#he beat two jedi facing him together like it was an AFTERTHOUGHT

[blackkatmagic]

I know that you can technically cobble together explanations as to why in-universe, but I will never not be extremely annoyed that Filoni's Super Special OC beat Darth Maul in a one-on-one fight when she hadn't even finished her padawan training, and Maul was one of the best warriors in the series. Like. It's so stupid. I hate it.

[sharkbait-writes]

To say Monnk loved his missions would be a lie. But so would be saying he hated them. He enjoyed them, he really did. But like everything, there were disadvantages.

And sometimes, he was just too tired to deal with everything that came after.

Monnk made his way to his room, his heavy eyelids falling shut on their own accord too often.

Coming to a stop in front of his room, he yawned before opening it and going straight to the fresher, leaving his armor and blacks in a track.

After he finished showering and put all his stuff back, he blindly grabbed for his brush. Squinting his eyes open, he stared at himself in the mirror.

Raising his brush slowly, his hand practically fell on his head, the brush tumbling its way down the back of his head.

With a heavy sigh, Monnk lifted his hand again,

Or at least tried to.

The mission had been hard. Too long and too much destruction. All Monnk had wanted to do after finishing the mission was to fall into his bed. But that wouldn’t happen until he brushed his hair.

But he was just so tired.

Fortunately for him, his decision was taken out of his hands. Quite literally as well.

Monnk heard a knock on his door, but didn’t had any energy left except to lift his head a tiny amount and keep his eyes open.

“Monnk?”, and there came the familiar voice of his general. Just what he needed for tonight.

Quickly waking himself up, he put his brush on the sink and walked out of the fresher.

Coming face to face with Kit Fisto, Monnk saluted him, “General.”

“At ease, commander”, Fisto waved his hand in a dismissive motion, “I came to you tonight as a friend.”

Monnk stared at Fisto.

Their relationship outside of work was something Monnk still struggled to explain to his batchmates. It was different  -but not in a bad way. Monk could be just himself then, without putting his commander front up -or at least, to some margin.

He enjoyed his general’s presence. But when it was time for sleep, they always went their separate ways.

Unlike now, apparently.

“Well then. How can I help you?”, Monnk cocked his head to the side. Almost like an afterthought he added “Kit?”.

At that, Fisto smiled his blinding trademarks smile.

“I was hoping I could enjoy your presence this lovely night.”

Fisto wasn’t wrong about it being a lovely night. It was quieting down, most of the vode already asleep. However, the view was the same as always, when one is traveling at the speed of light.

Monnk raised a judgmental brow.

Fisto’s smile wavered a bit.

It never sat right with Monnk to see that smile grumbling off the handsome face. Especially when it was because of him.

But before he could say anything, his general beat him to it.

“You caught me. It was mostly a cover to make sure you are alright. I did see you getting attacked, but unfortunately couldn’t talk to you after. But I do want to spend my night with you”, he chuckled at the beginning, but quickly got serious.

His general was now staring Monnk in the eyes, expecting an answer.

Since it now was so quiet, Monnk started to feel his tiredness creep up again. But he didn’t want to say no to Fisto.

Sighing, Monnk answered, “I’m alright, Kit. I was about to head to bed, but you can still come in and talk with me for a while.”

He hoped he gave Fisto a reassuring smile, but it felt more nervous than anything else.

A that, Fisto looked concerned.

“If you say so. But please, tell me when you want me to leave.”

Monnk gave a tired chuckle. He wasn’t so sure if he would. On one hand, Fisto was still his superior and a jedi, which meant telling him to leave -or just whatever he wanted to in general- still felt weird. On the other hand, he genuinely didn’t want Kit to leave in the first place -his presence was calming.

He left the door open and walked into the fresher, hearing the door closing and quiet footsteps follow him.

The footsteps stopped and when Monnk looked in the mirror, he saw his general sitting on his bed, slightly grimacing as nothing happened to the mattress when he sat down.

Monnk chuckled.

His general’s eyes locked onto his in the mirror in a heartbeat. Big and dark, entire galaxies could be seen in them.

Feeling a blush creeping up his neck and face, Monnk gulped and teared his eyes away and focused back on his task at hand.

Right, brushing his hair.

With a heavy hand he took a hold of his brush, but instead of raising it to his head, he just stared at it.

Apparently for much longer than he assumed, as suddenly Fisto’s hands were engulfing his own and a concerned face peered down at him.

“Monnk? Are you sure you’re alright?”, Kit murmured in a quiet tone, his eyes large in worry.

“M’m. M’ j’s’ t’r’d”, Monnk’s eyes slowly fell shut, his heavy head falling to the side, only to be stopped by Fisto’s chest.

“Then it is time to go to bed. C’mon.”

Fisto already put the brush back on the sink and now held his commander’s hands in his own again, ready to lead him to his bed.

But Monnk shook his head.

“-c’mb m’ h’r f’rst”, it was rather hard to understand all the mumbling against his chest, but due to his commander’s eyes sliding over to the brush, Kit was able to decipher it.

He grabbed the brush and held it out for his commander to take, who didn’t seem to realize what was even happening anymore, if his closed eyes and half-asleep state was telling him anything through the force. There were other emotions and feelings floating in the force from his commander. Kit didn’t want to think about what they meant.

Kit shook his commander’s shoulders, but only receives a tired humming sound. When he did it again, eyes finally opened.

He showed his commander his brush with a confused look.

But Monnk only stared at it for a few seconds, then stubbornly moved his head, so his face was fully smushed against the chest of his general, eyes falling shut from the comforting and repetitive motion of a rising and falling chest.

Leaving his general with no idea what to do next.

Kit moved to the side, towards the bed, but Monnk refused to walk with him, wrapping his arms around his waist and pulling him back.

Doing anything else didn’t seem to make Monnk happy as well if the grumpy tones coming from him told him anything.

That meant only one thing to do.

Kit raised the brush and slowly started to make his way through the commander’s short hair with it. It didn’t reach his jawline, but still grew over his ears. The constant exposure to warm air and water curling his hair even more than it naturally already was.

Not that Kit minded, it has been a long time since he brushed a friend’s hair. War didn’t leave for much downtime, even with his friends around.

Apparently, it was the right call, as Monnk somehow relaxed even more against his chest.

But having short hair made for a short brushing-time and in less than a minute Kit was already putting the brush back. Even if he took as much time as appropriate, being careful and relaxing himself while doing so.

Kit then kept one arm over his commander’s shoulders, while the other held Monnk’s hand. He carefully tugged him along - making sure his commander would stay in his almost-asleep state and not wake up- where he then laid him down on his bed, tucking the covers over the sleeping commander.

Turning around to walk to the door, it caught Kit by surprise when a hand enclosed on his wrist, successfully stopping him.

Turning around, he saw Monnk peeking out from under the covers, his hand in his wrist.

“Stay”, it wasn’t a question or sleepy rambling. It was a simple request, one that Kit gladly followed.

He kneeled down next to the bed and played a little with Monnk’s hair, brushing it behind his ears.

Giving him a small smile, he whispered, “I’ll be right there”, and switched off all the lights. He then crawled his way under the blankets as well.

It seemed Monnk had gotten used to his hard and stiff mattress and thin covers. But Kit hadn’t and the blankets were too small for someone over six feet tall.

So, Kit made himself smaller, tucking himself together. Unfortunately, there wasn’t a lot of space for two people on a bed made for one, which meant that even if Kit didn’t want to, Monnk still woke up from him moving around and instantly knew why.

“You know sir, you can come closer, I don’t bite. Don’t want you to fall of the bed or freeze to death.”

A small chuckle was the only answer he got and Monnk closed his eyes again.

After an uncomfortable while, Kit decided to listen to Monnk and slid closer. While he wouldn’t be falling of the bed anytime soon, it still wasn’t safe or warm enough.

That was when Monnk, his face smushed against his pillow, moved his head slightly to the side to open an eye and glare at him.

Kit only gave an embarrassed smile.

Monk snorted and rolled his eyes, moving closer to the wall and held out an arm.

At Kit’s confused look he answered, “My vode and I cuddle all the time on these narrow beds. The only difference to you is that you’re way to kriffin tall. But we can work with that”, that was accompanied by a grin.

So, Kit moved closer and Monnk turned onto his side, curling himself together to fit under Kit’s chin. The nautolan’s arms automatically made their way around the clone’s body to hold him closer. One hand going into his hair to caress it, the other tracing the tattooed back, identical to his armor.

Monnk immediately fell asleep. But Kit couldn’t yet.

There was so much contentment in the force. The last time Kit felt that amount was around other jedis, but since he neither had a padawan nor anyone to work with often, he didn’t feel it a lot anymore. The clones had their basic shielding, but there was only so much non-force sensitives could do. With time it got a little lonely for Kit, but now. Now, with him holding Monnk in his arms, one of them asleep, the other well on their way to follow the other, it didn’t feel like that.

The only thing it felt like, was rightness.

Finally feeling warm and cozy, and not falling of the bed anytime soon, Kit fell asleep as well.

[azwriting]

The Ghosts of Truth (Forget Me Please, Kylo Ren x Fem!Reader) -Chapter Three - Part One

A/N: I’ve been so stuck in writing this, but I’ve decided to split this chapter in half because it’s been far too long since of I’ve updated! My sincere apologies and please enjoy this small chapter of pure angst. Here’s the Masterlist if you need to refresh yourselves or if you're new :)

Summary: Journeying to the Death Star wreckage, (Y/N) must confront the ghosts of the past she’s spent years running from. Meanwhile the Resistance three begin to realize the masked ally isn’t who they thought she was.

Warning(s): Angst, sad reader, 

Word Count: 2716

A scoff of disbelief echoed through the confines of the small faded mask. Of all the ships in the galaxy… The interior of the beat up old freighter had seen better days, it was worn and seedier than she remembered. The walls were discolored and overall, the ship just looked tired.

            Despite her outer appearance of feigned annoyance and mild disgust, (Y/N) felt faint. A cold sweat broke across her concealed forehead and dampened the rest of her skin. Her limbs tingled with the dull pain of numbness, leaving her immobile, and her mouth was drawn together in a pucker from the bitter taste flowing like venom on her taste buds. And she had barely set foot inside, the boarding ramp just behind her. She could not fathom taking another step further.

It was like looking at a life from long ago. No, she swallowed thickly, that was too hopeful. Her eyes flickered around, chest tight with resurfacing pain. Pain that she had tried to extinguish over the years, but to no avail. It was always there inside her and now it was awake.

“Hey, we got the landing gear in decent shape … for now. So ready when you are.” The man with the dark curly hair came around the corner. Poe, he had introduced himself as beneath the quiet winds of Endor. Grease was smudged across his one cheek and his eyebrows furrowed quickly as he took notice of the visor closed on (Y/N)’s mask. His startlement was quite easy to read. It was pleasing to witness the dawning of their realizations that she was not what they had envisioned for an ally. A Force user perhaps, but not her.

(Y/N) was no ally, she was no soldier, not anymore. She actively avoided this war, vanishing to a planet untouched since the end of the Galactic Civil War, a war she heard stories of since her youth. An old war that seemed to define the path of the future. She was determined to stay hidden, an unknown shadow in a forest riddled with remnants of old battles. This desire had almost allowed her to turn her back on the three young Resistance members, but then the melody filled her ears. The song that reminded her why she had disappeared in the first place and why she could no longer stay hidden. Nor could she avoid this fight forever, not when the Resistance stood before her at the request of their General. And as the three intruders began discussing the origin of the bird song, (Y/N) knew she needed to join them before their curiosity grew too much. If she could manage, if it was even a possibility, she would emerge from this fight with her secrets still intact.

“We’re ready.”

Gritting her teeth, (Y/N) glanced over her shoulder to glare at the young Jedi. Speaking of secrets… (Y/N) was still shaken from the memory Rey had witnessed when touching the one saber. She had observed as the events unfolded inside the young woman’s eyes and how horrified she had looked. (Y/N) knew the feeling… Still she was furious Rey had touched the saber and in turn revealed a piece of her past. A dark piece too. Worse, she resented the way Rey seemed to connect the dots, drawing together a small part of the truth.

(Y/N) had seen red when the girl voiced her awareness, the dread and sorrow dissipating from her entirely. She could barely control herself when she towered over the young woman and delivered her menacing warning. Rey knew nothing of her story, of her past. A simple glance into a nightmare of a memory did not provide total insight. And (Y/N) had intended for it to be that way, for the truth to be concealed, always.

Rey’s eyes flitted over to hers and the two women were mute, locked into each other, blind to the barrier of the mask. Rey was in shock as well, her telling eyes giving it away. Her mind frantically kept reviewing the night of the fire, replaying the words over and over again. (Y/N) could see the frightened brown eyes that had gazed so intensely down at her that night so long ago. Grimacing, she let the mask drop away from Rey, attempting to block out the image that haunted her for years. Rey’s sympathy and regret also oozed from her aura. (Y/N) did not want it.

Yet, beneath it all she could feel confusion. The girl obviously felt something, something she could not place, something between the two of them. The unsureness left Rey feeling upset and frustrated. She was… naive. Perhaps that was the wrong way to describe it, the girl was smart and resourceful, but with all that was transpiring it fashioned (Y/N) into a sullen creature who was not above being condescending.

(Y/N) was not ignorant though. She knew what the feeling was, it was something she had felt for most of her life until just before she went into hiding. It was a calling, beckoning them closer, a pure and rare connection. In the back of her mind she admitted that it was only appropriate. She knew Rey’s origin, the Force illuminating it so, and with who (Y/N) was it only made sense that the Force would connect them all. But she would offer no solace, she could not provide it, not like this, when she was drowning in anguish. And as she had so clearly stated before she was nobody’s hope, just a child of the Force, lost among the stars.

(Y/N) did not speak nor spare another glance as she turned to leave the two Resistance members in the corridor. “The main hold is just-” Poe spoke but she only raised her hand, efficiently silencing him. She knew where she was going. It was burned into her memory, leaving a scar just like everything else.

As she followed the curved path of the corridor, (Y/N) caught a glimpse of the cockpit just down the adjoining hall. Her throat tightened and a fiery ache erupted inside her at the sight, the quick movements of gold plating and dark brown fur coming from inside only added to the pain.

A day in the thick Endorian forest beneath the basking glow of the rising sun, resurfaced in her mind. (Y/N) recalled freezing in her tracks, her possessions slipping from her hands as unbearable pain bursted inside her. She had fallen to the moss covered ground, clutching roughly at her chest, tears stinging in her eyes. Through the Force she had felt pure agony, but she was uncertain if it had been the father’s or the son’s.

Tears pricked her eyes now and the ill feeling in her intensified. Stumbling forward, her legs felt twice their weight but it was an afterthought to the screaming in her head instructing her to get away. But she could not escape, not now. She was stuck on this ship, stuck with remembering.

The main hold came into view and (Y/N)’s knees gave out, dropping her into the rounded bench. The table before her used to host many games now it was just empty, abandoned. Much like the past and the future dreamt of. Her trembling elbows came to rest on the surface and she let out a breathy exhale.

Closing her eyes, she cradled her durasteel covered head in her clammy hands. It was as if she could hear the voices of the past: children running through the many halls, the motherly scolding to be careful, hiding in the smuggling compartments only for the hatch to be lifted and that familiar head of dark hair with hidden silver strands to peer down with that infamous smirk and coy laugh. That was all gone now, dead.

A shudder raked over her stiffened body. It felt as if she could not breathe, a weight pressing down on her lungs. Her dominant hand trailed down to her worn green tunic and pressed firmly against the indent of her sternum, seeking any relief to the pressure she could find.

The voices of the past seemed to louden, tumbling over each other until they turned into streams of noise, like a ship jumping into lightspeed. (Y/N) took a deep breath and mentally scolded herself. She needed to regain her control, she needed to focus on the task at hand so she could return to Endor as soon as possible. She already missed the lush greenery and the fresh air, the air she could breathe in, where the reminders of the past were not so painful. But it was not so easy, the noise would not quiet, and the torment would not subside.

This was looking death in the eyes.

“We’ll be your new home, if you’d like.”

“Found ya, kids. You know you two would make good smugglers one day.” “Han!”

“I’m not scared of you. I’m not B-”

A presence entered the area, pulling (Y/N) out from the labyrinth she had been lost in. She was unsure how long had passed, the snare in her mind too difficult to escape. The weakness growing inside allowed for all of this to slip past the barricades she had built. (Y/N) was almost glad for the interruption as it prevented the worst from slipping through. The very thing she had entombed deep within herself. The monster that would drown her.

She did not lift her head nor spare any acknowledgement to indicate she knew of the other person here. She did not want to be asked any more questions, not from her. The inquisitive girl was awfully quiet though���

From the corner of her eye, (Y/N) caught sight of Rey, who stood motionless on the other side of the small room. Her eyes were glazed over with rumination and almost entirely unfocused as she stared in (Y/N)’s direction. What was she seeking out?

Rey blinked returning from her deep trance with a look of somber falling onto her face. She looked down, seeming to be conversing with herself inwardly. Her hands danced around at her sides like she was playing an invisible instrument, it made (Y/N) anxious. It seemed as if the girl was debating over whether or not to say something. Rey’s fingers suddenly flexed outwards, reflecting the decision she had come to. Rey took a small step forward, lips parting to speak. (Y/N) winced in preparation.

“I can feel the turmoil inside you, the pain in remembering.” Her words struck a small match inside a dark hidden corner of (Y/N)’s mind. The giddy laughter of a boy playing in a meadow flashed across her mind. It was gone in a second, like a match dying out, but it had left its mark. (Y/N) staggered up, ignoring the dull ache that spread up her leg as she hit it against the round table. She could not breathe, could not find the strength to beg Rey to stop before she continued to harm her.

“I felt your fear on Endor.” Children, a boy and a girl, sat beneath the sinking sun imitating the call of the birds sorrowing above. A gasp tumbled out of (Y/N)’s quivering lips, her head furiously shaking and demanding for the brunette to stop.

“You must have hope…” A grand ball, swirls of gowns, and shared timid glances. Her hands flew to the sides of the helmet as if she could block out Rey’s voice and the misery that followed.

“Hope for this war…” Fire consumed the large divine structure of a temple. Closing her eyes (Y/N) whimpered, pressing a hand to her abdomen. She felt dizzy, her surroundings spinning as her mind did.

“Hope for him.” (Y/N)’s head shot up, her eyes snapping open. The words were barely audible as they escaped Rey, almost as if she knew how dangerous it would be to utter them. And indeed they were…

“No.” (Y/N) choked out desperately trying to suppress what memories were being illuminated by the match, but it was too late, the damage was done. The monster was free. Hair as dark as night, soft pleading eyes filled with sadness and adoration. Sweet words and caresses, comfort sought out beneath the starry sky, bright smiles by the glistening lake.

The main hold began to tremble, durasteel creaking as her hands curled into tight fists. Her vision transformed into the red hot fury it had on Endor when the girl had spoken of the memory. Anger coursed through her veins, her connection to the Force strengthening, and (Y/N) fixated on the foolish girl, ready to unleash.

“Hope?” She spit out in disgust. “I held out hope for so long,” (Y/N) took menacing steps forward as Rey retreated slowly. A hand outstretched, willing something roughly into its grasp. “Look where it’s gotten me!”

Before Rey had a moment to absorb the resentment in (Y/N)’s voice or question what she truly meant by her words, a beam of indigo illuminated the room. Lunging forward, (Y/N) hovered the blade of light an inch above Rey’s throat.

The naive Resistance member knew nothing of her, of where she came from, of what she faced, of who she truly was… No one did. And yet, Rey felt she could tell her to have hope. (Y/N) would have laughed if she could have. Hope was the reason she had ended up on Endor, hidden and carrying the burden of lies and death. Hope was for children.

Glaring down at the young woman, (Y/N) could feel the Force surrounding them blaze to life with such an intensity that she was forced to suck in a harsh breath. The vivacious current penetrated her and flowed through Rey as well, blindly connecting through energy, through life. It was overpowering to the senses but (Y/N) already felt numb. Nonetheless she drank in the feeling of connection. It reminded her of the whole and pure feeling she had felt her whole life before it had been torn from her soul, leaving a hollow ache that never faded.

Realization dawned upon her in the midst of all this and (Y/N) focused on Rey. Fear pooled in the hazel irises of the girl, mirroring the fearful brown eyes that had pleaded to her the night of the fire. Rey was the reason the barricades that protected her were crumbling down. She was why the memory of him was resurfacing. The reason why (Y/N) was crumbling down too.

“You’re no Jedi.” Rey breathed out, eyes cautiously flickering between the ignited lightsaber tightly grasped in (Y/N)’s dominant hand and the closed visor of the mask. A position she had found herself in for the second time that day.

Her words took (Y/N) by surprise, but she was not wrong. She could read Rey’s inner thoughts of confusion, the inability to fully understand the duality she felt surrounding (Y/N)’s aura. It was unlike anything Rey had felt and yet the girl’s mind knew the importance of it. Fear began to dissipate from Rey’s eyes instead being replaced by curiosity. But that was enough to douse (Y/N)’s temper. 

Curiosity was worse.

With a soft whoosh her lightsaber was turned off and sheathed back onto her worn leather belt. “No, I’m not.” Her voice was lower, but still taut. (Y/N) took a weak step backwards and only then did the last match flare up. “You and I were written in the stars, brought together by the Force.”

The rich voice echoed across her mind and (Y/N) had to bite her bottom lip to contain the sob threatening to rip through her. Oh how far life had strayed from those evenings in the meadow underneath the sky and the breathtaking colors of dusk. How far they had strayed from the ways of the Jedi. How far they had strayed from such an intertwined destiny. But it was the only way… to be shrouded in lies and deception.

“The Jedi are dead.” With that (Y/N) turned swiftly, exiting the main hold.

Taglist: 

@2heures​, @thephantomwriter​, @thefandomzoneisdangerous​, @carol-chann​, @gambitsqueen​, @pancakefancake​, @zaneholtzwrites​, @moonmama03, @siren-queen03​, @dixonsbugaboo​, @keithseabrook27​, @gentlymilo, @vampgguk​, @kalzzel​, @robindoesntloveme​, @dark-night-sky-99​, @cheeryara, 

[brothers-all]

Aru'e Tio'r (Enemy Within)

*insane laughter* Guess who managed to crawl to this chapter? Hahaha... I need sleep...

Now, this one is early because I'm crazy, but please, don't expect fast updates here. These chapters take a lot of work and polish and I need a breather every now and then. Still, I'll try my best! Read, review and enjoy~

Chapter 2

When they finally stopped, the men didn't even care why. They took the break in moving as best they could, and for once, Krell wasn't breathing down their necks about it.

"We're close to the enemy now. A good place to make an attack," Appo informed, using his macrobinoculars to see through the shadows.

"Right. We'll set up a perimeter through the line there," Rex pointed to the small hills and piles of earth. "Should keep us out of sight, but provide easy access to the road."

"Who'll lead the first strike?" the Sergeant asked, looking at the blonde.

"Fives. He'll take the heavy cannons and clear the path," the Captain nodded to the ARC on the edge of the road.

"And then we follow up from the side and behind. I remember General Skywalker's plan," Appo grinned as the Captain nodded.

"Yeah, I just need to tell General Krell…" Rex's tone dropped slightly and the Sergeant's let out a breath.

"It's a good plan, even he needs to see that."

"Yeah, let's hope he does…"

"Sir," Rex said as he walked towards the Besalisk. He kept in mind to 'be at attention' as he did so, hoping they were past the rough parts now. "We're ready to bring our forward platoons in for a surgical strike on the city's defenses," he stopped in front of the Jedi, looking up and keeping his expression passive.

"There won't be any need Captain," Krell said, one arm motioning through the air. The blonde tried not to react to the fate the Force user finally used his rank, not his number. Maybe they were finally going to be able to get along. However, the small bit of hope was diminished when Rex processed what he said.

"Sir?" why wouldn't there be any need? It was a plan. Did the General have his own? And if so, why didn't he say anything?

"All platoons will execute a forward assault along the main route the city," Pong said, moving past the soldier and motioning to the road.

"But, sir," Rex forced himself to speak respectfully, even if he found the idea insane. "General Skywalker's plan was to surprise them with multiple attacks," Rex said, walking around the Jedi as he did before, never looking away. "If we come from the main route they're likely to engage in a full-frontal assault!" he explained as clearly as he could, that that idea, would get many of them killed. But Krell simply looked away.

"Change of plans Captain. I'm in command now," came the blatant answer and Rex looked in disbelieve for a second or two. Is this for real?

"With all due respect, General, we don't know what we are up against," the Captain walked closer, looking up again and hoping the Besalisk would reconsider. "It might be wiser to think first-," he didn't even get finish as Krell snapped to him, lowering himself to be able to look the soldier in the eyes.

"Are you questioning my order?" he accused, eyes wide and furious. He straightened back soon enough, bringing up a holo-map. "This battalion will take the main road straight to the capital," he turned the map so the Captain could have a clear view of it.

"You will not stop and you will not turn back regardless of the resistance you meet," he said, no, ordered, closing the map. "We will attack them with all our troops, not some sneak attack with a few men. That is my order, and you will follow it explicitly," his tone rose as he pointed at the blonde again.

"Do I make myself clear, CT – 7567?" he leaned closer again, face inches away from Rex's and the man had to lean back. The Besalisk clearly didn't want to and wasn't going to listen to anything he had to say. The fact he continued to use his number, just further showed he didn't care of his rank.

"Yes, General," he looked at the ground, accepting defeat. There was no point in arguing. And if he and the General started yelling at each other, then the men would lose faith as well. And that's the last thing they need right now. Good soldiers, need to follow orders…

"Now engage!" came the final order and Rex instinctively gave a quick salute, walking away from the Jedi. But as he passed him, the Captain gave a quick glare from the corner of his eye, feeling his anger spike. Keep calm… Deep breathes… He had to remain calm and collect or there are going to be severe casualties. Just in case any emotion escaped him however, he quickly put on his helmet.

Fives was staring off into the woods, waiting like the rest for orders. The break was much welcomed and most of the boys managed to find some spot to relax. The medics finally got a breather and took care of themselves and the shinies could regain their ground. He saw Tup and Dogma chatting, Hardcase, Nitro and Bombs sitting down on some rocks and Kix, Patch and Scar looking out for each other. It, sort of reminded him of the good old days…

"What're you brooding about?" the sudden voice almost made him jump, but the ARC only snapped his head in the direction from where it came. Jesse stood there, bucket under his arm and a grin on his face as he walked closer.

"Nothing," came the stoic reply from the ARC as he looked back into the forest.

"Right, sure…" the bald soldier gave him a knowing look, following his gaze, before plopping himself down on the ground near him. "You should enjoy the break while you can. I'm sure once Krell gets us moving again, there won't be another one for a while."

"Then why are you here?" Fives just wasn't in the mood for this right now.

"…" Jesse didn't speak, and when the ARC looked down to see if the man was even still there, he saw him gazing into one of those red plants. But before Fives had a chance to speak up, the bald man beat him to it.

"Each of us has a story you know," Jesse didn't look back, but he took in a deep breath. "Each one of us has a reason for why we're like as we are…"

The ARC felt like there was a lesson somewhere in there, but his annoyance at previous events kept him from seeing it. And since Jesse clearly wasn't going to just, give up and leave, he didn't see another choice.

"And I'm guessing you know those stories," he let out a deep breath and sat down a bit away from the already sitting man.

"No, just three," Jesse turned to him, a small smile on his face. "Although they're actually one, if you think about it…" he mused, rubbing his chin in thought.

"Really now?" Fives knew who that was aimed at, but still played along. Maybe it'll help him release some of the stress.

"Back when we first joined the army, there were two more brothers with us," Jesse started off, sparing a glance at Kix and Hardcase. "Spots and Oberon," he added almost like an afterthought, looking back at the forest.

"…I'm sorry," Fives knew that those two weren't around anymore, otherwise they'd be here right now. And he's seen that expression before. In the mirror…

"You know Hardcase's whole thing about symmetrical armor? And the fact the tattoo over his eye kinda gets in the way?"

"Yeah, but I didn't think there was much reason for it. Other than aesthetics I guess…"

"Haha, fair enough. But it's actually because of Spots. He and Hardcase were… well, like real brothers so to say. They wanted to be considered twins even, though they weren't those tubmates," Jesse turned back to face the ARC, who in turn let out a small chuckle.

"Spots and Hardcase wanted some way to be seen like that, you know? Like they'd always be brothers. Add the fact they were mostly inseparable, and you got each of them painting only half of their armor, with the other having the other half."

"So, they each had some pieces colored and then only together you get the whole pattern?" Fives was actually impressed by the idea. He hasn't heard something like that before.

"Bingo. Spots had the same tattoo over his eye, but on the other side. You know, the symmetrical side that's missing," Jesse pointed at his left eye.

"What happened to him?" Fives grew interested before he could even realize he did so. Maybe he really did need this.

"…That, kinda ties in with Oberon…" Jesse's eyes dropped slightly and he let out a deep breath. "So, to know the full story, you need to know about Oberon."

"…" Fives remained silent, seeing the other man was collecting his thoughts and how to best explain it all.

"Ober was the original medic in our squad. Kix was, interested, but Ober was the one already working on becoming one. He was that older-brother type, ya know? Hardcase and Spots would drive him up the wall, but he'd always be cool about it…" the bald man gave a weak smile as his eyes seemed distant. "And we lost both of them on the same day…"

"I'm sorry," the ARC said instinctively, knowing how that can feel. He lost Heavy, Cutup and Droid Bait in a matter of hours.

"Spots got infected by some… unknown virus. Hardcase, Kix and I were off fighting when Oberon said he could help the man. Problem was, the virus was highly contagious, so Ober quarantined a small medical tent where he could work in peace… But he wasn't fast enough… The virus killed Spots and infected Ober. It's around then that the rest came back because things were getting weird. No other medic was allowed to go near," Jesse clenched his fists and shut his eyes, jaw locked. He needed a second before he managed to relax his muscles and go on. Fives just didn't have the heart to speak up yet.

"When Ober found out he won't be able to save Spots, and that he was infected as well, he couldn't let it get out," he paused, biting his inner cheek. "We still don't know what he used exactly, but the whole tent, a ten-meter radius and those two as well, were blown up."

Fives opened his eyes and mouth wide, looking in shock, then horror and finally sadness. He couldn't even speak at hearing that.

"Their bodies were only recovered when the fire died down, an hour later… They were hardly recognizable… But," Jesse choked on air and needed to swallow to calm himself. "At least they went out together… and they kept the rest of us safe. The virus didn't get out to infect any more of us…" he hung his head, fingers poking the dirt under him. "After that, Kix swore to be the best medic he could, to honor Oberon and make sure something like that doesn't happen again. And Hardcase… he finished the pattern of his armor, but never had the heart to finish the face tattoo… Maybe he thought that, if he did finish it, it would mean Spots never existed in the first place…"

Fives still hasn't found his voice, but he finally understood what Jesse was getting at. He wasn't the only one to have lost a dear brother – or more than one at that – due to this war. And yet, he was the one who still acted so bitter about it. Kix and Hardcase both did something for their brothers' memories. What has he done?

"Just because you lost Echo, doesn't mean you can go around, trying to join him so quickly," the words came back to him and he let out a deep sigh.

"What did you take from them then?" the ARC asked, just needing something to fill the silence.

"Personalities, I guess. Also, don't tell Kix or Hardcase I said anything," he actually looked slightly panicked at that bit.

"Haha, no worries. Your secrets are safe with me," Fives lightly elbowed him in the shoulder.

"Thanks, you're a life savior," the bald man rubbed the spot.

"Thank you, Jesse, for telling me," Fives nodded at the man.

"Anytime brother," Jesse lightly shoved him back in the shoulder.

He sat in the transport ship, arms folded and a frown on his face. The pilots were waiting for him when he got back to the Resolute, and he made sure to give Ahsoka some extra instructions. And yet, he still felt like there was something… wrong.

"Something troubling you, sir?" he looked up, slightly startled by the sudden call. Commander Thorn sat across him, helmet on and voice impassive. The Chancellor had sent them for pickup, just to assure Skywalker would arrive safely.

"I feel like I'm abandoning my men…" Anakin admitted, looking down. "I should be with them, fighting on the front lines…"

"…" Thorn was silent and the Jedi figured he was just asking to break the silence or something. But then, the Commander spoke up.

"We don't see much action, back on Coruscant," the soldier took of his helmet, showing he kept the same hair as his brothers, yet there was a scar from the left edge of his mouth to the edge of his left eye. Looked painful and probably done with a vibroblade.

"But we hear a lot about our brothers out there," he continued, eyes steady as he watched the General. "And we've heard a great many things about the 501st. About their skills, their abilities, commands… All of it. In fact, most of us are envious," a small smile came to his face and Skywalker mirrored the expression. "The Legendary men in Blue," he added, almost like an afterthought. "From the battle of Geonosis, to Christophsis and even to the Citadel. Feats most would think impossible. And yet, you did it. All of them."

"But nothing without sacrifice…" Anakin couldn't stop himself, biting his lip as he recalled the many deaths that occurred on each of those battlefields. So many dead…

"But you still succeeded. And this time, even with a different General, the 501st will do it again."

"You sound very sure of that," the Jedi looked up, seeing the amused expression of the solder.

"The only thing us Guards can have for our brothers out there, is faith," the Commander's words made Skywalker pause and wonder. It felt strange, speaking to a clone who hasn't seen so much battle as his own men. But then again, it must be hard for the Coruscant Guards as well, watching their brothers walk into battle, into death.

"Hah," a humorless chuckle escaped him. "If you can have such faith, then I better as well."

"I'm sure you'll be back with them soon sir," Thorn gave an assuring nod.

"Captain?" Appo felt a chill up his spine when Rex walked closer. The man's body language was just… wrong, compared to how it was before.

"New plan," Rex's voice was stiff and hard, like he was forcing himself to speak. "All platoons will move in through the main route."

"…I take it Krell didn't care for General Skywalker's plan?" the Sergeant kept himself from sighing.

"He did not," the blonde hasn't even looked at him since he came closer.

"I know you did what you could," Appo gazed towards the road ahead. This wasn't going to be pretty…

"Tell that to all the men we're about to lose," the Captain said, and honestly, Appo couldn't argue. There was no way all of them would survive this assault. But they had orders.

"I'll get the men prepped."

"Thanks."

"…And Rex?" the Sergeant paused before turning. "None of this is your fault."

"Ahaha," a broken and humorless laugh came from the man. "I wish I could say that…"

The men readied themselves, their movements stiff and hard. When the Captain passed them, they gave him a simple glance if even that and Rex couldn't blame them. Many were just wondering if they would be the ones dying this time, or maybe their closest brother. Fives was waiting by the edge, staring off into the shadows of the path ahead. When the blonde stepped by his side, he didn't react at first, before tilting his head to be able to see the older man.

"The men are ready," the Captain said, eyes glued to the lights on the road. Like rails to death or a highway to hell… Just inviting them to walk over.

"Where's the General?" the ARC asked, following the blonde's gaze.

"Back with Appo – top of the ridge."

"…" Fives barely kept himself from saying something again. This wasn't the time.

"We should get ready. You and I are taking point," Rex said, finally turning to the younger man. "If we do die, we should be the first."

"We won't die. We've done harder and gotten out alive."

"…" there was a small silence around them as the boys behind them readied themselves. They both knew they were kidding themselves, but what else did they have?

"Let's move out."

They walked silently, eyes open and ears peaked. With Fives and Rex at point, the others followed bravely behind, but they were skittish. No information about what they were up against, the terrain was against them and the Umbarans had a clear path for an ambush. But still, they moved on.

"So, why aren't we sticking to the original plan and probing the city defenses first?" Tup had asked, looking between his older brothers. Not everyone knew of the changes.

"We can do this, let's take 'em!" Hardcase assured, sounding far too eager for all of this.

"Yeah, leave it to Hardcase to dive in head first," Jesse joked, hoping to ease off some of the tension around. Anything to help them cope right now.

"The General's new plan is reckless!" Fives complained, he knew he couldn't be the only one who saw that. But he was apparently the only one who spoke up about it.

"You ever think that maybe the General knows what he is doing?" Dogma actually spoke up, almost sounding offended. And he was defending him? Rex is one thing – he's a Captain, he has to give the man in charge the benefit of the doubt. But they didn't.

"I know you think, this is bad idea," Fives ignored the rookie and walked closer to Rex. He was trying to get him to at least admit it. Because so far, he's only been keeping it to himself.

"I raised my objection to General Krell's plan, but he didn't agree," Rex said in short, voice wavering slightly there. "So, this is it," it sounded like he wanted to tell himself that as well.

"But what if he's wrong? Then what?" Fives kept pushing, because the last time they talked about this, things didn't go so well.

"This isn't the time for a debate. Right now, we need to stay alert," Rex brushed him off, as before, though he sounded more urgent this time around. And Fives saw that, yes, this wasn't the best place. He was just getting really frustrated with this whole thing and Rex seeming just trying to ignore it all.

"Eh… It's too quite out there," Tup was still fresh, and that kept him more vigilant than the rest. And although they heard and agreed with him, they continued. So far so good though.

And not a minute later, everything went to hell.

They all knew they had to keep their eyes open for any traps and ambushes. But they just weren't prepared enough for what the Umbarans threw at them. When Oz moved and blew up, it was just a second too late to keep Ringo from following suit. The rest stopped, with Rex even calling out: "Nobody move!" The soldiers dropped down, anxious and tense as they waited for the ruble to stop and the smoke to clear. There was no telling what other surprise might be waiting for them.

When it finally did clear, the Captain was the first to stand, pointing at the fallen men with a silent command. Zed and Niner – the closest two – moved to inspect, but they weren't sure what to expect.

"Oz is down."

"So is Ringo."

Two men down. Could have been worse, given they're walking on mines. But should have been better. Should have been prepared. But they couldn't think about that now.

"Can you sweep 'em?" Rex turned to Fives, knowing the ARC had some gear to help him with his special missions.

Fives moved forwards, using a Sweeper Gun as they called it. It sensed the electronic lengths of bombs, made almost for tasks like these. As he moved, he marked each one he spotted in his mind, before moving along.

"There're more over here," he informed, keeping the sweeper on it. "Looks like the whole road's been booby-trapped," he added, easily seeing a few more along the way. "Everyone watch your step," he led the way, knowing the others would follow in his movements or avoid the ones he avoided. And it was only a few seconds later, that things went from bad, to worse.

Something smacked behind them into the road, creating a small crater. The men instantly turned but the Umbarans were already coming at them, weapons raised and firing. The soldiers collected themselves quickly and started fighting back but-

"We're completely exposed!" Tup called over the blaster fire, shooting the nearest enemy he could.

"Hold your ground!" Rex ordered, using his dual blasters. They had orders – they had to follow them. They could do this. They had to.

"You want a piece of this?!" Hardcase spun around with his cannon, mowing down the enemies. He was just happy for some action.

And then another one of those weird blasts came. It was a glowing sphere of energy and it took down three of the soldiers instantly.

"I think Hardcase made them mad," Jesse still found some way to joke about it, even if it was more to keep himself sane than anything else.

The Umbarans proceeded to come at the soldiers more closely, but that was a mistake. All clones had hand-to-hand combat back on Kamino, so they could handle themselves fine. Besides, the Umbarans weren't that strong. Tup managed to throw one down and shot him in the helmet, releasing the gas inside. Another one of those energy balls flew in and took down a walker, with Zigger on it.

"We're blown!" Vor called, seeing they weren't getting anywhere. Brothers were falling all around and the enemy wasn't backing off.

"The Umbarans are advancing!" Fives called as he blasted two of them in rapid succession. They haven't gained any ground at all.

"Make 'em eat heat!" Hardcase was still blasting, killing a wave of them as they tried to get in closer.

Rex was clearing the area around him as best he could, while trying to figure out what to do. Which way to go. The enemy gave him something to focus on, other than the pained cries of his fallen brothers.

Fives wasn't far away from him, when an Umbaran jumped down next to ARC, engaging in hand-to-hand. This one was better at it than the others – but still not good enough. Fives got him on the ground and smashed his elbow into the Umbaran's helmet, cracking it and releasing the gas inside. The native started franticly speaking something along the lines of: "Not my helmet, not my helmet!" Clearly they need the gas to survive. Fives hesitated for a second – make them suffer a painful death – before shooting the poor soul out of his misery. It's more than they deserve.

Rex rolled past him, blasting at his own opponents as more and more Umbarans came running at them from all around. They've already lost ground, men and energy. They couldn't do this much longer.

"They're coming from all directions!" Dogma sounded scared as he said, looking towards anyone who would give an order.

"We don't have any cover!" Fives hissed, blasting more enemies as they tried to get the jump on him.

"We need to pull back. Get them to follow us. If we can draw them out, we can see them!" Rex finally had an idea, now if only they could make it work!

"If we can see them we can hit them!" Jesse caught up quickly, slowly backing away from the woods.

"All squads! Pull back now!" the Captain ordered and the men followed. Not everyone even knew why, but they didn't care – they were getting away from this spot of death and that's all that mattered.

"This can't be good," Tup muttered to himself, worried what was going on. He wasn't able to hear what the Captain said, but he followed suit.

As they were retreating, the Umbarans pressed on to attack. More of those balls of light came crashing down and those who could, tried to avoid them. Others got blasted. But still, the soldiers managed to return some of the fire.

Appo was watching them from the far, holding his breath and hoping they would all make it. The retreat was a good idea, but the General probably wasn't going to like. What else were they supposed to do? Stay there and die?

"Fable minded fools," Krell said behind him and Appo lowered his macrobinoculars to look at him. What would he do now?

"Get in there and save their necks!" the order came as a surprise, but none of them even hesitated. Didn't even wonder, didn't question. Krell gave them an option to save their brothers – they sure as hell weren't going to waste it.

"Get ready, here they come!" Fives jumped over the terrain, seeing reinforcements coming. It made breathing easier, but he had to remind himself the battle wasn't over yet. However, the odds have turned in their favor, and they could fight back again.

They made a line, blasting the enemy and forcing them to pause. Everyone who could, stood their ground and fired – they had to get them off their shebs.

"Stand back and hit 'em with everything you've got!" Rex advised, figuring if they kept a distance, those balls of light couldn't reach them. And soon enough, the Umbarans started retreating, going back into their shadows.

"Hahah! Where're you goin'? Get back here!" Hardcase laughed, tempted to follow them but managed to hold himself back. He was just starting to enjoy it!

"They're pulling back!" Fives called, relived, but things weren't going get any better. General Krell was walking towards them, and he wasn't looking happy.

"CT – 7567," the Jedi started off, heading directly towards the Captain and even shoving into the ARC who was just catching his breath. "Do you have a malfunction in your design?" Rex put away his weapons, preparing himself. He figured this would happen when he gave the order. But what exactly, he couldn't even really imagine. Still, he'll take it. Anything is worth saving the lives of his men. "You pulled your forces back from taking the capital city! The enemy now has control of this route! This entire operation has been compromised, because of your failure!" Pong poked him with his finger, his strength great enough to actually shove the small man, forcing him a few steps back. Rex wasn't about to argue – they'd be no point. But then-

"General Krell," Fives spoke up and the Captain could see the shock and anger in the Jedi's eyes. How Fives must have the audacity to even speak to him, must have been what the Jedi was thinking about in that moment.

"In case you haven't noticed, Captain Rex just saved this platoon!" the ARC went on and the blonde felt a shiver up his spine as Krell slowly and slightly turned towards Fives. "Surely you won't fail, to recognize that!" Fives almost hissed the words and Rex's fingers twitched when the Jedi turned fully to his brother. This wasn't going to end well.

"ARC – 5555," Krell started so calmly, that even Fives was stunned. And then, he activated his lightsaber, moving it closer to the ARC – hell, inches away from his head. The soldiers around held their breath and had their eyes wide open. What the fuck was going on?

"Stand down," Pong still spoke calmly, but there was a layer of malice under it as Fives looked from the weapon of death to the one wielding it and swallowed inwardly. He's never been this close to the lightsaber before. It was… terrifying.

"Sir, yes sir," Fives said slowly, looking back at the weapon inches from his head. That was more fear and instinct than his own mind, but if that's what saved him from decapitation, so be it. Things just got a lot more horrible. He looked back up, giving a glare from under his bucket, knowing the Ojamo wouldn't see it, before moving away and letting Rex speak. Still, the near-death experience made him move stiffly and numbly.

"Sir," Rex walked over, managing to regain himself after the initial shock. He was afraid Fives would say something more and get himself killed, but luckily, that didn't happen. Now he just had to deal with a very pissed off Jedi.

"If I may address your accusation," he started, but saw the Besalisk was still eyeing the ARC as he moved. Almost… studying. "I followed your orders, even in the face of a plan, that was in my opinion, severely flawed," he said, but Krell wasn't looking at him. Hell, probably wasn't even paying attention to what he was talking about!

"A plan that cost us men," his frustration was showing as he took of his helmet, revealing his pent up anger in his eyes and expression. "Not clones, men!" he glared and frowned, sick of the way the General was treating them. He's heard about and seen it before – clones weren't real people. They were tools. But they weren't! He wasn't going to let it be like that!

And finally, Pong looked at him, expression impassive, but his eyes showed he was thinking about something, maybe even considering his words. The Captain took the opportunity of attention, calming himself, before speaking again.

"As sure as it is my duty, to remain loyal to your command, I also have another duty to protect those men," he pointed at the gathered soldiers and Krell followed his motion, his expression… considerate. Maybe, just maybe, he'd finally understand.

"You have a spark of tenacity Captain," the Jedi said after a few seconds of silence, deactivating his lightsaber, eyes still on the gathered men. "I'll give you that," he turned to the blonde and Rex sighed in relief inwardly. Captain. Finally, using his rank. And he sounded… almost apologetic. Guess that's the best they're going to get.

"I know I don't command like the Jedi you're used to serving," the General spoke, looking awfully bored as he did so. "Certainly not like General Skywalker," to the men, there was a hidden insult under those words, but they did well to not show their anger. "But I have my way. It may be difficult, but these are difficult times. And it's proven effective," he sounded so self-righteous and important, as if that was the only way to go about things.

"I suppose your loyalty to your men is to be commended," that wasn't something they expected to hear, but Rex took it anyway. "They seem to admire this. That's important to an effective commander," that came off strongly analytical, but they figured it was just the past few minutes of battle, still keeping them on edge and paranoid.

"Alright Captain Rex, your opinion has been noted," the soldiers behind Krell exchanged a surprised glance, with Rex barely keeping his shock from showing. Fives did so freely under his bucket however. That's… a lot of change in both manner of speaking, way of addressing and attitude in one sentence compared to before. And although they really wished they could take it just as simply as that, none of them particularly felt good about it.

"Dismissed," Krell finished off before turning and leaving the men.

"I think he almost complimented you," Fives stepped closer when he was sure the Jedi was out of hearing range. That really was something.

"Ah, it's hard to tell," Rex sighed, the annoyed and angered look still dwelling on his face.

"Incoming!" Hardcase suddenly yelled, moments before another ball of light crashed near their current position. And soon after, enemy fire accompanied it as well. The men were still exhausted from the previous battle and the shock of what happened, so they weren't prepared at all for the attack.

"The Umbrans must have regrouped for a counter attack," Fives grumbled as he and Rex readied themselves for another wave.

"Everyone, we must hold this position!" the Captain ordered as the men moved, ready to face the enemy again.

"You think General Krell still intends to take the capital using this strategy?" Fives voiced his concern, in a calmer way than before. He still hasn't fully processed the fact the Ojamo almost sliced his head off.

"I don't know," Rex said blatantly, almost giving a shrug. "I'll get back to you on that one if we survive this battle," ah now that was the cynical and sarcastic Rex of the old times. He always did sound like a tired old man when speaking that way.

"If we don't then maybe he'll be forced to find a new strategy," Fives chipped in with his one bit of humor and could almost hear the blonde snort.

"I'd love to see that actually," Rex was smiling under his bucket. Things have cooled down now, and a lot of the tension was gone. Things might turn for the better yet.

"Hah, then we better make it back!"

He listened to the carnage behind him as he walked away, hands behind his back. He was deep in thought of recent events with the clones and a frown came to his face as he thought back on the ARC trooper.

"Brave or stupid…" he thought, looking at the ground. "But very outspoken… The others respect him," he could gather that much from the Force. A near-death experience like that revealed everyone's true feelings and he could sense the clones. The ARC himself was terrified, yet resolute. The Captain was similar, yet anger and hate were quickly behind. The rest were fearful but prepared to fight him. Fight a Jedi… Ha! These clones really must care for each other that much.

"I can use that," he looked up, at the shadowy sky and grinned. "The Captain as well… Their loyalty will be their downfall." He honestly thought that the Captain would be less of a bother, given how quickly he agreed to his orders and the defeated pulse around him in the Force. But it seems that was not the case. He'd need to keep a closer eye on those two from now on. They were likely the first to turn against him, should anything happen. But he can't have things end just yet – if the clones die so soon, other Jedi would rush to help. Can't have that…

"Time and patience… They'll break eventually."

Cut! So, yeah, we're slowly getting somewhere. Also, please keep in mind that this is all based on my personal ideas and views *cough* backstories *cough* and hope you can respect that. Thank you! I honestly have no idea when the next chapter will roll around, but I hope to see you all there when it does! Anyway, hope you enjoyed and thanks for reading! Consider reviewing? That really makes me want to writer faster and better! Till next time~