up from the watery depths...where Hunter feebly attempted to keep Mad’s head above water... 

Hunter’s legs wrapped around... a STORM TROOPER!   

The Trooper held on for dear life to Hunter’s right leg.  LOVE could hear his screams ringing out from the comm in his helmet. 

“LOVE!!!” Hunter yelled. 

The group suddenly bounced off immense tree roots, pushing Hunter’s head under the water again.  Mad’s head bobbed up above the surface, still unconscious. 

Hunter popped back up, while NEVER letting go...neither did Jeb.  Mad’s head disappeared underwater again. 

WHAT AM I DOING???  LOVE SCREAMED inside their head! 

They reached out with the Force...pushing...rising... 

LOVE levitated out of the water, pulling Hunter with them.  It took some work...he was heavier than he looked.  The violent current dragging their bodies made it even more difficult. 

Tech held The Marauder in place just above. 

In their mind, LOVE called out to the Force for help.  PLEADED even.  HELP ME...PLEASE!!! 

LOVE PUSHED...Mad emerged from the water where Hunter had a hold of the back of her robes... 

They pushed HARDER.  Muscles tensing to fever pitch...feeling as if they would split apart... 

Jebith emerged from the water, still grasping Hunter’s legs.   

LOVE pulled the group up, up, up... 

A strong JERK pulled the group down again.  There was another weight added... 

The CX Trooper grabbed onto Jeb’s legs scaling him like a rope!  He climbed up Jebith’s body, then Hunter’s...stopping to hold on and address Hunter eye to eye. 

“You shouldn’t have left your OWN behind!” CX taunted him. 

“Who the fuck ARE YOU???”  Hunter shouted.   

“YOU chose THEM over your BROTHERS!” The voice, while distorted sounded Reg-like...mixed with another familiar voice. 

“...Crosshair???”  Hunter grasped at straws...the body type wasn’t thin enough...but he hadn’t seen his brother for some time... 

“Your misguided alliance will COST you!” CX refused to answer Hunter’s question. 

Instead, he viciously kicked Jebith free from Hunter’s grasp.  The young trooper screamed as he fell, then hit the water, disappearing into the muddy rolling depths. 

Hunter kneed CX in the crotch while headbutting him.   

CX’s grip released.  He slipped down... 

Drawing his vibroblade unthinkably quick... 

Stabbing Hunter’s upper thigh just below the hip expertly between the armor.  Sinking it deeply into soft tissue. 

Hunter SCREAMED in agony!  CX pulled himself up on the blade, grabbing the hair on Mad’s head, flipping her head up to face him. 

“Pity.  She’s dead.” He scoffed at her pale face and blue lips. 

He let go of her then proceeded to climb up Hunter towards LOVE. 

LOVE had almost reached the bottom hatch of the Marauder.  Hunter sensed LOVE needed to be free of the weight of the bodies below them. 

Hunter yelled out to LOVE “I’VE GOT THIS!  DO WHAT YOU DO!!!” 

He let go. 

CX slipped back down, holding onto Hunter’s shoulders. 

Hunter sensed a large presence arrive and blot out the Marauder as he punched CX in the throat. 

He and Mad fell, as Hunter caught the rappelling cable attached to the Marauder.  He never let go of Mad.   

CX gagged, letting go of Hunter, then engaged his own rappelling line upward.  He kicked away and zipped upward quickly towards LOVE. 

LOVE, still levitating, reached out to push CX away as he stunned them.  

He caught LOVE’s body as it fell... 

Tiggy leapt out of the Marauder, hitting him like a ton of bricks. Biting, scratching, mauling the CX Trooper. 

He screamed and swore as he zipped away towards his ship, still holding LOVE. 

Hunter rode his line up through the Marauder’s bottom hatch, setting Mad down.  

“TECH, FOLLOW THAT SHIP!”  He barked.  “TROOPER HAS LOVE AND TIGGY!!!” 

“On it!” Tech closed the hatch, engaging the Marauder.  As he watched the CX Trooper zipline into his ship, closing the hatch. 

Ignoring the searing pain of the knife buried in him, Hunter leaned over Mad.  He fumbled at opening her mouth to scoop out wet debris clearing her airway.  Then started breaths and compressions...

To read Chapter 23 - "RETREAT"

https://www.tumblr.com/skellymom/763930279133970432/vagabonds-chapter-23?source=share

Please let me know if you wanted to be added to my taglist or removed! Thanks so much for your support!!!

[techs-goggles9902]

Oh oh oh Imma request something 🤔🤔

How about.... female character/reader who is unsure about how she fits in with the bad batch and Tech reassures her?

Was even thinking about my oc Raven and maybe our female character/reader is unsure of her relationship with Hunter and seeks out Tech for (brotherly) assurance 🤔

You can do it however makes sense 😊 also no pressure 💖

Female reader x Tech (platonic)

Summary: You're unsure about your role in the batch and you talk with both Raven and Tech.

No warnings. Fluff and stuff

Word count: 863

a/n: Raven is the lovely oc created by @hellhound5925 ! Go check her out! Sorry Raven doesn’t have a huge role but she’s here! I hope I did her justice 🙏🏻

You sigh, bending over to pick up another piece of mantell mix. 

These things are everywhere! Wrecker, I swear… 

The light chatter from the cockpit reaches your ears as you discard the snack in the small trash bin in the corner of the Marauder. The squad, excluding Tech, are talking about the latest mission. 

Hunter, sitting in the pilot's seat, smiles gently at Omega as she exaggerates how she hustled a man on the last mission in a game of dejarik, earning enough credits to fix the ship. 

“Oh, and then I took out his Ghhhk! He said he’s a ‘Top Tier Player’ but he wasn’t! Hunter, you wouldn’t believe how he put himself in a bad position. Backed himself in a corner!” Omega rants with a grin, making big gestures with her small arms, imitating the game characters. 

Wrecker gives a big, hearty laugh as she continues. Echo sits back in the co-pilot’s chair, a hint of a smile tugging at the corners of his pale lips. You watch as the girl keeps proudly going on and on about her victory. 

You joined the Batch a few months after they began working for your employer, Cid. Ever since that day where you accompanied them for a mission, you were essentially adopted into their merry band of clones. 

Tucking a strand of hair behind your ear, you sigh again. Although you’re “one of them now”, you still feel as if they have their own little circle that you’re not a part of. How long will it take for them to see me as one of their own? I’m more than capable…

“Hey, you okay? You don’t look the greatest…” A familiar voice says. 

“Raven, hey. I’m fine, don’t worry about me. Just… contemplating things, I suppose.” 

“K’olar,” Raven says, pulling you to the nearest bunk. Lowering yourself onto the bunk, you pick at your nails. “What’s up?”

“I don’t know. I feel like I’m… not 100% a real squad member. I’m the last addition, not romantically tied to anyone, and just… here,” you admit. Raven has been your lifeline ever since joining the Batch. Both of you are non-clones, even if she did train them, and you related to her the most. 

“Vod… I… I felt that way, too, when I first came along.”

“You did?” Raven nods. 

“Mmhmm. This tight knit group with a very good looking sergeant-” 

“Okay, okay!” You both laugh, easing your nerves. This is why you’ve always liked Raven, she knows how to cheer you up. Always. 

“Cyare, c’mere for a sec,” Hunter calls from the cockpit. Raven gets up and sighs, mouthing the words, so needy, making you giggle once more. 

“Why don’t you go talk to Tech? He listens,” she suggests, giving your shoulder a gentle squeeze as she walks past you. 

You watch her go and you see a foot dangling from the ceiling panels. Tech…

You push yourself off the bunk and you stand beneath the opening in the ceiling and watch Tech tinker with the ship’s innards. 

“Tech?” 

“Hm? Oh, hello, vod’ika,” Tech replies, leaning over a little to see you better. 

“You don’t need to call me that. I’m older than you are,” you say with a quiet giggle. 

“Well, given the fact my brothers and I age twice as fast as the average being, I am technically older than you, vod’ika,” Tech says with the faint trace of a smile, emphasizing the nickname. 

You scoff with a smile, climbing up into the ceiling with him. He’s slightly hunched over because of his height, but it doesn’t seem to bother him. 

“Can I ask you something, ori’vod?” you ask, fiddling with one of his tools. Tech hums in acknowledgement. 

“I’m not sure if I… If I exactly fit in with you guys. You’re all brothers and I get that but I don’t feel-”

“Vod’ika, you’ve been one of us since the moment Hunter asked you to stick around. Omega especially felt that you would make a good friend, and I agree,” Tech cuts you off, looking away from his tinkering and directly into your eyes. 

“I…I’m a good friend?” You ask. 

“We may not have known each other very long, but you are an adequate fighter and an even more valuable member of our squad.” 

Our squad… Our squad… 

“You think so? Hunter… He’s nice and all but… We haven’t really bonded I guess,” you say with a small sigh. 

“Vod’ika, Hunter has to put up with Omega and Wrecker, has to find us jobs, feed us, and still sees himself as our leader, our sergeant, our protector. I’m honestly astonished he hasn’t gone gray with all the stress,” Tech remarks, that little smile tugging at his lips. That little grin is so contagious, managing to make you smile as well. 

You’re about to say something else when Tech continues, “Echo will come around eventually. He’s lost brothers and he’s distancing himself to save him the pain of losing a sister. I’m sure he’ll soon realize you’re not going anywhere.” 

Not going anywhere… 

“I guess I’m stuck with you, huh?” You say with a smirk, nudging Tech’s elbow. 

“For the long run.”

Glossary:

Cyare = beloved [sha-rey]

K’olar = come here

Vod’ika = little sibling [vohd-eeka]

Vod = sibling

Ori’vod = big sibling [ori-vohd]

Ghhhk = character in the game dejarik

Taglist: @fionajames @sevdidntdie @will-is-silly @skellymom @dangraccoon (feel free to tell me what you want or don't want to be tagged in!)

Dividers by @saradika

[oceansssblue]

100 CELEBRATION — PROMPT 15. ARRANGED MARRIAGE / FAKE DATING

CROSSHAIR/F READER 💖

WARNINGS: past friendship breakup, fluff fluff fluff.

Note: I originally had a different idea planed for Crosshair with this prompt (a proper arranged marriage oneshot), but it was becoming extremely long so I decided to park that one out for the future and came up with this little idea instead. I hope you like it! We ony have two more prompts left (servant!rex & demon!echo); for which I've planned a longer story, so I might just acept requests to give you all a little something while I write that. I'll let you know when I decide that. Xx, Blue.

••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

As soon as the words come out of your mouth, you know it's a big, ugly mistake. The eyes of your ex-best friend and sister widens; the surprise and incredulity so raw and visible in their expresions it hurts. Yes, your luck in love has been sparse; but it shouldn't be that much of a shock to hear things are working out for you for once.

"What? Since when?"

At least your sister is on the good side of surprised. On the confused but genuine one. The girl you used to consider like a second sister, however, –Mara–, almost sneers at the –admitedly, very false– news.

"More importantly" she waves of your sisters questions impertinently and asks "With who?"

You blurt out the first name that comes to your mind.

"Crosshair".

That's the second, big, ugly mistake. You don't even know if you could consider him a friend. He's no stranger –you've seen each other fair enough in both the market and Cid's Salon–; but words are few and far between the two of you. You know more about him by his brother's and Omega's stories than by the man himself. He's incredibly reserved.

Ana seems to recognise the name.

"Isn't he one of Wrecker's brothers?"

You nod in silence under Mara's watchful eyes. Your sister Ana has a stand of sweets in the market; Wrecker is a regular there.

The Batch is a curious bunch. They're hard to forget.

"Well" Mara all but looks you up and down and you have to clench your teeth to not hiss a few ill-intended words at her. "I'm glad you're having fun even if it's with a worthless fling".

"Mara..." Ana intervenes, calling her out with a frown on her face.

Your sister is the sweet, quiet type of girl; but she's protective as well. She's probably suspicious of this, of not having heard of it from you before; but she'll stay quiet for your sake until she has the oportunity to interrogate you in private. She knows you and Mara have history.

Mara shrugs and grins; and your smile is just as fake. She has developed an uncanny ability to make your blood boil.

"I wouldn't call an engamement that" you casually reply, if only just to shut her mouth and swipe her smile off of her face.

Mara's satisfied expression drastically shiftes. Oh, it tastes so sweet... It almost makes you forget that everything you've said is a sequence of lies. Almost.

"Look at you... It's been ages since you had something remotely serious" Mara comments in an humiliating chirp. "He must be special. Why don't you bring him along next friday? We're having a small get together at home with a few old friends. I'd love to meet him".

Panick fires up in your veins; and some must be reflected on your face, because Mara smiles wide like a lothcat.

Anger burns through you; once again remembering all the pain this woman has put you through.

You arrange a small, relaxed expresion for her.

"I'll try to convince him" you accept, swallowing down all the anxiousness and doubts. "I guess you'll send me the details?"

At first, Mara looks surprised; but she quickly falls back to her irritatingly sweet condescendance, smiling politely.

"Of course. I still have your com number. I'll let you know".

Mara nods at your sister; then bristly turns around without bothering on sending a goodbye to you as well.

You watch her retreating form with a mix of relief and wariness. Ana bumps her shoulder with yours.

"Hey" she calls you, quietly worried. "You okay?"

You sigh, tension melting away from your shoulders momentarily.

"Yeah" you glance back at her. "I just have to find the way to convince Crosshair to act as my soon-to-be husband. Should be easy, right?"

Ana chuckles at your sarcasm, inmediately catching up on your lie.

"You digged that hole down yourself" she reminds you, good-heartedly. "It would have been easier if you've thought of Wrecker or Hunter. Or even Tech".

You sigh tiredly. Crosshair agreeing to act as if he were in love with you?

"Yeah, right".

•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

"Cross!" Wrecker's voice echoes in the cockpit of the Marauder. "Gun-girl is here to see you!"

You try not to wince at the volume –nor the pet name–; waiting patiently and praying the man won't interpret the visit as an invasion of his privacy. This ship is their home, after all. And like you pointed out before, he's very private.

Slow, carefull footsetps anounce his presence. Seconds later, a fully armoured Crosshair –minus the helmet– is staring at you with a mix of calculated wariness and confusion. He's probably wondering what the hell are you doing here.

"Hello, Crosshair" you greet him nervously. "Can I talk to you for a bit?"

He continues to stare at you in that way of his you find both nerve-wracking and intriguing; then glances at his smiling brother, and gestures you to come in.

You take a deep, centering breath and step up on the ramp of the Marauder, firmly walking towards the cockpit. You've been inside the ship only once before; when you delivered some supplies for the guys' weapon stock. Crosshair follows you; Wrecker stays outside. The Marauder is otherwise empty; which means that at least only a maximum of two persons will hear how stupid you are.

"So?" Crosshair asks, sprawling down on the pilot chair and prompting you to take the other one.

You bite your lip anxiously before you start.

"So... I need your help" he arches an eyebrow –how can that look so elegant?– and you start to explain yourself. "I... May have told someone I despise I was engaged to you, and she might have invited us to her house next Friday. I was wondering if you'd... agree to play the part?"

It sounds even more ridiculous out loud; as if you were pulling a silly prank. Crosshair's neutral reaction doesn't help either. Far from showing surprise or irritation, he stays painfully normal.

He tilts his head; long fingers taking a toothpick of his pack and placing it between his lips. A sort of endearing habit of his.

"Sounds like unnecesary trouble for me" he points out, not necessarily cold but brutally honest.

You search your brain for an answer that could please him. Perhaps if you give him something in return for this favor...

"I have a new sniper scope model arriving soon. I'll let you try it out first. I'll give you a discount too".

The offer seems to catch his attention; for he hums thoughtfully while never taking his eyes off of you.

"And who is this person you despise?" He asks –dare you say– curiously.

Your answer is acompanied by a long tired sigh.

"An old friend. She tried to humiliate me pointing out my lack of love life and I... Had to swipe her smile off of her face".

You're ashamed of admiting it to him. He always looks so controlled... You know this whole thing is inmature and futile. You don't want him to see you like a kid.

"What happened between the two of you?"

You're surprised by the ammount of personal questions Crosshair is asking. You would have thought he would have inmediately shut down your idea; or perhaps agreed but without wanting to get into the emotions and story behind it. Perhaps you don't know him as well as you thought.

"She gave me some very good memories back when we were younger" you admit. "But I then realized she's the kind of person who wants to see you doing good; but never better than herself. She tried to sabotage me when that ocasionally happened. Stole a boyfriend, a job, or two".

You hadn't intended to go that deep; but you mean every single word, and your vulnerability is exposed to Crosshair for the first time ever. For all he's a private person, you are too. You'd hate for others to consider you weak.

Crosshair observes you for what feels like an eternity, taking the information in. You force yourself not to hide from his perceptive eyes.

"Mm" he finally hums, thoughtful. "There's something I still don't understand. Why was I the first name that came to your mind?"

You blink back at him, stunned, cheeks blushing upon the implication of the question. You hadn't really thought about it either. You had somehow always paid more attention to Crosshair than the rest of your clients; but you had never realised it might mean you were simply into him. Are you?

"Well" you take a bit too long to answer, trying to sound casual and firm. "You are, as far as I know, single, and no-one really knows you in Ord Mantell. It seemed the most logical option".

Crosshair looks skeptical, but he lets you get away with it.

"Right..." he drawls, searching for something in your still warm face. Then, to your surprise, he smirks and says "I'll check your stand for that new scope on thursday. You can update me on our love story then".

•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

At first you were dissapointed, then irritated, and now worried. Crosshair had agreed to meet you outside of Mara's house at eight; but no matter how long you waited for him, he hadn't appeared. You had had no other option than to knock on Mara's door on your own; and her grin upon seing you arriving alone had been another level of irritating. You had set up an excuse for him, trying not to make your hurt visible. After a few minutes of interiorising it, you had grown angry; Crosshair could have just refused to help you instead of backing off at last minute without a warning. Halfway through the dinner, though, you had received a message on your coms; and all those negative emotions had switched to genuine worry.

An hour later, in the quietness of the kitchen, you carefully read the text again.

"Mission off-world, things got out of hand. Just arrived. I'll be there shortly –Crosshair."

You're aware that the Batch often work as bounty hunters for Cid; and how the boys sometimes help with small missions for the Rebellion. You've never asked into it –you understand how dangerous the fact that you know they're on the run from the Empire and helping the Rebellion already is–; but you know it's usually dangerous, specially the second sort. You wonder just how out of hand things got. Did someone got hurt? Did he?

You're a nervous wreck throughout the rest of the night; and Mara and his friends –pretty polite and nice for a bitch like her, you have to say– can't help but notice and finally question it.

"Sweetheart, is everything okay?" One of the girls ask, genuine concern on her eyes.

You force a small smile on your face.

"Yeah. Just... Crosshair commed me telling me he had some trouble on his way back to Ord Mantell, so I'm just a bit worried" you tell them, all but Mara's face showing various degrees of sincere understanding. "I'll be fine once he gets here".

"If he manages to arrive at all, that is" Mara halfway sneers, then plasters a big smile on her caked face. "Shall we move outside for a drink?"

Your mind is so focused on Crosshair that you don't even feel the need to assesinate her this time.

•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

When you're well onto your third glass of wine, you feel a hand carefully grazing the skin of your spine. Lips brush across the crown of your hair; the combination bringing pleasant goosebumps to your body. Far from tensing at the unexpected contact, you melt upon hearing his voice.

"Hello, darling" his low tone is a sin. Then, he turns to look at the rest. "Forgive me for arriving this late".

You hear a chorus of acceptance from Mara's friends; but you turn towards him and your attention is solely fixed on Crosshair. You frown at the scratches on one side of his face; an angry red against his skin. Your fingers involuntarily travel upwards to his cheek, carefully tracing the contour of them.

"You're hurt" you whisper, ignorant to how Mara is quietly observing the interaction between the two of you.

Crosshair hums and takes your hand in his, squeezing softly while he takes a seat besides you at the table. He doesn't let you go; and you don't make the effort either.

"I'm okay" he assures you, voice calm. "Did I miss something interesting?"

To your luck –because you're suddenly enthraced by him, by the way the moonlight makes his grey hair look almost white and his dark brown eyes lighten up– someone answers for you.

"Just a lot of embarassing stories about our youth" there's a general laugh, and Crosshair conjures a tiny tiny smile.

Your heart swoons upon noticing it.

His gaze turns back to you. You're painfully aware of how he's still craddling your hand in his; of how gentle he is.

It's a whole new side of him you didn't even know it existed. You feel honoured to experience it.

"You'll have to tell me yours later" he tells you, and you force yourself to come back to the present with a chuckle.

"No thanks. I'd like to remain engaged tomorrow morning" you joke, and everyone laughs.

Even Mara seems reluctantly enchanted with Crosshair at the end of the night.

•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

"Well, that went surprisingly well" you comment once you've parked your speedcar next to the Marauder, having offered Crosshair a drive back. "You're a great actor, by the way".

Crosshair shrugs, body now turned towards you while you both remain sitting in the privacy of your car.

"It's not like it was a difficult task" he answers, eyes flickering over your face before slowly adding. "You know what I thought we'd had to do, and we haven't yet done?"

He gives you a few seconds to process his words, his intentions; before one of his hands slowly take hold on your chin and tugs you forwards to join your lips together in a surprisingly soft, unhurried kiss. Warmth bursts inside of you, heart speeding inside of your chest; surrendering to the kiss with a pleased sigh. When you part from each other, you see an unusual vulnerability in Crosshair's face.

"Well, it would have been impossible not to sell it, with a kiss like that" you try to rest tension to the scene.

Crosshair's following words shake up your world; make you look at things with a different perspective.

"It's easy to sell something when not all of it is built upon lies".

The meaning behind it swirls in your mind. He's admiting there's something between the two of you besides the mess you've put both of you through. His half-conceiled confession leaves you too shocked to react; and you can only stare at him while he gets out of your car.

"Night, gun-girl" he smirks through your window, and then casually walks away towards the Marauder.

Perhaps you'll see him tomorrow in the market, and perhaps you'll go on an actual first date with your fake soon-to-be husband.

You drive back home with thoughts of Crosshair swimming in your head. You're sure you'll dream of that kiss tonight as well.

THE END.

••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

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[missfrieden]

Tech as a father Chapter 74

I am back, not on full health but better. Also one week of vacation time, where I sleep and sleep, and catch up on sleep. Not gonna run on empty or on fumes for days.

Anyway the boys schould enjoy some family time for once, without any interruptions dont't you think?

Masterlist | AO3

Chapter 74: Beach day

As the squad disembarks from the Havoc Marauder, the squad able to enjoy some time without a pending mission, Tech takes extra care to ensure Orion is protected from the sun's rays. He meticulously applies sunscreen to Orion's delicate skin, making sure every exposed area is covered. Once satisfied, he places a small hat on Orion's head to provide additional shade.

Tech then lifts Orion onto his hip, his eyes scanning the beach with a sense of wonder. "Alright, Orion," he begins, his tone gentle yet animated. "Let's explore, shall we?" He points out various plants and flowers along the shoreline, describing their colours and shapes to Orion, even though he knows his son may not fully understand. Orion babbles in response, his tiny hand reaching out to touch the sand as they walk and he is put down for a moment, but picked up again as he attempts to shovel the sand into his tiny mouth. Tech smiles, cherishing these moments of simple exploration with his son, grateful for the opportunity to introduce him to the wonders of the world, one beachside adventure at a time.

Tech continues to walk along the beach, feeling the warmth of the sand beneath his feet and the weight of Orion's tiny feet resting on his own. He holds his son securely, revelling in the simple joy of their shared steps. Orion babbles happily, his eyes wide with curiosity as he takes in the sights and sounds around them. Tech chuckles softly at Orion's enthusiasm, his heart swelling with love for his son.

Echo nudges Hunter, drawing his attention to the heart-warming   scene before them. "Looks like Tech's taking a break from his usual tech duties," Echo remarks with a grin. Hunter nods in agreement, a fond smile playing on his lips as he raises his datapad to capture the moment. "Gotta document these rare occasions," he says, snapping a few photos of Tech and Orion walking together along the beach, their bond evident in every step.

Tech bends down slightly, pointing out various seashells and pieces of driftwood scattered along the shore. "See these, Orion?" he says, his voice gentle as he gestures towards the treasures of the beach. "These are seashells. They come in all different shapes and sizes. And look here," he continues, picking up a smooth piece of driftwood, "this is driftwood. It's wood that's been washed up onto the beach by the waves." Orion watches intently, his eyes wide with curiosity as he listens to his father's explanations. He reaches out to touch the seashells and driftwood, his tiny fingers exploring their textures.

Echo and Hunter watch from a short distance away, their smiles growing as they witness the tender moment between father and son. Echo whispers to Hunter, "Tech's a natural with Orion, isn't he?" Hunter nods, his gaze softening as he observes the interaction. "Yeah, he really is," he replies quietly, feeling a swell of pride for his brother and the strong bond he shares with his son.

Tech kneels at the water's edge, his hand dipping into the gentle waves lapping at the shore. He looks over at Orion, who watches with wide eyes, his curiosity piqued by the shimmering water. With a soft smile, Tech takes Orion's hand in his own, guiding his tiny fingers into the cool water. Feeling that the temperature is just right, Tech ensures that Orion's feet are secure on his own before taking a cautious step forward. The water envelops their feet, the sensation making Orion giggle with delight. Tech chuckles warmly, enjoying his son's infectious laughter as they stand together in the shallows.

The waves wash over their feet, the rhythmic motion soothing and comforting. Tech looks down at Orion, his heart swelling with love for his son. "Isn't this nice, Orion?" he says, his voice filled with affection. "The ocean is a big, beautiful place. But vastly different from the one on Kamino." Orion babbles in response, his eyes sparkling with wonder as he gazes out at the vast expanse of water before them. Tech savours the moment, grateful for this peaceful time with his son amidst the chaos of their lives as soldiers.

“Why don’t ya sit with Orion in the water? Not going in completely?” Wrecker suggests catching the ball Cross threw. “Yeah, let him sit and splash” Crosshair adds, glancing over his sunglasses. Tech listens to Wrecker and Crosshair's suggestions, though a hint of reluctance lingers in his expression. He knows they mean well, but the thought of letting Orion venture further into the water makes him anxious. Nevertheless, he relents, understanding that it's important for Orion to experience new things and enjoy the beach like any other child.

With a resigned sigh, Tech heads back into the Havoc Marauder to prepare Orion for his first dip in the ocean. He carefully changes him into a swim-proof diaper, so the teasing that he got them was unnecessary given he will use one now, ensuring his son's comfort and safety. Next, Tech changes into his own swim shorts, mentally mapping out the plan for their water excursion. Tech dresses Orion in a lightweight t-shirt that he doesn't mind getting wet, layering on another protective barrier against the sun's rays. He then reapplies sun cream to Orion's delicate skin, making sure every exposed area is covered, and gently places the tiny hat back on his son's head.

As they make their way back to the water's edge, Tech's heart races with a mix of anticipation and apprehension. He takes a deep breath, reminding himself to stay calm for Orion's sake. With Orion cradled securely between his legs it will be perfectly safe, Tech wades into the shallows, the water lapping gently at their feet.

Orion's eyes widen in wonder as he feels the cool water surrounding him more than just lapping over his feet, his tiny hands reaching out to touch the shimmering surface. Tech smiles down at his son, feeling a surge of pride and joy at witnessing Orion's excitement. "Are you ready, Orion?" Tech asks softly, his voice filled with reassurance. "We'll take it slow and stay right here where it's safe." Orion babbles in response, his laughter echoing across the beach as they settle into the water together. With each passing moment, Tech's initial worries begin to fade away, replaced by the pure joy of seeing his son explore and discover the world around him.

As Hunter watches and listens to Orion’s gleeful laughs, his comm goes off. “Maker please, just one day” Echo mutters as he watches Hunter, not wanting the day to already end. “That’s just how it is Echo.” Hunter grabs it. “Hunter here?” “Hunter? Thanks the maker, I tried to reach Tech over and over, even messaged him. But no answer are you guys okay?” Amanda’s voice comes through, she is clearly trying to hide her distress. “Uh… yeah we are at a beach on some random planet. Tech is sitting with Orion in the water, and is for once not on his datapad.” Hunter explains, and Echo sits up. “Listen can you give me Tech? We got a Situation.” Amanda asks, now there is clear distress in her voice. Echo and Hunter change a look, they both clearly know it has nothing to do with the Separatists. “On it.” Hunter states and gets up.

Chapter 75

Reblogs are very welcome and I am open for feedback, as english is not my first language, so maybe my sentences may be weird sometimes, or I write a word wrong even with google, or I use a wrong word for an item.

Tag: @spectacular-skywalker @clonethirstingisreal @sleepycreativewriter @moonwreckd @sskim-milkk @heidnspeak

[imabeautifulbutterfly]

Not Ready - Part Three

Summary: Making your way back to the Marauder with Hunter and Omega

A/N: Hello lovelies,

In case you didn't realize, I should probably mention this is all set in the time of Season 1 but I'm sure you guys realized that. Also had a half day today because half our patients cancelled, love days like that, got a lot of stuff done and still had an evening to relax.

Love oo.

Italics - flashback

Warnings: Angst, irritations, yelling, lack of trust, fluff, running, evading capture, forehead kiss, feelings of guilt, fear, guilt, feelings of cowardice, I think that's it. Let me know if I miss anything.

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Now that you thought about it, those moments of you yelling at him probably weren’t the most productive moments between the two of you. You reached out and grabbed Omega’s hand when she slipped, as the three of you made your way back to the Marauder as quickly as you could, “You okay, M?”

“Yeah, my foot just slipped.” You watched as her whole body twitched, she was nervous. You kneeled down in front of her, while Hunter took a chance to scout out the way ahead. 

“Look at me sweetie,” you tucked her hair behind her ear, something you’d done numerous times. She slowly met your eyes, the two of you had gotten closer ever since you joined. In a way, she was the daughter you always wished you could’ve had. She had your love and devotion, without even a second thought. All you wanted was to protect her, and make sure she was loved and cared for, you cursed your heart. It wasn’t supposed to get attached, that was the agreement you had made when you initially went on the run, it was safer for everyone. You let out a soft sigh, as you offered her a reassuring smile, “It’s going to be okay, love. I promise.”

“I know. It’s just … do you think Crosshair is okay? What if he’s hurt?”

“M, it’ll be okay. If he’s hurt, he’s got people to look out for him. It’s us we should be worried about, we still have a myriad of stormtroopers to avoid.” She nodded, not quite able to forget about Crosshair, you pressed a kiss to her forehead, “It’ll be alright.” You held out your hand to her, “Come on, sweetie.”

Hunter hated how much his eyes kept following you, it didn’t matter that half the time, you argued with each other, or that you frustrated him so much sometimes all he wanted to do was shut you up with his lips pressed against yours. However, watching you with Omega, how motherly and kind you were to her and the others, even if you couldn’t stand him, you certainly were able to get along with everyone else. Sometimes the way you acted, reminded him of a rancor, fiercely loyal and protective of those it loved, but ready to destroy anyone who even dared to hurt you or those you loved. Maybe that’s why things had always been difficult between you two? Because he put you in danger from the word ‘go’. 

He let out a sigh, whatever thoughts or desires were confusingly roaming around his heart, weren’t likely to come to fruition. You both needed to keep your distances, and focus on the one thing that mattered the most to the both of you, Omega. 

“We should keep moving” he called down to you and Omega. You nodded and helped Omega up the slope. 

You watched as Hunter held out his hand for Omega helping her along the way. Despite his faults, of which he had many … okay maybe not that many, maybe a few. Okay, one. He had one fault. He thought he was always right. And sometimes he was … but a lot of times, he wasn’t. However, there was one thing that always pulled at your heartstrings no matter how annoyed you two were at each other, and that was how he looked after Omega.

Everyone was asleep, as you sat in the cockpit. You tried to sleep, but running into the two sisters who were actively fighting the Empire, made you begin to question everything. Here they were putting themselves in jeopardy, to do something to help the galaxy. Meanwhile, all you’d ever done was hurt it, and now you were trying to actively hide from the Empire like a coward. 

You rubbed your forehead letting out a sigh, when you heard shuffling behind you. You turned to see Hunter tucking Omega in, making sure Lula was close to her. After having to run away from Wrecker when his chip activated, you weren’t surprised to see her fall asleep as quickly as she did, the stress and adrenaline from the day definitely wearing her thin. You watched as he brushed Omega’s hair off her forehead, making sure she wasn’t having trouble sleeping. You let out a sigh, why did he have to be so sweet? Why did he have to do things that made your heart flutter?

You turned away, shutting down the feelings that were trying to brew. You closed your eyes, resting your head against the headrest. You weren’t meant for a life filled with love, sweetness, and comfort. It was never in the cards for you, and you weren’t ready for how your heart kept pulling and clenching. It was time to seriously think about leaving, you were getting too comfortable and too attached. 

“You alright?”

Hunter saw how meeting the two sisters threw you, it wasn’t just them though. It was hearing Rex’s account about what happened to his brothers, the chips that were in the clones brains; then the Jedi cruiser on Bracca, or more specifically the lab on the cruiser that made you uncomfortable. Something about being in a lab made you jumpy, made you nervous, he could smell your anxiety the moment you saw the lab. 

“Hmmm?” You turned to look at Hunter, not quite hearing his question.

“Are you okay?” Hunter took a seat in the chair directly behind yours, leaning forward resting his elbows on his knees, his bandana covering the patch on the side of his head, as his eyes found yours.

“Why do you care?” You followed his movement leaning forward, resting your own elbows on your knees. You didn’t mean for your words to come out as rude as it sounded. It was a genuine question on your behalf, why would he care about you after all the hassle you gave him. 

“You’re part of this crew, of course I’m gonna care regardless of how much you irritate me,” he smirked, “and you do irritate me.” You were thrown off by the fact he cared … the fact that anyone cared.

Hunter wasn’t blind, he could see something was bothering you, ”Butterfly, I … I don’t know what’s got you so shaken, but you can talk to me.”

“You’re better off not knowing.”

“What if I want to know?” He leaned closer, his fingers gently brushing against your own, almost by accident.

“Hunter, you can’t help me, and when you do one day find out what’s going on, you may not want me around anymore, and I’ll accept that. But not today, I - I don’t want to talk about it.”

He took a deep breath, as he reached his hand forward tucking your hair behind your ear, it always seemed to be unruly, sticking out the side of your head or clinging to your cheek, “You don’t have to be so strong all the time.”

“It’s not about being strong…” you leaned away from his hand, not wanting your heart to thump any harder or hope for more than it was. You let out a sigh, “Never mind, I should go rest.” You stood walking away from him burying the warm sensation in your heart deep down. As you walked past him, he reached out and grabbed your hand, holding it softly in his hand, getting you to look at him one more time.

“We’ve all done things we might not be proud of, doesn’t mean you’re alone. We’re here for you.”

You took in a deep breath as you looked at him, giving his hand a squeeze, “That’s what I’m afraid of.”

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@liadamerondjarin @badbatch-simp24@spicymcnuggies@lady-ren @firstofficerwiggles @darkangel4121 @discofern @kavecika @monako-jinn-stories @ladykatakuri @avathebestx @theroguesully @furyhellfire66 @carodealmeida @ciramaris @sprout-fics @twinkofthedink @dindjarin-mandalorian @ulchabhangorm @tortor-mcgee @vodika-vibes @clonethirstingisreal @arctrooper69 @merkitty49 @moonstrider9904

[yamiyamiart]

kiss practice with all the clone pookies plus first time drawing Howzer

[rebelscums]

You Drew Stars (Tech x Jedi reader x ?)

Ratings: Angst | Fluff

Summary: Unrequited love is a real Bantha

Pt 5 of You Drew Stars

It’s been two weeks since Tech and I had that… Fight. We’ve never fought like that before and now… Now the tension between us has only grown stronger.

It didn’t help that my confidence is gone or that my partner in crime was currently on a mission. It was by poor timing by Sid that Hunter had to leave the night of the fight to go do a job. Now I was left to move past my feelings without the support of my best friend.

So I did what I was trained to do.

Ignore my problems until they eventually disappear.

To say that I was avoiding Tech like the plague was an understatement and yet he seemed to be everywhere all the time.

Could the force not give me a break?

I was mindlessly sorting through supplies with Echo on the loading dock when I heard Tech’s footsteps before I saw him. A tight feeling filling my chest as anger tried to claw it’s way up my throat.

“Hello, I need to… well…” His voice trailed off as he adjusted his goggles.

“What is it Tech?” I muttered with spite.

He rolled his eyes with a huff, “I need to check the panel behind you.”

“Do it later.” I replied, looking back to the box of wires I was sorting through, “We were here first and what were doing is pretty important.”

Tech raised an eyebrow, “You’re untangling wires.”

“Wires that would save us all if the ship short circuits.” I seethed.

Echo glanced between the two of us with caution as he slowly put down an extra air duct panel.

“Maybe we should take a break General.” Echo said trying to keep the tension from rising.

“No.” I disagreed with him immediately, a childish tone in my voice as I crossed my arms, “We were here first.”

Tech mimicked my movement, crossing his arms as well, “You’ve been here all morning, it’s only logical that you step aside and allow me to work.”

I glared at him as I pointed towards the way he came, “No way brown eyes.” I spat his beloved nickname with spite, “Go be a terrible friend to someone else.”

I saw the way his shoulders deflated and for a moment I wondered if I went to far… That is until he opened that mouth of his.

“I won’t ignore this hostility General. You need to move past our argument, you’re being childish.” Tech motioned towards my stance.

Me childish?

I rolled my eyes at his peace keeping tactics, “Piss off Tech.”

“Yeah! Piss off!” Omega called from the bottom of the ramp with Wrecker in tow.

“Omega wait no, don’t say that.” I said quickly as I lightly scolded her.

Tech chose not to add anything more to conversation. I heard his steps fade as he left. Wrecker’s laughter boomed through the hall as he followed his brother, “Nice going General, now she’s going to be saying that all week!” He called as Omega skipped ahead of him.

I shook my head with a sigh, “Hunter is going to kill me.”

“Probably.” Echo teased to try and lighten the mood.

Nothing seemed to make sense anymore.

The only thing I could hear ever other day was Phee giggling through the ship as she told the group about her latest adventure and Tech’s warm voice as he spoke gently to her. A warmth that I haven’t heard from him in weeks.

It use to be us talking late into the night and now… Now it’s her.

“You’re too smart brown eyes.” Phee said.

I didn’t mean to, but my eyes seemed to flicker to them and that was when I saw her planting a kiss on his lips. It brought me back to the night of my failed attempt at a proper date, my stomach suddenly churning at the sight.

The loving display had me pushing the food around my plate, no longer hungry or in any kind of good mood.

“Here Wrecker.” I passed my plate to him before getting up to leave.

“Brown eyes.” I muttered sarcastically as I entered my small room, “Of course they have to ruin any ounce of peace I have in this ship.”

I couldn’t help as I paced about my room. How long before they move past the stages of puppy love and into marriage? Would he leave with her or worse… Would they stay here?

Would I be forced out to make room? Maybe leaving isn’t such a bad idea… Maybe Rex could use a hand?

My thoughts muffled the footsteps approaching my room and the swoosh of my door opening.

“You haven’t been finishing your meals lately.” Tech’s voice stated behind me.

I tensed not realizing that he followed me.

“Why do you care?” I asked without looking back.

I glanced around the room to see if I could find anything that I could use as an excuse as to why I’m in here. I spotted the laundry that I had yet to put away and decided to go with that.

“Why would I not?” He stated promptly.

I continued with my task, grabbing the small basket filled with Omega and my clothes. I placed the basket on my bed and began to fold.

“You’re not acting like yourself.” He said after a while, “Our dynamic has shifted and I don’t understand… For that I apologize.”

I froze, the red long sleeve in my hand feeling like a weight of bricks and yet he continued.

“I would like for things to… Go back to how they were before our argument.” He continued, a small gentleness laying in his voice.

The way he was pleading for our friendship had me gripping the shirt tighter then I should.

“I need time, Tech.” I spoke softly, defeat filtering in my voice.

Things will never change between us will it?

“Alright.” He conceded with a nod, “Sleep well General.”

But with time, each day I reverted more and more back to my room. The only safe haven I have had away from the new couple… Away from Tech.

Another week passed and my feelings have yet to fade… Maybe in someway it has, but not enough to ease my short temper. I knew deep down that this feeling was only heightened because I am a Jedi, but that thought didn’t ease the pain of a first love any less.

Who needs him anyway? I thought angrily, but my anger slowly morphed into longing.

I do…

“Come on General. I think it’s time for you to get out of bed.” Echo’s voice had me throwing Tooka in his direction, using the force to hit him in the face.

I was happy in that Wrecker lent me Tooka in that moment because Echo’s annoyance made it worth it. He huffed as he put the doll on a shelf.

“I like my routine.” I muttered still facing the wall of my bunk.

“Your routine consists of sleeping all day and doing night watch. You need to get back to your old routine.” Echo insisted.

“He didn’t even think it was a real date.” It was quiet as my heart ached, “It’s clear to me now that he’s never even thought about me as someone who could be more than just a friend… His General.” I spat, I was really beginning to hate that word.

“I can’t… I don’t know how to fix that.” Echo leaned against my bunk, “I don’t know how to get things back to the way they were, but I do know that the team needs you. Omega needs you.”

That one name had me slowly getting out of bed and sitting up. I shook my head as if it would get rid of the heartbreak.

“Alright.” Was all I answered.

I could see the small grin forming on his face, “I’ll leave you to freshen up. Wrecker, Omega and I will be waiting outside to spar.”

It felt like years since I washed my hair though I used the refresher a couple days ago. In some ways it was nice to get ready and even though I’m hurting, I missed my little family more.

I didn’t know if I should be relieved or hurt that Tech wasn’t here as I made my way through the ship and outside. Most likely with Phee.

“You’re up!” Omega cried out excitedly as she bounded towards me.

I barely kept her from knocking us both over as her arms wrapped around my waist in a hug.

“I’m sorry I haven’t been myself lately, but that’s going to change. I promise.” I said as I wrapped my arms around her.

She pulled away to grab my hand and drag me to her brothers, “You have nothing to be sorry about. We’re just glad your here with us now. Oh! By the way, Echo and I saw Indul while we were at the market yesterday. He asked how you and I were doing.”

“He did? What did you say?” I wondered.

“I said you weren’t feeling well. He told me when you’re feeling better to have us stop by Sol for some of those little pastry cakes.” She smiled.

“That’s nice of him, I think he’d make a good friend.” I nodded with a smile of my own, “How about this weekend, you and I stop by there yeah? We’ll have another girls day.”

“Yes!” Omega cheered.

The day slowly melted into old routines and laughs. I spent my time sparring against Echo who took it very seriously while Omega and Wrecker were being complete goofballs to our left.

“You are getting better Arc Trooper.” I complimented Echo as he used his strength to unbalance me, “I dare say even better than your days in the 501st. Rex will be proud.” I nodded.

“Thank you, General.” His smile was warm as he remembered the good old days and how far he’s come.

“When do you think Rex is going to come to visit us?” Omega asked as she swung from Wrecker’s arm.

“I think it will be soon.” I answered, “If he has time that is.”

“I hope it’s for a friendly visit and no work.” Wrecker commented.

“Have you met the captain? He’s all work. I remember the time my master and I teamed up with Master Skywalker and the 501st captain. Rex would barely even blink, straight as a board.” I joked as we all broke into a laugh.

“What’s got you all laughing?” A voice hummed from behind me.

I felt myself recoil at the approaching couple. How did I not sense them? I thought as I took a few steps towards Echo. He seemed to get the message and quickly stepped in front of me.

“Just reminiscing on some old memories.” Echo replied nonchalantly.

“Oh! That’s nice, memories can be a good thing to hold onto.” Phee answered.

“What brings you here?” Wrecker asked as Omega dropped from his arm to run over to me.

“I have some time off so brown eyes brought me here to show me what he’s been working on.” She replied, “We’re going to compare notes and try to improve his ship.”

I couldn’t help my darkening gaze to the tall clone at the mention of something we used to do together was now being shared by them.

“That use to be our thing.” I muttered, my glare never leaving his, “So much for back to the way things were before.” I scoffed.

His gaze didn’t back down from mine as if he were itching for a fight.

“I never knew it was our thing to begin with.” Tech stated with ease.

“Huh…” My voice trailed off, a defeated lilt to it.

It seems talking to him nowadays only ended up in this defeated feeling laying heavily on my chest.

“What?” He continued.

I had to bite my tongue before I cursed Omega’s brother in front of her. I chose to glare instead, but it seems that Tech always has to have the last word.

“Why are you looking at me like that?” He asked with scrutiny.

“I can look at you however I want.” I rolled my eyes, “We’re supposed friends right?”

“What did I do this time, General?” He sighed.

“Breath.” I crossed my arms.

“Well breathing is inevitable if I wish to live.” Tech stated it like it was the most obvious thing in the world, “You’ve already ignored me for a week. You said you needed time and I gave it to you. What more do you want from me?”

“What more do I want from you?” I raised my voice as I took a step towards him, “Are you kidding me right now? You just told me that our thing was never our thing to begin with. We’re supposed to be friends and that’s how you chose to spend your time when I asked for some time in return. To have a new person to compare notes with?”

His mouth opened to speak, but the words never came as Omega stepped between us.

“I have something to show you.” Omega took my hand to lead me into the small woods and away from the heated conversation that was about to explode out of preparation.

“Have fun then.” Echo said to Tech with a concerned nod, “Wrecker and I are going to continued sparring.”

I didn’t hear the rest of the conversation the further we walked.

“What do you want to show me?” I wondered.

“It’s a surprise, but I think you’ll like it.” She grinned, “This place is magical.”

It wasn’t too long before we were breaking into a small opening where a stream of water fell over some rocks into a bright blue pond.

“Omega! This is amazing! How did you find this place?” I asked in awe.

“Hunter found it for me when I told him that I wanted to see what a waterfall looked like. It’s not as big as Echo has described, but it’s still amazing.” She explained as she padded into the water.

I followed her a gave a little splash in her direction to which she squeezed with laughter and this began our water fight. By the time we were finished wading through the water, we sat side by side on the moss near the pond.

“What Tech said the other day… I’m sorry.” Omega said after a while of peaceful silence, “I thought maybe he would realize that he did like you, but I was wrong.”

“You have nothing to be sorry about, those words were shared between he and I.” I explained, “Sadly, not every romance is like a holo movie.”

“It should be.” Omega muttered, causing me to laugh.

“My master once told me that miscommunication with unrequited feelings is normal. I can’t be fault him if he doesn’t feel the same way.” I said.

My own words seemed to slap me in the face as my eyes widened. I can’t fault him if he doesn’t feel the same way. In some odd sense I felt a weight being lifted off my chest as I began to laugh.

“What’s so funny?” Omega laughed along with me.

“Love is such a silly feeling.” I wiped the tears from my eyes, “But I feel better now thanks to you Omega.”

“Thanks to me?” She asked.

“Yes.” I said as I wrapped my arms around her and pulled her into a hug.

“You will find someone.” Omega nodded to herself.

“Thank you sweetheart.” I kissed the top of her head.

“I was wondering where you two ran off to.” Hunter said as he appeared from the tree line.

“You’re back!” Omega said excitedly as she quickly pulled away from me to give her brother a hug.

“Welcome home Hunter.” I greeted him with a smile, “Hope you didn’t miss us too much.”

“You two? Always. My brothers on the other hand… Now that’s a different story.” Hunter joked as we laughed.

Hunter settled himself beside me as Omega ran back into the water.

“How have you been?” Hunter asked, his voice much lower than before.

“I’m better.” I smiled softly.

“I saw Phee back at the ship when I arrived earlier.” Hunter mentioned.

I played with the blades of grass flowing in the breeze, “I’ll admit that I haven’t been the best of company to anyone since you left, but I want to move forward with my life.”

His eyes softened, “I’m happy to hear that.”

“Yes, though every time I hear her call him brown eyes, I want to crush the ship in my hands.” I chuckled.

“I ask this because I know you can, but please don’t.” Hunter said lightening the mood as he admired her laugh.

“I won’t I promise.” I held my link out towards him.

He returned the deal as we sealed the small promise.

A calm settled over the two of us as we watched Omega chase a fish in the pond.

“Domů.” I said softly.

“What?” Hunter asked, his gaze flickering to my form.

“If I were to give a nickname it would be Domů.” I answered.

“What does that mean?” He wondered, eyebrows furrowing a bit in curiosity.

I tilted my head up, noticing the way some strands of hair seemed to blow into his face from the breeze.

“My master took us to a planet known for their beautiful culture and landscape. The people their were kind and wonderful… They used this word sacredly, maybe I will tell you one day.” I grinned as I watched his lips form into a pout.

It was then that Omega settled herself in between us, a laugh settling in her bones as she took a rest from her chase.

“I almost got him!” She said excitedly.

I pulled in for a hug, “I saw! I’m sure you will catch him next time!”

“Of course I will! I’m the best!” She boasted and i couldn’t help, but laugh.

“Oh? Someone’s getting a bit cocky, you know that is not the Jedi way. I think it’s time for…”

“No no no no!” She squealed trying to get up, but I held her in a tight hug as I began to tickle her, “I’m sorry!”

“Too late~!” I grinned.

“No!! Hunter save me!” She screamed as she laughed.

Suddenly I was grabbed, pulled towards Hunter’s side, tickling me as Omega escaped.

“Hey! You’re suppose to be my best friend!” I cried out in a laugh as he tickled my sides.

“Sorry, you know I can’t say no to her. Not even for you.” He whispered in my ear as he stopped tickling me.

“Traitor.” I stuck my tongue at him.

“Oh don’t act like you wouldn’t do the same.” He rolled his eyes teasingly as we settled back into our spots.

I looked up at Omega who was smiling at the two of us, “I would.” I said almost immediately.

She fell back on the ground between us, “Hunter can you tell us about your adventure!”

“Well…” He hummed and the two of us listened who heartedly as he shared his adventure trading cargo for Sid.

“So he tried to kill you for a bunch of transmission scraps?” I asked in disbelief.

“He didn’t know when to back down until I put my knife to his throat. The rest of the mission was successful though.”

Omega and I fell back to the moss with a laugh. I took my time to admire the sky and trees above us, grateful that a place like this could be here. I was also grateful to my family sitting beside me and the way Omega talked excitedly to her brother about what she’d been up too. It almost looked like a father who’s been away for a while and a daughter happy that he’s home.

I couldn’t help the fluttering of my eyes as my breathing mellowed out and I was finally able to get some sleep that I’ve been missing these past couple of weeks.

“She must be really tired huh?” Omega asked.

“She’s been dealing with a lot of stress. Heartbreaks are never easy.” Hunter answered as he looked down at his best friend.

“I hope I never have to go through a heartbreak.” Omega nodded at her answer.

“You will, but just like her you are strong enough to overcome it and move forward.” Hunter replied as he stood up then leaned down to pick his best friend up.

Omega watched the gentle interaction with curious eyes. She wasn’t too certain yet, but maybe she was right about there possibly being something between Hunter and their Jedi.

Omega nodded as she quickly got to her feet as well, “Yeah, let’s go!”

The trek back to the ship was calm, as the cool breeze of the evening air began to set in. He could hear his and Omega’s footsteps as the descend the ramp and into the Marauder. He could hear Wrecker’s snores and Echo humming a song in the refresher. He could hear Omega call out Goodnight as she descended the ladder to her room. He could hear the lieutenants soft breathing as she barely woke up.

Without opening her eyes she mumbled, “Take me to bed Domů.” Before finally succumbing to sleep once again as he carried her to her bunk.

But most of all he could hear the sharp intake of Tech’s breath as he watched him head to their General’s bunk.

“What are you doing?” Tech asked with a slight sharpness fo his voice.

“I’m putting her to bed.” Hunter answered quietly as he set her in her bunk.

He made sure to tuck her with the soft blanket she recently bought, a soft smile creeping onto his face as he watched her snuggle into it.

He broke out of his daze when he heard Tech’s heartbeat pick up slightly. Standing up straight, Hunter made his way out of the room and towards the front of the ship knowing that Tech would follow.

They both had something important they needed to discuss anyways.

“Why did she call you that?” Tech stated immediately.

It was obvious to Hunter that Tech knew exactly what that word meant and couldn’t have, but feel a small bit of pride swell in his chest. But Hunter also knew that his brother wasn’t able to process emotions the same way as the rest of them. He knew that for him to understand he would have to explain to him in the only way he knew.

“Sit down Tech.” Hunter motioned to the pilot chair as he took a seat in the co pilot chair.

Tech reluctantly sat down, his brows furrowed as he tried to understand what was happening.

“Tech. You are my brother and I would die for you, but sometimes you can be so dense.” Hunter sighed.

“I don’t understand? I am fully capable of-” Tech began, but was silenced by his brothers next words.

“The General had romantic feelings for you.” Hunter stated.

Tech’s brow furrowed, “I don’t…”

“Out of everyone in the galaxy, she fell for You Tech.” Hunter explained, “She asked you on that date because she had feelings for you and you rejected her, chose someone else, insulted her, and has ignored her for the better part of less than three weeks. That’s almost a month Tech.”

“Why would the General have feelings for me? That is quite impossible.” Tech adjusted his goggles, “She is worth more to the galaxy than I ever will be. I’ve never even thought about her in any way other than being friends, of her being a leader for our squad through the war… I…” Tech sighed and he leaned forward and placed his elbows on his knees, face in the palms of his hands.

“I’ve heard others at Sid’s bar ask each other on lunch dates since we’ve been here, I just assumed she meant the same thing…” Tech groaned frustratedly, “That’s why she’s been distant. I insulted our general and I hurt her feelings.”

Hunter leaned back into his seat with his arms crossed, “What are you going to do about it?”

“I’m going to-” Tech began to answer, but was cut off by Echo.

“Hey boys, I just received an incoming comm from Rex.” Echo spoke looking at his transmitter as he entered the room.

When Echo looked up he immediately notice the tension in the room, “Uh… Did I interrupt something?” He asked with a confused expression.

“No.” Hunter shook his head as he placed a hand on Tech’s shoulder, “I know you mean well Tech and deep down she knows that too, but you have some thinking to do.” He spoke gently before motioning for Echo to continue, “What does Rex need?”

“He needs our help.” Echo stated and showed the coordinates Rex sent them, “I swear the General always knows when someone is about to show up.”

“She’s a Jedi.” Tech stated, “Of course she has a sense for these things.”

“Looks like we’ve got ourselves a mission boys.” Hunter stated.

Taglist

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[talesfrommedinastation]

@eyecandyeoz once left a comment on Far Past the Ring that has haunted me for quite some time....

"JUST LET TECH FROLIC!"

I couldn't get this image out of my head, Candy!

Was frolicking allowed as part of the Grand Army of the Republic? Is frolicking a natural thing for humans? Is it like how beagles don't know how to bay until they hear another beagle bay?!

Any-diddly-hoo, as mentioned above, a vision of the old boy twirling around like a 60's era Disney cartoon has lived somewhat rent free in my head. I'm not terribly good at this type of art. But ya know who is?!

The blessed and lovely @eggdrawsthings ! Who was kind enough to make this commission for me!

A small thing, I LOVED how long he made both Tech and Sjael's legs!

Thank you again, Egg! You rock!