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lost-in-fiction-like-ur-mom · 7 months ago

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Does the End Justify the Means?

CX-2 (Clone Assassin) x Reader

Summary- CX-2 never planned on forming a relationship, but once he did he had to protect it. Even if it meant killing hundreds to keep you away from Hemlock.

A/N- SPOILERS FOR THE BAD BATCH FINALE. I feel like people forget that deep down, CX-2 is still a clone being forced to serve the Empire. Maybe I'm delusional though!!! MENTIONS OF BURNS AND TORTURE!!

Word Count- 5,253

"You know, CX-2. There was once a time where I considered scrapping you. The very cloning program that made you..." Hemlock started. "You were hard to control. My methods had little effect on you. Considering you had little to live for, well that didn't help."

CX-2 stood, arms crossed behind his back. He listened intently, staring at the grey border of the wall.

"You were too, hmm. Rebellious should I say?" He walked slow circles around CX-2, studying him. "That was until I found your little secret out." Hemlock laughed at his own wit. "Who knew a medic trainee would have an Assassin Clone falling so hard!" He seemed to think the situation was hilarious.

Silent, CX-2 contemplated killing Hemlock where he stood. It wasn't possible though, he was smarter than that. He probably had a weapon on his beloved as they spoke. Perhaps Scorch was with her now...

He didn't want to think about it, so he didn't. Opting to stare back at the wall again.

"Truly, I created you better than that. The problem with you clones is your loyalty. It would typically disgust me. Though, unlucky for you, this all plays out in my favor." CX-2 swallowed hard at his words.

There were not many things that scared CX-2, but the thought of Hemlock hurting you consumed him. Striking him with a never ending fear.

"You will bring me Omega. Unless, you want an accident to happen. That would be tragic, wouldn't it?" The man asked, taunting the clone. All while fiddling with his gloved hand.

For the first time in many minutes, CX-2 spoke. "I will retrieve the girl."

"Good, I do not doubt your abilities." Hemlock stepped closer, right in The Assassins face. "Dire consequences are at stake..."

CX-2 made sure his next stop was Pabu.

CX-2 had no intentions of forming any friendships, especially not a relationship. You, however, came natural to him. In one of Hemlock's attempts to have complete control over CX-2, a burn was implemented on his waist. He remembers the day vividly, as it was the first time he'd met you.

You were only on Tantiss because of your mother. She worked for the Empire as a medic, a famous doctor of some sort. While you never had the knack for the medical field, you enjoyed helping people. It was in your blood after all.

CX-2 was taken to a special room for clones of high status. You were there by sheer accident. A mishap guided you to his side.

"Uhm, hello sir." You introduced yourself. "I'll be your medic today. What's your name?" You asked, a little nervous to be assessing a clone by yourself. He wore black armor, head still covered. You'd never seen that style before, maybe he was new?

CX-2 just stared up at you, a hard gaze. Out of fear, you started to breathe a little heavier. He could have killed you there and no one would have batted an eye.

"Sir, is something the matter?" You pressed on, trying to mask yourself with professionalism.

He continued to stare, eventually pointing at the chart In your hands.

"Of course, uh. CT-4340?"

CX-2 didn't say a word, just tilted his head. You looked at him with doe eyes. "Are you CT-4340?" you hesitated.

"My code is CX-2." He commanded out, a modulated voice appearing.

You almost jumped at the sound. "I uh, seem to have the wrong chart. I am so sorry, I should get a higher official-"

Under his helmet, CX-2 resisted the urge to roll his eyes. His shoulder dropped, annoyed. This caused his side to jolt. The pain of the burn on him was strong, but he withheld any reaction.

You, on the other hand, seemed to notice the very small twitch his waist gave out. "Where are you hurt?" You asked, the words now flowing with a motive in mind.

CX-2 instinctively started unbuckling his chest piece. You flushed slightly, ashamed you couldn't be more serious in the situation. "Do you need help?" His head rose quickly, falling after looking at you for a second. He didn't respond, just continued to take his upper armor off.

Guess not...

The second you saw his skin, you suppressed a gasp. It looked gruesome, like something had repeatedly been burning him. With a deep breath, you shoved down any lasting fear.

Getting to work, you prepared bacta and bandages.

He was still, almost too still. You'd seen plenty of procedures and medics fixing up clones. There had been wincing, complaining, and fidgeting on lesser injuries. You would have expected tears and need of an anesthetic for any other man. But he was still...

You prayed you didn't hurt him more than he already was. You knew your hands were clumsy with inexperience. If you did, he made no effort to tell you nor pull away.

From then on you saw each other more and more. While your mother made sure you got plenty of experience working on clones, you were extremely busy. Never getting a second to actually talk to CX-2. A particular encounter with a clone in the hangar would change this.

You were helping a trooper with a broken arm- Simply wrapping it to prevent further injury. You crouched down, examining the break.

CX-2 was just passing by, heading to see what his next mission was. He barely took note that a soldier under his command broke an arm. Why would he? Clones die everyday, including ones under CX-2.

He did however take note of you. He recognized you immediately. He surprised himself, why would he care about some medic? He'd never remembered the ones that had worked on him in the past.

At this, he stared at you. He took in your silhouette, something deep down told him to bask in your every feature. So, he did.

Of course you felt the beaming eyes of CX-2. It made you nervous. Was there something on your face? Did you make him mad? It distracted you.

"Ow!" The clone exclaimed in pain, face screwing. He yanked his arm up. It was an accident, you were sure. A response to the pain you caused unintentionally. CX-2 didn't seem to think this when he saw the clone raise his arm to hit you.

It all happened so fast, you didn't have time to lean back or even register what was happening. The next thing you knew was that the unidentified clone was on his back. CX-2 stood over him, a vibroblade at his neck and foot on his chest.

Falling onto your butt, you gasped and regained some sense. "CX-2...."

He slowly turned around to face you. The two of you looked at each other. His hand still expertly rested centimeters from killing the clone.

Adrenaline pumping, you spoke. "it's okay. It was an accident."

He pushed the clone back with his foot, hand raising. With the vibroblade still wielded, he stormed to you. Your heart pumped viciously, though not in fear. If he was going to really hurt you, he would have let the clone hit you.

No, your heart thumped in your ears in anticipation.

He grabbed you by the forearm with his free hand, careful of the blade. He yanked you up, off of your position on the cold floor.

You briefly noticed eyes around the hangar now in your direction. You grew nervous, only at their judgmental looks.

The quickness of it all made your head spin. You stepped out, trying not to fall. His hand still gripped your arm, he stood unmoving. He let you catch your balance, just watching you.

"Excuse me, what is going on here?" A vice admiral questioned, appearing from your left.

CX-2's modulated voice said your name. It was harsh and cold, but you somehow knew it wasn't directed at you. "She is my medic."

"And? What gives you the right to attack a clone for no reason?" The admiral demanded.

CX-2 didn't like being questioned. Before you could get a single word in, CX-2 pulled you with him as he turned to leave the hangar.

"Wha-" You decided not to protest, the man was on some kind of mission. One he had made for himself the second he saw a threat to you.

He guided you two through the complex halls and levels of the lab. You were beyond lost, but he seemed to know where he was going. After a few minutes of paced walking, you stopped him.

"CX-2, where are we going? I don't want to risk getting reprimanded by the admiral." You were cautious, the smallest of complaints could get you reassigned. Tantiss was not for the faint of heart.

"You won't." He would make sure of that. He continued to walk, this time a little slower.

Finally, you found some familiarity in the halls. You noticed he was leading you to the very room you met in. The examining room for special operatives.

He pulled you into the room, making sure the door shut behind him.

"Examine me." He demanded.

You were dumbfounded, "Excuse me?"

CX-2 actually rolled his eyes this time, even when you couldn't see them. In response to your confusion, he removed his left arm's armor.

A gash that went from the top of his shoulder to before his elbow was present. "CX-2..." Your sadden voice spoke.

You didn't actually have clearance to be in that room, nor the supplies. But you worked nevertheless.

"Please, sit." You asked. He followed your instructions immediately, sitting up on the exam bed.

Just as the day you met, you retrieved bacta and med patches. You coated the wound in extra bacta, then prepared the gauze wrap.

"So," You held his arm up gently, starting to wrap it. "How did you get this? Was it your latest mission?" Your hands carefully worked, moving under his arm.

"No." Was all you heard.

"Oh, how did it happen?" You asked, trying to make conversation.

His skin twitched as a subconscious response when you smoothed over it.

"Better if you don't know." He kept his eyes on the wall ahead of him. "Sorry I asked..." You really were. He said nothing.

After a few more moments, you made sure the wrap was steady in place. "I think you're done!" You smiled at him. He dropped his arm at his side.

After, he promptly nodded, but gave little indication on what to do next.

You looked around, feeling a little awkward.

"So... What division are you from?" You tried to ease the tension.

"Project Assassin." He said, being short.

"I haven't heard of that, wha-" He inturpted you. "Tell me about you."

You blinked. You'd only seen this man a dozen times, many of those in passing. Even so, a shot of nerves flowed in you each time. There was something special about him. It was like your heart knew something your brain didn't. You weren't a child though, you knew 'love' was something of fairy tales. That there must be a perfectly rational reason you were feeling this way around him.

"What do you want to know?"

"Everything."

Though, if that were true, why did you sit up next to him and tell him everything?

From that day on, the only medic he allowed to work on him was you. The number of visits varied, depending on how evil Hemlock was feeling. CX-2 tried to hide the backstories from you as much as possible, sometimes even ignoring your questions.

Though, late at night, when he'd sneak into your room, he'd tell you the truth. At first he would listen. Anything you'd tell him, you had his full attention. Then, right before you fell asleep, he'd whisper his secrets.

He'd whisper them to the only person he ever trusted, you. Then, it was your turn to listen.

You cried for him, the pains he had went through. He was the perfect clone in your eyes. The only problem was how stubborn he was, no matter how hard Hemlock tried- you were still the only one who could persuade him.

Despite his grunts of protest, you'd just hold CX-2 some nights. Using your fingers to rake through his hair, cradling his head. You tried you best to give him the comfort he had never experienced before.

Everything was going so well. You would continue your training, he would continue his missions, and at night, you would talk and he would listen. You would spoil him with affections under the nights bask.

Of course, all good things must come to an end.

The day Hemlock found out about you was the worst day of CX-2's life.

CX-2 was called in for a meeting about his next mission, something he was used to. He only received orders from the highest of officials, so seeing Hemlock or Scorch was common.

"I have... a special mission of some sort. One I cannot risk incompletion of." Hemlock began.

CX-2 stood upright, ready for instructions.

"Now, despite what we have tried to instill into you- I do not want you to listen to any other orders. I think this particular mission requires your mindset." His words didn't effect CX-2, he'd heard worse.

"One of your fellow operative has been captured. Alive. I will not accept him risking our organization."

"My orders?" CX-2 asked.

"Find and neutralize him." CX-2 nodded at his words.

"You have 48 hours to kill him." Hemlock walked up to CX-2, arms folded behind his back. "If you fail, that...medic... you are so fond of? She will reap the consequences of what you sow."

It was impossible to cover up the way CX-2 breath hitched. If he didn't have a helmet on, Hemlock would see his eyebrows scrunch in anger.

"Yes, that's right. I know about her." Hemlock said, his voice mocking. "Oh, don't fret my little assassin. She will remain unharmed, that is... unless you fail your duty..."

"I trust you will locate him and rid the republic of any information?" Hemlock taunted.

"Yes sir."

How? How did Hemlock find out about you? He was so careful... He immediately headed to your quarters. Damned everyone else, he pushed through crowds and odd stares.

He banged on the door, fist closed. If you hadn't opened in the next 10 seconds, he'd shoot the door down.

"I'm coming, I'm coming." You 'tsked.'

"Oh, CX-2." You breathed out once you opened the door. Unsure if he was there for pleasantries or business.

He shoved his way past you, pressing the button to close the door shut.

"Wha-" He stormed around your rooms, it was quick considering there were only two. A bedroom and bathroom.

He held his blaster up as he checked every crevice of the room. His eyes glanced back at you quickly to make sure you were still there and alive.

"CX-2." You raised your voice. His head shot your way. "What's happened? You're scaring me..."

He paced up to you, removing his helmet as he walked. "He knows about us." Was all he managed out, throwing his helmet to the floor in favor of grabbing your cheeks gently.

Your face dropped, heart pounding in your ears. "How? I don't understand!" You started to breathe heavily.

"I just had to make sure you were safe." His gloved hands felt cool on your hot skin.

Your mind wandered, what would they do?

"I have to leave now." He said, dropping his hands. "No, wait. You can't just drop that bomb and leave!" You had so many questions, and you didn't want to be left alone freighted.

"I do not have time, if I don't complete my mission he will kill you." Your blood ran cold. "I am so sorry I brought you into this. I should have never stepped between you and that clone." He readied himself to exit the room, turning and putting his helmet back on.

"CX-2!" His shoulders dropped, he stood silent. You walked around to face him.

He let you reach your hands up and lift his helmet off. "I'm not upset at you. I only want more time..."

"I can't."

"I know." At your last words, you pulled him down by the collar of his blacks. Now level, you kiss him. Scared it would be your last.

The few seconds your lips touched felt like an eternity. All the time you needed with him...

Eventually, he pulled away. "I-"

"I know... please be safe..." You asked only one thing of him.

He nodded, placing his helmet back on snug. He then walked out your door, your thoughts consumed with wishes of his safety.

CX-2 would fulfill his mission, killing the compromised Operative. Though, that was only the first time he'd have to leave your grasp to keep you alive...

CX-2 reminded himself why he was currently headed to Pabu. 'Dire consequences are at stake' echoed in his mind.

He would capture Omega. He had no care for the innocent people he might have to kill. In his eyes, all of his actions were justified in the name of your well-being.

He never told you of his endeavors, now being sent on more gruesome missions than ever. He knew you'd be disappointed in him, but he also knew he had to always protect you. No matter the cost.

While expertly leading a fleet of soldiers, the only thing that let CX-2 think straight was you. He filled his mind with memories of your laughter. Of the times you begged him to choose a real name, even when he protested. When you first touched, when you first kissed.

He worried for you until the second he had Omega tied up on his ship.

Even after, he was anticipating his reunion with you. He had the girl, he had what Hemlock wanted. He could see you again.

And he did... Hemlock was consumed with his experiments and testing on Omega. So much he that didn't bother CX-2 for a few days. Oh, it was bliss.

The time you shared reminded you of before anyone knew you were together. You both still had your duties as clone and medic, but spent any free time with each other.

You laid in your bed, a glance at the clock scolded you for being up so late. You paid little mind to it, just enjoying the feeling of CX-2's arms around you.

With your head now buried in his chest, you let your hands wander. Slipping under the top portion of his blacks. He used to shiver reluctantly when you felt his skin, now it seemed like second nature.

You loved tracing his scars, the texture consuming you. While they were painful memories, they were treated with love and tenderness. He looked at his scars and thought of you, how you took care of him so nicely and delicately. Not Hemlock.

A light flickered from his panel brace. The one that rested on your nightstand. It lit up the room, and CX-2 immediately reached for it. he pulled away from you, but was careful to keep a connection with his leg still feeling you.

"I have to go." He said, standing to put his arm and chest armor back on.

While he was always quick and determined when hearing from Hemlock or Scorch, he was frantic here.

"Did something happen?"

"Nothing, do not stress. I love you." He gave you a quick kiss on the lips, and an affectionate rub of your thigh before putting his helmet on and leaving.

You sighed and leaned back when the door closed again. This was slowly becoming the new normal for you. You still savored every spare second you had together...

Just as you rolled over to fall asleep, the door opened. "Did you forg-" You jumped up, almost hitting your head on the baseboard of the bed. It was Scorch.

"Come with me. Now." He grabbed your arm and pulled you rough out of bed.

"Excu-"

"You are under arrest until further assessment." He forcefully put you in handcuffs.

You tried to resist, but put up no real fight in comparison to the trained clone. He grew tired of you and stunned you with his blaster.

You fell unconscious.

"You activated me?" CX-2 asked over Comms, like he would in any other situation.

"It seems we have another problem with our favorite girl." Hemlock said.

Omega...

"You see, she has managed to escape with the other children. Did I mention she also freed the zillo beast?"

CX-2 listened intently, not moving a muscle.

"You have been the only operative capable of capturing Omega thus far. I will see that you will find her again. Before she finds some way to leave the planet." CX-2 could hear the frustration in Hemlocks voice. It made him flicker a smile.

"Affirmative."

"Oh, and as a little motivater, I think it would serve you well to know your medic is currently held up in a cell." Hemlock went radio silent, leaving CX-2 to head to the exposed section of the base. The hole the Zillo beast left, and the way Force 99 was headed.

Your head throbbed, vision a little blurry. Raising your head from the cold of the floor, you noticed you were in a cell.

The room spun around before you sat up. Your whole body ached. Not to mention the confusion you were feeling.

Looking around, you saw other prisoners lining the walls. You knew exactly where you were. The hall where all the traitors and experimental clones were kept.

Were they going to experiment on you too? Was CX-2 okay? Did something happen to him that made Hemlock finally get you?

The building shook with a loud boom, it did nothing to help your nerves. It sounded like some kind of cannon went off.

"You okay?" A clone asked in the cell across from you.

"I don't know..."

With the effort and passion of a man whose entire reason for living was at risk, CX-2 and the other Clone Assasins were able to capture the rouge clones.

With his blaster barred in his hands, CX-2 guarded the three prisoners. He was occupied with the thought of what The Empire was doing to you.

You must have been so scared in a cell... He knew you didn't like small spaces. With his new fury, he closed his fist, doing yet another round of the platform they were on.

Boredom was unable to strike you, anxieties kept you busy. Your mind ran wild with the possibilities of CX-2. For a moment you questioned if he had just abandoned you as a whole, but quickly shunned yourself for bringing it up.

CX-2 loved you, and wouldn't dare leave you to rot.

"Look!" A clone yelled out, just as you saw a small girl and a storm trooper running by.

What were they doing?

They crept around the corner, swiftly blasting and taking out 2 storm troopers in the process. The girl got to work on the main computer that operated the cells.

"Hey kid, whats going on?" Someone asked.

"We're breaking you out."

Seconds later, your cell door opened. You slowly walked out, unsure what to do. What would CX-2 do in a situation like this? He'd probably tell you to keep your head down and blend in. Stay out of trouble, 'for his sake.'

You did just that, creeping out of the cell and hiding within the groups of clones.

Apparently, the 'storm trooper' was a clone, so was the girl. They were on a mission to free their three brothers, recruiting clones as they did so.

Was this the big mission CX-2 was called to? To capture the people they were here to rescue?

"We've checked all the cells, they aren't here."

You knew where they probably were... The training room. The very room that tortured and left your beloved marked. You didn't dare say a word. As much as you hated Hemlock and his 'methods,' worse things would happen if CX-2 failed his mission...

"Well... they could be in the training room." Damn, another clone had though the same as you.

They decided to head there, a few turning for an easier escape.

What should you do? Warn CX-2? You weren't raised as a soldier, you had no training. No fighting experience. You knew how to save and help, not attack and kill.

A small hand was rested on your arm, the girl from earlier. "Hi, I'm Omega."

You looked down to her. "I know it's kind of scary, but we have to fight for what's right.." If only she knew your true intentions...

"You're right... i'll come with you..." All you wanted was to find CX-2.

So, you did. Following them to the training room, they planned an attack from the lower circle.. You, however, had a new idea. To come in through the main balcony. The one that led directly to Force 99.

You managed to sneak away and climb the steps that brought you to the main doors.

"Hey, you! Are you supposed to be here?" A trooper stopped you.

"Yes sir," You gave him your chain code, "I am a medic. Hemlock has requested my services in the Training room." You lied, faking a confidence you never had.

"I never heard about Hemlock ever needing a medic in the training room..."

"Well if you want to ask him, while the Zillo beast is one the loose, he has new prisoners, and while his top experiment is lost- Be my guest. I just don't think he'd be very happy with you questioning his methods." You crossed your arms behind your back, something you'd seen CX-2 do many times.

"Fine." He moved out of your way, letting you head to your destination.

You walked to the door, ready to put your mother's clearance codes in. With a steam they opened, leaving you to witness a terrible sight.

The 3 captured clones were out, fighting. You got there in time to see the big clone burst out of the glass, tackling a special operative.

With the sound of the door, the man with a bandana looked your way. Along with CX-2, who rose swiftly upon seeing you. You distracted him long enough for the clone without a hand to blast him in his side.

You gasped as you watched CX-2 fall in your direction.

With an electrospear in his hand, the bandana man stepped to him. He only managed to zap him once before you ran in.

"No!" Your scream pierced out, you threw yourself onto CX-2. Using your body to cover his.

You didn't care if you died then and there, at least you'd die in CX-2's arms. You'd at least die together...

"No, don't!" You squeezed your eyes shut, prepared for a shock that never came. You felt a weak hand raise from under you to grip your clothes.

Tears streamed down your face violently. Pattering on CX-2's armor.

"You do realize the crimes he has committed..." The man panted out, he was also wounded.

"Please, it was for me... It was all for me..." You sobbed out. "Hemlock threatened my life..." You buried your head in his neck, holding him tightly.

"Hunter, no. We should kill them both now." The handless man spoke.

The man you assumed to be Hunter didn't have time to respond.

"I swear we wont follow you... Hemlock is probably on his way to his private ship... I swear..." Your words were muffled but they understood well enough.

"We are wasting time, lets go." Hunter commanded, the two of them left.

You gave out a whimper, "CX-2... Please... Stay with me." You pried his helmet off. He was in a rough state.

His eyes struggled to focus on one thing, but he still tried to find your face. "It'll be okay, just let me grab a med pack." You went to pull away, but he gripped you tighter.

"Let me.. hold," He coughed, "You.."

"You are not going to die on me. You wouldn't do that to me, would you?" You tried to joke. He shook his head, 'no.'

"Then let me do my job, and help you." He still held you tightly. "Please... you deserve to live..." He let you go.

It was only half a minute, you grabbed a medics kit that was nearby and began patching him up.

Making quick work of taking his armor and blacks off. It reminded you of the first time you'd done this to him. A very similar wound on his waist.

You forced him a pill, and squeezed out as much bacta as you could from its packet.

"Can you roll over for me, baby?" You asked, helping him get on his side.

He complied as much as he could, and you were able to patch up his other side.

"Okay, this will hold you over. I know the closest procedure room, a droid can give you a proper examination." You helped him stand, an arm under his own to keep his balance.

"You'll be okay, we'll be okay..." You whispered praises and words of affirmation to him. The walk was extremely painful for him, you could tell he was hiding most of it from you.

Lucky for both of you, a droid was able to identify where the blast was and give him a proper cleaning of the wound.

He was still woozy, but forced himself to stand. "We have to go. Tarkin is on his way.." CX-2 strained out. He was stubborn and refused any medication that would cloud his mind.

"W-where? Your ship?" You were scared, not just for CX-2, but your futures as well.

He pressed a few buttons on his panel brace as you picked up his helmet.

"Turn left." He instructed you all the way to his ship, even with the pain starting to blur his vision.

The two of you somehow managed to make it to his ship, you opened the door with his panel brace and sat him in the co-pilot's seat.

You clicked away, starting the ship up. Though, you did need some guidance from him.

You had never flown a ship before, but knew you had to take the risk to save CX-2. It was wobbly, but you raised the ship and let Auto-Pilot blast you into hyperspace. It had a set of coordinates in, ones you didn't know the location of.

A groan made you turn to your lovers direction, you were at his side immediately. Crouching down you spoke, "Hey, its okay... We're far away. You can take the pain medication, its just us two."

He peaked open an eye to look at you, his face barred disappointment in himself. Almost like he was a lesser man if he took the meds.

"Take them. If not for yourself, for me." You pulled them from your pocket. He did take them, minutes later he felt the relief.

You took another look at his wound, it was stable for now. You figured that he would need a cleaning and new bandages in a few hours. Hopefully his medkit was fully equipped on his ship. If it was, you'd be able to last many days without needing to land.

You stood, pulling his head to your breast. "Shhh, rest now. We are both safe."

He truly did feel safe in your arms, like he didn't have to always be on guard. A huge change from his normal. One he'd hoped he could live out with you for the rest of his life...

A/N- Thank you so much for reading! I got a little carried away with this one... I just had to get this idea written down!!!

Tags-(lmk if you want to be tagged as well!) @thethreeeyed-raven @knight-of-flowerss @dangraccoon

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hugmekenobi · 6 months ago

Text

S3: The Bad Batch (12)

Chapter Twelve: Juggernaut

Gif by @azertyrobaz

Hunter x femaleJedi!reader

Series Summary: Ever since Eriadu, Clone Force 99 had been a fractured squad. Months have passed but you're finally back with the Batch but Omega is still out there and you won't stop until you find her again.

Chapter Summary: The Batch seek out an unlikely ally to get you and Omega back. Meanwhile, you and Omega find out what's in store for you on Tantiss

Masterlist for S1 and S2

<Previous Chapter

Genre: Friends (idiots) to Lovers (we're in the lovers stage now)

Chapter Warnings: Canon-typical violence, swearing, me making up an SP number, humour used as a deflection tactic, Hunter losing it a bit, brief injury descriptions, threats, implications of torture, mentions of scars, Rampart, Hemlock being a creep, lotta angst,

Word Count: 5.7K

Author's notes: Had a bit of creative fun doing this episode but it should also hopefully feel like an angsty one lol

You braced yourself against the weather as you exited the ship.

The gusts of wind on Tantiss swept the steady drizzle of rain in a diagonal against your face.

You and Omega stopped just before Hemlock as he came to meet you both.

Then, a move occurred that genuinely surprised you.

In quick succession, the operative took Omega’s cuffs off and then did the same to yours before he took to his ship and left.

You and Omega massaged your wrists as you regarded the man ahead of you with suspicious curiosity.

“I trust we won’t have any issues with you and your… talents. Unless you want Omega to suffer the punishment for your disobedience?” Hemlock directed the question to you.

You knew that would be the card he would play, and it was a fucking effective one. “No issue.” You said tightly.

Hemlock nodded before he addressed both of you. “Turning yourselves over was a wise decision. Come with me.”

Omega glanced up at you, but you gave her a nod and the two of you slowly followed Hemlock inside.

The route to the lab had not left Omega’s memory and she recognised the familiar corridors that Hemlock led you both through, although the heightened stormtrooper presence was new.

“Bring the Jedi to the cell we arranged below but keep her away from the vault. She and Omega are not to be together.” Hemlock directed the group of troopers that approached as you all came to a halt outside the lab doors.

Your head snapped over to Hemlock as you heard that.

Omega frantically looked between you and Hemlock. “No!” She shouted.

You saw the group of troopers moving in on you. You called on the Force and pushed them further down the corridor and smacked them into the wall, but you couldn’t do anything more than that. You couldn’t risk Hemlock punishing Omega.

You saw another squad closing in.

You had to let them take you.

Omega looked up at you, tears in her eyes. “They can’t take you! I won’t let them!” Omega turned to Hemlock but all she saw on his face was a cruel sneer. “Please-”

You wouldn’t have her begging that man for anything. You bent down and hugged Omega tight to your chest. Do what you need to do to get outta here. I’ll see you again. You don’t worry about me. You said hurriedly as you felt numerous hands grab you and yank you away from her.

The butt of a blaster smacked against your temple, making you lightheaded and your body more compliant with the soldiers as they pulled you down the corridor.

“No!” Omega fought against the strong grip a trooper took of her shoulder and she couldn’t free herself. But they couldn’t stop her words.

“Bring her back!”

“No! We stay together!”

“Let me go!”

“Stop!” That was the last thing she was able to say before she was dragged into the lab.

Omega’s fading cries were all that echoed through your head as the troopers dragged you away and through another maze of levels and hallways.

Emerie had heard the commotion outside, and she saw the fear and sadness on Omega’s face as she entered but she had to hide her lingering discomfort as Hemlock brought her over. The small smirk that graced Hemlock’s face did not escape her though.

“Begin testing her at one. I want confirmation.” Hemlock ordered but he saw hesitance demonstrated by Emerie at the order. “Is there a problem, Dr. Karr?”

“No.” Emerie replied swiftly. “I’ll handle it.”

“Where’s Nala Se?” Omega asked as she looked around the lab but found no sign of the Kaminoan.

“In a cell. I’m afraid the Kaminoan won’t be aiding you in another escape.” He said to Omega before addressing Emerie, “I’ll return later for the results.” He walked out the lab. He had other preparations to oversee.

Omega walked over to her sister, “Emerie, you don’t have to do this.”

Emerie sighed as part of her wished the words didn’t affect her as much as they did but what else was she supposed to do? This is where she wanted to be… didn’t she? “I’m sorry, but I do.” She prepared the syringe and approached the young girl. “For what it’s worth, I’m glad you’re safe.” Emerie took the sample.

“Am I?” Omega questioned uncertainly. “And why did he take her from me? What is he going to do her? Will she be okay?”

And the reassurance Emerie once might’ve been prepared to offer couldn’t be said anymore.

Pabu was a ghost town.

The people of the island were recovering and hiding in their homes.

All that remained were the signs of destruction the soldiers had left behind.

But there were no more troopers.

No more gunships.

And he knew what that meant.

He couldn’t deny it to himself anymore.

It had happened again.

They’d taken his home.

They’d taken Omega.

They’d taken you. The love of his life.

Gone.

Your time spent together had been so rushed, so interrupted and there had been too little time for him to express how important you were to him since you’d returned.

The life that the two of you were preparing to have together had been snatched away. And now you were gone. You were gone before he’d had the chance to-

And both of you would be subjected to whatever torment Hemlock wished to inflict. The very thought made him sick to his stomach.

If only he’d been quicker, stealthier. If only he’d handled that gunship pilot better. If only-

He stopped short and clawed at his chest as he felt the guilt constrict around his heart. His knees buckled as the entire weight of his failure crashed into him and he had to brace himself against one of the ransacked stalls to keep from collapsing but he forced himself to calm down.

He couldn’t allow himself to lose himself in it. Not anymore.

He’d done that before but that was then.

Now, he let clarity overcome him.

Now he would not lose focus.

He would not falter.

He would not be dissuaded.

Everything he had was going to go into getting you two back.

Hemlock would die.

Nothing was going to stop him from achieving that.

He felt wet nose nuzzle against his palm and he glanced down to see Batcher looking up at him with concerned eyes.

He straightened up and carried onto Archium.

Hunter took his helmet off as he approached his brothers, and he was glad to see Wrecker awake and back on his feet. “The troopers have pulled out, but the cruiser’s still jamming our comms.”

“I still can’t believe you let them turn themselves in.” Wrecker said reproachfully to Crosshair.

“The Empire would have destroyed this whole town. They stopped them.” Crosshair responded, his frustration at the whole situation seeping into his tone. He was more surprised however that the admonishment had come from Wrecker and not Hunter but then again, there was still time.

“Yeah, and they’ve got them again.” Wrecker replied dejectedly. “And we’re stuck here without a ship.”

“Even if we get our hands on a ship, we still have no way of finding Tantiss base.” Hunter said.

The trembling from his hand was an instant reaction. “That’s not exactly true.” Crosshair said cagily as he held his hand.

Hunter stared at his brother carefully and made himself wait for further explanation before he said anything he might regret.

“Wait. You’ve known where Tantiss is this whole time?” Wrecker questioned accusingly.

“I didn’t say I know. There’s someone who might have the coordinates.”

“Who?” Hunter asked urgently.

“Admiral Rampart. He sent Nala Se there when we decommissioned Tipoca City.”

“Why didn’t you say anything before?” Hunter took a few aggressive steps towards Crosshair but checked himself as he caught the way his brother kept massaging his shaking hand. It wouldn’t benefit anyone if he jumped down Crosshair’s throat, he didn’t deserve that.

“Because Tantiss isn’t a place I ever wanted to go back to.” Crosshair admitted. “And Rampart’s not particularly trustworthy. He is a last resort, but he’s our only option.”

“Where’s Rampart now?”

“I was still in the Empire when they arrested him. He was sent to-”

Batcher growling and the sound of a platform opening interrupted him and the three of them turned to see a hatch in the middle of the Archium floor opening up.

“Do not shoot!” AZ yelled as he and Phee came into the room.

“I second that.” Phee agreed as she saw the three clones with blasters pointing in their direction.

The three of them holstered their weapons.

“I saw the Imperials on my approach. When I landed, Doc here briefed me on the situation.” Phee explained.

“How did you get in here unseen?” Hunter enquired.

“Used the hidden cavern access when I docked my ship.”

“We’re gonna need to borrow that.” Crosshair insisted by way of greeting.

Phee regarded the new face with a knowing smile, “You must be Crosshair. Tech told me all about your… sparkling personality.”

“Is that a no?” Crosshair replied, crossing his arms in his typical unimpressed fashion.

“Any friend of brown eyes is a friend of mine. Where are we heading?”

“An Imperial labour camp on Erebus.” Crosshair divulged with a heavy breath but if it meant a chance to get you and Omega back, he would face the demons of his past.

“Ooh, I like this already.” Phee said with a roguish grin. She led the way down, with Wrecker joining her first.

Crosshair faced his sibling and started nervously, “Hunter-”

Hunter just about managed a single, reassuring nod. “I know, Crosshair.”

“I wanted to- if there had been any other way- I’m-”

Hunter touched his brother’s shoulder. “I don’t blame you, Crosshair. Not at all.” He exhaled a sharp sigh, “It was the right call. Besides, you couldn’t have stopped them, no matter how much you wanted to. All that matters is that I know we’re getting them back.”

Crosshair studied his brother. Of all the reactions he’d expected, this one had been low on the list. This was a different type of determination that gave him the impression that Hunter meant what he was saying, but there was more that he was not allowing himself to feel or express anymore.

Hunter removed his hand before they both stepped onto the platform to follow the others down.

Being helpless to Phee’s plan of sending the ship into a vertical nosedive in order to get past the perimeter had emulated Tech’s crazy, yet somehow effective piloting, and it became very clear why the friendship between the two of them had been growing into something more.

With Phee being on standby for a retrieval after she’d dropped them in, they’d managed to infiltrate the system and find out what prison transport Rampart was on and taking the turbo-tank from the Imperials on-board had been a simple task in the end.

Hunter took control of the steering.

Wrecker and Crosshair took up position by the doorway to the prison hold.

Crosshair touched the walls, “It’s magnetically sealed. Wrecker, remember Plan 55?” Crosshair waited patiently as his brother worked on remembering the details of it.

“Oh. Yeah. 55. Waiting on you. Go.” Wrecker said in quick realisation as he prepared his blaster.

Crosshair opened the door, and they advanced down the corridor.

The door opened and Crosshair instantly ricocheted his blaster bolt around the walls, killing most of the troopers and Wrecker took care of the few stragglers that remained.

“Ct-9904?” Rampart said in disbelief as he recognised the uniformed clone.

“You remembered. How touching.” Crosshair sneered as he stared at the former admiral. The ill-fitting, dirty orange jumpsuit and raggedy beard and untidy hair gave a distinct worn and dishevelled appearance to the Imperial that Crosshair knew he would despise, and he found the whole thing rather satisfying. He tapped the side of his helmet to let Hunter know, “The target’s secured.”

“The target?” Rampart repeated with outrage. “What is this? Are you here to kill me?”

“Tempting, but no.”

Wrecker cleared his throat, interrupting the discussion between them, “What about them?” He asked in reference to the other prisoners on board.

Hunter slowed the turbo-tank to a stop to let Wrecker and Crosshair release the remaining prisoners.

“All clear.”

Wrecker’s confirmation on the comms prompted Hunter to get the tank moving again.

“And what about me?” Rampart asked as the larger clone came back from freeing the others.

“You’re fine right where you are.” Crosshair replied tersely.

“If you’re not here to execute me, and you’re not letting me go, then you must need something from me.” Rampart deduced.

“Tantiss base. Where is it?” Crosshair asked briskly.

“Ah. Tantiss.” Rampart repeated as if the answer had been what he’d expected. “And how much is that information worth to you?”

“You’re not in a position to bargain.” Crosshair growled.

“Hmm. I disagree. I’ll talk after you get me off this planet.” Rampart negotiated smoothly, “You don’t get what you want if I don’t get what I want.”

“We’re approaching the bridge. Wrecker, man the cannon.”

Hunter’s voice on the comms interrupted the tension settling between the three men and Wrecker set off to do as instructed.

From the activation of the bridge gates and barricades and the tank that was approaching from the other side of the bridge, it had become pretty clear that the Imperials were onto them, but Hunter wasn’t about to let that stop him. It would take a lot more than that and probably not even then. He increased the speed of the vehicle and powered through them.

The enemy tank opened fire on them, but Wrecker was quick to respond however the blaster fire wasn’t making a dent in either transport.

There wasn’t time for a firefight, “Their armour’s too strong. Take out the wheels.” Hunter ordered Wrecker as he kept the speed of the tank on a steady increase.

Wrecker did just that and the tank came to a crashing halt as the front set of wheels exploded.

Hunter simply ramped up the power and sent their tank flying over the downed Imperial vehicle.

In the chaos of the tank righting itself, Crosshair and Rampart had gotten thrown to the ground.

Rampart attempted to use the opportunity to grab a free blaster, but the clone shot it out of his hands.

Crosshair got to his feet and trained his sniper on Rampart.

“Oh please. You’re not going to kill me.” Rampart said confidently.

Crosshair set his rifle to stun. “Hmm. Not yet.” He replied simply before he knocked the man out and grab him by the collar.

He’d managed to get the tank through to the other side of the bridge, but the sight of approaching gunships caused Hunter to dramatically drop the speed and he drifted the tank onto an off-road path- the narrow cliffside wasn’t enough to deter him from the pace at which he was driving.

Crosshair opened the door to rejoin his two brothers and he dragged Rampart’s body inside.

Hunter tapped the side of his helmet, “Phee, we’re past the perimeter and need that pickup.” He said into his comm but all he heard was the fuzzy sound of static.

Wrecker was able to fire back and destroy one of the gunships on their tail, but he couldn’t stop the other one from making up ground. “Cannons are offline!” He shouted with an aggravated punch to the console as he saw the power go down. “We’ve got troopers up top.” He said as another sensor beeped. He and Crosshair both got ready to deal with it but the reaction from Hunter stopped them both.

Hunter, uncaring about the precarious path, merely weaved the tank in an aggressive pattern to toss the troopers off. This entire thing was getting old rather fast, he had more important things to be doing now. Most fell quickly but one soldier managed to tumble over the side that had a ladder he could cling onto, so Hunter smashed the lone trooper into the cliffside.

Whilst that plan had worked, it hadn’t deterred the final gunship which landed a successful shop that disabled the steering. The controls went rigid in Hunter’s hands. “Controls are dead.” He voiced aloud. They could really use that pickup now.

“We’re running out of road!” Wrecker cried as he saw the end of the path rapidly approaching.

Then, the glorious sound of explosions sounded from the outside.

“Not exactly a stealth exit, boys.” Phee commed in as she took out the final gunship.

“Let’s move!” Hunter directed as they all made their way to the roof of the tank.

Wrecker watched as his brothers made the jump to Phee’s extended ramp. He tossed Rampart’s limp body on the stairs but the gap between the tank and Phee’s ship was increasing, and he couldn’t be confident that he’d make the jump. “Move closer!”

Hunter saw the end of the road was drawing nearer and there wasn’t more time to get the distance exactly right. “Hurry! Jump!” He urged.

Wrecker took a few steps back before he ran and leaped over. He slid down the last couple steps but fortunately, Hunter had a secure hold on his upper arm, so he was able to be pulled securely on board.

Phee got the ship out of any further harms way.

Crosshair, being the only one of the three of them to keep his helmet on, kicked Rampart’s leg to wake him up.

Rampart came around with a wince.

“We got you off the planet. Now tell us where Tantiss is.” Crosshair demanded.

Rampart released a reluctant groan, “It’s more complicated than that.”

“Complicated how?” Hunter asked snappishly.

“No one knows the coordinates to Tantiss. It was designed that way. But I might know how to get around that.” He said but he didn’t elaborate.

Crosshair was getting tired of his games. “Either you tell us now, or we drop you back in that Imperial prison.”

“Now, now. No need for threats.” Rampart tisked. “After all, we’re in this together. Retrieving the young girl will be no easy task, but the girl and a Jedi? You’ll need my expertise so best play nice.” Rampart smirked as he saw the way all three of them stiffened their posture. “Oh yes, word travels amongst the unsavoury characters I was forced to be in close quarters with and between the officers.”

He fixed his stare on Hunter whose jaw was clenched so tight; Rampart wondered if the act was causing him physical pain. “CT-9904 had some rather interesting information to share about the two of you. I didn’t think the protocol would’ve allowed for such… fraternisations.”

Crosshair recoiled slightly as he remembered the conversations. Rampart’s words felt like he may as well have just punched him in the gut, and Crosshair risked a glance to Hunter as he readied his own apologies, but Hunter wasn’t looking at him.

Hunter stalked around the table to stand over the seated form of Rampart who was already beginning to cower into the booth. “You’re here because we need your information but let me make something very clear to you…”

This particular demeanour Hunter was exhibiting was foreign territory to the two brothers. Crosshair and Wrecker watched the interaction closely in case they were needed to intervene, more for their brother’s sake than Rampart’s.

Hunter’s voice took on a tone that was so low and so threatening, it even put Wrecker and Crosshair on edge and made them stand up a little taller. “Mention her or Omega again and you’ll wish you were back on Erebus.”

And Rampart could tell by the intensity of his stare and the conviction behind his words that the clone wasn’t bluffing either. Rampart’s throat went dry, and he swallowed a few times to find his voice again, “P-” He cleared his throat. “Point- point taken.” He said shakily. He’d miscalculated his power in this situation rather badly. Despite the fact he was the one that had the information to offer, it would only be worth it if he got out of here in one piece and the clones kept to their end. Evidently, that would not happen if he pushed that particular button too much.

Satisfied that his words had landed, Hunter turned to go back to the cockpit but jutted his head for Crosshair to follow him.

Wrecker offered a supportive pat on Crosshair’s shoulder as he left.

“Phee, can you go watch Rampart with Wrecker for a few minutes?” Hunter asked tightly as he felt his emotional control slipping.

“Uh, sure.” Phee said with a questioning look between the two clones but the tension in the air was palpable, so she didn’t linger.

Crosshair removed his helmet and waited nervously for his brother to speak.

“What did you tell him?” Hunter ground out as he pushed the rising wave of emotions back down.

Crosshair looked down at the floor in shame. “Nothing. I-”

The wave came back stronger this time, and he couldn’t stop the knee-jerk reaction to his brother’s evasiveness. “Crosshair!” Hunter interrupted heatedly.

Crosshair met Hunter’s stare.

Hunter started talking but his words came out short and sharp with his voice rising with each sentence. “Rampart can’t gain any leverage here. If he has anything about her, about me, about our relationship that he could use against us… against me then I have to know! I need to know what he knows!”

Crosshair kept his voice level; a shouting match would do no good here and Hunter had every right to be reacting the way he was. All Crosshair could do was hope Hunter would believe him. “He doesn’t know anything. Not really.” Crosshair took a breath. “I told him getting her in Imperial custody might be a good way to get you. It would be a way to get you to slip up and come out of hiding. And if you came, the rest of the squad would follow. Nothing specific, I swear.”

Hunter looked at Crosshair but everything on his face and everything he knew about his brother told him he was telling the trust. He didn’t sense any dishonesty and he wasn’t about to throw away the trust he’d built and regained with Crosshair over some stupid comment from Rampart. He relaxed his stance and his tone, “I’m sorry I snapped at you.” Hunter said as he pinched the bridge of his nose in an attempt to quell the oncoming headache that had been brewing since leaving Pabu.

Crosshair dismissed the unnecessary apology. “I’d expected a lot worse.” He recognised the signs and knew his brother needed a moment to himself now, so he quietly left the cockpit.

Hunter exhaled deeply and reached under his clothes and clasped the leather chord as he pulled out the necklace. He fiddled with the Jedi symbol that decorated it and allowed himself the few seconds of ease and happy memories the action brought before he hid it once more.

Hunter shook off everything that had just transpired and put everything else that wasn’t involved in getting you and Omega back to the back of his mind before he rejoined the others.

Omega’s body was heavy with weariness. These tests had taken hours and after the night she’d already had, her body was struggling to fight against the urge to just slide of the stool and sink to the floor.

Her ears pricked up as she heard a cheering dinging, but she saw the curious yet slightly concerned look Emerie shot her way. Omega didn’t have any time to enquire more about that since Hemlock returned.

“Dr. Karr, what are Omega’s results?”

“Her blood sample yielded a favourable M-count replication.”

“As expected.” Hemlock said as he looked to the young girl.

“What does that mean?” Omega asked.

“I’ll show you.” Hemlock replied.

Omega was left with little choice but to follow Hemlock out and walk a route that was unfamiliar to her.

“Did you know an individual’s M-Count cannot be directly replicated?” Hemlock quizzed as he led the way to the vault. “Attempts have been made but each time, the levels degraded. And so we experimented.” He opened the doors to the corridor illuminated with red beams and gestured for Omega to carry on.

Omega didn’t move yet. “Where are you taking me?”

“The vault.”

Together, the two of them then carried on walking.

“We tried various methods, mixing samples from out other test subjects, yet nothing worked...” Hemlock continued to divulge, “until we combined your sample with one of our M-Count specimens.”

Together, the two of you would make a scientists dream so Omega couldn’t understand Hemlock’s command to separate the two of you. What did he have planned for you that was so different to anything else that would lie behind the doors ahead. “Then why couldn’t we stay with each other?”

Hemlock paid no attention to the broader meaning behind question. He kept his focus on her role here instead. “You are a vital piece to our work here, Omega.”

Omega stopped short as the doors opened and she was met with the sight of three children- they were a few years younger than her- and a baby. She recovered quickly and asked, “Who are they?”

“They are the rest of the puzzle. And this, this is your new home.” Hemlock turned around and walked out.

Omega heard the doors shut with a secure clash and she gulped as she took in the space.

She was confined. Again.

You felt a flicker of fear as the door opened and you saw the tiny cell you were to be put in.

The walls were blank and grey.

There wasn’t any type of bed.

All that was there was a thick silver chain with shackles attached to it that was weaved through a notch in the wall.

All of that added to the already freezing temperature of the cell.

One of the troopers shoved you hard in the back and you tripped into the room.

“SP-42, you need to wear this uniform now.”

You studied the face of the woman that gave you the drab, grey clothes and you saw traces of Omega in her face. Plus, it was obvious she was doing her best not to give away the fact that she knew who you were. “Emerie, isn’t it? Omega mentioned you.”

Emerie shifted uncomfortably but subtlety nodded. “She talked about you, too.” She said quietly before she addressed you at a louder volume with a more official stature. “But I really need you to follow my instructions, SP-42.”

“Please, SP-42 was my father. My first name will be fine. I have a feeling we’ll be spending a lot of time together.” You quipped as you took off your armour, the rest of your clothes and changed into the uniform that was handed to you.

“Ah, the use of humour to distract one from the pain of their current situation.”

Your blood ran cold at the soft and quiet yet threatening voice, but you masked your discomfort quickly as Hemlock came into view. “Oh great, it’s SP-Fuckface.” You remarked crudely as you fixed him with an intense glare.

Emerie tensed up at the comment as she took your personal items from you and handed them to one of the troopers.

“Come now, I thought your people were above such vulgar words.” Hemlock fully came into the cell.

“My people and I tended to differ on a lot of things.” You responded icily.

“Indeed.” Hemlock mused.

You forced yourself to keep your eyes up and not look disgusted by the way he touched the half-skull insignia on your old top.

Hemlock nodded to the one of the troopers to take them away and he inhaled deeply before he gave you his full attention. “I must say, this has been a long-awaited reunion. I offer you my congratulations- the search for you always proved most troublesome, despite your rather public endeavours against the Empire. You were a hard one to predict. Even the information I’d been given ahead of time was not always relevant.”

“Sorry I couldn’t make my capture convenient for you.” You retorted as the troopers took your hands behind your back and secured the shackles to your wrists. You pulled against the chain to test it, but it was strong and only extended a short way, so the bitter metal of the shackles instantly dug into your skin.

Hemlock ignored you and kept to his train of thought, “So, imagine my surprise when I got word that you’d handed yourself in all those months ago.”

“What are-” The realisation that hit you brought with it an overwhelming nausea as you stared at him and the cruel smile on his face.

It had always been Hemlock.

From the moment he’d known what you were.

From the moment you escaped him and made the decision to stop hiding.

From the moment you handed yourself over to the Imperials on Christophsis.

It was never just any Imperial official that wanted you.

It all led back to him.

“The secure prison facility…” Your voice hoarse and barely above a whisper as you recalled the words of the Imperial’s that had been getting ready to transport you off Christophsis.

“Very good.” Hemlock complimented. “If it weren’t for the incompetence of those officers in charge of you, I would’ve had you here a lot sooner.”

You reminded yourself of your training as you felt your breathing quicken and the panic that flared in your gut. You got your emotions under control and made sure you presented yourself as if his words had no impact on you.

Hemlock nodded as he saw your reaction, or lack thereof. It only proved he was right to take this course of action with you. You were no mere specimen. “Do you know that little display of yours in the hallway caused several concussions and a few dislocated shoulders?”

“If you’re looking for an apology, you’re not going to find one here.” You snapped.

Hemlock simply gave you a cool smile, “You misunderstand. I know that was only a taste of what you are capable of and it’s that strength of yours will prove most useful to my operation here.”

The panic came back again. “Useful?” You repeated, determined to keep the quiver out your voice as he started to circle you. You kept your eyes firmly towards the door as you felt him pause by your side.

“You see, I have great plans for you.” Hemlock whispered into your ear.

His breath was cold against your skin, and you were fighting against every instinct that was telling you to flinch away.

“Why am I here?” Still managing to keep your voice steady.

“You are here because I wish to study you.” Hemlock let out a deep sigh as he breathed in the scent of your hair. “You are here because having someone with your talents will be most beneficial.” He stroked his hand down the back of your skull. “You are here because you are going to join my operatives. With you being a part of them, nothing will stop me from achieving my goal.”

You had to jerk away from him then, “No.” You breathed in horror. “Never.”

“The very fact that you think you will have a choice shows how little you understand your situation.”

The walls of the room felt like they were closing in around and you could feel your knees growing weak, but you pushed yourself to stay upright. “You can’t break me. Your fellow Imperials tried already.” But the low, mocking chuckle you got in reply deeply unnerved you.

“You will find my methods to be more… sophisticated than what you’re used to.”

You felt his gloved hand trace down your clothed back, following the exact pattern of the scars left behind after everything you endured on Christophsis. You forced down the bile that rose in your throat.

Hemlock traced the pinprick scar on your neck, enjoying the way you attempted to flinch away from him before your stubborn strength kicked in and you stood still. You would provide him a most stimulating challenge that he was yet to meet, even the other prisoner hadn’t resisted as much as he expected. “I focus far more on the mind than those imbeciles on Christophsis. Perhaps if they’d used their interrogation droid more wisely, I would’ve been reacquainted with you sooner.”

Your entire body went numb. His vile words were far more threatening than any of the Imperials and troopers you’d come across.

“They didn’t understand what they had in their possession, but I do. Your mind will become mine. You will be one of my operatives.”

“And if I don’t?” You would sooner die than join him and you knew he had to know that too.

Hemlock came round to stand in front of you once more. “Then your time here will be short-lived. But I hope we can avoid such an unpleasant outcome. After all, Omega’s fate could depend on it.”

You lunged forward but the chain tugged you backwards immediately.

“Take her vitals and return to the vault.” Hemlock ordered as he placed his hands behind his back and walked out.

It took everything in you to keep standing as Emerie drew a sample of your blood.

Emerie avoided eye contact with you. That entire interaction had her struggling not to bolt. She just kept her sights firmly on the vial as she stepped away from you and headed towards the door.

“Emerie.”

Emerie paused but kept her back to you.

“Look out for her, okay? She might not need it but it’s looking like I can’t be the one to be there for her if she does.”

Emerie nearly turned to face you, but she stopped herself and said nothing as she exited.

Only when Emerie left did you collapse to your knees on the stone ground and let the emotions leave you in frantic, terrified breaths.

You allowed yourself a moment to lose yourself in your situation before you regained your composure.

You adjusted yourself into as comfortable as a position you could manage.

You closed your eyes and allowed the Force to wrap you in its calming and secure presence.

He wouldn’t break you.

No matter what he thought he could do.

He wouldn’t get to you.

You would get out of here somehow.

Next Chapter>

Tagging: @noeasyisnoisy, @arctrooper69, @andreaaxy, @dominoeffectsworld, @notgonnaedit , @allthingsimagines @nightmonkeysstuff, @jellybeanstacey0519 , @callsign-denmark , @superbookishhufflepuff

#the bad batch #the bad batch season 3 #the bad batch s3 #hunter x reader #hunter x femalejedi!reader #hunter x female!reader #hunter x fem!reader #sergeant hunter #sergeant hunter x reader #hunter tbb #hunter the bad batch #the bad batch hunter x you #hunter x y/n #tbb hunter x reader #the bad batch fanfiction #friends to lovers #star wars #angst

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lifblogs · 3 months ago

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Alive

@summer-of-bad-batch Week 12 Alt. Prompt: Radio Silence Rating: General Audiences Word Count: 2025 Summary: After Eriadu, Echo leaves messages on Tech's comm channel, feeling like he's talking to his brother again. READ ON AO3

“Hey… Tech,” Echo said into the comm. “It’s been a few rotations since… well, you know.”

He looked around, suddenly feeling ridiculous now that his voice was coming out of him. Night had swiftly fallen, and the lights of the landing pad he currently sat on, legs dangling over the side, were all that lit it. A ship was there—one of Rex’s ships.

Echo… missed the Marauder, but he knew he could help more from here. And… after so much loss, he couldn’t… well, he couldn’t handle it at all. It was like his foundation he’d built with his new family had been ripped right out from under him, and he couldn’t stay, not without anything to stand on.

Hunter’s face had been carved with pained, but he had said he knew Echo had to do this, and also mentioned he could do more work to search for Omega, for Tantiss, than he could if they stayed together.

Wrecker had hugged him so tightly he had worried an implant was going to embed deeper into him, or the controls on his legs would shatter.

Wrecker wasn’t angry, like Hunter was to some degree. He was sad. They all were.

It was more than that though.

The massive hole in Echo’s chest that he’d worked on filling and healing with his family, now made it so any reminders of them was too much. Hunter was too much. Wrecker was too much. Because around them it was easy to see who wasn’t there.

With Rex and Howzer and the boys, there was none of that, really. Though, every time he looked at Rex he thought of Fives.

No Fives.

Now no Tech, and no… no Omega.

“I don’t know if anyone’s told you,” he went on, “but… Omega was taken. By—by Hemlock. I know that’s not what you want to hear, maybe I shouldn’t even be telling you since we failed to find Tantiss, and save Crosshair, but…

“I don’t know what to do, Tech,” he went on, voice rough, tight. Tears welled in his eyes, and he let them, let his world blur around him.

“I feel so lost,” he admitted. “I… I remember when I first saw you. You were the first person I’d seen since… Anyway, I was scared. I was, but when I saw you, seeing you knew exactly what you were doing to save me, I wasn’t scared anymore. I didn’t even know you yet, and I trusted you. You were so human, so real. It was like… It was like…” Echo found himself at a loss for words, not sure how to describe what it had felt to see a human again, to see someone saving him, not torturing him, not using him, but saving him.

“Well, imagine being afraid, more afraid than you’ve ever been, and then seeing human eyes, eyes you almost recognize. I felt… home. You did that for me, Tech. And when you unhooked me, when you carried me… I decided if I ever got through that—and of course I did because I had you—that I would carry you too.

“Maybe not in a real sense—unless it was needed—but in a sense that I’d be there for you.”

Tears fell, throat so tight he barely got his next words out: “That I’d save you.”

Silence seemed to swallow him, even amongst the night noises of the creatures in the jungle.

“And I couldn’t. I’m sorry.”

Echo switched off the comm, and placed it against his forehead, hunching in on himself, sobbing.

He didn’t know how long he was out there—maybe hours—but that was how Rex found him.

He didn’t say anything, just put a hand on his shoulder, and it was enough.

“Hey, Tech,” Echo said from the cockpit of one of Rex’s ships. He wasn’t exactly flying it given the one hand situation, but he was keeping an eye on things while everyone else rested. The comm chanel was still live, but as usual there was nothing on the other end. Radio silence. Still— “Sorry it’s bee awhile,” he said. “Been pretty busy, looking for Tantiss, for Omega. I miss her.”

He sighed. “I miss you. I wish you could come home to us, you know? I knew what Plan Ninety-Nine was. Hunter had briefed me on it, but I never thought…”

His words cut off, a million thoughts clouding the space in his head. There was a fierce ache in his chest, and fear, betrayal, greater than he’d ever known, was trying to rip him apart.

He was a traitor to his friend, his family, because…

“Sometimes I hate you for it,” he finally got out, words tight, crawling out of the barbed wire in his chest, the electric frisson that had tried to keep it locked in tight.

And now that the words had been said, they hurt.

Echo nearly choked on a gasp, and he put his hand to his chest, curled in a fist. He hunched in over it, shaking, tears falling freely down his face, sobs catching in his chest, a pained growl leaving him.

“You left us,” he said. “You left us. What are we supposed to do with that? You made sure we didn’t all die, but… you didn’t put yourself into those calculations. You died. Did you even care? Did you think you mattered, or was it just us? We cared about you too, you know! We cared about— We still do.

“Omega got hurt,” he went on. “We all did. And then… well, without you… Hemlock took her. I know—I know I already told you that, but you weren’t there. You weren’t there, Tech! What am I supposed to do now? You were the first person I saw. The first person! And now…”

Echo sighed. “Whatever.” He switched off the comm.

“Tech, you’re never gonna believe this,” Echo said, grinning wide, the hole in his chest smaller for once, filled in with brilliant light. He was tweaking the energy crossbow he was planning on giving to Omega as soon as he saw her. “Omega’s back. She escaped, and guess who was with her? Crosshair. I know! She really did it. She saved herself. She saved him.

“I haven’t seen her yet, but Hunter did warn me she looks a bit older. I know that when I do see her I’ll think about the time I missed with her, and I know it’ll hurt, but it’s okay because she’s back. She’s safe now.

“Crosshair’s safe now,” he added. “Heard he’s as thorny as ever.” Echo grinned thinking of it, and thinking of Crosshair’s grudging acceptance of Echo which had turned into a bond with trust, that trust stronger with all the hard edges. “But she did it, Tech. She finished your mission! I know there’s still the Empire, that Tantiss is still out there, and Hemlock is, but I just thought I’d let you know. For once in almost six months, I’m finally happy. And I think… I think you would be too.”

Echo couldn’t sleep, as usual, and he was lying around in his rack, Gregor snoring beneath him.

With a deep sigh, he pulled out his comlink, dialing it to the frequency that never responded, and never would again.

“Hi, Tech. It’s me. Echo.” His words seemed too loud, and he rolled out of his rack, landing neatly on the deck.

He made his way over to the lounge that was on this massive ship, and sat back in the booth by the table. Only the ship’s hum met him now, the lights dim.

“I don’t know why I’m still doing this,” he admitted. “I know you’re… you’re gone. But I have so much to tell you, so much to say. It’s still weird not having you here. I always turn around thinking I’ll see you, I find my eyes searching every room I enter, and sometimes when I haven’t slept for days I imagine I see you out of the corner of my eye, coming to tell me some crazy fact. And I’d listen. Oh, I’d listen. What I wouldn’t give to have you telling me about some animal or language right about now. You could tell me about the history of the comlink and I’d listen. I’d listen to you talk about the galaxy, about other life-forms, about what you ate for breakfast. About everything.”

Echo had to pause, all choked up.

He didn’t know why he kept doing this to himself, kept tearing at his open wound instead of letting it heal.

But if it healed would he forget? Would he forget all the wonders that had made Tech such an amazing life-form? Would he forget his smile, his startled laugh when he actually found a joke funny, the sound of his voice, the way he spoke, his eyes? Would he forget it all?

Echo knew that wasn’t quite how it worked, and yet he kept doing this, kept letting himself bleed.

He had half a mind to let himself bleed until the Empire was nothing but dust.

“I’m sorry.”

He switched the comm off, and let the silence invade all the dark spaces in his mind, let it play with the nightmares.

Echo leaned back, looking up at the deck above him, not taking in any of the details, not even the color.

Everything was drab, and gray, and dark. Cold, and silent. So cold, like when he had been nothing but a tool for the Separatists.

Echo didn’t welcome it, but it was there. Without Tech, it crept in every day, and maybe would until Echo was gone too.

“I’m sorry to tell you this,” Echo said, “but the Empire found Pabu. I wasn’t there. I’m actually on my way to pick up the others now, but I thought you should know. Phee is safe. But Omega—she gave herself up to save everyone.

“I’d be proud if… if it didn’t hurt so much. I know you’d be proud. In a way, I think she learned it from you—sacrifice. You meant so much to her, to me, to everyone. So I thought I’d let you know, we’re heading to Tantiss. We’re destroying that place, and we will not stop until Omega is free, until the clones are free. I just wish you could stand by my side after we win.

“Hell, sorry for all the bravado. I’m… scared. I could always tell you when I was afraid. I think sometimes you’d find it silly, but then you’d realize it wasn’t silly to me, that it was real. And talking to you about it—it was like you unhooking me from that machine all over again, saving me.

“I’d save you if I could. I would have. But now all I can do is save her.”

Echo swallowed hard, looking out at the blue-white of hyperspace streaking past.

“Tech… thank you.”

Echo switched the comm off, telling himself this was the last time. If he could save Omega—and he would—he’d let his wound heal. Maybe finally it could heal.

Echo had abandoned his armor, his comm, feeling like he was losing part of himself for this, giving himself up to save Omega, so he never got the message that came through as he landed at Tantiss. He would know, would learn who this was, would even have help from him as he turned on the other CXs, but he never heard the high, frightened voice that said, “Echo, it’s me. It’s Tech. I don’t know how, but… I’m alive.”

And with the Marauder in ruins, no one else in Clone Force 99 heard that voice. If they had Crosshair wouldn’t have been so afraid, wouldn’t have thought Clone Force 99 had died, after all; Wrecker wouldn’t have lied, wouldn’t have pushed himself too hard; Hunter wouldn’t have been ready to give up all he was for his little girl, would have known he wasn’t alone. They would have been a family in that tense moment in the jungle, and would have known that Clone Force 99 was very. Much. Alive.

#summerofbadbatch2024 #week12 #radio silence #star wars #the bad batch #tbb #tbb echo #echo #tbb tech #tech #tech lives #cx-2 is tech #cx-tech #angst #fanfiction #writing #my writing

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whos-orion · 6 months ago

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Risk (3/4)

Summary: Omega and Hemlock are stranded in the middle of the Weyland jungle, and there’s only one way out. Work together. As Hunter and the rest of the Batch try to work through Omega’s loss, Omega discovers something truly, truly terrifying.

Word Count: 1861

Notes: haha guess what it’s not the last part!!! Maybe pt 4 will be the end maybe not I don’t really know!! Enjoy!! Also let me know in a reblog/reply if you would like to be on the tag list for pt 4!

Tag List: @twinsunstars @luzfeather

Part 1 Part 2

This was strange.

Omega was sitting in the middle of the Weyland Jungle, having survived a fall from the top of a mountain, next to Royce Hemlock. He was tending to his wounds, using a small medkit he kept on his person at all times. Of course he did. He was a doctor. An evil scientist, but a doctor nonetheless. He was applying bandages around the spot where Omega had shot him earlier. He finished and sighed, wincing as he turned his head towards Omega.

“…are you certain you don’t want me to take care of your leg?”

“Yes.” Omega replied firmly. Her left leg hurt badly, more so than everything else at least. But she didn’t want to give any kind of trust to Hemlock.

“It would be wise to let me do so. You appear to have landed on it. It is most likely broken—“

“Shut up.” Omega snapped. She didn’t feel like talking with him right now. Or ever, for that matter. Right now, she needed to figure out a way to get out of the jungle. Make it back to the mountain. There may still be a ship there for her to steal. Hemlock said a ship left shortly before she woke up, and that it was most likely her brothers. She didn’t trust him, but also wondered what reason he would have to lie. He probably wanted to live, too. Probably.

Omega sighed and moved some hair out of her face. She didn’t know what she was going to do. She couldn’t go anywhere at the moment, at least not without Hemlock. She grumbled and spoke to him.

“…do you have anything in that kit that could take these cuffs off?” She asked. Hemlock turned to her, his expression easing up a bit.

“No, I don’t. Even if I did, what makes you think I’d take them off? You’d run off and leave me to die.”

“I’d have a better chance of surviving. Both of us would.” She said, disdain in her voice. She didn’t want to work with him. She hated the very idea of it.

“Maybe so. But, at the moment, we must combine our efforts if we are to survive. This jungle is dangerous.” Hemlock said, overacting his surroundings. He was clearly worried about whatever was out there. Omega remembered her first escape from Tantiss, and the giant creature that had nearly attacked her and Crosshair. They were only able to get away because the Lurca hounds fended it off.

Omega didn’t like this. She didn’t like this at all. But…Hemlock, for once, was right. They couldn’t make it out of here alive in this state. Unless they worked together. Omega sighed and turned to look at Hemlock again.

“Do you…have any suggestions?” She was clearly unhappy to be asking him. But he had no reason to hurt her, at the moment.

“We need to cover ground. If we get back to the mountain, we can access my communicator and call for help.”

“You can call for help. I’m getting a ship and leaving.” Omega said. Hemlock grumbled and rubbed his temples.

“Your friends will have destroyed the rest of the ships. Or taken them all. Governor Tarkin is already on his way here, anyways. If we get to the mountain, we can wait for him there.” Hemlock said. He sighed and looked at Omega.

“You really think I’m going to let that happen? Let you take me back there when Imperials will be swarming the place? There’s bound to be another ship there, they can’t have taken them all.” She reasoned. There had to be a ship there. She was really hoping a ship was there. Otherwise…she didn’t know how she was going to get out.

“Fine,” Hemlock said firmly. “We can talk about that later. Right now, we need to get moving. If we wait any longer, it will be night before we get there, and then this place will be far more dangerous.” He moved to stand, then stopped. That strange look of concern was back on his face. “Can you walk?”

“Why do you care?” Omega gruffly asked. She pushed herself up and winced in pain as she felt her leg light up in agony. She nearly fell back down, but Hemlock caught her. She pushed away from him and stood on her own, putting most of her weight on her right leg.

“Because I don’t want you dying.” He replied plainly.

“Why? Because you don’t want to carry around my corpse?” Omega retorted. Hemlock rolled his eyes and sighed.

“It should be obvious enough by now, Omega. Use your senses.”

“Hmph. You think the Empire will let you continue with your work after this? You’re to blame for this destruction.”

“Your friends are to blame. I am indispensable. The Emperor will do anything to make sure his project is complete. As long as both of us are alive, I will be the most important man in the Empire. Besides the Emperor, of course.” Hemlock said. He stood up tall and looked towards the direction the mountain was in. “Let’s get moving.”

Hunter sat on the deck of his little hut on Pabu. He was looking out as the midday sun made the water shine. He sighed and leaned back on the bench. It had only been one rotation. One rotation since Tantiss. One rotation since the catwalk. One rotation since…Omega. Losing Omega. It hurt just to think about it. Wrecker had woken up just a few hours ago. Hunter hadn’t told him yet, but Wrecker was beginning to suspect something. It wasn’t that Hunter didn’t want him to know. He just couldn’t bring himself to say it. That would be admitting it, accepting it, knowing it. That she was gone. Gone. Dead. Hunter held his head in his hands, breathing deeply. She was gone.

Omega and Hemlock were making good time. They were nearly to the Lurca hound kennels, where they deemed the easiest access point was. Hemlock had explained the power was cut, so the ray shields shouldn’t be up. They could get in from there. Omega limped next to Hemlock as they walked through the thick jungle. Hemlock glanced over at her.

“…are you sure that—“

“Yes. Stop asking.” Omega quickly replied. She did not want his help. She wanted her brothers. She wanted to go home.

They walked a little further to a familiar clearing. Omega recognized it as the place where she and Crosshair had ended up on their first escape. She saw the tunnel where they had exited from as she and Hemlock approached it. Hemlock took the hand cuffed together with Omega and removed a panel from the outside structure. He fiddled with the wires for a moment, and the tunnel opened. He turned to her, his expression steely as ever.

“Omega. For once in your life, I’d like you to comply with my requests. We are going to head inside. We are going to head to my office. We are going to contact the Empire for help if Governor Tarkin has not already arrived. If there are ships left here, you are not going to take them. If you do escape, remember that I know how to find you. I know where you and your friends hide, and I will find you.” He spoke calmly, yet coldly. His eyes narrowed at Omega as she stood in silence. She nodded. She wasn’t going to do as he said, obviously, but she needed to get inside. And right now, the only way to do that was with him. The second she was separated from him, she would make her run for it. There had to be a ship. There had to be.

Hemlock and Omega entered the tunnel, crouching through the small space. Hemlock had been right, the ray shields were deactivated. They made it through with little to no problems. Though, Omega noticed several more concerned looks at her leg. It was still hurting badly. But she could make it out. She knew she could.

Hunter was standing outside of Shep’s house. Wrecker, Crosshair, Echo, and Shep were inside. He’d just told Wrecker what happened. Sort of. Either way, he wasn’t taking it well. Hunter had begun to speak, trying to get the words out, when he was interrupted. Crosshair had interjected before Hunter could say what happened, and he didn’t put what happened lightly.

“She’s dead.” He blurted out. “She’s dead and gone.” His voice broke as he spoke. Wrecker was silent for a moment, then began trying to deny it through tears. Hunter stood there silent as Wrecker practically begged for it to not be true. Crosshair was yelling at him, sobbing as well. Hunter had then left the house, standing outside where he was now. He could still hear Crosshair. Echo and Shep were trying to calm things down. Hunter stood outside, trying desperately to hold back tears. He had to be strong now. He had to keep the squad together. That was his job. That had always been his job. And he’d failed.

He had failed.

Omega and Hemlock walked through the deserted halls of Tantiss, now littered with the bodies of Stormtroopers and Clones alike. The two came to Hemlock’s office, which was dark and desolate. The doors whirred closed behind them and Hemlock locked them. The lights in the room were dim. There wasn’t much in the room. A small desk and chair, a raised table for examination, and a strange capsule on the wall to the right of the entrance. Omega couldn’t see what was in it.

Hemlock dragged Omega to the desk where he pulled out a small tool. He picked at the binders with it for a moment, and then they came loose.

“The door is locked. The vents are bolted to the wall. Do not try to escape, or you will face the consequences.” Hemlock said, not even looking at her. He placed the binders down on the desk and walked around to his chair. He sat down and booted up his communications device. Omega observed the room. It really was a sad little place. She walked over to the capsule on the wall. A small console was on the side of it. Omega checked to make sure Hemlock wasn’t looking at her. He was laser-focused on the comm. She turned back to the console and pressed the buttons to open it. The capsule front hissed air out, as it opened. Hemlock looked up as he noticed the noise. Omega waited for him to get up and scold her, drag her off, do something. He just softly smirked and turned back to the device. Something was wrong. Omega walked to the front of the capsule as it fully opened. Red lights lit up what was in it. Or rather who. Omega’s eyes widened in horror as she stared at the person inside, hooked up to wires and tubes. A heart monitor was attached to him, making that soft beeping noise that indicated a heartbeat. That indicated life. Omega felt a tear roll down her cheek as Tech slowly stirred and woke up.

Part 4

#the bad batch #star wars #star wars the bad batch #sw tbb #the bad batch season 3 #the bad batch spoilers #star wars tbb #sw the bad batch #tbb royce hemlock #royce hemlock #omega tbb #tbb omega #omega the bad batch #the bad batch fanfiction #star wars fanfiction

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waywardsou2 · 5 months ago

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Summer of Bad Batch

Week 4

Alt Prompt: “You really think your going without me? Not going to happen”

Tags: fluff, overprotective dad Hunter, aged up Omega (just a litte) Word Count: 900+

It was the break of dawn, the sun barely breaking the line of the horizon and Omega was awake. She had programmed her com to set itself off silently at the earliest point in the sun’s rotation. She wanted to get up and take a walk, to bask in the morning rays and the cool breeze.

She wanted a moment of freedom.

Ever since she had been saved by her brothers from Tantiss and destroyed the base things have been different. She was free, Hemlock was gone, and she was no longer being hunted. She was able to live a normal life here on Pabu. But since all of that Hunter has been protective. Super protective. Not once once their return and settlement on Pabu has Hunter let Omega leave his side. Everywhere she went he was close behind. Not letting her out of his sight for a second. He was like a Nanny Droid, hovering and crowding Omega. She couldn’t even go visit Lyana or Phee or any of her new friends without Hunter tagging along from a distance. He was constantly there.

Omega loved Hunter but she was beginning to get tired of his hovering. She felt trapped again. Smothered, like she was during her time on Kamino when Nala Se would never let her explore Tipoca City unless she permitted it.

And this is why she was waking up at the crack of dawn to go for a walk. Just a wall. Not an adventure, not somewhere new, not off the island. Just for a simple walk. Maybe even down to the beach they could see from the balcony of their home.

So, she pulled on her vest and leather jacket. Followed by her boots, which she laced up tight with a double knot, like she always did. And slowly she walked out of her shared rooms with her brothers. Tip Toeing over the wooden floors, trying not to kick anything, scuff her shoes or accidentally kick anything.

She got to the entrance of their home and was just about to open the door when she heard someone clear their throat behind her. She froze and cringed. Slowly she turned around and surprise, surprise; a crusty eyed, sleepy-looking Hunter was leaning against the hallway entrance wall.

“Omega, where are you going?”

He doesn’t just sound tired. He sounds exhausted. He looks it too. He looks older, the bags under his eyes were a scary shade of purple.

Omega’s eyes softened looking at her brother. She was frustrated by his hovering, but she couldn't fault him for caring. She just wished he wouldn’t put his own health on the line to take care of her.

She had lots of energy, lots of new prospects in life and so much she wanted to learn and do. But Hunter was slowing down; he didn’t have to look over his shoulder every 5 seconds, he didn’t have to be alert and aware of his surroundings on a planet-wide scale. He could take things slow, breathe longer, deeper. A

t least he could if he constantly wasn’t putting all his remaining energy into being Omega’s watchdog. Their energies didn’t match up but Hunter couldn’t relax. He had to keep her safe. He had to protect her. He didn’t know if he could take losing her again. So her safety came before his health. No question

“I’m just going for a walk. Today felt like a good day to do it”

“And you thought you would sneak out at the break of dawn instead of going in the late morning. You really think you're going without me? Not going to happen."

“Hunter-“ she hesitates ‘-I want to go on my own”

Hunter stops before he could even turn around to go grab his boots

“But what if something happens to you? I can’t take that risk”

Even to his own ears he sounds paranoid, but he can’t help himself. He can’t lose another sibling.

“Hunter, you don’t need to be my bodyguard. Nothing is going to happen to me here” She knows why Hunter is so protective of her, in his shoes she wouldn’t blame him. But she isn’t and she is getting tired of it.

“Omega-“ but she cuts him off

“Hunter please listen to me. I know what’s happened in the last few system rotations. But Hemlock is gone, the Empire doesn’t know about me with Hemlock gone. Pabu is quiet, secluded, off the holo-map. Nothing is going to happen to me again. You can’t keep hovering over me the way you do. It’s not good for you and it isn’t for me” She sighs “I know you care about me. And I never want to lose you guys again. But I can’t live with you constantly looking over your shoulder for me”

Hunter closed his eyes and he had to breathe deeply for a moment. He knows what he’s doing but he’s afraid; Omega is part of the squad, she is their sister, their kid.

He thought he lost Crosshair, he lost Tech, he couldn’t lose her too. If something happened to her again, he didn’t think he would make it this time. But he couldn’t keep going like this. He knew she was right.

“Hunter I am finally free, from the Republic, from the Empire. But the way you smother me makes me feel like … like I’m back on Kamino, with Nala Se”

And that sentence settles it for Hunter, it breaks his heart, but he knows he has to let go now. He takes in a shuddering breath, sighing as he lets go of the air. His shoulders sag and his legs feel heavy

“I’m sorry Meg”

Omega’s eyes soften and she walks to Hunter, wrapping him in a warm embrace. She was almost eye height with Hunter now, able to wrap her arms around his shoulders if she stood on her tip toes

“I love you Hunter”

“Love you too kid, now get outta here”

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writingforfun0714 · 10 months ago

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So I wanted to wait and let the new Bad Batch trailer sink in before posting about it.

Warnings: Spoilers, some thoughts/opinions will be critical

Alright so I don’t think it’s any secret that I don’t care for the Bad Batch. Even ignoring the horrible, incredibly RACIST clone model, the writing is mid/passable at best and not even watchable for me. Most of S1 and 2 combined is the typical ‘mission of the week’ type of story where only a few Empire-focused episodes stand out. There are also instances of ableism concerning Echo in particular (CF99 are also super dismissive of him in general—going along with that whole fucking ‘superiority over regs’ thing—seriously wtf).

Most episodes were very bland and predictable. S1 had no stakes despite its finale. By Mando/ST it’s clear that something has happened to Kamino. Didn’t really need to see a 2pt ep of the city getting wiped. Plus AZI should’ve been sacrificed. Even Ahsoka learns the lesson that you can’t save everyone in S1 when she disobeys Anakin and Admiral Yularen. TBB S2 had no character development from anyone besides a little bit for Omega (and Tech—but that was always speculated by fans since S1 and he’s dead now so it doesn’t really matter). A lot of the dialogue felt…basic. I think the only thing that TBB does well is the music. It’s really amazing and beautiful along with the smooth, crisp animation/scenery. Shame they ruined it with racist clone models, racist tones with the ‘reg’ dispute in both seasons, and being ableist and dismissive towards Echo.

Which brings me to the trailer. Oh boy. First, right off the bat I noticed how similar the trailer opening is compared to the S2 trailer. I do like that Phee is back. She did take time to grow on me but I do like her character and am curious to see where they will go with her.

It’s interesting we are seeing Crosshair back with the group so soon. Personally I do believe that is Crosshair and not just someone else wearing his armor like some think. I like the idea of Omega and Crosshair escaping early on but Omega gets recaptured/separated and taken back to Tantiss.

I’m interested in Hemlock and his backstory (is his gloved hand robotic?). I wish they’d create more interesting and unique characters like Phee and Fennec Shand instead of relying on cameos of established characters/fan-favorites like Ventress. I loved Dark Disciple and I thought it was a great ending for her.

I know it’s officially said that Ventress’ story will follow Dark Disciple but I don’t see how unless they retcon her death or pull a ‘somehow she survived’. Either way that sucks. Reminder!! DAVE FELONY DIDN’T EVEN FOLLOW REBELS FOR AHSOKA. SABINE IS NOT FORCE SENSITIVE IN REBELS. DAVE RETCONS THE SHIT OUT OF EVERYTHING. I have no faith that they will remain loyal to DD. Anything that will be ‘canon’ will be mid at best because even Crosshair’s arc has been messy (which is due to the weird S1 ‘reset’ the characters go through. Like they totally should’ve appreciated ‘regs’ by the end of TBB arc in TCW S7–there was no need for that awkward food fight scene in S1).

I hate that this show has to rely on cameos to get the viewing numbers. Here is a list of every character cameo we’ve seen so far:

—Rex*

—Tarkin*

—Palpatine*

—The Lawquane Family

—The Syndullas/Chopper

—Nala Se/Lama Su*

—Cad Bane

—Bail Organa

—Riyo Chuchi

—Gungi

—Gregor

—Wolffe

—Cody

—Scorch

—Saw Gerrera

—Martez Sisters

—Kanan/Depa*

—Muchi/Rancor from RotJ

—Taun We/Halle Burtoni

—Ventress

*I consider these important/relevant cameos and am not bothered by them like the others*

What a list right? I might even be missing one. These were just off the top of my head. Some are big players, others smaller and almost not-relevant to the plot. Not counting the one’s I asterisked, it’s 15 characters. There are original characters but a lot of them, especially in S1 felt like one off, not important characters. And I hate Cid so much—glad to see she was absent in the S3 trailer. I’m really starting to love Phee and I’ve always loved Fennec Shand, and Hemlock is definitely an intriguing villain and Emerie feels like a total mystery (though the reveal was not shocking due to the similar design and accent to Omega). Like why can’t they create more characters like these? The rest just feel forgettable. And it’s clear that characters like Saw, Gungi, Scorch, Cad Bane and even the Syndulla and Lawquane families just felt like fan service. The rest kind of make sense that they’d show up but it also feels a bit like fan service.

Moving on..

I know a lot of people think that new weird dark trooper at the 1:40 mark is Tech. While I’m inclined to agree as I think the ‘Winter Soldier’ story is an obvious choice to pick, I also think that Tech is dead. I’ve changed my mind and kind of hope that Tech isn’t brought back.

I hope this is someone new. I also wouldn’t mind if it was a bounty hunter we’ve seen before. Due to the frame and stature, I could almost think of Boba due to him being older than Omega but it’s definitely more likely to be Tech than either of these choices.

It’s interesting a lot of cameo characters from S2 do not make an appearance in the trailer. Bail, Riyo, Gungi, Gregor and Cody are all absent from the trailer. Trailers usually show action shots to avoid story spoilers, but with Gungi, Gregor, and Cody all being capable fighters, I’m surprised they didn’t appear (usually stuff with politics is a story spoiler).

Overall I’m skeptical of the trailer. I don’t like Ventress being alive/in TBB being a Dark Disciple lover. There’s a lot of mystery surrounding the story of S3 so I don’t feel like I can give an accurate take on that. I hate how Omega’s longer hair looks. Curly haired Omega is adorable!! The animation (everything but the clone model) is definitely getting better. However, based on how S2 was marketed as a ‘darker story compared to S1’ and was like 80% fetch quest I’m definitely skeptical.

Those of you that made it through this post, thank you for your time and I hope I gave you something to think about. If you wanna learn more about the racism and ableism portrayed in this show, check out @unwhitewashthebadbatch for more info.

#star wars #bad batch #thoughts #unwhitewash the bad batch #uwwtbb #tbb critical #Dave Felony Brad Rau and Jen Corbett are gonna wreck Dark Disciple #and Ventress #so scared for her #tbb season 3 #tbb s3 #spoilers #tbb season 3 spoilers #tbb s3 spoilers

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l0thcat · 7 months ago

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Some Star wars OCs !!! I don't have names for them yet.

Is an Togrutoa and new species I'm working on mix. Uses He/Him. He is a Jedi that eventually gets kicked out due to his unethical science. One of his clones ( 3 ) followed his science training and stays loyal. Probably would either hate or be intrigued with Hemlock.

2. A Chiss and Zabrak mix. Honestly just fully self indulgent. Kind of a self insert but more so an OC than anything else. Uses He/They. Not sure what to do with them yet. Most likely leans dark side of the force, but may not have any training.

3. A Scientist clone. Possibly ? May be CX-2 in my AU. As a post pointed out there ARE extra tubes in the room where CF 99 was made. I imagine Emerie, Omega and possibly one other was born here, then Tech, Hunter, Wrecker and Crosshair. I haven't counted the tubes myself yet, but there's always the possiblity of more "defective" clones being made.

I imagine this clone also saw the murder of their fellow flawed clones. Whether they made it to child hood or not.

Bonus:

The species I'm working on. I like this design for the colors/face but i cant. Seem to do anything else right. But they are supposed to be kyber-crystal species. ( if something like this existed in legends i wouldn't know </3 ):

Note: i Do NOT consent my art to being used for: NFTs/AI Art, Tracing/Stealing/Reposting, Youtube/Videos/Tiktok etc, a thumbnail for fanfiction, roleplay of any kind, etc.

I DO consent my art for: Being tagged as kin/me/IRL/F/O, etc, Used as an icon (as long as you credit/link back to me (you MUST reblog the art first so i know (unless we are close), Draw fanart in general / our designs interacting / oc interaction.

Reblogs help more than likes !!!

#Star wars oc #Star wars sona #Star wars clone oc #Clone oc #the bad batch #Jedi oc #Sith oc #Sorta #- host #My art #chiss oc #Zabrak oc #Togruta oc

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queeniecook · 7 months ago

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Asa Blake

Career: Asa has had many careers over his many years (Businessman, Engineer, Burlesque club owner to name a few) . As a human, he was employed as a Scientist.

Romantic Life: Ex-Wife Annalise Blake

Children: None- Unless you count those he's turned, Asa doesn't count them as such.

Parents: Unnamed

Other family: None

Interesting Tidbits: Asa has turned many vampires. Wogan Hemlock, Beau Merrick and Elvira Slayer to name a few and also helped turned Liberty Lee into a vampire though he was not the one who bit her. His biggest accomplishment was turning musician Cher. In Asa's words "How do you think she looks so young?"

Asa honestly did love Annalise, he met her when she was an intern at Newcrest Hospital. He came across her in the parking lot late one night, trying to fix a flat tire. Normally he would have made the young woman into his snack but he was smitten the moment he looked into her eyes.

Asa was born in 1945.

For most of his existence as a vampire, Asa didn't mind the lifestyle but after Annalise divorced him, he found himself no longer wanting to be a vampire. Thus allowing James to perform experiments on him to try to cure vampirism.

Life State: Vampire

#the grant legacy #ts4 legacy #generation 2 #asa blake #ts4 #thesims4 #sims 4 #sims4 #ts4 character profiles

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mylifeisactuallyamess · 6 months ago

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Sanctuary part 2

Chapter 7: Betrayal

A/N: Another chapter from the Batch pov.

Warnings: 18+ Hemlock, again. Cid, what a bitch. Mentions of canon war, injuries, canon violence follows the very end of season 2.

Word Count: 4.6k+

Chapter 6 - Chapter 7 - Chapter 8

Masterlist

The ship was quiet as soon as Hunter had stopped pacing. The laser tracked over Omega’s still form and Tech made a slight grimace at the readings. Her vitals were slowly dropping, she needed to be seen by a medic as soon as possible.

His chest squeezed at the thought of a medic, of you. He knew the basics, he’d had always been the one to administer the trauma kit in the field but an injury like this…well it was beyond his knowledge parameters. And it irked him. He felt he was failing you by not knowing these things.

Wrecker let out a grunt in his sleep. He was sat on the floor at Tech’s feet, head bent awkwardly to rest on the bunk where Omega lay. Hunter was asleep on the stairs to the gunners pit, his head had fallen forward to rest on his chest but he’d managed to keep his arms crossed. A position that Crosshair used to favour.

Tech stepped over his sleeping brother, mentally counting down the drop from hyperspace and also analysing Omega’s results. By his calculations Ord Mantell was approximately 46 standard minutes away and if Omega continued to deteriorate, at her current rate, had at least 3 hours before her situation needed intervention.

He sat in the chair by the console, picking up his datapad to check the homing beacon they had placed on Hemlock’s ship. They had no way of knowing if it was the Doctor’s personal shuttle, or one supplied by Tarkin. Something he had not factored in when they were planning the mission. It was still moving, unable to transmit coords in hyperspace.

He placed the datapad down, not wanting to look at it anymore. The feeling was alien to him, the sickness that burned in his stomach was inescapable and he folded his arms. The tips of his fingers dug into his ribs, pressing his arms tightly, as far as they’d go. It felt like he was receiving a hug. If he closed his eyes he could smell you, pretend his own warmth was from you instead. It made the constant ache a mass in his chest, a feeling nothing could counter unless it was you alive and in his arms once more.

The entire squad had agreed Omega needed AZI, but once again, flying into the unknown was wearing thin. Even if Cid turned them away they would take the droid. He rightfully belonged to the clones anyway. Well, Omega. He was a friend to Omega and they owed AZI after what happened on Kamino.

“How is she?” Tech dropped his arms, glancing over at Hunter as he stretched the sleep out of his joints, his worried gaze already focused on Omega.

“Barring any complications, she should remain stable long enough for us to get her to the parlour.” Because they couldn’t take Omega to the medbay…the last time they had seen it, it was trashed. Ruined. All your hard work wiped away by the spiteful hand of the Empire.

Tech had never given much energy to hating things, he disliked certain textures and noises, he avoided people that made him uncomfortable but he had never hated. Though right now he hated the Empire with everything he had. If he wasn’t careful, such a feeling would consume him. And he needed a clear head.

“How long?” Hunter rasped.

“We shall be planetside in precisely 37 minutes.” Landing on a planet where he’d seen you dance in the sunshine. Where he’d tucked a blanket around you on the nose of the ship so you didn’t get cold. A planet where you had kissed him for the first time and he’d been so stunned by the feel of your lips he didn’t know what to.

It had been your home for a time, memories will be everywhere he looked. Ones that had buried under his skin and embedded in his soul. It had taken him so long to see how you made him better, you made him feel accepted outside of his squad. You helped him experience a feeling so intense, he assumed all descriptions of it were fiction.

His gaze snagged on the headset he’d made you. It felt like a lifetime ago when he placed them gently over your ears. Now they played a different tune. He had managed to untangle the encryption that had ruined your recorded message on Beeto.

He had heard you say it. Words he had never considered being aimed at him.

Tech. I love you.

They kept him going.

The four of them stood to the side, hovering. They collectively held their breath as AZI scanned Omega, his receptors were able to take a more detailed reading than a medscanner.

“Omega has sustained a fracture in the patella, I can reduce the swelling. Her vitals are stable for now. I should be able to splint it but she does require at least two weeks of rest.” The little droid reported matter of factly, looking at each clone as he spoke. “She is not the only one with injuries.” Tech looked at Echo who shrugged, the pair of them turning to Hunter and Wrecker. The larger clone scowled at the droid while Hunter sheepishly rubbed at his chin.

“You’re injured and neither of you said anything?” Echo scolded, crossing his arms and glaring at them both.

“I was worried ‘bout Omega,” Wrecker grumbled.

AZI cocked his mechanical head to the side. “I suggest you come back to Cid’s where I can dress your wounds properly. She salvaged what she could from the abandoned medcentre and keeps it in the store room.”

Abandoned? Tech felt the words itch in his mouth. There was nothing he disliked more than incorrect information. You hadn’t abandoned it. You had been taken.

“We need to get Omega on the bed,” Hunter said, placing a gentle hand on Wrecker’s chest. “Not you.”

“I’ve got her,” Echo responded, clearly still upset his brothers had been hurt and they hadn’t said a word the whole way here.

They were a sorry procession through the streets of Ord Mantell. Omega was sedated on the bed with AZI pushing. Hunter favoured his side and Tech wondered if he had rebroken his ribs. Wrecker was tugging on his armour, clearly uncomfortable.

Tech looked around as they walked. The rubble had been cleared away from the attack the city had sustained, but the buildings were standing empty with gaping holes in the walls, roofs and foundations. Tech glanced at his datapad, noticing the beacon was still on the move and unable to transmit exact coordinates.

There was no market. This side of the town was quiet, people hurrying away at the sight of the clones to watch them pass from the shadows. It was so different from the bustling hub they had first stepped into all that time ago

A little tension left him when they descended into the parlour. The lights still flickered, the air was tinged with damp but it was blissfully empty. Not much had changed here then. Cid was behind the bar, her reptilian eyes narrowed at the sight of them.

“Well look what the Nexu dragged in,” she said. “No contact for months, thought you were all dead and you come back like nothings happened! Well you can turn around and leave because I’m done with all of you.”

“Omega is injured,” AZI piped up. “As are Hunter and Wrecker. I advised them about the medical supplies you keep since the medcentre was abandoned.”

“Did you now?” Cid glowered at the droid but he only blinked innocently at her.

“We need your help. She needs your help,” Hunter ground out, gesturing at Omega. He kept his expression neutral but Tech could hear the tiredness beneath them.

Cid’s eyes blinked, a scowl lining her scaled face. “Fine. Fix them up.” She turned her back, grumbling as she shifting some bottles around.

“Echo, Tech. Run checks on the Marauder,” Hunter spoke quietly. “We might need to leave on short notice.”

Tech lifted his goggles a little. “I do need to check the damage we sustained after our abrupt departure from Eriadu.”

“Good-a time as any to run diagnostics,” Echo agreed.

“Keep coms open,” Hunter warned, a look passing between the three of them before he followed Omega and Wrecker to the back.

The spaceport was empty at this time. It was cloudy, stars shrouded from sight and he paused for a moment to just look. You were out there somewhere. It was just a simple case of eliminating planetary systems that were not within Empire control, or inhabitable, or unoccupied…a process that would take longer than the years he had left.

He was hanging off the back of the Marauder, inspecting for hull damage and luckily only finding carbon scouring. He quickly pulled himself from his thoughts, pushing his goggles up the bridge of his nose, refusing to fall into the pit of his memories.

His neck tingled. Nothing about this place felt right anymore, too much change and damage had happened. Scars left by the Empire ran deep into the planets surface and its people.

“Ready?” Tech called down to Gonky, removing a long tool hanging from his belt, feet planted firmly in the exhaust vents and his other hand magnetised to the ship exterior. Gonky made an affirmative noise, letting Tech know he was ready and the heat lance blasted to life in his hand. He dropped the visor on his helmet, darkening the screen to protect his eyes from the glare as he began to burn the marks off.

It was the quickest method, not his favourite way of removing blaster shot residue, but he had no other choice right now. He frowned when the lance sputtered in his hand, the intense heat dying out completely. He swung his helmet round to look at Gonky on the ground, the little droid was hopping from foot to foot trying to get Tech’s attention.

“Let me look.” He clipped the lance back onto his belt, letting his feet slide to dangle in mid air, held on only by the magnetising glove. He stretched out his fingers, releasing the magnetic pull and dropped to the ground, absorbing the landing with a deep bend of his knees.

Gonky shuffled toward the clone and Tech saw the problem immediately. The connector had slipped loose from Gonky, so the lance wasn’t getting any power.

“Easy fix,” he murmured to the droid, gently running a hand over the top and along the side as he crouched down. “You knocked it loose, that is all. Try to…” Tech paused. He felt the air shimmer and press around him. Usually a precursor to something large breaching the atmosphere. He straightened, looking up at the dark sky and letting his goggles pick out the lines of a ship he knew so well.

“Tech!” Echo charged down the ramp of the Marauder. “The Empire is here! They’re jamming our coms.” The droid stepped towards Echo, giving a few firm gonks to get his message across. “No. No you stay here,” Echo responded. “We’ll find them.”

“A landing party is on the way,” Tech informed them, noticing the shuttle and fighters separating from the Venator. “I shall head to Cid’s and warn the others,” he continued, checking his blasters were in their holsters and detaching the heat lance from his belt.

“I’ll keep watch. Make sure they don’t come too close to the ship. I have no doubts Tarkin will want our heads for infiltrating Raven’s Peak.”

“Tarkin is not a man to forget such transgressions,” Tech agreed with Echo.

“Oh and Tech.” He turned to look over his shoulder as Echo slipped his helmet on. “Don’t do anything I wouldn’t do.” He gave his brother a quick salute before disappearing into the dark.

Tech melted into the shadows. Treading softly on the ground, his visor picked up recent ground disturbance near the parlour entrance and he slowed. Crouching down he observed the two commandos standing guard by the door. He couldn’t reach from here with just a stun blast, and shooting them would be too loud, alerting whoever was inside to his presence. Which could result in his brothers being hurt or killed and Omega captured.

Not the outcome he wanted.

He pushed silently away from the wall, climbing the building with ease so he could run across to the next roof. This one took him within leaping distance of Cid’s roof. He cleared the gap, desperate to keep his landing as silent as possible, he rolled. Hoping his armour didn’t make too much noise, coming to a stop against the half wall that ran around the top of the building.

Tech held his breath, waiting for his audio receptors to pick up com chatter or movement from below. Thankfully, nothing. He peered over the edge and found himself directly above the commandos. He slowly pulled a blaster free, easing himself onto the lip of the roof, steadying himself with a hand between his bent legs as he crouched.

Without warning, he dropped. Straight onto the commando below him. The sickening crunch of armour against armour, as well some severe bone breakages, split the night air. Before the other commando even had to time to turn his head, Tech had stunned him twice and reached out to catch the soldier, lowering him quietly to the floor.

Now he pulled his other blaster free and side stepped down the stairs, keeping his back to the wall. He stopped near the middle and slid down to a silent crouch. He knees were paying for the fall and the awkward landing but he had to keep going. He could see the backs of some more commandos who all had their blasters converging on one spot, Wrecker seemed to be bound and on his knees, and a man that made Tech’s eyes widen. He recognised him from the photo out of the old Republic archives he’d stumbled upon…Doctor Hemlock.

The very man they were trying to pin point.

Hemlock moved to the front of the squad. “That’s not very strategic, Hunter.” The man’s voice was quiet but picked up easily by Tech’s helmet. At least his brothers were alive and there was currently no sign of Omega.

Seven commandos, Cid and Hemlock — although he looked unarmed — out numbered him, Hunter and a bound Wrecker. If he had been able to hail Echo for backup, he would have moved in.

“You don’t need to use your enhanced senses to know you’re outnumbered.” Tech watched with a narrowed gaze as Hemlock took a credit case from one of the soldiers and handed it to Cid. “The Empire thanks you for your assistance. Our business is done. Leave.” The Trandoshan didn’t need telling twice.

Tech debated moving from his position when she headed for the stairs, it would have been the sensible thing to do…but she had already noticed his crouched form in the shadows. He tensed, ready to blast her back down into the parlour if she so much as blinked wrong. Instead she stared down the barrel of his blaster, her reptilian face looked forlorn but Tech held no sympathy for the creature. He understood now, your hatred for them, your intense mistrust. They all should have known better.

Cid didn’t change pace or alert the soldiers to his hiding place, apparently she decided she’d done enough damage to them. As soon as she disappeared to the streets, Tech focussed his attention on down below.

“Please,” Hemlock said to Hunter. “Consider your next move very carefully. I would hate for this to end poorly for both of you. Here is how this is going to go.” Hemlock eased his arms behind his back, seemingly at ease with the whole situation. “You will lower your blaster and hand over Omega. And I will allow you to keep breathing.”

“Omega’s not going anywhere with you.” Tech let out a shallow breath at the dangerous tone Hunter used. He aimed his blaster down into the parlour and sighted the commandos. If Hunter made a single move to indicate hard contact, Tech would be right there with him. Consequences be damned.

“Oh,” he couldn’t see the Doctor’s face but his body shifted slightly. “Well, who knew clones were so paternal? Fascinating.” Tech felt a faint shiver travel down his spine. That’s all they were to Hemlock, fascinating subjects to be picked apart and studied. He was used to being viewed as a unit, or reduced to a number. But since the war had ended and Omega, along with you, had come into his life; you made Tech see there was so much more. That they, were so much more.

Hemlock breathed in, clearly enjoying the power he was wielding in this moment. “I have something that belongs to you.” He held out a hand for a commando to drop something small and black into the upturned palm. Tech felt his jaw clench and his heart dropped in his chest. “A homing beacon, planted on my shuttle. Curious,” Hemlock continued, almost musing to himself. “Are you…looking for someone?”

The tension in the air thickened, Tech hardly dared to breathe, barely able to keep his finger from slipping on the trigger. Wrecker let out an aggressive snarl as the tracker left Hemlock’s hand and skidded across the floor to rest before Hunter.

The Doctor scoffed quietly, taking a step forward while ignoring the blaster aimed directly at his heart. “You are missing a member of your squad? Aren’t you? A medic?” It was getting harder to breathe inside the helmet and an uncharacteristic tremble made Tech’s aim shaky. Pulling his arms in he tried to get a grip on himself, to ignore the heat rising under his skin.

“Maybe I am mistaken,” Hemlock said into the stoic silence that Hunter offered him. “But, I don’t think I am. To lose one of your own, it must weigh heavily on you as their leader.” He turned to acknowledge Wrecker behind him and a blaster was rammed suggestively into the large clone’s neck. “And if you don’t lower the blaster now, you will lose. Yet. Another.”

Only years of ingrained training kept Tech in his current position. Only knowing the odds of a successful outcome and how very slim they were, kept him hidden in the shadows. Hemlock knew who you were and Tech had no doubts that Hemlock knew exactly where you were.

Hunter lowered his blaster, picking up the homing beacon and turning it over in his hand. It had been their one chance to find Crosshair, for a lead on you and once again, they had nothing.

“Wise decision.” Tech frowned as Hunter was bound, carefully moving backwards up the stairs. He knew how the commando visors worked, they would be alerted to his presence if he lingered here much longer.

“Sir!” He froze at the sound of someone entering the bar. “The girl’s not in the office.”

“She’s long gone,” Hunter said smugly. “Like I said, Omega’s not going anywhere with you.”

Tech moved out onto the street, moving as quickly as he could. Omega was out here somewhere, he needed to find her before anyone else did.

He was barely a few streets over, dodging walkers and screaming citizens when he recognised the humming twang of Omega’s bow. He didn’t hesitate, triangulating the source of the noise on his visor to find Omega standing there with her bow drawn, facing Hemlock down like a true soldier. She was brave, Tech admired that, but she should have run.

Between them stood his brothers and Hemlock.

More commandos had increased the guard around Wrecker and Hunter. A rather large set back, one that couldn’t be rectified even if Echo was nearby. Coms were still being jammed, all Tech could do right now, was watch this interaction play out.

“Hello, Omega.” Hemlock shouted to her above the chaos the Empire was causing. “We were just talking about you.”

“Let them go!” She demanded.

“Omega! Run!” Hunter’s shout was choked off by the thick, armoured forearm of a commando.

“I won’t let them take you!” This feeling of being stuck, of not being able to do anything was frustrating and he began to survey the surrounding buildings. If he could reach Omega…he could protect her, find Echo and they could track the Venator. An outlandish plan, with a possible 5% chance of succeeding. He would probably fail at the first hurdle. There had to be another way…

“How about an exchange?” Hemlock offered. “If you come with me, your friends will live.”

“I don’t believe you,” she scowled deeply, drawing the bow tighter. Good, she shouldn’t believe him, the Doctor was after one thing and he’d do anything to get it.

“I did not come here for them, Omega. I came to return you to Nala Se. She needs your help.” Hemlock sounded so earnest, so convincing to a child.

“He’s lying,” Hunter shouted. “They killed the Kaminoans.”

“Incorrect,” Hemlock countered angrily, turning back to face Omega. “Nala Se is alive and well cared for. As you will be.”

“I’m not going with you.”

Tech’s gaze drifted past her to see the glisten of a blue visor in the dark. He surged forward.

“Omega! Look out!” He caught a glimpse of her encased by the blue stun blast before the air was punched forcefully from his lungs. He was disarmed swiftly and binders snapped around his wrists.

“Your interference was too late,” Hemlock told Tech quietly, a self-satisfied grin growing. “You gained, nothing from that little show. But I gained, so much.” He turned to address to commandos. “Scour the city. When you find the fourth clone, send them back to Eriadu. Governor Tarkin wishes to question you personally.”

“Not your best move,” Hunter grumbled quietly as they were shoved along.

“I calculated for that,” Tech whispered. Hunter raised an eyebrow in question but couldn’t ask anymore.

“Quiet!” The demand snapped from the nearest commando followed by a swift push with the end of a blaster.

A gunship was sitting in the street, such a painful reminder of the war and what they once fought for. A reminder of how it had been destroyed, ripped apart at the seams and disintegrated into nothing but echoes, screaming across the galaxy.

Blaster shots sounded. The group came to a halt, Tech tilted his head. Sounded like an Imperial walker — which sure enough stomped round the corner and blew up the squad trying to shoot it down. The waiting gunship tried to take off, only for the walker to shoot out the hull, making it skid across the floor and take out two of their guards. Tech let out a quick breath, his gamble had paid off.

“Echo?” Wrecker grunted.

“Gotta be Echo.”

“Without a doubt it is Echo,” Tech stated as he waited for Wrecker to break his bindings. “He is our only ally here.”

They worked efficiently, taking out the remaining commandos and Tech was able to retrieve his pair of DCs. They hurried forward as a single unit, providing cover for Echo’s walker until another arrived. There was nothing they could do when the enemy walker toppled the one Echo was in, spilling him and AZI out of the top hatch.

Smoke filled the air around them, covering their retreat from the remaining troopers. They weren’t even round the corner when Echo asked, “Where’s Omega?”

“That Imperial took her,” Wrecker growled.

“It was Hemlock,” Tech told him.

“We’ve gotta stop his shuttle from leaving,” Hunter snapped.

“The beacon…?” Echo started but Tech shook his head.

Heavy footfall caused them all to flatten against the wall, letting the commandos run past before Hunter nodded to a rusty gangplank above their heads. They followed his lead, climbing over the fallen larty and onto the building, Wrecker and Tech providing cover fire while the others climbed up.

“Look out!” Wrecker jumped off the ship at the last minute, clasping Tech’s outstretched hand from the balcony when the ship exploded in a shower of heat and shrapnel.

More shots were fired, almost from every angle. “There’s too many!” Wrecker shouted, helping Tech pull him up.

Hunter surged ahead at the sound of engines powering up. The world dulled around him as the lights of the ship flared into his eyes.

It was happening again.

Someone who had trusted him with their life, was being taken by Imperials. He was losing her, just as he had lost you. The ship carried on rising, leaving them in a wake of its dust and fuel fumes, taking Hunter’s heart away from him for the last time.

“Hunter! We need to go!” Echo roared, blaster shots exploded around them, sharpening back into focus as Hunter realised he was still responsible for the rest of his squad.

“Get to the Marauder.”

Bolts followed them through the streets. Didn’t matter how many they took down, more soldiers took their place. It was slow. Time consuming. Every second that notched past was a second Hemlock flew further and further away. Tech ran towards the Marauder, the ramp coming down, beckoning him to hurry up.

As soon as his brothers were on board, he hauled the ship up as fast as it would go, trying to ignore the faint plink plink of more carbon scouring on his hull.

“Where is he?” Hunter almost knocked into Tech when he barrelled into the cockpit. His eyes searched the darkening sky as they left the atmosphere of Ord Mantell.

“I have run a scan,” Tech explained. “But there are no shuttles in the vicinity.”

“We have to enter hyperspace before they get any ideas about attacking us.” Echo was already priming the hyperdrive while Tech entered some coordinates, neither of them waiting for Hunter to give the order.

Light slid over the nose of the ship. Stretching and warping at a rate that befuddled the eyes until pinpoints became a solid barrier.

The silence in the cockpit was almost unbearable. Tech glanced up at Hunter before removing his helmet and adjusting his goggles.

They had failed. Again.

It wasn’t a feeling Tech liked and he wasn’t comfortable with how much he was experiencing it at the moment.

He side eyed Echo, watching Hunter’s fists clench and relax rhythmically as he stared blankly out the canopy.

Echo twisted his chair round. “There was no way to track Hemlock’s ship. He could have taken Omega anywhere.” The tattoo on Hunter’s face stretched at the mention of Omega from Echo. Tech couldn’t remember the last time he’d seen his brother this angry and Crosshair was not involved.

He watched Hunter turn and stride back into the hold, followed by a dull thud and a raw noise that came from someone frustrated, angry. Tech stared at the blurring lights, detaching from the pain rising inside him.

They would just keep looking. It was all they could do.

“Injuring yourself won’t bring her back,” Wrecker commented gruffly, his voice thick with his own emotions. He managed to sit Hunter down at the console, both of them staring up into Omega’s room. The curtain was open, her yellow warm lights were off and the space filled with the cold, harsh light of hyperspace. All it did was illuminate how empty that space was. How empty they all were without her.

Hunter took a ragged breath in. “We are going to get her back. We are going to them both back, and we don’t stop searching until we do.”

#sanctuary #sanctuary part 2 #tech x reader #tech x you #tech x f!reader #the bad batch #tech the bad batch #the bad batch fic

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ruinedbybooksandanime · 9 months ago

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Jk about my last post. I completely forgot that I had chapter 3 done already and was working on chapter four 💀

Here’s the 3rd chapter! Hope y’all enjoy 😊

Summary: Ravaen seeks to protect the one family member who has always protected her, her brother. It’s a risk she has to take but it’s one she will. The results might not be the desired ones.

Warnings: Foul language, alcohol usage, talk of violence

Word Count: 4580

The Raven’s Claws

Chapter Three

Azriel’s eyes are terrifyingly cold as he burns a hole in the wall at hearing the information I just finished telling him. I don’t speak, taking a long drink of hard liquor. When he’d gotten here, I was already pretty deep into my bottle. It helped with the pain, both physical and mental, and I had barely given him a greeting before slouching into the chair. Even though my back is screaming in agony at how I’m sitting, I don’t move an inch.

“Have you figured out what poison they plan to use?” Are his first words after at least ten minutes of sullen silence.

I scoff, tipping the bottle toward him. “Do you know how many grown poisons aren’t in season right now? It’s winter. Everything is dead.”

“What would your father use?”

“Belladonna, hemlock, nightshade. The list goes on and on,” I roll my eyes, not caring if I sound hateful.

Azriel’s gaze turns to me and he looks me over. Those hazel eyes are piercing. It feels like he’s looking into my soul. “Humor me then. If you were going to poison the most powerful High Lord in history, what would you use?”

“That’s easy,” I mumble. “Jimsonweed. It’s a powerful hallucinogenic. I would only use enough to disorient Rhysand, make him see things that aren’t there, before striking with my blade. It would be enough to disarm him and make him unable to wield his power.”

“I see,” he looks contemplative as he takes in my words. “Is it rare?”

“Rare?” I tilt my head a bit but then it hits me. No one wanted to sell the poison they were trying to buy. “At this time of year it doesn’t grow and the plants are hard to come by unless you live near the border of the Spring and Summer courts. So yes, it is rare.”

“So what is a similar plant that does the same?”

“There are many, many plants,” I sigh softly. “The only way to know would be to get the information from Landras. Any chance you could get one of your spies in?”

“It’d be too risky this close to the ball,” Azriel watches as I move to sit up straight and he no doubt sees the wince on my face. “You are hurt.”

Yesterday he had asked if I was hurt after seeing the bruise on my thigh and today, I actually am. I debate on telling him about the fifteen welts across my back but I just ignore his words.

“If you can’t get someone in, then I’ll have to go myself.”

“You’re hurt,” he repeats, those hazel eyes narrowed in concern. “Did they do something to you?” I hesitate just long enough for him to understand. Rage ripples across his face before it’s gone in a heartbeat, replaced with a cool mask. But those eyes, they burn with a cold fury. “What did they do?”

His words are growled and I can’t find the words I need to lie to him. I look away, unable to hold his stare. In my drunken state, I can’t hide my emotions and I know shame is written all across my features.

“My father’s preferred form of punishment is beatings,” I mutter, feeling the lashes on my back burn in response to my words. “I pissed him off this morning and his response was fifteen lashes. The bruise you saw yesterday was from something else at the beginning of this week.”

That anger is back on his face and this time he doesn’t try to conceal it. This time it’s pure murderous hatred. He grits his teeth and the next time he speaks I can hear the tremor that he tries to hide.

“He will not harm you any further,” Azriel speaks with a stern sincerity.

“Why do you even care?” I can’t help myself as the words just tumble from my lips. “It’s not like we’re friends. I’m just working for you and Rhysand to get the hell out of the Hewn City.”

He stares at me in silence for a long time. For a moment, we just look at each other and it’s almost as if a flicker of understanding haunts his eyes. I clear my throat just as he looks like he’s going to say something, halting his lips before they even move. The last thing I want is sympathy from anyone about my situation.

“What are you going to do about these allies in the other courts?” A distraction to pull him away from my home life.

Azriel sighs and crosses his arms over his chest, his muscles rippling under the shirt he’s wearing. I only notice then that he’s not wearing his Illyrian leathers and can’t help but wonder if that is a strategic move to show they trust me or if he ended up rushing here from wherever they stay when they’re not in the Court of Nightmares.

“I suppose I will need to start a deep dive into the connections Thaes has. You’re sure you don’t know who he is talking about?”

I shake my head, noting the way his eyes narrow. I had conveniently left out the fact that it was my brother meeting with these allies. “My father has many connections all across Prynthian and the continent. There are too many to even know where to begin. Is there anyone in particular who has it out with Rhysand at this time?”

“There are too many,” Azriel frowns. “I need to pinpoint which Court before wasting resources and time chasing blindly.”

It would be a wild goose chase for him to start at random and I know that it could be easily solved if he tracked down Brys. My stomach churns uncomfortably as I debate between telling him or protecting the only person in my family who matters. Eventually my mind settles and I close my eyes, take a deep breath, and focus sternly on him.

“I can help,” his brow raises, his hand waving for me to continue. “What I’m going to tell you stays in this room. You don’t mention this person to anyone. Not even Rhysand. You do not allow him to see this meeting, you can tell him everything else except for this part. Do I make myself clear? Because if this person ends up hurt or worse…” My face darkens and even his shadows cower at the power I tease. “I will wipe out this entire court.”

He stiffens at the threat, his hand resting closer to the dagger strapped to his thigh, but I don’t break his gaze. I will not back down just because of who he is. After a heart beat, Azriel nods his head and forces himself to relax even though it’s clear every part of his being is saying to attack.

“Good.” I let that little bit of power slip away, watching as his shadows slip back around him like they’re ready to protect. “My brother, Brys, is currently working with whoever these allies are. Don’t give me that look,” I snap at him at the annoyance on his face from me not telling him this earlier. “My father has blackmailed him into doing this. He would never, never, do this otherwise. He’s never had anything against you all and with it putting my family at risk, putting me at risk, he would have to be forced.”

“How can you be sure?” Azriel questions.

“Because my father blackmailed me,” I growl and let myself sink back into the chair even as it hurts my back. “He is threatening to kill Brys if I help you or fail at the ball. He knows how important we are to each other. Brys is the only member of my family who actually cares about people. He raised me.”

Azriel stays silent, just watches me carefully. He’s relaxed more now, seeming to understand where I’m coming from. I can’t help but wonder how similar his story might be to mine if the look on his face means what I think it does.

“Father didn’t tell me where he was to make sure I don’t get word out to him about anything. What he doesn’t know is that Brys and I have a way to find each other whenever we’re out in the field,” I reach into the pocket in my dress and fish out a small round sigil. I offer it to Azriel and he flips it over to examine the symbol. “Take it to the filthiest tavern you can find in any of the cities in Prythian, show it to the bartender and ask for the cheapest ale on tap. If they ask how you got that sigil, tell them you found it in the shadows. Any word they have on my brother, they will tell you.”

He looks up from the sigil, a look of subtle awe on his face. “This is…very intricate. And useful.”

“We’ve never trusted my father to not send us to our deaths. It’s a precaution,” I pull a piece of paper from my pocket and give it to him as well. “Give this to Brys when you find him. Hopefully it will keep him from trying to kill you.”

Azriel nods and slips both items into his pocket. He stands up, seeming to be satisfied with the information he’s received. “I will send word once I make contact with him. Are you going to start your task?”

“No,” his brow furrows. “I’m hurt, remember?” The smile on my face doesn’t reach my eyes no matter how much I try to convey it. “I’ll take the next few days to let myself heal while I work out what sort of poison they plan to use. Talk to Rhysand about how he wants to deal with the four lords my father met with tonight.”

Azriel nods his head and turns to leave the room. He stops by the door, hand hovering by the handle. I watch as he tilts his head as if debating on something. Azriel looks over his shoulder and a shocked expression comes over my face. There’s sadness in his eyes, so much sadness that it’s almost akin to despair.

“You’re not a pawn in this you know,” his voice is quiet, soft. “Rhys was being serious when he said you were like us, a dreamer in the Court of Nightmares.” Azriel’s eyes shift away as he glances toward the ground. “We might be working together now but I’d like to think that we could be friends in the future. Once this mess is all over.”

My heart pounds in my chest at his words as I try to think of something, anything, to say in response. He doesn’t give me the chance before he’s gone out of the room, shadows trailing behind him.

Yes, I think to myself as I stare at the door. A tear slips down my cheek and I hadn’t even realized I’d begun crying. I think we could be friends too.

I don’t hear from Azriel for a week other than a note delivered from Ylla that told me to wait on taking out the four lords. Since then, I’ve kept my head low to not irk my father even more. It took five days for my back to heal enough that I could start looking into the poison Landras had acquired and I had spent almost all of last night digging through his home for anything useful. With the ball only being in four days, I was starting to become a bit worried about the shadowsinger and his lack of appearance.

Today was no different, not a single word from the High Lord or his inner court. I found what I needed to know but with no other way to reach Rhysand other than through Azriel, all I could do was wait. I find myself walking through the Hewn City after training this morning, the black stone rising up far above and the silver faelights making the space above look like the night sky. Fae mingle around me, lords and ladies whispering secrets and scandals to one another.

I stop in front of a huge fountain, the water flowing from the naked female statue from the many streams that run through this mountain. I take a seat on the edge of the fountain, closing my eyes as I listen to the water running. It’s relaxing and my thoughts finally settle as the noise drowns them out. I feel a presence walking toward me and my body stiffens as they sit right next to me.

“Don’t look,” the female voice whispers as the scent of citrus and cinnamon fills my nose. That scent and voice are all too familiar to me.

I keep my eyes closed as I sigh softly. “What are you doing here?”

The shuffling of fabric catches my attention but it’s too high up for it to be her dress. She must be wearing a cloak or something similar to cover her features.

“Rhys sent me,” her voice is so small that I have to strain my ears to hear her.

“Oh?” I replied. “What happened to the other one?”

I don’t dare say Azriel’s name for fear of anyone listening in to us. Even her whispering Rhysand’s name is dangerous.

“He’s fine. Things just got…difficult,” she shifts and I know she’s getting ready to leave. I feel something press against my thigh but I keep my eyes shut. “I have to go.”

I hear her rise to her feet but I don’t respond to her. Whatever she’s just put against my leg will answer any questions I have. My hand falls from my lap to cover the item and insure it doesn’t get taken while I wait for her to leave. The item is small wooden box just from the feel of it and after a handful of minutes pass, one look down confirms.

I don’t dare open the box until I’ve returned back to the safety of my bedroom after strolling around for a while longer to keep up appearances. Sitting in front of my vanity, I stare down at the box like I could see through it. It seems to be made of mahogany and to just be a trinket box. My fingers slide over the smooth wood and down to the brass latch. I flip it open and lift the lid, my eyebrows raising.

Inside is a piece of parchment and underneath that is the sigil I had given Azriel. Confusion muddles my mind as I pick up the sigil. Why hadn’t he just waited to give it to me later? My eyes drift to the parchment and I unfold it.

Tonight. Midnight. The same place we brought you into our fold.

“Short and sweet, huh?” I mumble to myself.

The ornate clock that sits on the wall tells me that there is plenty of time before this meeting. Enough time to get myself prepared for whatever it is they’re going to throw at me. My attention drifts toward my reflection in the mirror and I wince at the female who looks back at me.

I’d always been told I’m pretty by whatever standard of beauty that the fae hold. Unblemished pale skin, jewel like eyes that sparkle in the right light with long black lashes, full pink lips. With my white golden hair, I resembled a porcelain doll almost. Except underneath that beauty, that viper that my father created lives below.

I can see her when I sleep, the cold and emotionless murderer disguised as the perfect princess. There’s been many times that ploy has come into play. A shiver runs through me as I remember the lives I’ve ended. Good fae and bad and all those in between.

I squeeze my eyes shut, digging my fingernails into my palms. Time and time again I have to remind myself that I shouldn’t think like this. I am not her and she is not me. My hands sting but I manage to calm down, even if little crescent cuts now dot both of them. A deep breath leaves me and I focus on myself in the mirror again.

I won’t let this break me.

“Where are you going?” I curse under my breath at the sneering plummy voice of my sister.

I glance over my shoulder at where she stands at the top of the landing, her eyes shining with evil. She looks over my clothing, basic fighting leathers covered in a soft black cotton cloak with a hood. The gleam of my knives are visible as I turn to her and cross my arms over my chest.

“I’m meeting with a client,” I reply tightly. “It’s none of your business princess.”

“Father didn’t say you had a client at dinner today,” she ignores the name I call her as she takes a single step onto the stairs. “You’re lying.”

“Father doesn’t have to know about all of my clients,” I know she’s pissed off at me for humiliating her last week and she’s trying to weasel any information she can use against me. “He gave me free reign to accept my own personal clients months ago. A privilege you’ll never have.”

She snarls, baring her teeth at me. “I’ll be sure to let father know you’re sneaking off in the night. Maybe he’ll beat you to death this time.”

I flash her wicked smile. “Go right ahead but make sure you keep one eye open tonight.”

Even from this distance, I can see the chill that runs down her spine at my words. I turn on my heel and leave before she responds, starting my short journey to the High Lord’s palace. I keep to the shadows, slipping down dark alleys with my hood up to avoid anyone recognizing me. Luckily, it seems that Rhysand had the vicinity of the palace cleared out because I don’t run into anyone as I move toward the entrance. I feel the magic of the wards as I walk through it. Waiting for me on the other side of the door is a face that actually brings a smile to my lips.

“Morrigan,” I walk toward her as she beams. I pull my hood back, letting her see my face without the shadows it created. “You surprised me earlier.”

She laughs softly and pulls me into a hug. “I’ve been taking lessons in subterfuge.” It’s like she’s glowing, like she’s turned into a completely different person since the last time I saw her. She was so broken from that bastard Eris and her family. “I’ve missed you Rae.”

“I missed you too Mor,” I hug her tightly. “It’s good to see you again. Even with these circumstances.”

Mor nods her head, brown eyes curving up in the corners from her smile. “I’m sorry I didn’t come to your party. It’s been…hard for me to come back here.”

“You don’t have to explain,” I squeeze her arm. “If anyone understands, it’s me. I’m just glad to see you so…springy.”

That pulls a bright laugh from her red lips. “Springy? My you have a way with words.” I can’t help but roll my eyes as I scoff. “It’s not wrong though. I’m doing so much better now…but we’ll have to catch up later. Rhys will scold me if I keep you here when there’s business to attend to.”

I let her guide me down the dark hall and into the room where the High Lord awaits. Seated next to him this time are both Cassian and Azriel. All three of them look sullen but Rhysand plasters a smile to his face as he sees us enter.

“Ravaen. Good to see you again,” I instantly note that his voice isn’t that steady cadence he usually has.

I give him a shallow nod, my eyes trailing from him, to Cassian, to Azriel. Mor slides into a chair next to Cassian, who minutely tenses at her presence. I file that thought away for later. I take a seat at the end of the table, leaving some space between myself and them. Just in case.

“Have you figured out their plans?” The High Lord begins, skipping over any other pleasantries.

I reach into my leathers, not missing the way they all track the movement, and pull out a small pouch. I slide it down the table and it stops in front of Cassian. He picks it up and dumps out three small vials filled with clear liquid. They clatter onto the ebony table, clinking together as the four of them stare at it.

“I only brought three,” I give an apologetic look toward Mor, not knowing she was going to be here. “It’s the antidote to poison hemlock. I doubt you all are going to enjoy the food and drink at the ball but just in case, keep it on your person.”

Rhysand picks up a vial, turning it in his hands. “How can we be sure this isn’t a ploy from you to trick us into trusting you?”

“Rhys-” Mor tries but he shoots her a stern look.

“It’s fine Mor,” I shrug at her. I’m used to these kinds of questions. I let a lazy smile cross my lips as I lean back into my chair, tapping my sharp nails on the stone armrest. “Well, you can either believe that what’s in that vial is actually hemlock and I’m just trying to trick you into drinking it or you can give it back and risk the toast my father is going to offer you. If that’s the case, I won’t mind being the one bringing you the poisoned wine if you’re going to be that ignorant.”

“I was just teasing you, Ravaen,” Rhysand nods to the two Illyrians and all three of them stow away the glass vial.

I let my gaze move around the room again, starting with Mor and working my way around the table to Azriel. The shadowsinger hasn’t looked my way once since I entered the room. It strikes me as a bit odd but the expressions the others wear sets me on edge. I can't tell if he’s been ordered not to speak to me or if he’s just avoiding me.

“Have you decided what to do with the four males I told you about?”

“Unfortunately all four of them hold particularly difficult positions to fill in my court,” Rhysand sighs and crosses his arms over his chest, brow furrowing as he thinks. “I’d only really be willing to get rid of Vyllen but if one dies, the others won’t be so willing to cooperate.”

“So we leave them alive then? I thought my job was to kill them?” I scoff. “You don’t even need me anymore.”

“Not for that, no,” Rhysand shrugs his shoulders. “But the offer still stands. If you help us finish this, we’ll take you from the Hewn City to a better place.”

“Why? My part of this deal is null and void now.”

“Without you, we wouldn’t have gotten this far,” Mor says as she leans her elbows on the table. “Az is good at what he does but you made this so much easier since your father is involved.”

My eyes flick toward the shadowsinger who has still chosen to remain silent. “Well I’d be a fool to refuse to see this out. All I want is to be free of this hell hole.” I look back at Rhysand who is staring at Azriel. “What do you need me to do?”

“Show up at the ball like planned. Listen to whatever your father says to do, we already have a plan in place,” he leans forward, that black hair falling into his face. “Essentially, we need you to be the distraction that you were meant to be originally.”

“Luckily I seem to be good at doing just that,” I sigh, leaning back into my chair.

“There is…one more thing,” Rhysand’s voice is strained, hesitant. “Azriel?”

His back straightens at the call of his name, shadows curling around his throat and up into his hair. He looks at me for the first time since I’ve walked in and my throat tightens at the dark circles under his eyes. Azriel opens his mouth to speak then closes it, clearing his throat softly.

“What is it?” I ask him but deep down, I already know the answer.

“It’s about your brother,” Mor begins for her friend, his eyes turning to her.

Azriel’s eyes soften as she reaches across the table and squeezes his hand, reassuring him. Azriel looks back toward me, there’s hesitation on his face.

“What is it?” I say through gritted teeth, my heart pounding in my chest. “Tell me. Where is he?”

“He’s dead.”

As soon as those words leave his lips, my power explodes. Darkness ripples across the entire room, bouncing off the shield that Rhysand threw up around the Inner Circle. Cassian is on his feet, sword drawn as his eyes narrow into slits, siphons blazing bright. They all watch as that darkness seems to pull the light from the room, my green eyes glowing as it swirls around me. But that darkness isn’t pulling the light, it’s absorbing it, like a void.

“What are you?” Rhysand hisses, his eyes bright with wonder.

“Where. Is. He?” I demand, my voice twisting into pure rage. The light in the room goes out as I rise to my feet. “Where is he?”

“Ravaen,” Azriel is on his feet as well, stepping closer to the barrier that protects him. His shadows swirl violently around him now almost like they’re being drawn away from him and toward me. “I’m sorry.” There’s a sadness on his face that he doesn’t let the others see as he stares directly at me. “I found him in the Day Court. He’s been dead for weeks. Your father lied to you.”

It’s like the world returns back to normal as my power vanishes instantly, the light flicking back on as I sink into the stone chair again. My chest heaves as hot tears stream down my face, the salty taste of them staining my lips. Mor comes to the edge of the barrier, her head snapping toward Rhysand as he keeps it raised.

“Rhys!”

“No.”

There’s an emptiness in my chest, a hollow void as black as my power. My skin has gone cold and clammy, my mouth dry. I raise my head up from its lowered position, my dull eyes looking right toward Azriel.

“How long…” My voice is raw. “How long have you known?”

He tenses as mouth settles into a straight line. “I found him three days after our last meeting.”

“Three days?” I hiss, anger starting to boil inside of me again. “You told me you would contact me once you found him! It’s been that long and you’ve stayed silent?”

“I was-“

“I told him not to say anything,” Rhysand cuts in, his jaw clenching as my rage focuses on him.

I can’t help the bitter laugh that leaves me and my fingers dig into the stone chair. “And you want me to trust you? To believe that you have this holy motive of making our world better? You’re full of shit, Rhysand.” I slowly stand up, a flicker of power rumbling through the room again. “You’re all full of shit. And you…” I point a finger at Azriel. “Can forget about ever being my friend.”

#a court of thorns and roses #acotar #azriel #original character #story #azriel x reader

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hiirenvirna · 9 months ago

Note

For Hemlock: 7,8 and 12! For Risk just 3!

Hemlock questions:

7. What do they think about this whole tadpole situation?

They are obviously. Concerned. As one should. But also I think there's been a bunch of sweet sweet denial mixed in. Like it took them A While to really accept that there's actually a fucked up worm in their brain and their life is in danger. Busying yourself with menial tasks and other people's problems won't work forever, it turns out.

8. Was there an experience that really changed them? In game or in backstory?

Their backstory was like a series of events rolling a snowball uphill and then the actual canon events of the game are that snowball arriving at the peak and causing an avalanche. I think it was more of a gradual change that any singular big thing, unless you count the inciting incident of getting tadpoled obviously. Their character arc during the canon events is about learning to find self assurance and value from healthier sources, but they also become more aggressive and snappy during act 3 especially.

12. Do they have an enemy they hate above all else?

Hemlock used to think they didn't hate anyone but they actually just needed to get angry enough that they weren't able to repress it any longer and now they hate soooo many people. I think Orin ended up being the one they loathed the most though. Hemlock's whole thing (or issue) is putting others' needs and safety way above their own so kidnapping their party member is a really efficient way to get on their Kill On Sight list! And there's the fact that in this canon the person who got kidnapped was Halsin, who Hemlock considers probably their best and closest friend made it Even Worse!

Risk questions:

3. How would you summarise their personality?

Compassionate yet impatient. She has a strong sense of justice and believes in protecting the weak, which can unfortunately also come across as being sorta condescending sometimes. She doesn't joke often so when she does it takes everyone off guard.

#i hope these are actual sentences. it's late and im not proofreading this jdfhvbdjbv #ty for all the questions these were super interesting to think about!!!!#i have. a lot of thoughts about my gay little ranger #not art #oc lore #ask game

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hugmekenobi · 1 year ago

Text

S2: The Bad Batch (11)

Chapter Eleven: Metamorphosis

Gif by @dreamswithghosts

Hunter x femaleJedi!reader

Series Summary: Some time has passed since everything that happened at Kamino and you and the Batch are trying to figure out your place in the rapidly changing Imperial galaxy. And you're having to do all this whilst figuring out where your relationship with Hunter fits into it.

Chapter Summary: A final mission from Cid sees you encountering something that you never would've expected.

Masterlist for S1

<Previous Chapter

Genre: Friends (idiots) to Lovers (we're in the lovers stage now)

Chapter Warnings: Canon-typical violence, very light angst and feelings/protectiveness, Hemlock making an appearance

Word Count: 3.6K

Author's notes: Very much just sticking to the episode, with a couple little extra scene details but it'll be a more chill read for sure! Hope you still enjoy! Excited to begin work on Ch12 and please do let me know on this post if there is a preference cause sometimes I need a little creative help lol

With you all having caught up on some sleep, it was time to get in touch with Cid and her reaction came as no surprise to any of you.

“Not sure what’s got you all twisted up in knots.”

“We were stranded on that planet, Cid. We needed you, and you left us.” Omega said hotly.

“You’re fine now, aren’t you? And you got your ship back.”

“Yeah, with no help from you.” Wrecker complained.

“Do you wanna mope or make money? Because I got a tip on a downed ship, which means cargo ripe for the taking. I’ll even give you 30% of the cut.”

You scoffed at the way she acted like she was giving you all a gift.

“That is our standard percentage.” Tech pointed out.

“All right. This one time, let’s say 35%.”

Wrecker thought that sounded okay but one glance at the rest of you told you that a better offer was expected.

“Okay, 40.” Cid said but again was met with hard stares. “Fine, 50% as a token of my goodwill, that you seem to have forgotten.” She added pointedly.

“Goodwill?” You repeated with a roll of your eyes.

Cid didn’t pay that any attention. “I’m sending you the intel now. Don’t come back unless you scavenge something valuable.”

“What makes you think we’d come back at all?” Hunter countered.

“Don’t test me, Bandana. Just get it done.” Cid snapped before she signed off.

Tech examined the intel on the datapad, “Severing ties with Cid could be problematic, considering what she knows about us. Perhaps we choose a diplomatic solution and complete this one last mission for her.” He suggested.

Hunter sat down and took the datapad from his brother. “Cid only sent coordinates. No ship transponder code or indication of what caused it to crash.”

“Limited intel. There’s a surprise.” You muttered as you stood beside Hunter’s seat.

“How hard could scavenging cargo be?” Omega offered.

“Omega, don’t ever lose that optimism.” You said affectionately before you heard a heavy breath leave Hunter’s lips and there it was again, that exhausted sigh. You placed a supportive hand on his shoulder.

Omega gasped from her room as the ship left hyperspace and entered the atmosphere, “There’s a village here.

“That would explain how the wreckage was reported so quickly.” Tech said in reply from his seat in front of the hall control panel. “The crashed vessel appears mostly intact. The cargo aboard should be in fair enough condition to transport.”

The ship landed and fully kitted up, you all left the ship, and searched for the vessel.

It didn’t take long to find.

“What kinda ship is this?” Wrecker asked as he studied the wreckage.

“Don’t know. No hull markings.” Hunter responded.

You shone your torch across it. Whatever had caused this ship to crash, it had made it crash hard. There were no signs of life and there was debris scattered all around the main crash site.

“Based on the severity of the impact and the lack of communication signals, the crew aboard most likely perished.” Tech said as he stared at his datapad.

Omega had climbed up to access the door. “We don’t know for sure. They could be trapped inside. Come on.”

“All this time with us, how has she kept this up?” You pondered as you made to follow her up.

“Couldn’t tell you.” Hunter agreed, a smile in his voice. He knew the rest of you had been hardened by war and had seen the very worst of people and it had left its mark. You all could find that hope when you really needed to, you wouldn’t have made it this far otherwise, but it didn’t come as easily as it used to, and he worried that that would start to show in Omega, but he was yet to see that. If she could keep that type of outlook and strength within her, then they’d have done something right.

The door whirred open, and Hunter and Omega shone their lights into the dark corridor, but it seemed to be clear.

Hunter led the way in.

The more you walked through the ship, the more uncomfortable you got. It was eerily silent and empty, yet you felt like you were just waiting for something to jump out from any number of the dark corners, leaving you with the sensation that you were intruding.

“Where is everyone?” Omega breathed.

Wrecker’s foot nudged something on the ground. “Oh, check it out.” He gasped eagerly as he picked it up. “High-volt electrostaff.”

You barely registered what he said, you were too busy examining the markings on the wall.

Tech followed your trail of light with his own. “Something unfortunate happened here.”

“Whatever did this wasn’t human.” You added.

“I will get the power restored and check data logs on the bridge.” Tech said.

“By yourself?” Omega whispered nervously.

“Yeah, I don’t know about that one, Tech.” You agreed.

“Your concern is not warranted. I will be fine.” Tech said dismissively.

“Famous last words of anyone whose wandered off into a creepy, dark space.” You muttered but your concern was obvious.

Tech simply shrugged. “I will rejoin you all momentarily.”

With a sigh, you split up and the four of you continued your exploration whilst Tech went to the bridge.

What the rest of you next discovered as you carried on exploring the ship was not what you were expecting. Your torch light shone on what appeared to be some sort of tank and you immediately noticed the abrupt change of temperature.

“Why is it so cold in here?” Wrecker asked.

“It’s some kind of lab.” Hunter deduced as he led the way around the room.

“This medical equipment is Kaminoan.” Omega said, her breath coming out as smoke.

“Huh. So, what’s it doing here?” Wrecker asked.

Omega looked down at a broken piece of equipment. “It’s their cloning technology but this configuration is different than anything I saw in Tipoca City.”

Hunter clicked his comm. “Tech, find anything on the bridge?”

“Not yet. Still rerouting the reserve power. Stand by. The grid should be restored momentarily.” Tech was then distracted by a loud clatter. He followed the sound to what he thought was the source which was a broken droid that was repeatedly saying ‘danger.’ “What happened? What attacked this ship?” He asked it but it simply stuttered ‘danger’ again powered down. It was then he heard the sound of something clanking above him again and he knew he needed to find his way back to the rest of you.

Wrecker examined and touched a gloopy like substance next to a section of scratched on the walls. He grunted in disgust. “These are reinforced walls. What were they keeping in here?”

There was a faint creaking sound echoing throughout the room and the hairs on the back of your neck stood up. “I don’t know, but it’s still on board.”

The sound of water dripping and something chittering about you all started to grow louder and it was then you caught sight of a creature you’d never seen before hanging upside down from the ceiling, saliva dripping form it’s jaws but there was also an electric spark coming from its mouth which reminded you of something, but you couldn’t remember what.

“Hunter, what is that?” Omega whispered.

“Back away slowly.” Hunter ordered quietly. He kept a protective arm out in front of Omega as he did so.

You all did as he said but suddenly a pipe burst and you all instinctively turned to look at it but when your attention went back to where the creature had been, you were horrified to see that it had jumped down from the ceiling and was now stalking towards you all.

You made to step out, but Hunter’s hand caught your wrist.

“You’re not going to try and connect with this.”

“Hunter-”

“This isn’t something that’s up for debate. It’s an order. You’re not going near it.” He said firmly as he pulled out his blaster.

“Hunter, this isn’t going to help.” You hissed as you reluctantly did as he said and drew your blaster.

“This thing destroyed this ship. I’m not taking any chances here.”

Wrecker attempted to stab it with the electrostaff but the creature simply snatched and swallowed it.

You, Hunter, and Wrecker let out a series of shots as the creature screeched and made to lunge for you. There wasn’t a fatal hit but luckily your actions seemed to be off putting enough as it retreated back up to the ceiling.

The four of you stayed on guard but it was then that the power came back on so at least that made seeing this thing an easier task.

Any relief at having actual light was short lived for a rattle behind you saw you all turn to see the animal again only this time it didn’t hesitate to charge at you all.

You- thanks to your Force abilities- were able to dive over it and Hunter reacted quickly enough to grab Omega and jump out of the way. Wrecker unfortunately got knocked to the side.

The four of you sent a round of blaster fire down the corridor after the creature but it was too fast and too slinky for any shot to find a weak point and it turned around the corridor out of sight.

“Tech, we’ve got a problem. Get off the ship. Now!” Hunter urged into his comm.

Tech was already running as he replied, “I suspect this is some type of research vessel.”

“We know!” You said as the four of you ran through the corridors whilst keeping an eye out for any sign of the creature.

“And whatever they were researching just got loose.” Omega added.

“And it’s headed your way.” Hunter informed him.

You all rounded the corner to be met with an incredibly bizarre sight: the creature appeared to be feeding off the electricity coming from one of the power outlets on the ship and the creature itself seemed to be using it as a way to… grow?

“Does that thing look different to you?” Wrecker asked nervously.

It did but again, something about this animal was striking some degree of familiarity in you and you were infuriated that you couldn’t think of how or why that was the case.

Tech had appeared on the opposite side of the corridor, but he came to an abrupt halt as he witnessed what this animal was doing. He was not deterred by the fact that now its attention was on him, in fact he liked that it gave him a brief moment to study it. “Fascinating.” He murmured to himself as he watched the electrical energy be absorbed by the animal.

The four of you weren’t prepared to let the creature get closer to him. You opened fire once more to distract it.

“Take cover.” Tech ordered you all as he pointed his blaster to one of the power outlets.

Wrecker picked up Omega and turned to shield her body with his own whilst Hunter did the same with you, minus the picking up part.

Tech fired the shot.

The explosion created a hole in the ship which gave the creature the chance to slip away.

You all followed it out but lost sight of it in the woods.

Tech lowered his visor and saw the fading heat signature of the animal. “The creature appears to be headed in the direction of the village.”

“We’re the ones who let it out. We have to neutralize it before it hurts anyone.” Hunter said.

“How? Our blasters our useless on it.” Wrecker countered.

“Given the fact that the crew was most likely eaten by the creature, I doubt it is currently hungry-” Tech said nonchalantly.

“It ate the crew?” Omega interrupted, backing into you with fear.

You laid a comforting hand on her shoulder. “How is that helping, Tech?” You scolded.

“It ate the crew.” Omega repeated breathlessly.

“Just stop.” You advised as you saw Tech getting ready to say something else.

“Access the lab files and find out what species we’re dealing with and how to stop it.” Hunter directed Tech.

“Mmm, I can help.” Omega offered, finding her courage again. “I know my way around Kaminoan tech.”

“Go.” Hunter said. “You two, with me.” Hunter ordered you and Wrecker and the three of you set off for the ship.

“Hunter, if we can’t take care of this thing before it hurts anyone, you need to let me at least try my way.” You said as you got into the co-pilot’s seat whilst he got the ship in the air.

“I know.” Hunter agreed. He regretted not letting you do it earlier, he’d let emotion be the ruling judgement in the heat of the moment. Balancing both his professional and personal relationship with you was something he was still finessing.

“See anything?” Wrecker called from the gun turret as he scanned the woods below.

You looked at the scopes. “Zero, two, five.”

Wrecker saw it then. It was moving fast. His shots couldn’t make a hit and it disappeared from view.

“Did you get it?” Hunter asked.

“No.” Wrecker grunted.

Tech had managed to infiltrate the lab’s files. “Look at this.” He said to Omega as he examined the information on his datapad. “These appear to be designs using the creature’s genetic material for modified armour plating. That must be why it was unaffected by our blaster fire.”

“Then how do we stop it?” Omega asked.

“Uncertain.” Tech unplugged and moved on to the next panel. “However, this confirms that the species feeds on energy, which propels its rapid growth.”

“You mean it’ll get even bigger?!”

Tech’s eyes widened as he stared at the information on the screen. “Yes. Much bigger.”

Your jaw dropped as you watched out the window as the ship past over the woods. The creature had reached a power plant and had drastically transformed and then it hit you. “Hey, I recognise it now!” You hadn’t been there the day Coruscant was attacked but you had seen the holonet reports and the images were pretty memorable.

“You recognise it?” Hunter repeated, stunned.

“I wasn’t there and I’m blanking on what it’s called but it attacked Coruscant a few years ago.” It was then that Tech’s voice came through the comms and confirmed what you were saying.

“Hunter, the creature is the same species that attacked Coruscant during the war. You must not let it get near the power grid or it will increase exponentially in size.”

Yeah, you were pretty clued into that now. “We were a bit late on that one, Tech.” You responded as the creature spotted your ship and let out a roar.

Hunter took evasive action but not before the creature’s tail collided with the side of the ship.

“Still want me to drop you off?” Hunter glanced at you as he righted the ship.

You grimaced. “Uh maybe not right now.” The animal was too aggressive now, too scared and felt to threatened. There would be no room for you to work your way into forming any kind of bond with it. If it really came down to it, you would go but it didn’t need to happen right away yet.

Hunter was quietly relieved although he knew that if things got too out of hand, you would be the only option they had left.

The best strategy you guys had come up with to protect the village was being the source of distraction. Wrecker continuously opened fire on it but it was having no effect.

“Stop it before it gets any larger.” Hunter said to Wrecker.

“I’m trying!” Wrecker shouted back.

You took a deep breath. “Hunter, you gotta put me in there.” It was the only other option you had.

Hunter’s jaw clenched but he nodded.

You moved towards the door but just as Hunter got the ship in position, the alarms went off. “We’ve got ships on our tail.” He swerved the ship out the way as they opened fire.

You stumbled backwards. “Where’d they come from?” You said as you righted yourself and Gonky before you went back to the cockpit. There was no chance of you getting down to the animal now.

“Hold on.” Hunter signalled as he kicked the ship into high gear.

“Tech, Omega, you’ve got Imperial inbound. Get out of there.” You said urgently into you comm.

Omega picked up her comm as she heard your voice. “On our way.” She replied before she looked to Tech who showed no signs of hustle as he stared at his datapad. “Tech, let’s go.”

“Not yet. I am not finished transferring all of the data.”

An explosion sounded outside, and the ship shook with the impact of it and the power went out.

“Come on.” Omega implored before she started to run.

Tech followed her but their way off the ship was tricky as it was starting to fall apart. The explosions continued to surround them. They managed to vacate it but not before a series of ships passed overhead and fired down at the wreckage.

Tech grabbed Omega and took cover from the resulting large explosion behind a larger piece of debris as the ship got completely destroyed.

You were too busy avoiding the other Imperial ships to see what exactly had been done to the creature, all you caught sight of was the power plant exploding. “They’re not killing it. They’re taking it.” You murmured as you saw the now unconscious creature being taken up into another Imperial ship. What could the Empire possibly want with something like that?

“Let’s not be next.” Hunter said, pulling you out of your thoughts.

“Hunter, they’re going to take that village.” You said quietly, unhappily, as you caught sight of some ships taking up position in front of the houses, but you knew that there was nothing you could do. You were outnumbered and Tech and Omega needed you guys to get them out.

“We can’t help them.” Hunter said regretfully. He wished they could, but they’d be no good to anyone if they were dead and if they didn’t get out of here soon, that’s how they would wind up and Tech and Omega needed out of there too.

Tech and Omega paused for breath and Tech tapped into his comm. “Hunter, we’re clear of the vessel and heading to the landing zone.”

“Copy that.” Hunter acknowledged and he got the ship in position. He didn’t let it land though, there were too many ships on their tail to do that. The best he could do was slow it down and open the main doors.

Tech leaped onto the stairs and grabbed Omega’s hand as she jumped up after him to get her secure. The two of them made their way into the ship and sat, with Tech making sure Omega’s safety support was down first before he did his own.

Hunter got the ship out of there and sent it into hyperspace.

“The crashed vessel was part of the Imperial cloning operation.” Tech informed the rest of you as he sat in front of one of the control panels in the ship corridor.

“The Empire cloned the Zillo Beast?” You echoed as you stood behind Tech’s chair and studied the information on the screen.

“Yes and no.” Tech responded. “The directive came straight from the Supreme Chancellor before he became Emperor.”

“What’s he want with it?” Wrecker asked.

“The creature’s genetic material has the potential to be weaponized in the hands of the right scientist.”

“Where were they taking the creature?” Hunter asked his brother.

“Unknown. The ship did not have a destination logged. Hunter, there is far more to this than we realised. From what I have gathered, I suspect the Empire did not destroy the cities on Kamino to end cloning.”

“They wanted to control it.” You said softly but there was a hint of anger in your voice.

“Indeed.” Tech said in agreement.

Hunter set off towards the cockpit but paused hallway and turned back to face Tech. “Send the data to Echo and Rex. See what they can find out.”

Daro

“Doctor. The creature has been recovered and is now safely secured below.”

“Good. And our other guest?”

“The shuttle is arriving now.”

The doctor set off towards the landing platform with a squad of troopers. “Did any of the villagers see the Zillo?” He asked the leader.

“Several. The locals have been detained and will be dealt with. However, one vessel escaped our assault. It was a military class shuttle.”

“Find out who it was.”

“Yes sir.”

The doctor watched on ahead as the shuttle landed. “Hello, Prime Minister.” He greeted the Kaminoan as he came off the ship. “Apologies. Former Prime Minister.”

“Why have I been brought here?”

“The cooperation of you chief scientist has not been forthcoming. Nale Se’s defiance is problematic.”

“It must be frustrating to have your resources but lack the expertise to achieve your goal. And if you fail to convince her, it won’t be long before you are in a cell like me.”

The doctor was not intimidated. “I fear you misunderstand your situation here. If you know of a way to persuade the scientist, now would be the time to mention it.”

“Indeed. In exchange for my freedom.”

“I’m listening.”

“There is a particular clone you must locate. A young girl. She is the key to controlling Nala Se.”

“How very interesting.” The doctor invited him to follow him inside. “It seems we have much to discuss.”

Next Chapter>

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